Okay, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Realme C67. I'll break down the specs, translate the tech into real-world experiences, and help you figure out which one might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison table, translating technical jargon into practical implications:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Realme C67 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 165.7 x 76 x 7.9 mm | Very similar size, the Realme is marginally taller but thinner. Both are pocketable and comfortable. |
| Weight | 185g | 190g | The Infinix is slightly lighter; a minor difference you might notice during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.72" | Practically identical screen size for immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp, clear images on both devices, suitable for daily use and media consumption. |
| Pixel Density | 393 PPI | 392 PPI | Virtually the same sharpness; individual pixels are imperceptible at normal viewing distances. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Infinix: Richer blacks, higher contrast, and more vibrant colours; Realme: More power efficient in bright environments. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Realme: Noticeably smoother scrolling and animations; better for gaming and overall fluidity. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 950 nits | Realme: Significantly better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight, a crucial factor for outdoor use. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G96 (12 nm) | Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm) | Realme: More modern and power-efficient; expect marginally better performance in daily tasks and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 338,900 | Realme: Slightly faster in benchmarks, translating to a smoother, more responsive experience overall. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Both phones use the same GPU, but slightly different configurations; both capable of handling modern games. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/2.76" | 108MP, f/1.75, 1/1.67" | Realme: Higher resolution sensor with a larger sensor; should capture more detail, especially in good lighting. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.0 | Infinix: Higher resolution for more detailed selfies. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Infinix: Dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode effects. |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | Realme: Can take close-up photos of tiny subjects. |
| Video Resolution | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Infinix: Can record videos in higher resolution but no stabilization. Realme: better stabilization and very common resolution for social media use. |
| Video Features | Slow-motion: Yes, 120fps | Slow-motion: No, 30fps | Infinix: Can record slow-motion in a higher framerate compared to realme. |
| Camera Features | Triple Camera, Digital zoom, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | Dual Camera, Digital zoom, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | Infinix: More Camera features and modes; Realme: less features but more user friendly. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Comparable battery life for both devices; should easily last a full day with moderate usage. |
| Charging | 33W, Li-Ion | 33W, Li-Polymer | Fast charging support for both; Li-Polymer batteries (Realme) tend to have longer life cycles and safety features. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, Non-removable | Realme: Can charge other devices if required. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | Realme: Newer Android version; likely to get longer software support with future updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Realme: Has the latest ac standard that should provide better speeds and stability. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.1 LE | Both support the same Bluetooth version, no difference here. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Realme: Supports more satellite systems for better accuracy and faster location fixes. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Infinix: can support dual sim simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64 GB / 128 GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | Realme: Greater storage capacity options, better for users who store a lot of media. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 6GB/8GB/12GB | Realme: Better for intensive multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No option for MicroSD cards, a negative on both phones. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Both phones are evenly matched in audio capabilities with identical feature scores; Infinix Note 12 G96 exclusively offers: DTS / DTS X; Realme C67 exclusively offers: Dolby Atmos. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Similar fingerprint sensor technology, located on the power button for convenience. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Both use similar screen protection technology to improve resistance from scratches, however more details are unavailable. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint; Proximity; Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint; Proximity; Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Infinix: features an additional gravity sensor. |
2. Key Insights
- Realme C67 - The All-Rounder: The Realme C67 emerges as the stronger all-rounder. Its brighter 120Hz display, more efficient chipset, improved main camera, and newer software make it a very attractive option. The bigger storage options and reverse charging add extra value for the user.
- Infinix Note 12 G96 - The Budget-Friendly Media Device: The Infinix Note 12 G96 provides a very respectable AMOLED screen, which is great for media and a better selfie camera which will be great for users who video call a lot. The video resolution also outclasses the competition.
- Display Showdown: The display is a key differentiator. The Realme's higher refresh rate and brightness offer superior outdoor visibility and smoother animations. However, the AMOLED panel on the Infinix delivers richer colors and deeper blacks. It's a matter of preference and usage.
- Camera Performance: The Realme C67’s 108MP camera with a larger sensor captures better detail and performs better in low-light scenarios, however the Infinix has better video recording at 1440p.
- Performance Edge: The Realme C67's Dimensity 6100+ chipset gives it a slight advantage in performance and efficiency. It's also a more modern chip, suggesting better longevity.
- Software: The Realme C67 ships with Android 13, while the Infinix is on Android 12, which means that the Realme has more future software updates.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Realme C67:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize smooth performance, a bright screen for outdoor use, and excellent main camera quality with larger storage options.
- Use Cases: Mobile gamers, social media users, content creators who need good cameras, and everyday users who want a reliable all-around device.
- Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Ideal for: Media consumers who love vibrant colours, taking lots of selfies and need to record video in a higher resolution.
- Use Cases: Streaming videos, browsing social media, video calling with great quality, mobile gaming on an AMOLED screen, and users who are okay with older software.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your purchase:
- How important is display quality to you?
- If deep blacks and vibrant colours are your priority, then the Infinix is a great choice. However if you're often outdoors and need a bright screen, or desire smooth animations, then the Realme is the better option.
- Do you need excellent camera performance?
- If you're very active on social media and need to take lots of photos of friends and family, then the Realme main camera is your best choice. However, if you like video recording and need a higher resolution, then the Infinix is better.
- What is your budget?
- The Infinix Note 12 G96 is more budget friendly, while the Realme C67 is a step up. If price is a massive concern, then the Infinix is the go-to budget device.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Social Media Enthusiast: If you’re always snapping photos and recording videos, the Realme C67 with its superior main camera is a better fit.
- The Media Lover: If you want the best media experience, and value video recording resolution and enjoy vibrant colours when streaming then the Infinix Note 12 G96 is your best bet.
- The Performance Seeker: For the smoothest experience and future updates, the Realme C67, with its more efficient chipset, faster screen, and newer software, is the superior option.
My Choice
If I had to pick, I would choose the Realme C67. Here's why:
- Overall Performance: It strikes a better balance between performance and efficiency, and the more modern chip will provide better future support.
- Superior Display: The brighter 120Hz display is a game-changer for everyday usability, making it easier to see the screen in all environments, and smoother animations will make the phone more fluid.
- Better Main Camera: The higher resolution camera with the large sensor means better detail in photos and better low light performance.
- Future-Proofing: The newer software means that it will receive more software updates in the future.
While the Infinix Note 12 G96 offers an excellent screen for media consumption, its overall advantages are not enough to outweigh the superior daily usage offered by the Realme C67. The Realme simply offers a smoother, more future-proofed experience, which I value more in a daily driver.
