Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Samsung Galaxy S24+. I'm going to break down the specs, translate them into real-world experiences, and help you figure out which one might be the right fit for you. Let's get started!
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Samsung Galaxy S24+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7 mm | The Infinix is slightly larger and thicker, which may impact one-handed use and pocket comfort. |
| Weight | 185g | 196g | The Infinix is a bit lighter, potentially making it more comfortable for extended use, though the difference is marginal. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both phones offer the same screen real estate, providing a large display for multimedia and productivity. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | The S24+ has a much sharper display with significantly more pixels, resulting in crisper text and images. |
| PPI | 393 | 513 | The S24+ has a noticeably higher pixel density, making it better for viewing high-resolution content and reducing pixelation. |
| Technology | AMOLED | The Infinix has better color vibrancy and deeper blacks thanks to its AMOLED panel, whereas the technology on the S24+ is missing in the data. | |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The S24+ offers smoother scrolling and animations, providing a more fluid user experience, especially for gaming. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 2600 nits | The S24+ has much better visibility in bright sunlight, making it easier to see the screen outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | The S24+ has a far more powerful and efficient chipset, enabling faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 1,639,695 | The S24+ delivers significantly superior performance, which translates to a much faster and more responsive user experience. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 750 | The S24+ has a substantially more powerful GPU, leading to better graphics performance in games and demanding applications. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4900mAh | Both phones have very similar battery capacities, suggesting similar battery life. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 45W fast charging | The S24+ charges faster, reducing the time spent plugged into the wall. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass, Reverse, Wireless | The S24+ offers more advanced charging options, including wireless and reverse charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP | 50MP | Both offer the same MP count. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.6 | f/1.8 | The Infinix’s wider aperture may allow better low-light performance, but the sensor size is also important. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.76" | 1/1.57" | The S24+ has a larger sensor, which generally leads to better image quality and low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Model | Samsung S5KJN1 | Samsung GN3 | Different sensor models, the S24+ has a newer sensor generation. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.64 µm pixel size | 1.00 µm pixel size | The S24+ has larger pixels, which usually translates to better light capture and lower noise. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.0) | 12MP (f/2.2) | The Infinix has a higher-resolution selfie camera, but the S24+ uses a more modern sensor with 1.0µm pixel size, with a smaller aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 10MP (f/2.4) | The S24+ has a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom, which the Infinix lacks. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 12.2MP (f/2.2) | The S24+ has a wide-angle lens for capturing more of a scene, while the Infinix does not have a dedicated wide-angle lens. |
| Portrait Mode Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | N/A | The Infinix has a dedicated portrait mode camera, the S24+ uses software to achieve depth effects. |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 8K@24/30fps, 4K@30/60fps | The S24+ offers significantly higher video resolution and frame rates, with advanced features like HDR and EIS. |
| Camera Features | Digital, Auto, Touch Focus etc | Night 2.0, 4K, 8K, OIS etc | The S24+ offers more advanced features including Optical Zoom, Optical Stabilization, RAW capture, 8K, etc, while the Infinix uses a more basic setup. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | The S24+ runs on a newer version of Android, providing the latest features, security patches, and performance enhancements. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n | Wi-Fi 6E | The S24+ supports faster and more modern Wi-Fi standards, offering better connectivity and lower latency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | The S24+ uses a newer Bluetooth version, potentially providing more stable and efficient connections and more features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS etc | The S24+ supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano/eSIM SIM | The S24+ supports eSIM, offering more flexibility in managing multiple mobile plans. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128GB | 256/512GB | The S24+ comes with significantly more internal storage, providing more space for apps, media, and files. |
| RAM | 4/6/8GB | 12GB | The S24+ offers much more RAM, which translates to smoother multitasking and better overall performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS / DTS X | Noise cancellation mic | Both offer stereo speakers, the S24+ has a noise cancellation microphone, while the Infinix offers DTS Audio for enhanced listening. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted Fingerprint | Basic fingerprint | The Infinix has a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint scanner. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | The S24+ provides much better screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| List | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Proximity | The S24+ has a more comprehensive sensor suite, including a barometer and compass for added functionality. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Strengths: Its main strength lies in its affordability. You get a large AMOLED screen and decent main camera resolution for a lower price point. It also has a slightly wider aperture camera (though smaller sensor) and DTS Audio, a plus for budget-conscious users focused on media consumption.
- Limitations: The performance, screen refresh rate, and low brightness are not adequate for users looking for the fastest experience, and the camera lacks advanced features such as optical zoom and stabilization and wide angle lens, while video recording is basic compared to other phones.
Samsung Galaxy S24+:
- Strengths: This phone is a powerhouse across the board. It boasts a high-resolution, super bright display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a cutting-edge processor, ample RAM and storage, a sophisticated multi-lens camera system, and many advanced software and connectivity features.
- Limitations: The S24+ is significantly more expensive, which is the main trade-off for its high-end capabilities. It's also slightly heavier, and may not be budget-friendly for all users.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Infinix Note 12 G96: Ideal for budget-conscious users who primarily use their phone for basic tasks, media consumption, social media, and casual gaming. This phone makes a great "second phone" or a reliable option for anyone who doesn’t need the very latest and fastest performance.
- Samsung Galaxy S24+: Best for users who demand top-tier performance, a high-quality camera, and the latest features. This phone is suitable for power users, gamers, photographers, and anyone looking for the most advanced experience.
Specific Use Cases:
- Infinix: Great for casual video viewing and social media use, also great as an entry phone or backup option.
- S24+: Excels in high-end gaming, professional photography, video production, multitasking, and other demanding tasks, also is a great option for long-term use due to its advanced processor and ample storage.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- What is your budget? If you are strictly on a budget, the Infinix is the clear choice. If you are willing to pay more for the very latest features, the S24+ is the better option.
- What are your primary use cases? If your focus is on basic tasks and media consumption, the Infinix will suffice. If you need high performance for demanding apps and games, or want high-quality photos and videos, the S24+ is the superior option.
- How important are cutting-edge features? If you value the latest technologies like high refresh rate displays, advanced camera features, and the fastest connectivity standards, the S24+ is the only choice here.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget User: The Infinix Note 12 G96 provides good value for essential features at an affordable price.
- Performance User: The Samsung Galaxy S24+ delivers top-tier performance and a future-proof experience.
- Camera Enthusiast: The Samsung Galaxy S24+ offers a comprehensive camera setup with advanced features and superior image quality.
- Casual User: The Infinix Note 12 G96 will meet your daily needs and offer decent overall performance.
My Choice:
If I were personally choosing between these two phones, I would go for the Samsung Galaxy S24+. While the price difference is significant, the S24+ represents a massive leap forward in virtually every aspect that matters to me.
The S24+’s superior display with high resolution and brightness is something I can appreciate every time I use the phone. I also find that the faster processor and ample RAM will ensure I won't be held back with any demanding app or game I throw at it. The camera system, with its multi-lens setup, provides much more versatility and better performance, especially in challenging conditions. I also value the advanced features, such as the latest Wifi standards and wireless charging, that will allow the phone to be relevant for much longer. While the Infinix offers great value, I need a phone that can perform at the highest levels day in and day out, making the S24+ the clear choice for my needs.
