Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G. I'm approaching this not just as a tech journalist, but as someone who wants to know how these phones will fit into real life. So, let's break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-16 | 2023-03-30 | Xiaomi is newer, potentially with updated features/software |
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 165.7 x 76 x 7.9 mm | Very similar size; Xiaomi is slightly taller and thinner |
| Weight | 185g | 183.5g | Practically identical; comfortable for prolonged use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Barely noticeable difference in screen real estate |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp and clear images on both |
| PPI | 393 | 395 | Near identical clarity and sharpness |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors, deep blacks, and energy-efficient |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Xiaomi offers much smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 1200 nits | Xiaomi's display is far more visible in bright sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G96 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 685 (6 nm) | Xiaomi's newer chipset is more power-efficient |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 338,900 | Xiaomi has slightly better performance in benchmarks |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 610 | Different architectures; real-world impact may vary |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP f/1.6 | 50MP f/1.8 | Infinix has a slightly wider aperture, better in low light |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.0 | 13MP f/2.45 | Infinix has higher resolution and a wider aperture |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP f/2.2 | Xiaomi offers more shooting versatility |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | None | Infinix provides a dedicated depth sensor |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP f/2.4 | Xiaomi can capture detailed close-up shots |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Infinix records higher resolution video |
| Video Stabilization | Yes | Yes | Both offer stable video recording |
| Slow Motion | Yes, 120 fps | No, 30 fps | Infinix offers smoother slow-motion capturing |
| DxoMark Camera Score | - | Main: 63, Photo: 54, Video: 66 | Xiaomi has overall decent camera performance |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should last a full day with moderate use |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Fast charging on both; convenient for quick top-ups |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer is slightly more advanced |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, Non-removable | Xiaomi can also function as a power bank in a pinch |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 | Android 13 | Xiaomi has a newer OS out of the box and more updates |
| Max OS Version | - | 14 | Xiaomi is likely to get Android 14 |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Xiaomi supports a faster WiFi standard |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.0 LE | Infinix has slightly newer Bluetooth |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Xiaomi offers more precise location tracking |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Xiaomi offers up to 256GB; more space for media and apps |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Ample for multitasking on both devices |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Users need to rely on the internal memory |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | Infinix offers superior audio for media consumption |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side Fingerprint | Side Fingerprint | Standard biometric unlock on both devices |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Xiaomi offers better protection against scratches and impacts |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Xiaomi includes a Compass; Infinix has gravity sensor |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96 Strengths:
- Better Low-Light Camera: The wider f/1.6 aperture on the main camera should perform better in dimly lit environments.
- Superior Selfie Camera: Higher resolution and wider aperture.
- Higher Resolution Video Recording: Can shoot videos at 1440p compared to Xiaomi's 1080p.
- Better Audio: Stereo speakers and DTS/DTS X enhance the audio experience.
- Slightly Newer Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.1 offers marginally better connectivity.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G Strengths:
- Significantly Smoother Display: The 120Hz refresh rate provides a more fluid and responsive user experience.
- Brighter Display: 1200 nits brightness is significantly better for outdoor visibility.
- More Efficient Chipset: The Snapdragon 685 is more power-efficient.
- Wider Camera Versatility: Includes a wide-angle and macro lens for more diverse photography options.
- More Accurate GPS: Supports GLONASS, Beidou, and Galileo for more precise location.
- Reverse Charging: Can act as a power bank for other devices.
- Higher Storage Option: Available with 256GB of storage.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 provides added screen protection
- Newer Operating System: Ships with Android 13 and is likely to get Android 14.
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Infinix Note 12 G96: Lacks the smooth 120Hz display and advanced satellite GPS that the Redmi Note 12 4G offers. The device also has an older operating system.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G: Lower resolution videos and slightly less light-sensitive main camera. It also lacks dedicated depth camera, and audio quality isn't as rich.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Media Consumers: With enhanced audio features, this is a better choice for those who primarily use their phone for watching videos or listening to music.
- Selfie Enthusiasts: The better selfie camera is ideal for social media buffs.
- Occasional Photographers: The wider aperture main lens is useful for those who sometimes snap a photo in low light conditions.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G:
- Everyday Users: The smooth 120Hz display, brighter screen, and better GPS make it a better all-rounder.
- Casual Gamers: The faster refresh rate and power-efficient chip can make games smoother and last longer.
- Outdoor Users: The brighter screen is ideal for people who frequently use their phone in sunlight.
- Photography Lovers: the extra lenses help create better content.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is a smooth display experience to you?
- If you prioritize smooth scrolling and animations, the Xiaomi's 120Hz display is a major win. If you don't mind 60Hz, the Infinix is fine.
- How often do you use your phone outdoors or in bright conditions?
- If you're frequently outdoors, the Xiaomi's 1200 nits brightness makes a huge difference. If not, the Infinix screen is acceptable.
- How crucial is the camera's low light capabilities, audio quality and slow motion
- If you take a lot of selfies or want better audio, and slow motion, the Infinix is the one for you. Otherwise, Xiaomi's main camera and overall capabilities are fine.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Social Media Influencer: The Infinix Note 12 G96 is the better choice thanks to its higher resolution selfie camera, better low light camera, and 1440p video capabilities.
- Scenario 2: Commuter/Outdoor User: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G is better due to its brighter display, more accurate GPS, and improved battery life.
- Scenario 3: Entertainment Lover: If audio quality is your main concern, the Infinix Note 12 G96 is more suitable, thanks to its stereo speakers and DTS audio. If smooth display is your main focus, then go with the Xiaomi.
- Scenario 4: Budget Conscious All-Rounder: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G provides more features and better performance for day-to-day use and is a newer device that will most likely receive more updates.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two, I'd lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G. Here's why:
While I appreciate the Infinix's low-light camera and audio, the overall package of the Xiaomi is more compelling. The 120Hz display is a game-changer for everyday use, making scrolling and navigating feel incredibly smooth and responsive. I also value a bright screen for outdoor use, and the fact that it has more precise GPS, better screen protection, is likely to receive more updates, and has more versatile camera features. As someone who uses their phone for a variety of tasks, I'd prefer the more well-rounded experience that Xiaomi provides.
This isn’t to say the Infinix is a bad phone; it’s simply a better fit for a more niche user. But for me, the Xiaomi's strengths in display quality and overall performance make it the more logical choice.
