Alright, let’s dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+. We'll look beyond just the specs and explore how these devices stack up in the real world, focusing on what matters most to you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison table, breaking down the key specifications and their practical implications:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 162.9 x 76 x 8.9 mm | Infinix is taller, Xiaomi is thicker; Xiaomi has slightly larger volume |
| Weight | 185g | 208.4g | Infinix is significantly lighter, better for extended use |
| Build Quality | Unknown Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Xiaomi offers enhanced screen durability |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Virtually the same screen size, barely noticeable difference |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical clarity, sharp visuals |
| Pixel Density | 393 PPI | 395 PPI | Nearly identical sharpness; both are crisp |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Similar color reproduction and contrast |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Xiaomi is significantly smoother for gaming and scrolling |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 900 nits | Xiaomi is much brighter, better in sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G96 (12 nm) | Dimensity 1080 (6 nm) | Xiaomi's chip is more powerful and energy-efficient |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 573,100 | Xiaomi offers drastically better performance for gaming and multitasking |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Xiaomi has a more capable GPU for gaming |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera | 50MP (f/1.6) | 200MP (f/1.65) | Xiaomi has higher resolution & larger sensor, better low light & details |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.0) | 16MP (f/2.45) | Infinix has wider aperture for better selfies |
| Wide Angle | None | 8MP (f/2.2) | Xiaomi offers ultrawide lens for group shots and landscapes |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | Infinix has better depth information for portrait photos |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP (f/2.4) | Xiaomi provides the ability to capture extremely detailed macro shots |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 4K@30fps | Xiaomi can record higher-resolution videos |
| Stabilization | No | Yes | Xiaomi offers better video stabilization |
| DxOMark Score | None | 113 (Overall) 117 (Photo/Video) | Xiaomi has a proven camera performance; Infinix not tested. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer all day battery on a full charge |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 120W Fast Charging | Xiaomi charges significantly faster |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 | Android 12 | Both come with the same base system |
| OS Max Version | None | 14 | Xiaomi will support more software updates |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n, 5GHz | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax, WiFi 6 | Xiaomi has faster WiFi with lower latency |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Xiaomi has a newer bluetooth for better sound |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Xiaomi has more precise location accuracy |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both support Dual SIM |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Xiaomi provides more capacity |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 8GB/12GB | Xiaomi provides more RAM for better performance |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS/ DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi offers more enhanced and immersive audio |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both share similar fingerprint sensors |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Xiaomi adds a compass sensor |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Strengths:
- Lighter and more comfortable for extended use.
- Wider aperture selfie camera for better low-light selfies.
- Has a depth sensor for portrait shots.
- Competitive Advantages:
- More affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Decent display for media consumption.
- Trade-offs/Limitations:
- Significantly weaker performance for gaming and multitasking.
- Lower refresh rate screen may feel less smooth.
- Lacks a wide-angle camera.
- Slower charging speeds.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+:
- Strengths:
- Significantly higher performance for gaming and demanding tasks.
- 120Hz display is notably smoother.
- Much brighter display for excellent outdoor visibility.
- Superior camera quality with a 200MP main sensor.
- Features an ultrawide lens and macro lens for versatility.
- Much faster 120W charging capabilities.
- Superior Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Better camera performance.
- Significantly more responsive and smoother display.
- Faster charging and faster connectivity.
- Trade-offs/Limitations:
- Heavier and thicker, less ergonomic for long use.
- Slightly less aperture on the selfie camera.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users, students, or those who prioritize a lighter phone for daily use and media consumption.
- Use Case: Casual browsing, social media, streaming videos, and light gaming.
- Recommendation: A great pick for everyday tasks if you aren't focused on intense gaming or high-end camera quality.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+:
- Ideal User: Power users, gamers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who values fast charging and a high-quality display.
- Use Case: Demanding games, heavy multitasking, professional-level photography, and videography.
- Recommendation: The superior option if you prioritize camera capabilities, performance, and a smooth visual experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to ask yourself:
- What's your budget? The Infinix is budget-friendly, whereas the Xiaomi sits in a higher price range for better features.
- How important is performance and camera quality? If you're a gamer or photography enthusiast, the Xiaomi is the clear winner.
- How do you value comfort and daily handling? The Infinix is lighter and easier to handle, whereas the Xiaomi is bulkier.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: If you are on a tight budget and require basic functionality, the Infinix Note 12 G96 is a suitable option.
- Casual User: If you want a reliable phone with decent performance for everyday tasks and light gaming, consider the Infinix.
- Power User: For those needing top-tier performance, fast charging, and exceptional camera capabilities, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is the better investment.
- Photography Enthusiast: If you love taking photos and want a versatile camera system, the Xiaomi is the best pick.
My Choice and Why
Personally, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+. While I appreciate the lighter build of the Infinix, the performance jump, the superior display, and the advanced camera capabilities of the Xiaomi are just too compelling to ignore. As a tech journalist and someone who uses their phone for a variety of tasks, including photography and gaming, the Xiaomi’s capabilities would make a far more significant difference to my everyday experience. The faster charging is another great advantage that I can't overlook, especially when you are in a hurry. I also value the extra protection that Gorilla Glass 5 provides. It's simply a more versatile and capable device. While it's heavier, the enhanced performance and features outweigh this slight disadvantage for my needs.
Ultimately, both phones have their strengths, and the choice depends on your priorities and budget. The Infinix Note 12 G96 is a good budget option for casual users, while the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ excels in performance, camera quality, and screen smoothness for more demanding users.
