Okay, let's break down the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Samsung Galaxy A25. I'll put on my tech journalist hat, blending my engineering background with a focus on real-world user experiences.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison table outlining the key specifications and their implications:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Samsung Galaxy A25 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 161 x 76.5 x 8.3 mm | The Infinix is a tad taller, but both are similarly wide; the Samsung is slightly thicker. In daily use, they feel similar in hand. |
| Weight | 185g | 197g | The Infinix is lighter, which might make it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build Quality (Screen) | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | The A25 offers more screen durability for drops and scratches |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | The Infinix offers a slightly larger screen, great for media consumption, but the difference isn't a game changer. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both have similar resolutions, meaning sharp text and images. |
| Pixel Density | 393 PPI | 396 PPI | Both phones have a high pixel density, providing very crisp details. You're unlikely to notice a difference. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | AMOLED screens on both mean vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The A25 has a much smoother display, which will make scrolling and animations appear fluid. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 1000 nits | The A25's screen is significantly brighter and more viewable in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Exynos 1280 (5 nm) | The A25’s more modern chip is more energy-efficient and powerful. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 480,688 | The A25 delivers significantly better performance, meaning faster app loading, better gaming, and overall smoother experience. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G68 | A25’s GPU is more advanced, for better graphics in games and video editing. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.6 | 50MP f/1.8 | The Infinix has a slightly wider aperture which will allow a bit more light to enter but the difference would not be noticeable. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.0 | 13MP f/2.2 | The Infinix has a slightly higher-resolution front camera and wider aperture, for better selfies in low-light situations. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP f/2.2 | The A25 can capture a wider field of view for landscapes and group shots, making it more versatile. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 4K@30fps with EIS | The A25 offers higher video resolution and electronic image stabilization (EIS), for higher quality recording. |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, 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 | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | A25 brings OIS which is extremely valuable for crisp shots. Additionally, A25 has 4K capabilities and PDAF autofocus |
| DxOMark Camera Score | Not Tested | Mobile (Main): 92, Photo 98, Video 94 | A25 is significantly better than the Infinix in mobile camera based on this test. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery capacity, so battery life should be comparable under similar conditions. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 25W fast charging | The Infinix charges faster, which can be handy if you're in a hurry. |
| Software and Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | The A25 ships with a newer version of Android, with more recent features and security updates. |
| WiFi | 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11n 5GHz | 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11n 5GHz, 802.11ac | Samsung supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) for faster speeds, assuming compatible routers |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 | Samsung has the latest and improved bluetooth version |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | The A25 has more satellite support for better location accuracy. |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | The A25 comes with more internal storage options, which may be essential for media and large files. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 6GB/8GB | Both phones offer comparable RAM configurations; the A25 has higher base RAM. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for more storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Both offer great audio quality with stereo speakers; different audio enhancement technologies will provide different sounds. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both phones feature a standard and convenient fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96 Strengths:
- Slightly larger display: Good for media consumption and gaming, albeit with a standard refresh rate.
- Faster Charging: 33W charging will get you back on the go faster.
- Lower weight: Slightly more comfortable in hand for long usage periods.
Samsung Galaxy A25 Strengths:
- Significantly better performance: The Exynos 1280 chipset provides much better app loading, multitasking and gaming experience.
- Smoother display: The 120Hz refresh rate is a major advantage for fluidity and overall user experience.
- Brighter screen: Easier to use outdoors.
- More modern OS: Android 14 provides newer features, security enhancements and has more software updates in store.
- More versatile camera: Includes a wide-angle lens, higher-resolution video recording and optical image stabilization.
- Larger Storage Option: Double the highest storage capacity compared to the Infinix.
- Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for better durability.
Trade-offs:
- The Infinix sacrifices display smoothness, outdoor visibility and overall performance for a slightly larger screen and lower price.
- The Samsung, while superior in many aspects, comes at a higher price point.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Budget-conscious users: Ideal for those who need a large screen for media and are not doing heavy tasks and want to save money.
- Casual users: Suitable for web browsing, social media, and some light gaming.
- Users who value battery charging speed A good choice if you prioritize fast charging above all else.
Samsung Galaxy A25:
- Performance-oriented users: Perfect for users who need a responsive phone for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Camera enthusiasts: Offers better photography and videography capabilities for everyday moments.
- Users seeking a longer-lasting device: The Samsung is newer, offers better hardware and a greater software commitment, making it a more future-proof device.
- Users valuing smoother display and screen quality: This is a great choice for those who like to consume media on their phones.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is performance to you? If you are looking for a snappy, lag-free experience, the A25 is the clear choice.
- How much do you value a smooth and bright display? If you value viewing experience over a slightly larger display, the A25's 120Hz screen is a must-have.
- What is your budget? The Infinix offers good value for the price, but if you can spend a bit more, the A25 provides significant upgrades.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Mobile Gaming: Get the Galaxy A25. It has a superior chipset and graphics, which will give you an edge in gaming.
- Scenario 2: Casual Daily Use: If you're just browsing the web and want the cheapest option, the Infinix is good enough. However, the Galaxy A25 will deliver a more seamless and future proof experience.
- Scenario 3: Photography and Videography: The Galaxy A25, with its 4K recording, OIS, and wide-angle lens, has everything you could want for taking better pictures and videos.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy A25. While the Infinix Note 12 G96 offers a more budget-friendly option, the Galaxy A25 provides a more modern and well-rounded experience. The significant improvements in performance, display smoothness, camera capabilities, and software make it the clear winner for me. The A25 is a phone that I know would be capable for longer and the user experience is significantly better.
