Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4. This is a fascinating matchup, as we're pitting a budget-friendly contender against a cutting-edge foldable marvel. Let's see how they stack up.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a side-by-side comparison of key specs, with a focus on what these differences mean for real-world usage:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Foldable offers large screen, compact form when folded; standard is simple and durable |
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 76.8 × 8 mm | 155.1 × 130.1 × 6.3 mm (Unfolded) | The Fold4 is shorter but significantly wider and thinner when unfolded; Infinix is taller but narrower and thicker. Fold 4 has larger overall volume |
| Weight | 185g | 263g | Infinix is considerably lighter (78g); the Fold4 is heavier due to the folding mechanism and larger size. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 7.6" | Fold4's larger screen offers a more immersive viewing experience, great for multitasking |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1812x2176 | Fold4 has a much higher resolution, providing sharper, clearer images, especially for detailed content |
| Pixel Density | 393 ppi | 373 ppi | Infinix has a slightly sharper display on paper, not dramatically noticeable in use |
| Technology | AMOLED | Infinix boasts vibrant colors, deep blacks; Samsung lacks display tech spec in this dataset | |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Fold4 provides much smoother animations and scrolling |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 0 nits | Infinix will be much better in direct sunlight, Fold4 brightness data is not available |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Helio G96 | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Fold4 has a significantly more powerful processor, resulting in faster app loading, smooth multitasking, and better gaming |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 1,232,800 | Fold4's benchmarks indicate far superior performance, more suitable for demanding users |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 730 | Fold4 has a much more powerful graphics processor that results in better gaming performance. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4400mAh | Infinix has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charge | 25W Fast Charge | Infinix charges a bit faster; Fold4 has many charging options |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W | Fold4 is more advanced with more options like reverse and wireless charging |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.6 | 50MP f/1.8 | Infinix has slightly wider aperture; Fold 4 has larger sensor with bigger pixels for better quality |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.0 | 10MP f/2.2 | Infinix has higher resolution and wider aperture; Fold 4 has a larger sensor and pixel size |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 10MP f/2.4 | Fold4 has telephoto lens for zoom capability |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 13MP f/2.2 | Fold4 has ultrawide lens for more diverse shots |
| Depth Camera | 2MP f/2.4 | None | Infinix has a dedicated depth sensor |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 8K@24fps | Fold4 excels with professional video quality and advanced stabilization, while Infinix is basic. |
| DxOMark Score | Not Tested | Main:124, Photo:131, Video: 122 | Fold4's camera excels based on DXOMark testing |
| Camera Features | Basic Feature set | Much richer and more advanced features | Fold 4 is more advanced and has much more features |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 | Both have the same version of android, but Fold4 will have newer updates to Android 16 |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| WiFi | 802.11n | WiFi 6 | Fold4 has faster and more efficient WiFi |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Fold4 has a newer bluetooth version |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Fold4 has more satellite systems for improved accuracy |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Fold4 includes eSIM support |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 256/512/1024 GB | Fold4 offers considerably more internal storage space |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 12 GB | Fold4 boasts superior memory, enhancing multitasking capabilities |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage |
| AUDIO | |||
| Quality | DTS / DTS X | Dolby Atmos | Both have stereo speakers, each offer distinct audio technologies. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Features | Side fingerprint | Side fingerprint | Both have side-mounted fingerprint sensor for basic security |
| BUILD QUALITY | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus+ | Fold4 offers much more robust screen protection |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic | Fold4 has a much wider range of sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Strengths: This phone excels in providing great value. It has a vibrant AMOLED display, a very bright screen, a large battery, and fast charging. It's lighter and more comfortable to handle, plus it offers a very usable main camera.
- Competitive Advantages: The biggest draw is its very affordable price, offering a nice AMOLED screen and decent performance for everyday tasks. Its good battery life and fast charging make it a good choice for users on a budget.
- Trade-offs: It's less powerful than the Fold4, has an older version of Bluetooth and WiFi, and fewer camera features. It does not have the same level of fit and finish, or robust build.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4:
- Strengths: The Fold4 is a top-tier device with a unique foldable design. It has a fantastic, large, high-resolution display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It boasts top-of-the-line performance, a versatile camera system, advanced charging features, and robust build quality, making it a true flagship device.
- Competitive Advantages: Its foldable design offers an unmatched blend of phone and tablet functionality, paired with best-in-class performance, exceptional camera, and advanced features. Its premium materials and attention to detail set it apart.
- Trade-offs: The Fold4 is heavy, more expensive, and its battery capacity is smaller than the Infinix.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96 is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious users seeking a good-quality screen for media consumption, and who need a basic phone for daily tasks, while having great battery life.
- Those who prioritize battery life and screen brightness.
- Users who do not need best in class performance, or advanced features.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 is ideal for:
- Tech enthusiasts who want the latest in mobile innovation.
- Power users who demand peak performance for gaming, multitasking, and creativity.
- Professionals who can make full use of the large screen for productivity.
- Users who prefer the convenience of a tablet and smartphone combined.
- Anyone who wants a premium experience with a top notch camera system.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To decide between these phones, ask yourself these three questions:
- Budget: Am I looking for the best possible phone for less money, or am I willing to pay a premium for advanced features?
- Usage: Do I prioritize simple daily tasks with good battery life, or do I need top-tier performance, a unique foldable screen, and advanced camera features?
- Form Factor: Do I prefer a standard smartphone design, or am I drawn to the innovation of a foldable device?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget User: Go with the Infinix Note 12 G96 for its affordability, good screen, and battery life.
- Tech Enthusiast: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 is the clear choice for its cutting-edge technology and premium experience.
- Productivity Power User: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4's large screen and top-tier performance make it excellent for multitasking.
- Casual Media Consumption User: The Infinix Note 12 G96 provides a great value, with an AMOLED screen, and good battery life.
Personal Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4. Here's why:
As a tech journalist and analyst, I'm always eager to experience the latest in mobile technology. The Fold4 is more than just a phone; it's a technological showcase that offers a unique user experience. Its foldable display, coupled with top-tier performance and advanced camera capabilities, is something that excites my curiosity. The ability to switch between a phone and a tablet with a single device is incredibly compelling. While its price point is very high, it's the kind of premium experience that a tech enthusiast craves.
That being said, the Infinix Note 12 G96 represents a great value. I can easily see myself recommending it to a friend who's more budget-conscious but still wants a good quality screen and reliable performance.
Ultimately, the "best" phone is very subjective, and it depends on your unique needs and priorities.
