Nokia C21 Plus vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date April 29, 2022 April 26, 2023
Release Year 2022 2023

Physical

Volume 107.57 cm³ 95.71 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.66 "/g 3.65 "/g
Weight 178 g 176 g
Height 164.8 mm 159.9 mm
Width 75.9 mm 73.9 mm
Thickness 8.6 mm 8.1 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Dark Cyan
  • Warm Gray
  • Ice Blue
  • Onyx Black
  • Pearl Green

Display

Screen Size 6.52 " 6.43 "
Resolution 720 x 1600 1080 x 2400
Aspect Ratio 20:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 82.1 % 84.5 %
Pixel Density 269 PPI 409 PPI
Refresh Rate N/A 90 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A 700 nits
Peak Brightness N/A 1000 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 118.79 mAh/in² 120.93 mAh/in²
Battery Density 46.95 mAh/cm³ 52.24 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5050 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support No Yes
Chipset Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) Mediatek MT6781 Helio G96 (12 nm)
CPU Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (2x2.05 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU IMG8322 Mali-G57 MC2

Connectivity

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

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 13
Maximum OS Version

Comparison Summary

Let's dive into a user-centered comparison of the Nokia C21 Plus and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. Instead of getting bogged down in technical jargon, we'll explore how these devices translate into real-world experiences for different users.

1. Design and Usability Assessment:

FeatureNokia C21 PlusXiaomi Redmi Note 12SUser Experience Impact
Interface DesignBasic Android 11Modern Android 13Redmi offers a more visually appealing and up-to-date interface, likely with improved customization.
Interaction FlowStandard 60Hz refresh rateSmoother 90Hz refresh rateRedmi provides a more fluid and responsive user experience, especially noticeable in scrolling and gaming.
Accessibility FeaturesBasicPotentially more robust with Android 13Redmi likely offers better accessibility features due to the newer OS version.
Design ErgonomicsLarger, thickerSleeker, thinnerRedmi feels more modern and comfortable to hold, especially for extended use.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration:

Imagine two users: Sarah, a college student, and David, a senior citizen.

  • Sarah: She needs a phone for social media, taking photos, and occasional gaming. The Redmi Note 12S's superior camera (108MP vs 13MP), vibrant AMOLED display, and faster processor would significantly enhance her experience. The 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling through Instagram feel buttery smooth. She can easily capture stunning photos for her social media with the high-resolution camera.

  • David: He prioritizes simplicity and long battery life. While the Nokia's basic interface might seem appealing initially, the Redmi's larger battery (5000mAh vs 4000mAh) and potentially better accessibility features in Android 13 could offer a more comfortable long-term experience. The brighter screen (1000 nits vs unknown) on the Redmi would also be a significant advantage for outdoor use. Even if he doesn't need all the extra features, the core experience of using the phone will be more enjoyable.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation:

Both phones cater to different needs. The Nokia C21 Plus offers a simple, budget-friendly option for users who prioritize basic functionality and affordability. However, the Redmi Note 12S offers a significantly enhanced experience across the board, making it more suitable for a wider range of users, including those with specific accessibility needs or those who desire a more engaging mobile experience.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework:

Choosing between these phones depends on your priorities. If your budget is extremely tight and you only need basic communication features, the Nokia C21 Plus might suffice. However, if you value a more enjoyable and engaging user experience, with better performance, camera, display, and battery life, the Redmi Note 12S is the clear winner. It's a device designed for a broader audience and offers a more future-proof investment. The superior design choices throughout the Redmi Note 12S contribute to a more satisfying and intuitive user experience.

My Choice: I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. While the Nokia C21 Plus offers a basic entry point into the smartphone market, the Redmi Note 12S provides a significantly richer and more engaging user experience. The combination of a vibrant AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, a powerful processor, a vastly superior camera system, and longer battery life creates a device that is not just technologically advanced but also enjoyable to use on a daily basis. Its sleek design and modern software contribute to a more satisfying overall experience, making it a more compelling choice for a wider range of users. It represents a better long-term investment in terms of both performance and user satisfaction.

Sophia Rodriguez
Sophia Rodriguez

Technology Communications Specialist

Expert in transforming complex technological innovations into accessible, engaging narratives.

Key Strengths:

  • Technology storytelling
  • User experience design analysis
  • Inclusive technology communication
  • Design-driven technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with human-centered understanding.