Alright, let's dive deep into the tech specs of the Infinix Note 12 G96 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+, and figure out what they mean for you, the user. I'm going to approach this like I'm chatting with a friend, explaining all the geeky bits in a way that makes sense for everyday use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, with a focus on what the numbers mean in the real world:
| Feature | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-05-16 | 2023-09-21 | Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is significantly newer, potentially benefiting from more recent software and features |
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 76.8 × 8 mm | 161.4 × 74.2 × 8.9 mm | Infinix is slightly taller and wider, Redmi is thicker. Redmi feels more compact overall. |
| Weight | 185g | 199g | Infinix feels lighter in hand, which could be better for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Both are large, immersive displays with a negligible difference in size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1220x2712 | Redmi has a noticeably sharper and clearer display due to more pixels. |
| Pixel Density | 393 ppi | 446 ppi | Redmi offers crisper text and images – noticeable in detailed graphics and text. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colours, deep blacks, and high contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Redmi's 120Hz is visibly smoother, especially when scrolling and in animations. |
| Brightness | 650 nits | 1800 nits | Redmi is significantly better in bright sunlight, offering superior outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Helio G96 (12 nm) | Dimensity 7200 Ultra (4 nm) | Redmi’s chip is newer and more efficient, resulting in better performance and battery life. |
| AnTuTu Score | 307,000 | 803,381 | Redmi offers significantly better app loading, multitasking, and gaming performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G610 MC4 | Redmi's GPU is more powerful, leading to better graphics in games. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery endurance. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 120W Fast Charging | Redmi charges much faster, which can be a huge convenience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.6, 1/2.76”) | 200MP (f/1.65, 1/1.4") | Redmi has much higher resolution and a larger sensor for better image quality, especially in low light. |
| Front Camera | 16MP (f/2.0) | 16MP (f/2.4, 1/3.06") | Infinix offers a slightly wider aperture, potentially better in low light for selfies. |
| Wide/Macro Camera | None | 8MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8") | Redmi has the flexibility to capture wide-angle shots and close-up macros. |
| Video | 1440p@30fps, No EIS | 4K@30fps EIS, 1080p@120fps EIS | Redmi captures higher-resolution video and offers electronic image stabilization (EIS). |
| DXOMark | N/A | Main: 121 (Photo:123, Video:117) | Redmi's camera is generally better across both photos and videos. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 | Android 13 | Redmi runs a newer OS out of the box. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Redmi supports faster Wi-Fi speeds with newer standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Redmi has the latest Bluetooth for more efficient wireless connections. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Redmi has broader satellite support for more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM / eSIM | Redmi offers more versatility with eSIM support. |
| Storage & Audio | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 256/512 GB | Redmi offers far more storage for all your apps, files, photos, and videos. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 8/12/16 GB | Redmi has more RAM, which will help with heavy multitasking and demanding games. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio Quality | DTS/DTSX | Dolby Atmos | Both offer stereo sound, with minor differences in audio technology. |
| Security & Build | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | basic | Infinix has a more advanced fingerprint sensor that may offer better placement and speed. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Redmi has superior screen protection against scratches and accidental drops. |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Note 12 G96:
- Strengths: It’s slightly lighter and features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, which some users might prefer for ergonomics. It also offers DTS audio which could appeal to some.
- Competitive Advantage: This phone would likely be the more budget-friendly option, while still having a decent AMOLED display and acceptable performance for everyday tasks.
- Limitations: It’s older, slower, has a significantly lower-resolution display, a less impressive camera, and lacks the latest connectivity features like faster Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+:
- Strengths: The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is a significant upgrade, boasting a sharper display with a 120Hz refresh rate, much higher performance, a much better 200MP main camera with OIS, and dramatically faster 120W charging.
- Competitive Advantage: It is the clear choice for anyone who prioritizes a better overall user experience, especially in terms of performance, display quality, camera versatility and quick charging. The modern connectivity with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 is also a major plus.
- Limitations: It’s slightly heavier and thicker than the Infinix. The lack of expandable storage might be limiting for some users (though the 256/512GB versions offer ample space).
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Note 12 G96 is best for:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who need a decent smartphone for basic tasks without breaking the bank.
- Casual users: Users who primarily use their phones for calls, messages, social media, and web browsing.
- Users who value lightness: The lighter design can be a plus for those who find larger phones cumbersome.
- Users with preference for side fingerprint: The side fingerprint may appeal to users who dislike front or in-screen fingerprint readers
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is best for:
- Enthusiasts and power users: Those who demand high performance for gaming, multitasking, and using resource-intensive apps.
- Photography lovers: Users who want a versatile camera system with great image quality for daily shots and special occasions.
- Multimedia consumers: Those who stream a lot of videos, movies, and games, and appreciate a vibrant, smooth display with excellent brightness.
- Users who need fast charging: The ability to go from 0 to 100% in a flash.
- Travelers: Having the eSIM capabilities will be very useful when travelling abroad.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to consider when choosing between these two phones:
- How important is performance and display quality for you? If you want the best performance, a high-resolution display, and smooth scrolling, then the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is the clear choice. If you just need a phone for basics and are on a tight budget, the Infinix might suffice.
- How much does the camera matter to you? If you want a more versatile camera with high-resolution photos and stabilization, the Redmi's 200MP camera with OIS is a huge draw. If the camera is just for occasional use, the Infinix’s camera is acceptable, though not as impressive.
- What's your budget? The Infinix will be much more budget-friendly, but the Redmi provides a much more premium experience for a higher price. Determine your budget and what features are non-negotiable for you.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Student on a Budget: Go for the Infinix Note 12 G96 if you need a phone for basic needs within a tight budget. It’ll handle note-taking, research, and social media just fine.
- Scenario 2: Social Media Creator: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is the way to go, its versatile camera and 4k video capture can make a significant difference.
- Scenario 3: On-the-Go Professional: The Redmi's faster charging and performance are ideal for a busy lifestyle. The eSIM support and faster connectivity also make it a great option for international travel.
My Choice:
If I were choosing, I would absolutely go with the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+. The performance boost, the incredible display quality, the substantially better camera, and the super-fast charging, all make a real difference to the day-to-day user experience. While the Infinix might be more affordable, I'd rather invest a little more for a phone that feels more premium and offers more of the features I care about. The camera, especially for a tech journalist, is a big plus since I often need to capture images for my work. And as someone who is always on the move, having access to eSIM for international travel is a major plus. In this case the premium features of the Redmi vastly outweigh the savings from the Infinix.
