Smartphone Comparison: Motorola Moto G 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Motorola Moto G 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 166.1 x 76.1 x 9.9 mm | 165.9 x 76.2 x 8 mm | Redmi Note 12 is thinner and more pocketable; Moto G 5G is noticeably thicker. |
| Weight | 212g | 188g | Redmi Note 12 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Virtually identical screen sizes; negligible difference in real-world usage. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 | Both offer the same level of sharpness. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Redmi Note 12 offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, as well as potentially better battery life with dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Redmi Note 12 provides smoother scrolling, animations, and a more responsive feel in daily use and gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Redmi Note 12 is significantly better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8 nm) | Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6 nm) | Redmi Note 12 offers slightly higher performance in benchmarks; real-world difference might be noticeable in demanding apps and games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 390,000 | 460,800 | Redmi Note 12 is expected to perform better in benchmarks, indicating potentially smoother operation and responsiveness. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 619 | Both have the same base GPU; configuration and software optimization may result in subtle differences. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 48MP | Similar resolution; real-world image quality depends on sensor size and image processing. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.7 | f/1.8 | Moto G 5G captures more light, potentially better in low-light scenarios. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | Unknown | 1/2.76" | Redmi Note 12 sensor size is specified; Larger sensor size can mean better low light performance. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 0.64 µm | Moto G 5G has larger pixels for the main camera; larger pixels often perform better in low-light |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 16MP | 13MP | Moto G 5G has a higher resolution selfie camera. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.45 | Moto G 5G selfie camera has a wider aperture for better low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle Camera Resolution | 8MP | 8MP | Similar wide angle camera resolution. |
| Wide Angle Camera Sensor Size | Unknown | 1/4" | Redmi Note 12 sensor size for wide angle lens is specified. |
| Wide Angle Camera Pixel Size | 1.12 µm | 1.12 µm | Similar pixel sizes for the wide angle lens. |
| Macro Camera Resolution | 2MP | 2MP | Similar macro camera resolution. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | 1080p@30fps | Moto G 5G captures video at higher resolution, offering more detailed footage. |
| Slow-motion | 60fps | 120fps | Redmi Note 12 captures smoother slow-motion videos. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Available | 69 (Mobile), 74 (Photo), 49 (Video) | Redmi Note 12 has been tested and scored for photo and video performance. |
| Camera Features | LAF | Ultra stable video, Continuous Autofocus, Manual Focus | Moto G 5G has Laser Autofocus. Redmi Note 12 offers more advanced video features. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacity; expect similar battery life. |
| Charging | 20W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 12 charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer is generally considered safer and more durable. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 12 | Redmi Note 12 has a newer OS with potentially more features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi MiMO | Redmi Note 12 has additional Wi-Fi MiMO for potentially improved Wi-Fi performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE, A2DP, EDR | 5.1 LE, A2DP, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Redmi Note 12 supports higher quality audio codecs for Bluetooth. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1) | Redmi Note 12 supports more satellite systems for potentially more accurate GPS. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both offer dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Redmi Note 12 has more internal storage options available. |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6 GB | 4 GB or 6 GB or 8 GB | Redmi Note 12 offers more RAM options for better multitasking capabilities. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither has an option for expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 microphones | Basic audio features | Moto G 5G offers better audio recording capabilities |
| Security | |||
| Features | Rear-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Redmi Note 12 has the more modern side mounted fingerprint sensor, likely more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 12 has better screen protection against scratches and accidental drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Fingerprint | Both have a comprehensive suite of sensors for advanced features and games. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G 5G Advantages:
- Wider Aperture Main Camera: The f/1.7 aperture main camera captures more light, which may be better for low-light photography.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: 16MP selfie camera captures more details compared to Redmi Note 12's 13MP.
- 4K Video Recording: The ability to record in 4K provides a higher level of detail for video enthusiasts.
- Laser Autofocus: Laser autofocus may offer slightly quicker focusing than PDAF in some scenarios.
- 2 microphones: Offers better audio recording.
- Larger Pixels in the Main Sensor: Larger pixels (0.80 um) mean better low light performance.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED display offers better contrast, colors, and power efficiency for dark themes.
- Higher Refresh Rate: 120Hz refresh rate provides a much smoother visual experience.
- Higher Brightness: 1200 nits brightness allows for better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight.
- Faster Charging: 33W charging significantly reduces charging times.
- Newer OS: Comes with Android 12, offering a potentially more modern experience.
- Slightly Faster Chipset: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 offers better benchmarks, indicating better performance.
- More Storage and RAM Options: Offers more configurations for storage and RAM, including an 8GB RAM option.
- Better Audio codecs: Supports higher quality Bluetooth audio codecs such as LDAC.
- Better Screen Protection: Features Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for enhanced screen durability.
- More Advanced Video Features: Features like ultra stable video, continuous autofocus and manual focus provide more flexibility in videography.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: A more convenient and modern placement for the fingerprint sensor.
- More precise GPS: Support for dual band GPS and more satellite systems.
- Better main camera sensor size: larger sensor size means better low light performance.
- DXOMark Score: Performance of the camera in different scenarios has been tested.
Trade-offs:
- The Motorola Moto G 5G offers better camera specifications in some aspects (aperture, selfie resolution, larger pixels in the main sensor) while the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 has a better screen and charging capability, plus more advanced video features.
- The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 sacrifices slightly on main camera aperture for an improved overall display and performance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G 5G Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Photographers: Users who prioritize a decent camera with a wider aperture and 4K video at a lower price.
- Users focused on voice recording: Users who need a reliable microphone system will prefer the dual microphone.
- Users on a very tight budget Users who want basic 5G connectivity on a tight budget
- Users who prefer Laser Autofocus: Users who prefer Laser Autofocus will find the Moto G 5G appealing.
Use Cases for Moto G 5G:
- Casual photography and videography where 4K video is preferred.
- Users who need good voice recording for various purposes.
- Everyday tasks with less need for smooth display.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Ideal Users:
- Multimedia Consumers: Users who watch videos, play games, and browse frequently and appreciate a high-quality display and smooth refresh rate.
- Gamers: The 120Hz display and more powerful chipset offer a better gaming experience.
- Users who prioritize battery and charging: Users who need a long lasting battery and fast charging.
- Users who prioritize build quality: Users who prioritize build quality and want Corning Gorilla Glass screen protection.
- Users who prioritize modern features: Side-mounted sensor, better video features and more precise GPS.
Use Cases for Redmi Note 12:
- Smooth, high-quality video streaming and gaming.
- Outdoor use in bright sunlight where visibility is crucial.
- Users who value better quality Bluetooth audio.
- Daily use where quick charging is preferred.
- Users who want a modern smartphone experience with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 generally offers a better price-to-value ratio due to its superior display, performance, faster charging, and modern features, making it a better choice for most users.
- The Motorola Moto G 5G might be a better value for users on a tight budget that prioritize 4K recording, or a slightly wider aperture.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality (AMOLED, 120Hz) to you? If the display is crucial, then the Redmi Note 12 is a better option.
- Is fast charging essential for your daily routine? The Redmi Note 12 offers significantly faster charging.
- Do you prioritize video quality or low-light photography? The Motorola Moto G 5G has a wider aperture and 4K recording, while the Redmi has more video features, a larger sensor and better overall performance from DXOmark.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious Buyer Needing 5G and decent photography: If the budget is a primary concern and only basic features are needed the Moto G 5G offers decent camera performance (wider aperture, larger pixel size, 4K recording) at a lower price.
- Scenario 2: Everyday User & Multimedia Enthusiast: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is the better choice because of the superior display, faster performance, faster charging, and higher quality bluetooth.
- Scenario 3: Gamer Seeking Smooth Performance and Long Battery Life: The Redmi Note 12 provides a better gaming experience, and smoother refresh rate in day to day tasks, and fast charging.
- Scenario 4: Camera enthusiast looking for the best possible low-light photography: The Moto G 5G has a wider aperture and larger pixels for the main camera; the Redmi Note 12 has a larger main camera sensor and more video features. The choice between these two should depend on your priorities.
Personal Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12. Although I like the idea of the wider aperture and larger pixels of the Moto G 5G, in almost every other aspect the Redmi Note 12 is far superior. The AMOLED screen with 120hz refresh rate and high brightness is something I value very highly. Combined with the faster charging, better build quality, more precise GPS, more video features, better bluetooth audio quality, side mounted fingerprint sensor and newer operating system makes the Redmi Note 12 a much more compelling package overall. Furthermore, the DXOMark scores for the Redmi Note 12 provide an independent measurement of the camera capabilities.
