Okay, let's break down the Motorola Edge (2022) and Xiaomi Redmi 12C, putting these phones under the microscope with a focus on what really matters to you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the key specs, presented in a way that makes sense for real-world use:
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Xiaomi Redmi 12C | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.9 x 74.2 x 8 mm | 168.8 x 76.4 x 8.8 mm | Edge (2022) is more compact & pocketable. Redmi 12C is larger, which may not be as comfortable. |
| Weight | 170g | 192g | Edge (2022) is significantly lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.71" | Slightly larger screen on Redmi 12C but not enough to really affect viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 720 x 1650 | Edge (2022) has a much sharper display. Text and images are visibly clearer. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 399 | 268 | Edge (2022)'s screen appears much more detailed. |
| Technology | OLED | IPS LCD | OLED offers better color vibrancy, deeper blacks, and better contrast on the Edge (2022). |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 60Hz | Edge (2022) offers significantly smoother scrolling and animations. This is very noticeable. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Neither phone has a stated brightness value which makes this hard to judge |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) | Helio G85 (12 nm) | Edge (2022) boasts a much more powerful and efficient processor; Faster app loading and better gaming performance. |
| Antutu Score | 522,375 | 225,154 | Edge (2022) has much better overall performance, capable of handling demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G610 MC3 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Edge (2022) offers better graphics processing for games and apps |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8 | 50MP f/1.8 | Similar resolution, but sensor details (Edge is Omnivision OV50A) are important for image quality. No information on Redmi sensor. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP f/2.45 | 5MP | Edge (2022) takes much higher resolution selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP f/1.5 | None | Edge (2022) offers versatility with a dedicated wide angle lens. |
| Macro Lens | 20MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Edge (2022) can take much more detailed close-up photos. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps (EIS), up to 120fps for FHD | 1080p@30fps | Edge (2022) records higher resolution video with stabilization. |
| DxoMark | Not Tested | Mobile: 45 Photo: 50, Video: 43 | Redmi 12C has camera review data. No data for the Edge, so hard to judge relative camera quality |
| OIS | Yes | No | Edge (2022) offers OIS for smoother videos and more detailed photos. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Same battery capacity, similar battery life overall. |
| Charging | 30W Fast, 15W wireless | 10W Fast | Edge (2022) charges much faster, and offers Wireless charging. |
| Battery Tech | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Li-polymer (Motorola) tends to have better capacity over time compared to Li-Ion (Xiaomi) |
| Reverse Charging | Yes | No | Edge (2022) offers reverse wireless charging capability |
| Other | |||
| OS | Android 12 (Up to 13) | Android 12 | Edge (2022) is likely to get a newer Android version. |
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 5 | Edge (2022) has better WiFi for faster, reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 | Edge (2022) has a slightly better bluetooth connection. |
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 32GB/64GB/128GB | Edge (2022) has more storage options |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 3GB/4GB/6GB | Edge (2022) has better RAM options. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device offers expandable storage |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 3 Mics | Basic Audio | Edge (2022) has a better audio experience. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Edge (2022) has better screen protection |
| Sensors | Comprehensive suite | Basic Suite | Edge (2022) has more sensor options, like a barometer and magnetometer. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge (2022) Strengths:
- Superior Display: The OLED display with 144Hz refresh rate is a game-changer, offering a much smoother and more vibrant visual experience.
- Performance Powerhouse: The Dimensity 1050 chip delivers significantly better performance than the Helio G85, leading to snappier app loading, better multitasking, and a superior gaming experience.
- Enhanced Camera System: The Edge (2022) offers more versatile camera system, a better selfie camera, a macro lens and Optical Image Stabilization.
- Faster Charging and Wireless Charging: The 30W fast charging and wireless charging are a huge convenience over the Redmi 12C's slower wired charging.
- Better Overall Features Edge (2022) offers more storage, a faster wifi connection, and better bluetooth
Xiaomi Redmi 12C Strengths:
- Larger Display: Slightly larger display size than the Motorola Edge (2022).
- Budget-Friendly: The Redmi 12C will be the significantly cheaper of the two phones, focusing on providing features at a low cost.
- Decent Battery Life: With a 5000mAh battery, you will get a full day of normal usage.
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- Motorola Edge (2022): The lack of expandable storage might be a concern for users who store a lot of media, and the price will be higher
- Xiaomi Redmi 12C: Significantly weaker performance, inferior display, slower charging, and a much more basic camera system. The lack of detail on the main sensor is concerning.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge (2022) is Ideal For:
- Power Users: People who need a smooth, responsive experience for demanding tasks and games.
- Media Consumers: Those who prioritize a great display for watching videos, browsing, and social media.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want versatile camera options and better image quality.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate advanced features like wireless charging and faster performance.
- Multitaskers: People who switch between many apps and need better ram options.
Xiaomi Redmi 12C is Ideal For:
- Budget-Conscious Users: People who need a basic smartphone without spending too much.
- Casual Users: Those who primarily use their phone for calls, texts, and simple social media browsing.
- First-Time Smartphone Owners: A straightforward and affordable option for those new to smartphones.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to guide your decision:
- How important is a high-quality display and smooth performance to you?
- If very important, the Motorola Edge (2022) is the clear winner.
- If not a priority, the Redmi 12C may suffice.
- What are your photography needs?
- If you want a versatile camera system with high-quality selfies and great close-up details, the Edge (2022) is the better choice.
- If you only need basic photos, the Redmi 12C is sufficient.
- What is your budget?
- If you are budget-constrained, the Redmi 12C is a more economical option.
- If you can afford the premium for advanced features and performance, the Edge (2022) offers a much superior experience.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Daily Usage + Some Gaming: If you want to play occasional games and need a smooth daily driver, the Motorola Edge (2022) is a no-brainer due to its powerful processor, smoother display, and better audio.
Scenario 2: Budget-Focused, Basic Smartphone: If your budget is your main priority and you only need basic smartphone features, the Xiaomi Redmi 12C will serve you well.
Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: The Motorola Edge (2022), with its versatile camera setup, higher resolution sensors, OIS, and better video capabilities, is the superior choice for photography.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Motorola Edge (2022), without hesitation. The combination of its OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, the significantly more powerful processor, better camera system, wireless charging, and overall more premium features makes it the superior phone for my needs. The vastly improved performance for demanding tasks, better camera versatility, and the more enjoyable visual experience is something that I value highly. While the Redmi 12C has its place as a budget-friendly option, the Edge (2022) provides a far better and more versatile user experience, and I would happily spend a little extra for that.
