Alright, let's dive deep into this comparison of the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12. As a tech journalist with an engineering background, I'm not just going to list specs; I want to explain what these numbers mean for your everyday life. Let's break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed table comparing the key technical specifications of the Motorola Edge (2022) and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12, with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-22 | 2023-01-11 | The Redmi Note 12 is newer, potentially offering more updated features and software. |
| Dimensions | 160.9 x 74.2 x 8 mm | 165.9 x 76.2 x 8 mm | The Redmi Note 12 is slightly larger and might be less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 170g | 188g | Motorola Edge (2022) is lighter, better for longer use without hand fatigue. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.67" | Similar screen sizes; minimal difference in overall experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical sharpness; both deliver crisp visuals. |
| PPI | 399 | 395 | Essentially the same pixel density, resulting in similar clarity. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; generally similar quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Motorola's higher refresh rate provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is dramatically brighter; excellent for outdoor use in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6 nm) | Motorola's chip offers better overall performance and responsiveness. |
| AnTuTu Score | 522,375 | 460,800 | The Motorola Edge (2022) has slightly better performance, suitable for moderate gaming. |
| GPU | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Adreno 619 | Both are capable GPUs for general use, but the Motorola's has a small performance edge. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life expected; both should last a full day for most users. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 12 charges slightly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Wireless, Reverse | None | Motorola offers more flexible charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | Motorola has a larger sensor and higher resolution for better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45 | 13MP, f/2.45 | Motorola has a dramatically higher resolution selfie camera for detailed selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/1.5 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Motorola's wider aperture for better low light shots. |
| Macro Lens | 20MP, f/2.4, 1/2.83" | 2MP, f/2.4 | Motorola's macro camera allows for more detail. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Motorola offers higher quality video capture and stability features. |
| DXOMark Score | N/A | 69 (Mobile) | Redmi Note 12 has an evaluated camera quality rating, if not stellar. |
| Camera Features | OIS | RAW, Night Mode | Motorola's OIS helps with image stabilization while Xiaomi has more software features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradeable to 13) | Android 12 | Motorola offers an upgrade, providing more access to the newest features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 5 | Motorola's WiFi 6 support ensures faster and more efficient wireless speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 | Motorola has a newer version. |
| GPS | GPS, SUPL | GPS(L1+L5) | Xiaomi offers more precise location using more bands. |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | Motorola gives extra convenience with eSIM support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer similar storage options; no expandable storage for either. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Both offer enough RAM for multitasking. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo | Basic audio | Motorola has better audio quality, especially for media consumption. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Xiaomi's is more advanced. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Both offer similar protection from everyday scratches and minor drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Barometer, Magnetometer, Proximity | Ultrasonic Proximity | Motorola provides a more comprehensive sensor suite. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge (2022): Strengths
- Superior Performance: The MediaTek Dimensity 1050 chipset gives the Motorola Edge (2022) an edge in processing power, making it smoother for multitasking and demanding applications.
- Enhanced Display Smoothness: A 144Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations notably smoother.
- Better Camera System: The Motorola Edge (2022) boasts a higher-resolution main sensor and a 32MP selfie camera, along with a superior wide angle and macro lens, resulting in better image quality and versatility.
- Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers make for a much better audio experience.
- Wireless Charging and eSIM: These features add to the device’s flexibility and convenience, especially for users who travel.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12: Strengths
- Brighter Display: With a peak brightness of 1200 nits, the Redmi Note 12 excels in outdoor visibility.
- Faster Charging: The 33W fast charging ensures the phone will be up and running sooner.
- Feature-Rich Camera Software: It offers additional features like RAW, Night Mode and Ultra stable video recording.
- More Precise GPS: Offers better location accuracy using L1+L5 bands
- Lower Price Point: Typically, the Redmi Note 12 is available at a lower price, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Trade-offs and Limitations
- Motorola Edge (2022): While it has a better camera setup, the lack of a formal DxOMark score means we have to rely more on its specifications to evaluate performance.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12: The slightly weaker chipset and lower refresh rate might be noticeable for users who are heavy gamers or multitaskers. It also uses a weaker camera setup compared to the Motorola.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Edge (2022) is best suited for:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Users who value smooth multitasking, moderate gaming, and an overall responsive user experience.
- Content Creators: Those who want a versatile camera setup with better still and video capabilities, a good selfie camera and better overall quality.
- Media Consumers: Users who want a premium audio experience with Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers.
- Travelers: Users who need eSIM support and wireless charging.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is best suited for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those seeking a solid, reliable smartphone with a good display and a big battery, without breaking the bank.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: Users who need a screen that is readable even in bright sunlight.
- Casual Photographers: Users who want a good camera with some extra features at a lower cost.
- Users who don't mind compromises: People who are ok with an average experience if it means getting a good deal
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize performance and a high-quality camera over price? If yes, the Motorola Edge (2022) is your choice.
- Is a bright, outdoor-friendly display and budget more important to you? Then the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is better for you.
- Do you prefer wireless charging and eSIM support? The Motorola Edge (2022) is the only one of the two that offers these features.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Gaming Enthusiast: Go for the Motorola Edge (2022) due to its more powerful chipset, higher refresh rate, and better GPU.
- For the Budget-Conscious Photographer: Go for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12, which features a decent camera with a decent software package.
- For the Frequent Traveler: The Motorola Edge (2022) is a better choice, offering eSIM support, wireless charging and better performance.
- For Everyday Use: If you just want something reliable at a lower price, then go for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12.
Which One Would I Choose?
Given my priorities and what I value most in a smartphone, I would choose the Motorola Edge (2022).
Here’s why:
As a tech journalist, I need a phone that performs reliably, takes good-quality photos and video, and has the extra features that can help me during my work. The Motorola Edge (2022) delivers on all these fronts. I prioritize a smooth user experience, and the combination of the powerful MediaTek chip and the 144Hz display will ensure that everything feels fluid and responsive. I also appreciate the wireless charging, eSIM capabilities and better camera system that this phone has. While I am aware of the better brightness on the Xiaomi, I would rather have the overall package that Motorola brings.
While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is a great phone for its price, for me, the Motorola Edge (2022) is the better overall option.
