Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Samsung Galaxy A15. As a tech journalist, I like to look beyond the spec sheets and get into how these numbers actually impact your day-to-day use. Let's break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Samsung Galaxy A15 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 76.8 × 8 mm | 160.1 × 76.8 × 8.4 mm | Infinix is taller and thinner, Samsung is more compact but slightly thicker. Both are manageable, preference is subjective. |
| Weight | 185g | 200g | Infinix is lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | Infinix offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both offer sharp, full HD visuals; resolution differences are minimal. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 393 | 396 | Practically identical sharpness; very similar visual clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors, deep blacks on both, great viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Samsung's smoother display scrolling and animations are noticeable. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 800 nits | Samsung's higher brightness is better for outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6nm) | Samsung's newer chip offers better efficiency and performance, noticeably faster app loading and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 442,500 | Samsung provides a smoother experience in daily tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Identical graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.6) | 50MP (f/1.8) | Infinix's wider aperture may be slightly better in low light. Both are good for social media. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.0) | 13MP (f/2.0) | Infinix has a higher-resolution front camera, possibly resulting in slightly sharper selfies. |
| Wide-Angle Camera | None | 5MP (f/2.2) | Samsung has an additional wide-angle lens, useful for landscapes and group shots. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | Infinix offers a dedicated portrait mode camera for depth effects. |
| Macro Camera | None | 2MP (f/2.4) | Samsung offers an additional macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Infinix supports higher resolution video recording, however only at 30fps. |
| Slow-motion | 120 fps | 240 fps | Samsung has a higher slow-motion framerate for capturing detailed slow-motion videos. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery life, typically enough for a full day of usage. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Infinix charges faster, getting you back up and running quicker. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | Samsung offers a more up-to-date and future-proof OS, with better long-term software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Samsung has a newer Wi-Fi standard, offering potential speed enhancements. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Samsung has a slightly newer Bluetooth version, with minor improvements in range and efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Samsung offers more satellite systems for enhanced location accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Samsung provides more storage options. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Both devices offer a good range of RAM options. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage, so consider how much space you'll need. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Features | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | 2 microphones | Infinix offers a better audio experience with stereo speakers, better surround sound, and audio separation. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both have a convenient and secure fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Both are packed with sensors but have small differences. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96 Strengths:
- Larger Display: A slightly more immersive viewing experience with its 6.7" screen.
- Faster Charging: 33W charging gets you back up and running faster.
- Potentially Better Low-Light Camera Performance: Wider f/1.6 aperture on the main camera might give an edge in low light.
- Better Audio Experience: DTS and Stereo Speakers
- Lighter Design: More comfortable for extended use and portability.
- Higher Resolution Video: Supports 1440p recording, however, is limited at 30fps.
Samsung Galaxy A15 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Helio G99 chip offers a notable boost in performance, faster app loading, and smoother multitasking.
- Smoother Display: 90Hz refresh rate for a more fluid visual experience.
- Brighter Display: 800 nits for better outdoor readability.
- More Versatile Camera System: Includes a wide-angle and macro lens for diverse shooting scenarios.
- Up-to-Date OS: Ships with Android 14, providing better software support and future proofing.
- More Storage Options: Up to 256GB internal storage for users needing more space.
- Better Location Accuracy: Supports more GPS satellite systems, improving navigation.
- Higher Slow-motion framerate Record slow-motion videos at 240fps.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Infinix: The older chipset might struggle with demanding tasks. Lacks a wide-angle and macro lens.
- Samsung: Slower charging speed, heavier design, and a smaller screen might be a drawback for some.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96 is ideal for:
- Users who prioritize a larger display for media consumption.
- Those looking for a lighter, more comfortable device.
- Users who value faster charging speeds.
- Those who value a better sound experience.
- Casual gamers who are okay with moderate performance
Samsung Galaxy A15 is ideal for:
- Users seeking a smoother and more responsive experience.
- Those who value a brighter display for outdoor visibility.
- Photography enthusiasts who want a versatile camera system with a wide-angle and macro lens.
- Users looking for longer software support and a more up-to-date Android version.
- Users who need more internal storage for their media, apps, and files.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- "How important is performance for you?" If you're a heavy user, the Samsung A15's more powerful chip is crucial. If you are a casual user, the Infinix will do fine.
- "What kind of photography do you do?" If you want a versatile camera system, the A15 is your best bet. If you take mostly selfies and care about good low light performance, the Infinix will work fine.
- "What are your display priorities?" If you want smoother scrolling and better outdoor visibility, the A15 shines. If a larger screen is more important to you, the Infinix is better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Casual User: If you mostly browse social media, watch videos, and do light tasks, either phone can work well. If you want the most value for your money, the Infinix offers a larger screen, faster charging, and better audio capabilities. However, if you want a smoother experience, the Samsung will be the better option.
- The Mobile Photographer: The Galaxy A15 is better due to the versatile camera system and brighter display.
- The Mobile Gamer: While neither is a top gaming phone, the Samsung A15's newer chipset and 90Hz refresh rate offer a better experience than Infinix.
- The Media Consumer: If you like to watch movies and YouTube, the Infinix has a bigger display which might be better suited. However, the A15 offers a better display due to its higher brightness and 90hz refresh rate.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I would go for the Samsung Galaxy A15. While the Infinix Note 12 G96 has its merits with a larger screen and faster charging, the performance boost from the Helio G99, the smoother 90Hz display, the versatile camera system and, more importantly, the newer version of Android of the Galaxy A15 are crucial for my day-to-day usage. I value a responsive, smooth, and versatile experience, and the Samsung A15 delivers on that promise.
The better GPS and longer software support also gives it a more future-proofed feel. The Galaxy A15 simply offers a better overall balanced experience. While I appreciate the larger screen of the Infinix, the other benefits of the Galaxy A15 make it a better pick.
