Alright, let's dive deep into a detailed comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE. These two phones represent different ends of the smartphone spectrum, and understanding their differences is crucial for making the right choice. As a tech journalist, I’m here to break down these specs in a way that's both technically accurate and easy to digest.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Samsung Galaxy S23 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-16 | 2023-10-05 | S23 FE is significantly newer with more recent tech. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard phones. |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 158 x 76.5 x 8.2 mm | Infinix is taller, but both have a similar width and thickness. |
| Weight | 185g | 209g | Infinix is lighter, making it more comfortable to hold for long periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.4" | Infinix has a larger screen for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both are sharp; S23 FE is slightly less stretched. |
| PPI | 393 | 403 | Similar pixel density; both are sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | S23 FE is much smoother with faster UI, animations, and gameplay. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 0 nits | Infinix has greater outdoor visibility; S23 FE's nit value not specified. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 | Exynos 2200 | S23 FE’s chip is significantly faster, more efficient and more future-proof. |
| Antutu Score | 307,000 | 1,188,176 | S23 FE provides far superior performance; better for demanding tasks and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Xclipse 920 | S23 FE offers better graphics processing for gaming and media. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | Infinix offers slightly longer battery life (on paper). |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Infinix is slightly faster at charging. |
| Features | Non-removable | Wireless Charging, Reverse Charging | S23 FE has more versatile charging, but no charger included in the box. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/2.76", 0.64µm, Samsung S5KJN1 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", 1.00µm, Samsung GN3 | S23 FE has a larger sensor, resulting in better low-light performance |
| Telephoto Camera | None | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.00µm Hynix HI-847 | S23 FE offers optical zoom and portrait capabilities, unlike Infinix. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm, Samsung S5K3J1 | Infinix has a higher megapixel count, but S23 FE has larger pixels for better low-light selfie. |
| Portrait Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Infinix has dedicated depth sensing. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera | None | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", 1.12µm, Samsung S5K3L6 | S23 FE offers versatile shooting options with wide-angle and macro lenses. |
| Video Quality | 1440p@30fps | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | S23 FE is superior with better frame rates and much higher resolution. |
| DXOMark Score | - | 127 (Mobile), 124 (Photo), 131 (Video) | S23 FE offers overall better performance |
| 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, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Dual PDAF, All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode, Dual Sight | S23 FE offers optical zoom, better stabilization, and more advanced features. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 (upgradable to 17) | S23 FE has a newer OS and future updates. |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | S23 FE offers faster Wi-Fi and improved connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | S23 FE has a more up-to-date Bluetooth. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | S23 FE has more precise positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support Dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | S23 FE offers more internal storage. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 8 GB | S23 FE has minimum 8GB which is good for multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | S23 FE's audio quality is slightly superior with Dolby Atmos and better noise cancelling. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Side-Mounted Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Infinix has a more advanced and user friendly sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | S23 FE has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | S23 FE features a compass which can be helpful. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Strengths: A large, vibrant display with good outdoor visibility, a decent battery, slightly faster charging, and a lighter build. It offers a side-mounted fingerprint sensor which is more convinient to use and a lower price point.
- Competitive Advantages: Its larger screen and superior brightness make it great for multimedia consumption outdoors. The larger battery offers a bit more endurance.
- Trade-offs: Slower processor, a 60 Hz screen, sub-par camera and limited software support.
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE:
- Strengths: A significantly more powerful processor, smoother 120Hz display, more versatile camera setup with optical zoom and 8K video, better software support and more advanced features like wireless charging. It has a better build quality with Gorilla Glass protection.
- Competitive Advantages: Offers top-tier performance, a much smoother user experience, versatile camera system, and superior future proof software support.
- Trade-offs: Slightly smaller battery, slower wired charging, and a higher price.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96 is best suited for:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who prioritize price above all else.
- Casual media consumers: Users who watch a lot of videos or movies and prioritize a larger screen and outdoor visibility
- Users who prioritize battery life and who are not heavy users, or who don't mind a compromise in processing power.
- Users who enjoy a lightweight phone that is easy to hold.
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is ideal for:
- Power users: Those who demand smooth, fast performance for multitasking, gaming and demanding applications.
- Photography enthusiasts: Users who value versatile and high-quality camera systems.
- Users looking for future proof features and better software support: Those who plan on using their phone for many years and want a more polished experience.
- Users who want enhanced audio and call clarity
- Users who enjoy wireless charging and reverse charging features
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
Performance vs. Price: How much are you willing to spend for top-tier performance?
- If you're on a strict budget and only need basic functionality, the Infinix might be sufficient.
- If you need a smooth, high-performance experience, the S23 FE is worth the investment.
Camera Quality vs. Battery life: How important are high-quality photos and videos compared to longer battery life?
- If the camera is your top priority, the S23 FE is the clear winner.
- If you prioritize battery life for basic use, the Infinix is a great choice, though you will have to compromise on performance.
Longevity vs. Immediate Needs: Are you looking for a phone that will last for the next few years or just something for the immediate future?
- If you want something that will be supported with software updates for a longer period, S23 FE is better suited.
- If you only need something to get you through, then the Infinix could do the trick.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: You are on a tight budget and need a reliable phone for calls, messaging, and media consumption. Go for Infinix Note 12 G96.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Photographer: You want a phone with a great camera that you can rely on for photos and videos. Choose the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
- Scenario 3: Gaming and Productivity User: You need a phone that can handle demanding tasks, games, and multitasking. The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is the superior option.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two devices, I would personally go for the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE. While I appreciate the larger screen and longer battery life of the Infinix, the significantly superior performance, more versatile camera system, future-proof software updates and overall more refined experience of the S23 FE make it the better choice. As a tech enthusiast, I'm willing to pay extra for the premium experience and the advanced features, such as optical zoom and 8K video capabilities. For me, the S23 FE is the clear winner, offering a more balanced and forward-thinking package.
