Alright, let's dive deep into the Motorola Edge (2022) and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+. Both are solid contenders in the mid-range smartphone arena, but they offer distinct strengths that cater to different users. Let's break it down, piece by piece.
1. Specifications Breakdown
First off, let’s get granular with a detailed spec-by-spec comparison. I'll be focusing not just on what the numbers are, but what they mean for you, the user.
| Feature | Motorola Edge (2022) | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.9 x 74.2 x 8 mm | 162.9 x 76 x 8.9 mm | Edge is slightly smaller; Redmi Note is a bit bulkier. |
| Weight | 170g | 208.4g | Edge is significantly lighter, better for one-handed use and longer holds. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.67" | Minimal difference, both offer a large screen experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp, crisp visuals. |
| PPI | 399 | 395 | Negligible difference; pixel density won't be a major factor. |
| Technology | OLED | OLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks; both displays are excellent for media consumption. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | Edge provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 900 nits | Redmi Note is significantly brighter, easier to use outdoors in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 | Mediatek Dimensity 1080 | Different chips, both are mid-range performers, the 1080 is marginally better. |
| AnTuTu Score | 522,375 | 573,100 | Redmi Note has a slight edge in overall performance, potentially smoother gaming. |
| GPU | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Slightly different graphics configurations; Redmi Note should handle gaming a little better. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should provide all-day battery for most users. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 120W Fast Charging | Redmi Note charges much, much faster - crucial for users needing quick top-ups. |
| Features | 15W Wireless, 5W Reverse | Non-removable | Edge offers added convenience; wireless charging is very handy. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" sensor | 200MP, f/1.65, 1/1.4" sensor | Redmi Note's main sensor excels in resolution and low-light performance, detailed shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45 | 16MP, f/2.45 | Edge's selfie cam boasts higher resolution selfies. |
| Wide Angle | 13MP, f/1.5 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Edge offers wider and brighter shots |
| Macro | 20MP, f/2.4, 1/2.83" sensor | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" sensor | Edge is capable of far more detailed macro shots. |
| Video | 4K@30fps with EIS | 4K@30fps | Both record in 4K; Redmi has ultra stable recording, while edge uses EIS. |
| DXOMark | - | Mobile: 113, Photo: 117, Video: 117 | Redmi Note has a better-rated main camera performance |
| Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, OIS, Autofocus, Touch focus, PDAF, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, OIS, Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, PDAF, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | Redmi Note features RAW photography and has a night mode. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Redmi Note receives longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | Both support all modern Wi-Fi standards. Redmi also supports Wi-Fi MiMO |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE | Both use Bluetooth 5.2 LE. Redmi also supports LDAC, SBC and AAC |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1) | Redmi Note supports more satelites for more accurate tracking |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Edge has eSIM support, ideal for frequent travelers or users with dual lines |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Ample storage options; both have the same maximum capacity. |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 8/12GB | Redmi Note offers more RAM, smoother performance for multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation, Stereo Speakers, 3 mics | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Edge has better microphones, Redmi Note is better at music playback. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side mounted fingerprint sensor | Xiaomi’s side mounted sensor is more convenient for unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Xiaomi has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Edge has additional sensors for more advanced functionality. |
2. Key Insights
Now, let’s highlight the strengths and advantages of each phone:
Motorola Edge (2022)
- Ergonomics & Comfort: The Edge is lighter and slightly smaller, making it easier to handle for extended periods.
- Display Smoothness: The 144Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations noticeably smoother.
- Charging Flexibility: It offers the convenience of wireless charging and reverse charging, which the Redmi Note doesn't.
- Macro & Selfie Prowess: Its superior macro lens and high-resolution selfie camera stand out for detailed shots and social media content.
- Audio Capture: With its triple microphone array and noise cancellation, the Edge is designed for clearer, more immersive audio experiences.
- Advanced Sensors: The added barometer and magnetometer offer advanced functionality for specific applications and data collection.
- eSIM support: The Motorola supports eSIM for digital carrier switching, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ does not.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+
- Camera Powerhouse: With its 200MP main sensor, it excels in capturing highly detailed, low-light images.
- Blazing Fast Charging: The 120W charging is a game-changer, offering incredibly fast top-ups.
- Brighter Display: The 900 nits brightness significantly improves outdoor visibility under direct sunlight.
- Overall Performance: It has a marginally better processor and GPU, resulting in smoother gameplay and multitasking.
- Future-Proofing: Guaranteed upgrades to Android 14 mean longer software support.
- Side-mounted fingerprint: A faster, more practical location for the fingerprint scanner.
- High-Resolution Audio: The Hi-Res Audio is a good feature for audiophiles.
- Better screen protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 over Corning Gorilla Glass 3.
Trade-offs
- The Motorola Edge's display brightness is notably low.
- The Redmi Note is heavier and bulkier.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Let's break down who these phones are best suited for:
Motorola Edge (2022) is ideal for:
- Users who value ergonomics and comfort.
- Those who use their phone for photography, especially macro photography and selfies.
- Users who require convenient wireless charging, including reverse charging.
- People who need high-quality audio capture and recording
- Tech enthusiasts who appreciate a wide array of sensors for data collection.
- Frequent travelers or users with multiple lines who would benefit from eSIM support.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is best for:
- Photography enthusiasts focused on high-resolution and low-light main camera performance.
- Users who need the fastest possible charging speeds.
- Those who prioritize a bright screen for outdoor visibility.
- Gamers and heavy multitaskers who want a bit more processing power and RAM.
- Those who prefer the convenience of a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Users who like to get the most software update support from their phones.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three critical questions to help you decide:
- How important is battery charging speed to you? If you need super-fast charging, the Redmi Note is the clear winner.
- Do you need a brighter display for outdoor use? If so, the Redmi Note offers a significantly brighter display, making it more usable under direct sunlight.
- What kind of photography do you do most? If you love detailed macro shots and high-resolution selfies, the Edge will likely be a better choice. If you are more interested in overall quality photos from your main camera, then the Redmi Note may be better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- The On-the-Go Professional: If you are always on the move, need to quickly top up, and require a bright display, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is the better fit due to its significantly faster charging and brighter screen.
- The Social Media Maven: If you take a lot of selfies, love macro shots and want a lightweight phone, the Motorola Edge (2022) is ideal, with its superior selfie camera, dedicated macro lens, and lighter form factor.
- The Casual User: If you want a good all-rounder and also value features like wireless charging, the Motorola Edge (2022) is still a solid option, offering a comfortable experience with a smooth display and decent camera capabilities.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I'd lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+. The dramatically faster charging, significantly brighter screen, and marginally better main camera are all huge advantages for my lifestyle. While I appreciate the Motorola's lighter build and wireless charging, the Redmi’s raw performance, main camera, and quick charging are features I find more useful in my daily usage. The better screen protection and additional software updates also sway me toward the Redmi.
While both phones are excellent options, the Redmi Note 12 Pro+’s balance of performance, camera capability, quick charging, and bright display makes it a very compelling choice in my eyes.
