Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. These two phones represent drastically different design philosophies and target very different users. We'll break down the specs, explore their real-world implications, and help you decide which one is the right fit.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these phones stack up, focusing on what each specification means for your daily use:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip4's foldability offers pocketability and unique interaction modes. Note 12 is a standard slab phone. |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 165.2 x 71.9 x 6.9 mm | Note 12 is wider and thicker; Z Flip4 is thinner and more compact when unfolded; significantly more pocketable when folded |
| Weight | 185g | 187g | Practically identical weight, both are quite lightweight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Identical screen size; similar overall experience for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Z Flip4 offers slightly sharper and more detailed images due to higher pixel count. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 393 | 426 | Z Flip4 has a bit sharper display, though difference is not overly noticeable in daily use. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Note 12 has richer colors, deeper blacks, better contrast and efficiency due to AMOLED display. Z Flip4's tech is unknown. | |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Z Flip4 has smoother scrolling and animations. Note 12 is relatively less fluid. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 1200 nits | Z Flip4 offers superior visibility outdoors, making it usable in bright sunlight. Note 12 is less usable outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12nm) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4nm) | Z Flip4 offers drastically better performance, faster app loading, and smoother multitasking. Note 12 provides basic performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 1,050,371 | Z Flip4 is significantly faster, making it suitable for demanding apps and games. Note 12 is slower overall. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 730 | Z Flip4 has a much more powerful GPU, leading to better graphics performance and better gaming experiences. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP | 12.2MP | Note 12 has a higher resolution sensor, but sensor size is smaller, affecting light intake. Z Flip4 has a larger sensor per pixel for better image quality, particularly in low light. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.6 | f/1.8 | Note 12 has a slightly wider aperture for potentially better low light performance. Z Flip4's larger pixels might compensate though. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.76" | 1/2.55" | Z Flip4's larger sensor size (per pixel) generally results in better image quality. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.64 µm | 1.40 µm | Z Flip4 has significantly larger pixels, allowing it to capture more light and details. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 16MP | 10MP | Note 12 has a higher resolution selfie camera. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/2.4 | Note 12 has a wider aperture for better selfies in low light. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not Available | 13MP | Z Flip4 provides a versatile wide-angle shooting option, something the Note 12 lacks. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP | Not Available | Note 12 has a depth sensor for portrait mode, which is missing on the Flip4. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 4K@60fps | Z Flip4 records at higher quality with stabilization for professional-grade videos. Note 12 lacks OIS for video. |
| OIS | No | Yes | Z Flip4 has optical image stabilization for sharper images and videos. Note 12 does not. |
| Camera DXOMARK Score | N/A | 112 | Z Flip4 has a mid-tier camera quality, scoring 125 in photos and 113 in videos. Note 12 lacks DXOMark data. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 3700mAh | Note 12 has a significantly larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. Z Flip4 could require more frequent charging with its less efficient processor. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Note 12 charges faster with the included charger. Z Flip4 has slower charging but can charge wirelessly. |
| Charging Features | None | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Fast charging 25W, 50% in 30 min, Fast wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | Samsung provides more options, including wireless and reverse wireless charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Z Flip4 will receive OS updates for longer. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11n | 802.11ax, Wi-Fi MiMO | Z Flip4 has support for Wi-Fi 6 and MiMO for better connectivity speeds and efficiency. Note 12 has older Wi-Fi only. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.1 LE with extensive features | Z Flip4 supports more Bluetooth profiles for better connectivity with audio and other devices |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Z Flip4 has greater accuracy due to more GPS constellations. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Z Flip4 offers the option to use a digital SIM, which Note 12 does not. |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Z Flip4 has a wider range of storage options, including up to 512 GB. Note 12 has limited options. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 8 GB | Z Flip4 offers 8 GB RAM, making it better for multitasking. Note 12 might have lower RAM on base models. |
| Expandable Storage | Not Supported | Not Supported | Neither has Micro SD expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | Note 12 has a slight edge in audio quality with DTS support. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint | side-mounted fingerprint | Both are very similar. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip4 offers excellent screen protection. Note 12 is unknown. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Z Flip4 has a wider range of sensors |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96 Strengths:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery should provide much better longevity, especially if you're a heavy user, or do not have access to a charger.
- AMOLED Display: Offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors than a standard LCD, though we do not have the display type of the Flip 4, AMOLED would generally be assumed to be better.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging will get you topped up quickly.
- Potentially More Affordable: Infinix phones generally focus on affordability.
- Headphone Jack: Not listed, but has a 3.5mm jack which the Z Flip 4 lacks.
Infinix Note 12 G96 Limitations:
- Lower Performance: The Mediatek Helio G96 is nowhere near as powerful as the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1.
- Less Sharp Display: While the screen is AMOLED, the resolution is slightly less and is less fluid.
- Basic Camera System: While the specs are higher, the image quality and the lack of OIS/Wide Angle can be noticed compared to the Z Flip4's camera.
- Older Wi-Fi Standard: Limited to the older Wi-Fi standard.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Strengths:
- Foldable Design: Unique and highly portable when folded; draws attention.
- Flagship-Level Performance: The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 offers top-tier speed and responsiveness.
- Superior Display Quality: Higher resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and higher brightness make the display more appealing.
- Advanced Camera: Larger sensor, OIS, and wide angle ensure better image and video quality.
- Wireless Charging: Has wireless charging, fast charging, and reverse charging.
- Stronger Ecosystem: Integrates well into the broader Samsung ecosystem.
- Better Build Quality: Has Gorilla Glass Victus for better screen protection.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Limitations:
- Higher Price: Flagship phones are always expensive.
- Smaller Battery: Despite its efficiency, the smaller battery could lead to shorter runtimes.
- Slower Charging: 25W is decent, but not the fastest on the market.
- Durability Concerns: As a foldable device, it will always be more fragile than standard devices.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96 is Ideal For:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Individuals seeking a good-value phone for daily tasks, or for a secondary device.
- Battery Focused Users: Users who prioritize battery life and need a long-lasting device for consistent use.
- Casual Users: People who mostly use their phone for browsing, social media, and watching videos.
- Users who need a headphone jack.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is Ideal For:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want the latest features and cutting-edge technology.
- High-Performance Users: Gamers and professionals who need a powerful device for demanding tasks.
- Fashion-Conscious Users: Individuals who want a stylish and eye-catching device.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera system with advanced features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To make your decision easier, ask yourself these three questions:
- What is Your Budget? If you are working within a strict budget, the Note 12 may be the better choice. If budget is less important and you want top-end features, the Z Flip4 may be a better option.
- What is Your Priority: Performance or Battery Life? The Z Flip4 is a performance powerhouse while the Note 12 is focused on battery life. Choose the phone that aligns with your daily requirements.
- Do You Need a Unique Design or a Traditional Phone? The foldable design of the Z Flip4 is unique and offers a more compact size. If you're not interested in foldables, the Note 12 is the more practical, traditional choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Budget-Conscious User: Choose the Infinix Note 12 G96 for reliable performance and great battery life on a budget.
- For the Power User: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 for its top-tier performance, advanced camera features, and stylish design.
- For the Casual User: If basic tasks and a simple experience is all you require, the Note 12 is more than adequate for your needs. If you enjoy the unique foldable design and more premium features, the Z Flip 4 is a good pick.
- For a Secondary Phone: The Infinix Note 12 G96 will be great if you want a device that lasts for a while without the need for constant charging. The Z Flip 4 is good if you need a more powerful companion device, however the battery life is relatively low.
My Pick
If I were to choose between these two devices, I would personally opt for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. Here’s why:
As someone who values performance, the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset is a clear win. I also appreciate the superior display quality and the more advanced camera capabilities, which make a significant difference in daily use. While the smaller battery is a consideration, I'm willing to trade off some battery life for the overall experience and the device's unique design. The foldable design provides for great portability and draws attention, and the ability to take advantage of Samsung's ecosystem is also very beneficial.
The Infinix Note 12 G96 is a solid option for those who prioritize battery life and affordability, but I'm looking for a device that pushes the boundaries of technology.
