Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. Both phones have their own strengths, and understanding these nuances is key to figuring out which one is the right fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a table breaking down the key specs and what they mean for you in real life:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 164 x 76.1 x 8.9 mm | The Infinix is slightly thinner, the Poco is a bit shorter. Both are similar in size. |
| Weight | 185g | 200g | Infinix is noticeably lighter, better for extended holding. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.58" | Infinix has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2408 | Both are very similar in sharpness. |
| PPI | 393 | 401 | Similar pixel density, no noticeable difference in clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | AMOLED gives the Infinix deeper blacks, better contrast, more vibrant colors, and power savings. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Poco's 90Hz screen is smoother for scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 0 nits | Infinix is much brighter, better for outdoor use in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G96 (12 nm) | Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Poco's 7nm chip is more efficient and slightly faster. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 381,300 | Poco has significantly better benchmark performance for smoother use. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Both have the same GPU with different configurations, likely very similar gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.6 | 13MP, f/2.2 | Infinix takes far more detailed shots with its higher resolution sensor, and excels in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 5MP, f/2.2 | Infinix provides much sharper, more detailed selfies. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Similar depth-sensing capabilities for portrait mode. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Infinix has better video recording capability with 1440p resolution. |
| Slow Motion | 120 fps | 30 fps | Infinix supports a higher frame rate for slow-motion video capture. |
| Camera Features | Triple Camera, Manual Focus, Panorama | Dual Camera, 4k Video | Infinix is optimized for photo enthusiasts. Poco for everyday video. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery capacity for similar battery life. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Infinix charges much faster, reduces downtime. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, Non-removable | Poco can reverse charge other devices which is a nice addition. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 | Android 12 | Both have same OS, software feature will vary slightly. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n | 802.11ac | Poco supports a faster, more stable wifi standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.1 | Both with similar profiles. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Poco supports more satellite systems, providing more accurate navigation. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 64/128 GB | Both offer similar storage capacity, suitable for most users. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 4/6 GB | Infinix allows more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither have expandable storage, which is not ideal for power users. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio Features | Infinix offers enhanced audio for better immersion. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both offer quick and reliable biometric authentication. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 3 | Poco has better screen protection. |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Poco also has a compass. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96: Strengths
- Superior Display: The AMOLED screen offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast.
- Better Camera: The 50MP main camera and 16MP selfie camera capture significantly more detail than the Poco.
- Faster Charging: 33W charging speeds up battery replenishment.
- Enhanced Audio: Stereo speakers and DTS support offer a more immersive audio experience.
- More RAM: An 8GB option is available for smooth multitasking and resource heavy apps.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G: Strengths
- Smoother Screen: The 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations feel more fluid.
- Stronger Performance: The Dimensity 700 chipset offers a bump in performance in daily tasks and gaming.
- Improved Connectivity: The latest Wi-Fi standard (802.11ac), and more navigation systems for better GPS.
- Reverse Charging: Can charge other devices.
- Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass 3 protects against scratches and minor damage.
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Infinix Note 12 G96: Lacks screen protection, no expandable storage, and it has slightly slower performance.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 5G: Lower resolution camera, slower charging, and basic audio.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96 is ideal for:
- Media Consumers: Users who watch a lot of videos, movies, and enjoy vibrant displays and enhanced audio.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value higher quality photos and detailed selfies.
- Power Users: The 8GB ram option will help with heavy tasks and gaming.
Xiaomi Poco M4 5G is ideal for:
- Everyday Users: Those who prioritize smooth performance, good battery life, and robust connectivity.
- Gamers: The chipset is more efficient and offers a good gaming experience on a budget.
- Users On The Go: The screen protection and reverse charging are helpful for active lifestyles.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
What is your priority: Display or Performance?
- If a vibrant display and great cameras matter, the Infinix is the better choice.
- If you need smoother everyday performance and gaming, then the Poco M4 5G is ideal.
How much do you value camera quality?
- If camera quality and selfie details are crucial, the Infinix wins.
- If you just need a functional camera, the Poco will do just fine.
What's more important: Fast Charging or Smoother Display?
- If you need a fast charge, then the Infinix wins.
- If you prefer 90hz refresh rate and smooth animations, the Poco is a better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1: Media Consumption: For watching videos, the Infinix's AMOLED screen and enhanced audio are a clear winner.
- Scenario 2: Gaming: The Poco offers a smoother experience, better gaming performance.
- Scenario 3: Photography: The Infinix’s superior cameras make it better for photography.
- Scenario 4: Everyday Use: The Poco M4 5G provides a smoother overall experience.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would lean towards the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. Here’s why:
Even though I appreciate the Infinix's superior display and camera, the Poco M4 5G's combination of a smoother 90Hz display, more efficient chipset, better connectivity, screen protection, and its slightly lower price point makes it a more practical choice for my daily needs. The improved performance and everyday reliability outweighs the benefits of the Infinix’s better camera and screen. Also, I am not a big fan of over saturated colors on AMOLED displays, so the IPS panel on the Poco would be preferable for me.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific priorities. If you value a vibrant screen, superior camera, and faster charging, go for the Infinix Note 12 G96. If you prefer a smoother display, better performance, screen protection and solid connectivity, the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G is the more balanced option.
