Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Samsung Galaxy M35. I'm going to break down the specs, highlight the key differences, and help you figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key specifications, focusing on how they translate into real-world experiences:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 76.8 × 8 mm | 162.3 × 78.6 × 9.1 mm | The Infinix is taller and slimmer; Samsung is wider and thicker, feels bulkier in hand. |
| Weight | 185g | 222g | Infinix is noticeably lighter, better for prolonged use without hand fatigue. |
| Build | Unknown Screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Samsung offers superior screen protection against scratches and impacts, enhancing durability. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.6" | Infinix has a slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both offer sharp, clear visuals, with minor differences that are difficult to perceive. |
| Pixel Density | 393 PPI | 390 PPI | Similar pixel density, both offering a sharp display |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED for rich colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Samsung's 120Hz provides much smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 0 nits | Infinix’s display is much brighter in direct sunlight (Note: Samsung's 0 nits is likely a spec error; expect 600-800 nits, but the Infinix still likely wins here.) |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Samsung's 5nm chip is significantly more powerful and efficient for faster performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 578,500 | Samsung provides a significantly faster experience, better for heavy tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G68 MP5 | Samsung offers better graphics performance for demanding games. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/2.76", 0.64µm (S5KJN1) | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2", 1.00µm (LYT-600) | Infinix has a wider aperture, but Samsung's larger sensor with larger pixels generally offers better performance in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12 µm | Infinix has a higher-resolution front camera. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP, f/2.2 | Samsung has a versatile wide-angle lens for landscape shots. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Infinix has a depth sensor for better portrait effects. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Samsung has a dedicated macro lens for detailed close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps, 120fps slow-mo | 4K@30fps, EIS, 480fps slow-mo | Samsung offers better video quality with 4K and advanced stabilization, plus slow-mo features. |
| 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 | 2x2 OCL, Pro Video Mode, 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, AutoFraming, Autofocus, Touch focus, All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF, NPU AI Engine, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode, RAW 12 bits, DOL HDR | Samsung includes optical image stabilization, Pro Video, and other advanced features for versatile photography |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | Samsung has a larger battery, potentially offering significantly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Infinix charges faster, but Samsung’s larger battery is the more significant factor for battery life. |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both have non-removable batteries. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | Samsung runs on a newer version of Android, likely with better features and security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11n, Dual-band | Wi-Fi 6, Dual-band, MiMO | Samsung offers faster and more efficient WiFi with support for newer standards, including WiFi 6 and MiMO.. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 LE | Bluetooth 5.3 | Samsung has a newer Bluetooth version with a wider range of features and improved connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Samsung offers a more comprehensive GPS system for better accuracy and reliability. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both phones support dual SIM cards and dual standby mode |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Samsung offers more storage space, and a bigger maximum storage variant at 256GB |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6 GB or 8 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | Both devices are well equipped for multitasking, depending on the RAM config chosen. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Samsung offers more immersive audio with Dolby Atmos, with better overall sound quality. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both offer quick and convenient biometric security. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Hall, Geomagnetic | Samsung has a slightly better set of sensors for gaming and other functions. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96 Strengths:
- Lighter and Slimmer: More comfortable for extended use.
- Brighter Display: Likely offers better visibility in direct sunlight (assuming the Samsung spec is a mistake).
- Faster Charging: 33W charging gets you back up and running quicker.
- Lower Price: The Infinix typically sits at a lower price point.
Samsung Galaxy M35 Strengths:
- Significantly More Powerful: The Exynos 1380 provides smoother performance for all kinds of tasks.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate offers a much more fluid experience.
- Superior Camera: Larger sensor, OIS, and better video recording features will result in superior image and video quality.
- Larger Battery: Offers noticeably longer battery life due to larger capacity.
- More Storage: More internal storage options are available.
- Newer Software: Comes with a more up to date version of android.
- Better Connectivity: Up to date WiFi and Bluetooth standards are offered.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for enhanced durability.
Trade-offs:
- Infinix: Lacks the processing power, camera quality, and display smoothness of the Samsung, and less battery life.
- Samsung: Heavier, slightly bulkier, and generally more expensive
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96 is best for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who prioritize affordability and a lightweight device.
- Casual Users: Individuals who mostly browse the web, use social media, and don't require heavy processing power.
- Those who prefer bright screens: The screen will be more visible outdoors.
Samsung Galaxy M35 is best for:
- Power Users: People who need a fast, smooth phone for gaming, multitasking, and intensive applications.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value a versatile camera system with better image quality and video recording capabilities.
- Long Battery Life Seekers: Users who prioritize a larger battery and do not want to recharge frequently.
- Users who value a higher quality screen: The 120Hz refresh rate is a big step up.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- How important is performance?
- If you need a fast, lag-free experience, the Samsung is a must. If you're on a budget and don't mind slightly slower performance, the Infinix is fine.
- How critical is camera quality?
- If you care about photography and videography, the Samsung's superior sensor and features will be significantly better.
- How much is battery life a priority?
- If you need your phone to last all day, the Samsung is the clear winner. Although the Infinix charges quicker, the larger battery capacity of the Samsung will generally result in a better battery life overall.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget and Light Use: If your budget is tight and you primarily use your phone for basic tasks, the Infinix Note 12 G96 will be a cost-effective option.
- Performance and Camera Matters: If you’re a power user who values photography and needs smooth, fast performance, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is the way to go.
- All-Day Battery: If battery life is a top priority, the Samsung Galaxy M35’s larger 6000mAh battery is the better choice.
- Outdoors: The brighter display on the Infinix makes it a better choice for outdoors.
Personal Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy M35.
While the Infinix has its merits, the Samsung simply provides a much more well rounded user experience. The performance difference alone is significant, making everyday tasks smoother and more enjoyable. Combine that with the superior camera, higher refresh rate, and larger battery, and the Samsung clearly offers a higher value. The added build quality with the Corning Gorilla Glass Victus is also a plus.
While the Infinix may appeal to those on a very tight budget, if you're able to spend a bit more, I believe the Samsung's features will be worth it for nearly everyone.
