Motorola Moto G23 vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date January 24, 2023 April 26, 2023
Release Year 2023 2023

Physical

Volume 99.66 cm³ 95.71 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.53 "/g 3.65 "/g
Weight 184.3 g 176 g
Height 162.7 mm 159.9 mm
Width 74.7 mm 73.9 mm
Thickness 8.2 mm 8.1 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Pearl White
  • Steel Blue
  • Matte Charcoal
  • Ice Blue
  • Onyx Black
  • Pearl Green

Display

Screen Size 6.5 " 6.43 "
Resolution 720 x 1600 1080 x 2400
Aspect Ratio 20:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 83.9 % 84.5 %
Pixel Density 270 PPI 409 PPI
Refresh Rate 90 Hz 90 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A 700 nits
Peak Brightness 400 nits 1000 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 118.34 mAh/in² 120.93 mAh/in²
Battery Density 50.17 mAh/cm³ 52.24 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5000 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) Mediatek MT6781 Helio G96 (12 nm)
CPU Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (2x2.05 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Mali-G52 MC2 Mali-G57 MC2

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0 USB Type-C 2.0

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 13 13
Maximum OS Version

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureMotorola Moto G23Xiaomi Redmi Note 12SPractical Impact
Design
Dimensions (mm)162.7 x 74.7 x 8.2159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1Redmi Note 12S is slightly smaller and may feel more comfortable in hand.
Weight (g)184.3176Noticeable weight difference; Redmi Note 12S feels lighter.
Display
Display TypeIPS LCDAMOLEDAMOLED offers deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and better power efficiency in dark mode.
Display Size (inches)6.56.43Negligible size difference.
Resolution720 x 16001080 x 2400Significantly sharper and more detailed visuals on the Redmi Note 12S.
Refresh Rate (Hz)9090Both offer smooth scrolling and animations.
Peak Brightness (nits)400 (peak)1000 (peak)Redmi Note 12S will be much more readable in direct sunlight.
Performance
ChipsetMediatek Helio G85Mediatek Helio G96G96 offers slightly better CPU performance.
CPUOcta-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)Octa-core (2x2.05 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)Redmi Note 12S should handle demanding tasks slightly better.
GPUMali-G52 MC2Mali-G57 MC2Redmi Note 12S has a more powerful GPU, leading to better gaming performance.
RAM (GB)46/8More RAM in the Redmi Note 12S allows for better multitasking and smoother performance.
Camera
Main Camera (MP)50108Higher resolution on the Redmi Note 12S potentially offers more detail, but real-world performance depends on sensor and processing.
Front Camera (MP)1616Similar resolution; image quality will depend on other factors like aperture and software processing.
Battery
Capacity (mAh)50005000Similar battery capacity; actual battery life depends on usage and optimization.
Fast Charging (W)3033Slightly faster charging on the Redmi Note 12S.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Motorola Moto G23 Advantages:

  • Potentially Lower Price: Depending on the specific configuration and retailer, the Moto G23 might be more affordable.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Advantages:

  • Superior Display: The AMOLED display with higher resolution and brightness is a significant advantage, providing a much better viewing experience.
  • Improved Performance: The Helio G96 chipset, coupled with more RAM, offers noticeably better performance for gaming and multitasking.
  • Higher Resolution Main Camera: The 108MP main camera potentially captures more detail.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Motorola Moto G23: Budget-conscious users who prioritize basic functionality and long battery life over display quality and performance. Suitable for:

  • Casual web browsing
  • Social media
  • Light photography
  • Calling and texting

Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S: Users who value a vibrant display, smooth performance, and better camera capabilities. Suitable for:

  • Mobile gaming
  • Media consumption (videos, photos)
  • Demanding applications
  • Photography enthusiasts

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions for Buyers:

  1. What is your budget? The Moto G23 is likely the more affordable option.
  2. How important is display quality? If a vibrant and sharp display is a priority, the Redmi Note 12S is the clear winner.
  3. What type of tasks will you be performing? For demanding tasks and gaming, the Redmi Note 12S is better equipped.

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Limited Budget: Moto G23
  • Multimedia Enthusiast: Redmi Note 12S
  • Mobile Gamer: Redmi Note 12S

My Choice: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is the superior device overall. The significantly better display (AMOLED vs. LCD, higher resolution, higher brightness), improved performance (faster processor, more RAM, better GPU), and potentially better camera make it a more compelling option. While the Moto G23 might be slightly cheaper, the Redmi Note 12S offers a significantly enhanced user experience that justifies the likely price difference for most users. The differences in display quality and performance alone make the Redmi Note 12S the better choice in my opinion. A superior screen makes daily interaction far more enjoyable, and the performance boost ensures smoother operation for longer.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
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Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.