Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison between the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Realme 12 Pro. As always, my focus isn't just on the raw numbers but on how these specs translate into the real-world experience. Let's break it down:
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of the specifications, focusing on how they impact the user experience:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Realme 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 161.5 x 74 x 8.8 mm | The Infinix is slightly taller and wider, while the Realme is a touch thicker. The difference in hand feel might be noticeable. |
| Weight | 185g | 190g | The Infinix is negligibly lighter, which could be a plus for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both phones offer the same screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2412 | Very similar resolution - both offer a sharp picture quality. |
| PPI | 393 | 394 | Virtually identical pixel density, so sharpness is on par. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED panels. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The Realme has a much smoother display, great for scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 950 nits | The Realme will be significantly easier to use in bright sunlight with the extra brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12nm) | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4nm) | The Realme's newer, more efficient chip should offer better performance and battery life. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 574,000 | The Realme is significantly faster – better app loading, multitasking, and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 710 | The Realme’s Adreno GPU delivers a better gaming and graphics experience. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Identical battery capacities; similar battery life expectancy, pending real use. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 67W fast charging | The Realme's faster charging means less time plugged into the wall. |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable | Standard, non-removable batteries in both. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.6, 1/2.76" S5KJN1 0.64µm | 50MP f/1.8, 1/2" IMX882 0.70µm | The Infinix has a wider aperture, but the Realme has a larger sensor for potentially better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.0 | 16MP f/2.4 | The Infinix has a wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 32MP f/2.0, 1/2.74" IMX709 0.80µm | The Realme offers optical zoom capabilities. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP f/2.4 | None | The Infinix has a dedicated portrait lens. |
| Wide+Macro | None | 8MP f/2.2, 1/2.8" IMX355 1.12µm | The Realme has a dedicated wide angle lens. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60/120fps with EIS | The Realme has much more advanced video recording capabilities including higher resolution 4k and EIS. |
| Camera Features | Lots of modes. | OIS, PDAF, 4K, Digital and Optical Zoom | The Realme features OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), faster focusing with PDAF, 4k recording, and optical zoom. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | The Realme ships with a more modern Android version for longer support and security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11n | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | The Realme uses the newer WiFi standard for better speed and connection stability. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | The Realme has a more recent Bluetooth for improved wireless audio and connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, etc. | The Realme has superior satellite support for more accurate positioning. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128GB | 256/512GB | The Realme offers significantly more storage options. |
| RAM | 4/6/8GB | 8/12GB | The Realme features more RAM for smoother multitasking and demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | None | None | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | The Realme has superior audio output with more features. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-Mounted | Basic | The Infinix has a better side mounted fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Realme 12 Pro's Dominance: The Realme 12 Pro is the clear winner in terms of performance, display quality, camera capabilities, software, and audio features. It’s the superior device if your budget allows for it.
Infinix Note 12 G96’s Niche: The Infinix holds its own in terms of the selfie camera aperture, and a side mounted fingerprint sensor which some might prefer over the standard sensor. It might appeal to those on a tighter budget who still desire an AMOLED screen.
Performance Disparity: The AnTuTu scores clearly illustrate the performance gap, with the Realme more than 87% faster. This results in a noticeably smoother, faster experience all around.
Camera Capabilities: The Realme 12 Pro’s multi-lens setup with Optical Image Stabilization, telephoto, and wide lenses outpaces the Infinix. It offers far more versatile photography capabilities.
Display Experience: The 120Hz refresh rate and significantly higher brightness make the Realme’s display a much better option, particularly for gamers and outdoor use.
Software and Updates: The Realme comes with a much newer Android version, which ensures long-term software support.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Best for: Users who want an AMOLED display on a budget and primarily use their phones for social media and media consumption.
- Use Case: Someone who values a nice display and doesn't push the phone hard with gaming or video creation.
- Price-to-Value: A good entry-level AMOLED experience at a more affordable cost.
Realme 12 Pro:
- Best for: Performance-oriented users, mobile photographers, and media enthusiasts who want a well-rounded, future-proof device.
- Use Case: Gamers, social media influencers, and those who want a high-quality camera experience.
- Price-to-Value: Worth the extra cost for its significant advantages in performance, display, and camera.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to consider when deciding:
- How important is performance to you? If you're a gamer or heavy multitasker, the Realme 12 Pro is the only choice.
- Do you prioritize camera versatility? The Realme’s telephoto and OIS provide significant advantages for photography.
- Is a smooth display essential? The Realme’s 120Hz refresh rate is far better than the Infinix’s 60Hz, making a difference in everyday use.
Scenario Recommendations:
- For the Budget-Conscious: If budget is the primary concern and you still want an AMOLED screen, the Infinix is a reasonable pick.
- For the Gamer: The Realme 12 Pro is far superior due to its advanced chipset, GPU, and smoother display.
- For the Photographer: The Realme is the better option with its versatile camera system, optical stabilization, and telephoto lens.
Final Thoughts and My Choice
After a detailed look, my choice is clear: I'd pick the Realme 12 Pro without hesitation. The significant performance boost, combined with its far superior camera capabilities, brighter 120Hz display, better audio, and newer software, makes it the better all-around device. While the Infinix has its merits, particularly its budget-friendly price point, the Realme's investment ensures a more future-proof and enjoyable user experience. I value performance, display quality, and camera capabilities and the Realme 12 Pro clearly excels in those areas and is the phone that would fit my daily needs and my use cases.
