Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro. As always, we'll focus not just on the numbers, but on what these specs mean for you in your everyday use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of their key features, alongside an analysis of what they mean for you:
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.9 x 74.2 x 8 mm | 163 x 76 x 8 mm | The Redmi Note 12 Pro is slightly larger, may feel more substantial in hand. |
| Weight | 170g | 187g | Motorola Edge is noticeably lighter for comfortable, extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.67" | Both are virtually the same size. Barely noticeable in daily use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp and clear images on both. No major difference. |
| Pixel Density | 399 PPI | 395 PPI | Essentially the same visual clarity, negligible difference. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; similar tech. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Motorola's display is slightly smoother, especially in gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 900 nits | The Redmi Note 12 Pro is dramatically better in bright sunlight, outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Dimensity 1050 | Dimensity 1080 | Redmi Note 12 Pro has a more recent processor, but differences in day-to-day use are minor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 522,375 | 573,200 | Redmi Note 12 Pro offers slightly better overall performance based on benchmarks. |
| GPU | Mali-G610 MC3 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Differences are present, but most users would have a comparable gaming experience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56" | Motorola Edge has a slightly wider aperture and larger sensor, indicating better low-light. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45 | 16MP | Motorola Edge has much higher resolution, which is good for social media. |
| Wide Angle | 13MP, f/1.5 | 8MP, f/1.9 | Motorola Edge has significantly higher resolution and wider aperture, implying better images. |
| Macro | 20MP, f/2.4, 1/2.83" | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | Motorola's macro is far more detailed thanks to the higher resolution and larger sensor. |
| Video | 4K@30fps (EIS), 120fps@1080p | 4K@30fps, 960fps@720p | Both offer high-quality video recording, but Xiaomi does a bit better with slow-motion. |
| DXOMark | - | 102 (Mobile) | Redmi Note 12 Pro is better rated in camera performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer all-day battery life for typical users. |
| Charging | 30W fast | 67W fast | Xiaomi charges much faster, a significant daily advantage. |
| Other Features | 15W Wireless, 5W Reverse | - | Motorola Edge offers more charging flexibility. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 | Motorola Edge will likely have at least one version upgrade to Android 13. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support the latest Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE + LDAC, SBC, AAC | Xiaomi offers more Bluetooth audio codec options. |
| GPS | Multiple systems | More systems | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro is better at location tracking. |
| SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | Dual Nano SIM | Motorola Edge offers the convenience of an eSIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Same capacity options, no expandable storage. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 6/8/12 GB | Xiaomi gives you a 12GB option for better multitasking. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo, Noise cancellation, 3 Microphones | Dolby Atmos, Stereo | Motorola edges ahead with better audio clarity thanks to noise cancellation and more microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | The Redmi Note 12 Pro's side-mounted sensor is more convenient and modern. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass 5 | Redmi Note 12 Pro has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | Barometer, Magnetometer | - | Motorola Edge has a more complete sensor array. |
2. Key Insights
Motorola Edge (2022) Strengths:
- Lighter and more comfortable: Its lighter design makes it ideal for extended use.
- Superior Display Smoothness: Its 144Hz refresh rate offers slightly better fluidity in animations and gaming.
- Better camera for selfies and macro photography: Higher resolution sensors and wider apertures capture better details.
- More charging options: Wireless charging and reverse charging add versatility.
- Enhanced Audio Features: Better call quality and audio separation with the noise-canceling microphone and 3 mics.
- More Comprehensive Sensors: Additional environmental sensors add some versatility.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro Strengths:
- Brighter Display: The 900 nits brightness makes it much better for outdoor visibility.
- Faster Charging: Significantly faster charging means less time tethered to the wall.
- More Performant: A more performant chipset leads to better overall performance.
- Better Rated Camera: While it might not be better in terms of hardware, it is better rated in DXOmark tests.
- More RAM Options: The 12 GB RAM variant will be appreciated by gamers and multitaskers.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 provides more resistance.
- More Advanced Biometric Security: The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is better than the basic fingerprint sensor on the Motorola Edge.
Trade-offs:
- The Motorola Edge sacrifices some battery charging speed and outdoor visibility for a lighter design and better camera and audio versatility.
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro, while offering faster charging, has a heavier body and a worse wide-angle and macro camera.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Motorola Edge (2022) is best for:
- Frequent Users: Who appreciate a light phone for extended use.
- Multimedia Lovers: Who want superior audio clarity.
- Social Media Enthusiasts: Who frequently use their selfie and macro cameras.
- Tech enthusiasts: Who enjoy the convenience of wireless and reverse charging capabilities.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro is best for:
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a bright screen for outdoor visibility.
- Heavy Users/Gamers: Those who need the fast charging, great benchmark performance and more RAM options for better multitasking and gaming.
- Casual photographers: Who might use their camera for day to day pictures, where the DXOmark rating would be more relevant.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- How important is outdoor visibility for you? If you're often in bright sunlight, the Redmi Note 12 Pro is a better pick.
- How frequently do you use your selfie/macro camera? If you want higher quality images in these cases, the Motorola Edge takes the win.
- How important is charging speed vs charging flexibility for you? The Redmi has much faster wired charging while the Motorola Edge offers wireless and reverse charging flexibility.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You are a power user who plays games and uses their phone outdoors frequently: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro is the clear choice.
- Scenario 2: You are a content creator that takes many selfies and uses their phone all day long for social media: Motorola Edge (2022) is better with the great selfie camera, convenient wireless charging and lighter design.
- Scenario 3: You want a balanced phone with a nice screen, good performance and decent battery life: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro will give you better overall performance and the Motorola Edge would be the best choice if you really need great selfies and the more comfortable design.
My Personal Choice and Why
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro.
Here's why:
As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, my work often takes me to different locations, which means I frequently find myself in bright sunlight, and I also use my phone as a daily driver for heavy workloads. The better visibility and faster charging would make a major difference in my everyday routine. While the Motorola has advantages, the difference in charging speed and screen brightness is very meaningful. The slightly better benchmark performance and the 12GB ram option also make the Redmi Note 12 Pro a more future proof choice.
The decision ultimately depends on what you prioritize. If you're an indoor user who frequently takes selfies and macro shots and prefers a lighter phone, the Motorola Edge is compelling. However, for the most typical use cases, and especially for outdoor users, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro is the superior choice.
