Okay, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Nokia G100 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+. We’ll break down the specs, explore the practical implications, and figure out which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison of the key specifications, keeping in mind what they mean for day-to-day use:
| Feature | Nokia G100 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-10-01 | 2022-11-01 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is slightly newer, potentially with more up-to-date software and features. |
| Size | 166.6 × 76.7 × 8.9 mm | 162.9 × 76 × 8.9 mm | Nokia G100 is a tad taller, but both have similar width and thickness. Minimal difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 195.1g | 208.4g | Nokia G100 is noticeably lighter, potentially more comfortable for long use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.52" | 6.67" | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers a slightly larger viewing area, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has much sharper visuals, details will be clearer, ideal for videos, and detailed graphics. |
| Pixel Density | 269 PPI | 395 PPI | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ displays text and images with much more clarity, less pixelation. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ will have richer colors, deeper blacks, and overall more vibrant display. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers noticeably smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 900 nits | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers superior outdoor visibility, readability is improved under bright conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 1080 (6 nm) | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has a more powerful, efficient processor, providing faster performance and better power usage |
| AnTuTu Score | 201,615 | 573,100 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ will perform significantly faster, better for multitasking, and running demanding apps. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has better graphical capabilities, which will improve gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 13MP, f/2.0 | 200MP, f/1.65, 1/1.4" sensor | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has dramatically higher resolution, a larger sensor and wider aperture, leading to superior image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.4 | 16MP, f/2.45 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers higher resolution for clearer, more detailed selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" sensor | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has slightly higher resolution and larger sensor for more detailed wide-angle shots. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP, f/2.4 | No | Nokia G100 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photos |
| Macro Lens | No | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" sensor | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has a macro lens for closeup detailed photography |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps; No Stabilization; Slow-mo: 120 fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, 720p@960fps; Yes Stabilization; Slow-mo: 960 fps | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ can record higher quality videos, has better stabilization, and superior slow-motion recording. |
| DXOMark Score | N/A | Main: 113; Photo: 117; Video: 117 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has an independently reviewed camera with solid scores. |
| Additional Features | Digital Zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ provides more advanced features, including better stabilization and OIS for clearer shots, more flexibility with manual controls and RAW format for editing |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer a similar battery capacity, expected to have similar battery life. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 120W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers incredibly fast charging, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer batteries can be slightly more reliable, but both are reliable options |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ will receive newer updates from the manufacturer with a potential upgrade to Android 14. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax (WiFi 6) | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ supports faster Wi-Fi speeds and better network performance with WiFi 6. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.2 LE, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers a newer Bluetooth version and better audio codec for higher audio quality. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers more precise location tracking with multiple GPS systems. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both offer dual SIM capabilities, allowing for flexible use of two numbers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 32 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has more base storage options for more files and apps. |
| RAM | 3 GB or 4 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers more RAM, providing smoother multitasking and handling more intensive applications. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device offers expandable storage via microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ will offer a noticeably better audio experience with enhanced spatial sound and clearer playback |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both offer similar biometric security features. |
| Build | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers slightly better screen protection against scratches and minor impacts |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Nokia G100 includes an environmental sensor (Barometer); Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has compass |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G100:
- Strengths: Lighter, with a barometer, making it potentially more useful for outdoor and weather-related tasks. Has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode.
- Competitive Advantages: More affordable, and suitable for less demanding users who prioritize basic smartphone functions.
- Trade-offs: Lower performance, display quality, camera capabilities and charging speed.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+:
- Strengths: Superior display, performance, camera, and charging speed. Better connectivity with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Enhanced audio experience.
- Competitive Advantages: More suited for power users, gamers, and those who prioritize high-quality photography.
- Trade-offs: Slightly heavier and may be more expensive than the Nokia G100.
User Experience Highlights:
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ will provide a much more fluid, responsive experience. The 120Hz OLED screen is a game-changer for scrolling and media.
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro+'s camera is leaps and bounds ahead of the G100. The 200MP main camera will capture details the G100 simply can’t.
- The Redmi Note 12 Pro+'s 120W fast charging is a huge advantage, you can quickly top up your battery during a break.
- The G100 would make a great first smartphone, or a backup phone for travel if you don’t want to carry your main phone around.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G100 is best for:
- Budget-conscious users looking for a reliable smartphone for basic communication, social media, and light browsing.
- Users who prioritize portability and a lightweight design.
- Those needing a phone with a barometer for environmental data.
Use Cases:
- A backup phone for basic calls and texts.
- An entry-level smartphone for seniors.
- A secondary device for outdoor activities where a barometer is useful.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is best for:
- Power users seeking high performance, premium display quality and advanced features like fast charging and better camera system.
- Users who prioritize top-notch mobile photography and videography.
- Mobile gamers and users who consume lots of media.
Use Cases:
- Gaming and media consumption.
- Photography and videography for social media.
- Work or creative tasks needing smooth multitasking and processing power.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, ask yourself these questions:
- What is your budget? The Nokia G100 will be more affordable, but you will sacrifice on performance, display, and camera quality.
- How do you use your phone? If you primarily need basic functions like calls, texts, and light browsing, the G100 might suffice. But, if you prioritize mobile gaming, high quality photography and a better user experience the Note 12 Pro+ is worth the upgrade.
- How much do you value performance and quality? If a smooth experience, a sharp, vibrant screen, and a top-tier camera are priorities, the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is the clear winner.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget Conscious User: Choose the Nokia G100 for its affordability and basic functionality, but be aware of the performance and display limitations.
- Photography Enthusiast: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is a no-brainer, offering a superior camera, better display, and higher performance.
- Gaming and Media User: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers a smooth experience and high quality for content consumption and gaming.
- Everyday User: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ will offer a better overall experience with better battery and performance.
My Choice
If it were my money, I'd choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+. The difference in performance, display, camera quality, and charging speed is dramatic and noticeable in daily use. Although it might be a bit heavier and more expensive, the overall experience is significantly better, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who uses their phone for more than basic tasks. The 120Hz OLED, the 200MP camera, and the incredibly fast charging all combine to offer a truly premium experience that the G100 just can't match. The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is more aligned with modern smartphone expectations. The Nokia G100, while serving its purpose as a budget friendly smartphone, lacks the performance, features, and quality that I personally prioritize.
