Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G. We'll break down the specs, explore what they mean for real-world use, and help you decide which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 168.6 x 76.3 x 8.2 mm | The Xiaomi is slightly taller and thicker, but both are very similar in hand. The weight difference of 14g is noticeable. |
| Weight | 185g | 199g | The Infinix feels a bit lighter in hand, which can be more comfortable during extended usage. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.79" | Both offer a large screen for immersive viewing, the difference is hardly noticeable. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2460 | Both are Full HD+, resulting in sharp images. Minimal difference. |
| Pixel Density | 393 PPI | 396 PPI | Similar pixel density. Both offer crisp text and images |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | The Infinix’s AMOLED display offers deeper blacks, richer colors, and better contrast, while the LCD on the Xiaomi will have good color accuracy |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | The Xiaomi's 90Hz refresh rate offers smoother scrolling and animations, which enhances the overall experience |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 0 nits | The Infinix’s higher brightness will be much more visible under direct sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Helio G96 | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 | The Xiaomi, with its newer and more efficient 4nm processor, offers significantly better performance and power efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 456,552 | The Xiaomi will offer noticeably faster app loading and smoother gaming experiences. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 613 | The Xiaomi has a more efficient graphics processor, which translates to better gaming and overall graphics performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Similar battery capacity will provide comparable battery life for average usage scenarios. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging (Li-Ion) | 18W Fast Charging (Li-Polymer) | The Infinix charges much faster, getting you back to full power quicker, however, the Lithium Polymer used by the Xiaomi has better longevity. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.6) | 50MP (f/1.8) | The Infinix's wider aperture (f/1.6) may result in slightly better low-light photos, however the results should be quite similar. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.0) | 5MP (f/2.2) | The Infinix's front camera will offer much more detailed photos due to its larger sensor. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Both have a depth sensor for portrait mode shots. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | The Infinix records videos in higher resolution, but the Xiaomi has image stabilization for smoother shots. |
| DXOMark Score | NA | 63 | The Xiaomi's camera performance has been tested and has shown mid-range capabilities. |
| Camera Features | Triple Cam, Manual Focus, Night Mode | Dual Cam, OIS, PDAF | Each has different strengths in software features, though the Xiaomi's OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) can mean smoother video. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 (Upgradable to 14) | The Xiaomi ships with a newer version of Android and is upgradable to Android 14, which means better features and support |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | The Xiaomi supports newer WiFi standards (802.11ac), resulting in potentially faster WiFi speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.0 | The Infinix has a slightly newer Bluetooth standard, though the difference is unlikely to affect daily use. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | The Xiaomi supports more satellite navigation systems, which may result in more precise location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | The Xiaomi offers larger storage options. |
| RAM | 4 GB, 6 GB, 8GB | 4 GB, 6 GB, 8GB | Both phones offer good RAM options. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | The Infinix has superior audio, which translates to more immersive sound for music, videos and games. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both have side mounted sensors for easy access |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | The Xiaomi's screen has better protection. |
| Sensors | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Biometric, Accelerometer, Compass, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Both have basic sensors though the Xiaomi offers a digital compass. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96 Strengths:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED screen offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and great contrast, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. It also has a higher brightness for viewing under direct sunlight
- Faster Charging: The 33W fast charging is a significant advantage, allowing for faster power-ups.
- Better Selfie Camera: Its 16MP front camera offers noticeably more detailed selfies.
- Enhanced Audio: It offers enhanced surround sound due to its DTS and stereo speakers
- Wider Aperture: The f/1.6 main camera might perform slightly better in low light, and the camera can record in 1440p.
Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset provides significantly faster processing and better power efficiency.
- Smoother Display: The 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations smoother and more pleasant.
- Up-to-date Software: Ships with Android 13 and is upgradable to 14.
- Better WiFi: It has the capability for much faster WiFi standards
- Larger Storage Options: It has the option for 256GB of internal storage.
- Screen Protection: Comes with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 screen protection.
- Navigation: Supports more satellite navigation systems.
- Video Stabilisation: Has video stabilisation for smoother video recordings.
Trade-offs:
- The Infinix trades overall processing power for a better display.
- The Xiaomi has superior performance and software support at the cost of a less vibrant display and slower charging.
- Neither device supports expandable storage.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Best For: Users who prioritize a vibrant display and faster charging. Great for media consumption, casual gaming and users who take a lot of selfies.
- Use Cases: Watching videos, playing games, browsing social media, taking photos, and quick charging needs.
- Recommendation: An excellent choice for those who value an immersive visual experience and don’t mind trading off some processing power.
Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G:
- Best For: Users who value performance, up-to-date software, and good overall value. Great for daily use, and good for all types of social media.
- Use Cases: Everyday tasks, app usage, some gaming, and longer-term use.
- Recommendation: A great all-rounder for those looking for reliability, solid performance, and smooth navigation with a solid camera.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is display quality to you? If an AMOLED display with vibrant colors is a must, the Infinix might be the better option. If you prefer smoother animations and don't mind an IPS LCD, the Xiaomi is fine.
- Do you prioritize performance or battery charging speed? If you need a faster and smoother experience overall, the Xiaomi is the way to go. If faster charging is essential, the Infinix is better.
- Do you use your phone for media consumption or taking photos? If you often watch movies or use your phone for long periods for social media then the AMOLED screen of the Infinix might be more suited to you. If you prefer a better selfie camera then again the Infinix might be better suited to you.
My Choice:
For me, I'd choose the Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G. While I appreciate a good AMOLED display, the significantly better processing power of the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, the smoother 90Hz refresh rate, and the more recent software are more important to me for daily use. The superior build quality and screen protection, and the option for 256GB of storage are also major plus points. I find that the benefits of having a device that is faster, more efficient and has better overall support outweigh the appeal of the Infinix's screen and faster charging.
