Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G. These two phones are battling it out in the mid-range arena, and while they share some similarities, their differences are crucial for understanding which one might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm | 162.3 x 75.6 x 8 mm | The Infinix is slightly larger and wider. Both are equally thin. |
| Weight | 185g | 188.5g | Almost identical weight, both feel comfortable in hand. |
| Build | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 13 offers better screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Similar screen real estate, negligible difference in size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both deliver sharp visuals with the same FHD+ resolution. |
| PPI | 393 | 395 | Nearly identical pixel density for sharp text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both devices. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The Redmi has significantly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 1800 nits | The Redmi is much brighter for clear outdoor visibility in sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 685 (6 nm) | Redmi has a more efficient and newer processor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 338,000 | Redmi has a ~10% performance boost, slightly better for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 610 | Different GPU architectures that provide adequate graphics for most tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main | 50MP, f/1.6 | 108MP, f/1.7 | Redmi captures higher resolution images; Infinix has a slightly wider aperture for better low-light scenarios but Redmi has a larger sensor that helps with that. |
| Rear Sensor | Samsung S5KJN1 | Samsung HM6 | The Redmi uses the higher end sensor. |
| Selfie | 16MP, f/2.0 | 16MP, f/2.4 | Infinix has a wider aperture for slightly better low-light selfies. |
| Depth | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Same depth sensor quality. |
| Wide Angle/Macro | None | 8MP, f/2.2 | Redmi provides more shooting flexibility with an ultrawide lens. |
| Video Recording | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Infinix records at a higher resolution but both have stabilization. |
| DxOMark Score | N/A | 75 | Redmi Note 13 4G has been tested on DxOMark. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer all-day battery life for moderate use. |
| Charging | 33W fast | 33W fast | Same charging speed for both. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer is more stable and safer. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | Redmi provides a more modern and potentially longer support OS. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Redmi offers faster speeds on a more modern standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.1 LE, aptX, LDAC | Redmi provides better audio quality over wireless connection. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Redmi provides more location accuracy with support of more satellite systems. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Redmi offers more options for storage. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | Redmi offers better performance in multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | DTS/DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Both phones offer great sound quality, but support different audio codecs and standards. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | basic fingerprint | Side mounted fingerprint is faster and more natural to use. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Redmi provides more features with the Compass sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96
- Strengths:
- Slightly wider aperture on the main camera (f/1.6) for potentially better low-light shots.
- Offers DTS / DTS X audio for more immersive sound experience.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor which is faster and more natural to use.
- Competitive Advantage:
- Potentially better low light images on main camera thanks to the f/1.6 aperture
- Trade-Offs:
- Older chipset, less performance and efficiency.
- Older software, less software support over time.
- No wide angle camera.
- 60hz display is noticeably less smooth.
- Lower screen brightness making it harder to see in bright light.
- Limited internal storage options.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G
- Strengths:
- Significantly brighter display (1800 nits) for better outdoor visibility.
- 120Hz refresh rate for much smoother screen experience.
- More efficient Snapdragon 685 chipset for better performance and battery management.
- Higher resolution main camera (108MP) for more detailed photos.
- Has an 8MP ultrawide camera.
- Newer software (Android 13) with longer update support.
- Better Wi-Fi connectivity and better Bluetooth audio quality.
- More internal storage options and features more satellite systems for location accuracy.
- Corning Gorilla Glass 3 screen protection
- Competitive Advantages:
- Brighter display, smoother refresh rate, superior performance, newer OS, higher resolution camera, better connectivity.
- Trade-Offs:
- Slightly narrower aperture on the main camera which could affect low-light performance, though the larger sensor can make up for this.
- Uses standard fingerprint sensor.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96
- Ideal For:
- Users who prioritize audio experience with DTS / DTS X.
- Users who prefer a slightly wider aperture on main camera for better low-light shots, and do not care about having a ultrawide lens.
- Users who like the side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Use Cases:
- Media consumption and audio-focused tasks.
- Budget-conscious users who are ok with some limitations.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G
- Ideal For:
- Users who value a brighter, smoother display.
- Users who want better performance and longer software support.
- Users who want to take more detailed pictures with an ultrawide lens.
- Users who prefer a more modern device with good connectivity features
- Users who want a phone with good durability.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday use with good visibility in bright light.
- Mobile gamers or multitaskers looking for better performance.
- Photography enthusiasts looking for more shooting flexibility with ultrawide angle.
- People looking for better audio quality and wireless connectivity.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide between the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G, ask yourself the following:
- Display Priority: Is a super bright and smooth 120Hz display essential for you, or are you ok with a standard 60Hz refresh rate? If it is essential, then go with the Redmi.
- Performance Needs: Do you need the most efficient chipset for better multitasking and battery life, or are you happy with slightly less performance? If better performance is your priority, go with the Redmi.
- Camera Flexibility: Do you need an ultrawide camera, or is low light primary camera performance more important to you? If having an ultrawide lens is your priority, go with the Redmi.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- For the Casual User: If you primarily browse the web, use social media, and watch videos indoors, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G will offer a much better experience due to the smoother, brighter display and more efficient processor.
- For the Audiophile: If audio is a top priority, the Infinix Note 12 G96 with DTS / DTS X might be more appealing. However, the Redmi also delivers a great sound with Dolby Atmos.
- For the Mobile Gamer: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G is the clear winner, it offers better performance, a smoother display, and better battery life, making it ideal for gaming.
- For the Budget-Conscious Buyer: Both phones are solid mid-range options, however, Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G offers more for the money, having a much more well rounded package.
Personal Choice
If it was me making a decision, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 4G. The significantly brighter 120Hz display alone is a game-changer for everyday use, not to mention the better performance, newer operating system, better camera flexibility, and superior connectivity features. While the Infinix does have a slightly wider aperture on its main camera and great audio features, the overall package of the Redmi Note 13 4G is just more compelling, offering a better experience for the price. The trade offs of having a slightly narrower aperture on the main camera is offset by the larger sensor and an ultrawide lens being included.
