Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. I'll approach this as if I'm explaining it to a friend who's curious about the tech.
Smartphone Showdown: Infinix Note 12 G96 vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S
These two phones share some core similarities, but key differences make each device appealing to different user needs. Let’s unpack the details, blending the specs with the practical implications.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a table breaking down the key specifications and what they mean for you:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | Infinix is slightly larger, might feel less pocketable for some. Xiaomi is lighter. |
| Weight | 185g | 176g | Xiaomi is 9g lighter; more comfortable for longer periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.43" | Infinix: Larger screen ideal for media consumption. Xiaomi: More compact, potentially easier to handle. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both offer sharp images; no noticeable difference in clarity. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 393 | 409 | Very similar pixel density, leading to comparably sharp visuals. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Rich colors and deep blacks on both; superior to LCD screens. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Xiaomi: Smoother scrolling and animations are noticeable. Infinix is more basic. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 1000 nits | Xiaomi: Much better visibility in bright sunlight. Infinix may struggle outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G96 (12 nm) | Helio G96 (12 nm) | Identical chips mean similar processing power; everyday tasks feel much the same. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 412,400 | Xiaomi: Higher benchmark scores may translate to slightly better responsiveness, faster app loading. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Same graphics processor; gaming performance will be similar, with Xiaomi potentially doing slightly better. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.6 | 108MP, f/1.8 | Xiaomi: Higher detail in photos thanks to larger sensor and more megapixels. Infinix: Wider aperture may be better in low-light, but the sensor is not as good. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.0 | 16MP, f/2.4 | Infinix: wider aperture might let more light in. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP, f/2.2 | Xiaomi: Offers more versatility in capturing photos. |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Infinix: Creates better portrait mode bokeh effect (blurry background effect). |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Xiaomi: Ability to take close-up photos. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Infinix: Has the edge for video resolution; Xiaomi is enough for standard social media. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer all-day battery life for most users, a very typical amount these days. |
| Charging | 33W Fast | 33W Fast | Both charge quickly, getting you from zero to full in decent time. |
| Features | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer, Reverse Charging | Xiaomi has a slight advantage with polymer and can be used to reverse charge other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | Xiaomi has a slightly more up to date android version which leads to better security and updates |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | Xiaomi's additional Wi-Fi support could offer better throughput. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Xiaomi features better bluetooth. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Xiaomi is better for navigation. |
| Storage and RAM | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 64/128/256 GB | Xiaomi offers more storage options. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | Xiaomi generally performs better for multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both have no expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both are similar in this regard; the features they offer are nice but won't be noticeable to the regular user. |
| Build Quality and Security | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 3 | Xiaomi is more resilient to scratches and light bumps. |
| Security | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint scanner for both is very similar. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity | Both phones have decent sensor sets. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96 Strengths:
- Larger Display: Great for consuming media, watching videos, and gaming.
- Wider Aperture Front Camera: Slightly better selfies in low-light conditions.
- 1440p Video Resolution: Better for those who prioritize higher-resolution videos.
- DTS/DTS X Audio: More immersive audio.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Strengths:
- Brighter Display: Excellent outdoor visibility, even in direct sunlight.
- Higher AnTuTu Benchmark Score: Suggests slightly faster overall performance and smoother multitasking.
- Superior Main Camera: Higher resolution (108MP) and larger sensor, meaning more detailed photos.
- Versatile Camera System: Includes wide-angle and macro lenses for added flexibility.
- Newer Android OS: Android 13 provides better security and updates.
- Better Connectivity: WiFi 802.11 ac, better Bluetooth and more GPS options.
- Better Storage: 256 GB storage option available.
- Reverse Charging: Ability to charge other devices using the phone.
- Better Screen protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for screen protection.
- More Sensors: Has compass and Ultrasonic proximity sensors.
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- Infinix : Smaller screen and less bright display than the Xiaomi. The camera and general performance are not as good.
- Xiaomi: No depth sensor means less detailed portrait mode, and it lacks 1440p video recording.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Infinix Note 12 G96: Best for users who consume a lot of media (movies, videos) and prefer a large screen. Good for those on a budget who want a decent camera and screen for their daily usage.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S: Ideal for users who want a well-rounded phone with a great camera, a bright display, and good overall performance. More for those who are heavy smartphone users.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your decision:
- How often do I use my phone outdoors in bright sunlight?
- If Often: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S wins with its much brighter display, and better battery.
- If Rarely: The Infinix Note 12 G96's display is still enjoyable indoors.
- How important are camera quality and versatility to me?
- If Very Important: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S offers a more capable main sensor and additional lenses (wide angle, macro) for different types of photography.
- If Moderately Important: Infinix Note 12 G96 provides good results for everyday shots.
- Do I prioritize better performance and more future-proof features?
- If Yes: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S has a higher benchmark, better bluetooth, better wi-fi and generally better specs.
- If Budget-Conscious: Infinix Note 12 G96 has good specs for the price.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The "Media Enthusiast": If you're all about watching movies and shows, the Infinix Note 12 G96's larger screen is tempting. However, the Xiaomi will give you a better experience because of the brighter display, better audio and slightly smoother experience.
- The "Photography Lover": The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S offers significantly better photography with its 108MP main sensor and versatile lens setup. It is the clear winner here.
- The "Everyday User": The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is the better choice for an overall experience because it has a better OS, more storage, better performance, and many more features.
- The "Budget-Conscious" The Infinix Note 12 G96 is slightly cheaper so could be a good choice. However, the difference in price is worth the extra features the Xiaomi offers.
My Choice
If I had to choose between the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S.
Here's why:
- Superior Overall Performance: The higher AnTuTu benchmark score and slightly better RAM and newer OS mean a smoother, more responsive experience for everyday tasks, which are the most important.
- Significantly Better Display: The higher brightness of the Xiaomi means a much better experience for outdoor use.
- More Versatile Camera System: The inclusion of a wide-angle lens and macro lens provides much better flexibility, and the higher resolution captures much better detail. The main sensor is also better.
- Future-Proofing: With newer Android, better bluetooth and wi-fi, and more storage, the Xiaomi is better for long-term usage.
- Added Features: It has reverse charging capability, and better screen protection which make it a great choice.
While the Infinix has its strengths, especially in the size of the display, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S provides a much more rounded experience for a very similar price. It’s got the key features that will improve your day-to-day usage and that makes it my top pick.
Hope this thorough breakdown helps you make your own informed decision! Let me know if you have any more questions.
