Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Nokia G21 and Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G. I'll be breaking this down with my usual blend of technical insight and real-world usability, making sure you know exactly what each phone brings to the table.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two contenders stack up, with an eye on what these numbers mean for you:
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.5 mm | 168.6 × 76.3 × 8.2 mm | Redmi 12 5G is slightly taller and slimmer; Nokia G21 a bit more compact. |
| Weight | 190g | 199g | Nokia G21 is a tad lighter, may be noticeable during longer use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.79" | Redmi 12 5G offers a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2460 | Redmi 12 5G boasts a much sharper display; images and text will be clearer. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 396 | Redmi 12 5G has noticeably more detailed visuals, less pixelation. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use standard LCD; colors will be generally accurate but not as vibrant as AMOLED. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Identical peak brightness; readability in direct sunlight may be a struggle for both. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Redmi 12 5G's chipset is significantly more powerful and efficient, leading to faster performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 456,552 | Redmi 12 5G is much faster overall; apps will load quicker and multitasking will be smoother. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Adreno 613 | Redmi 12 5G’s GPU is considerably more powerful, enabling better gaming performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Both have a 50MP main camera, but real-world performance may vary due to image processing. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 5MP, f/2.2 | Nokia G21 has a higher resolution and slightly wider aperture; could lead to slightly better selfies in low light. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Identical sensors for portrait mode, expect similar performance. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | No | Nokia G21 offers a dedicated macro lens, useful for very close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both record in 1080p at 30fps, suitable for social media videos; Redmi 12 5G offers image stabilization and slow motion video.. |
| DXOMark | Not Tested | Mobile:63, Photo:57, Video:76 | Redmi 12 5G has an official DXOMark rating, offering an idea of camera performance; Nokia G21 lacks testing information. |
| Camera Features | Triple camera, Front Flash, digital zoom, auto focus etc | Dual camera, Digital Image Stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), etc | Each camera offers a unique set of features; Nokia offers a triple camera and a front flash; Xiaomi offers better image stabilization. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have similar battery sizes; expect comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Both support 18W charging, meaning charging times will be similar. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable, In box charger 10W | Non-removable | Nokia G21 has 10W charger in the box while Xiaomi doesn't. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 13 (upgradable to 14) | Redmi 12 5G comes with a newer OS, likely offering more modern features and longer update support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/n 5GHz | 802.11 a/b/g/n/n 5GHz, 802.11ac | Redmi 12 5G supports 802.11ac; allowing for better connection stability and speed on compatible routers. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE, EDR, HID | Redmi 12 5G has support for EDR and HID, useful for faster transfers and more device compatibility. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | Nokia G21 offers more support for satellite systems; potential for improved location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Both phones allow the use of two SIM cards. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | Redmi 12 5G offers more storage options; double the storage in the higher tier version. |
| RAM | 4/6 GB | 4/6/8 GB | Redmi 12 5G has an 8GB RAM option, beneficial for multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage; user will be bound to internal storage offered. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 Microphones | Basic Audio | Nokia G21 offers improved voice capture, useful for calls and voice recordings. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Both devices feature similar fingerprint security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi 12 5G has better screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Redmi 12 5G has better sensor configuration; Compass is a helpful sensor to have. |
2. Key Insights
- Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G's Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset in the Redmi 12 5G is a game-changer. It provides a huge boost in performance over the Nokia G21, making it better for demanding tasks, gaming, and day-to-day use.
- Display Clarity: The Redmi 12 5G's higher resolution display makes a big difference. Text and images appear significantly sharper, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
- Camera Capabilities: While both offer 50MP cameras, Xiaomi has a higher video score, and includes optical stabilization, which should translate to better image and video quality.
- Software Updates: The Redmi 12 5G launches with a newer version of Android (13) and the possibility of an upgrade, potentially giving it a longer life cycle and the newest software features.
- Storage Options: Xiaomi offers higher storage variants (up to 256GB), a big plus for those with lots of media.
- Nokia G21's Niche Advantages: The Nokia has a Macro lens for close-up shots. The two microphones give slightly improved audio for recording purposes. It also ships with a charger in the box, unlike the Xiaomi.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Nokia G21:
- Best For: Budget-conscious users who prioritize basic functionality, decent battery life, and a more compact design. It's a good fit for casual users who don't require high performance or advanced features. The macro lens can be fun to play with.
- Use Cases: Everyday tasks like browsing, calling, and casual social media. Ideal for users who value a lower initial cost and decent camera.
- Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G:
- Best For: Users who want a smooth experience, better display quality, and more processing power. Perfect for gamers, media consumers, and anyone who appreciates a more responsive smartphone.
- Use Cases: Demanding apps, gaming, streaming, and multitasking. Better for users who appreciate modern technology and want a more future-proof device.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
How much do I value performance? If you need a phone that can handle gaming or demanding apps without slowdown, the Redmi 12 5G is the clear choice. If you are just browsing and checking emails, the Nokia G21 may suit you just fine.
How important is display quality to me? If sharp, crisp visuals are a must, the higher resolution screen of the Redmi 12 5G will make a significant difference. The Nokia G21 will feel grainy and lack clarity in comparison.
What is my budget, and what do I want from my camera? If you are on a tight budget, and just want a basic phone, the Nokia G21 may be a good fit. If you are interested in better quality photos and videos, especially with video stabilization, the Xiaomi is the better choice.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would go with the Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G. Despite a few strengths on the Nokia's side, the performance difference is too significant to ignore, especially considering the minimal difference in pricing. The Redmi 12 5G's Snapdragon chipset, superior display, updated software and camera give a much better, and more modern user experience.
