Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia G21 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+. As a tech journalist with a penchant for the nitty-gritty, I'll break down what these specs mean for you, the user, in a way that's both informative and engaging.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, focusing on real-world implications:
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-02-15 | 2022-11-01 | Xiaomi is significantly newer, with more recent tech. |
| Size | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.5 mm | 162.9 × 76 × 8.9 mm | G21 is taller, but the Note 12 Pro+ is slightly thicker; both are pocketable. |
| Weight | 190g | 208.4g | Nokia G21 is noticeably lighter, which may make it more comfortable for long periods of use, especially one-handed. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, non-foldable smartphones |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.67" | Xiaomi has a slightly larger screen, better for media and gaming. |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 | 1080 x 2400 | Xiaomi's display is significantly sharper, leading to better image clarity for text and visuals. |
| PPI | 270 | 395 | Xiaomi’s higher pixel density results in sharper, more detailed visuals. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | Xiaomi's OLED display offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast compared to G21's IPS LCD. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Xiaomi's smoother refresh rate results in less motion blur, making scrolling and animations feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 900 nits | Xiaomi's significantly higher brightness results in better readability in direct sunlight, a huge advantage outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 1080 (6 nm) | Xiaomi's processor is significantly more powerful, offering faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 573,100 | Xiaomi is more than twice as powerful according to AnTuTu, indicating a substantial performance leap. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Xiaomi's superior GPU means better graphics performance, essential for gaming and graphically intensive applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 5000mAh | Both have a similar battery size suggesting similar battery life, though software and other components will have an impact. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 120W fast charging | Xiaomi offers incredibly faster charging; a full charge is significantly quicker, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Non-removable, In box charger 10W | Non-removable | Both phones have non-removable batteries, the G21 includes a 10W charger in the box |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | 200MP, f/1.65, 1/1.4" | Xiaomi's significantly higher resolution, wider aperture and larger sensor, suggest better low-light performance and image detail. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 16MP, f/2.45 | Xiaomi offers a higher-resolution selfie camera for better clarity. |
| Wide Angle lens | No | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | Xiaomi has a dedicated wide-angle lens, adding versatility for group photos and landscapes. |
| Portrait lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | No | G21 features a dedicated portrait lens, which is useful for creating the bokeh effect, while the Note 12 Pro+ will do this using software |
| Macro lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both have a 2MP macro camera for close-up shots, so similar quality. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps; No, 30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps, 720p@960fps; Yes | Xiaomi supports 4K recording, has better stabilisation, and high speed slow-motion capturing for better video. |
| DXOMark Score | N/A | Mobile: 113, Photo: 117, Video: 117 | Xiaomi's camera scores suggest great real world photo and video performance |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Front Flash | 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 | Xiaomi camera offers more advance feature and stabilization while the G21 offers a Front Flash |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, max 13 | Android 12, max 14 | Xiaomi offers a slightly newer OS, and potentially longer update support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n, Dual band | 802.11ax (WiFi 6), Dual band | Xiaomi supports the newer WiFi 6 standard, offering faster speeds and better performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.2 LE, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Xiaomi's Bluetooth version offers more modern codecs for better audio quality and energy efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1) | Xiaomi offers more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both phones support dual SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Xiaomi offers more internal storage, which means more apps, photos and videos can be stored. |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | Xiaomi has significantly more RAM, which results in smoother multitasking and better gaming performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage via MicroSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi's better audio features provide a richer and more immersive listening experience. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both phones have a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for basic biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Xiaomi offers better screen protection with Gorilla Glass 5, making it more durable. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Xiaomi's inclusion of a compass and gyroscope makes it a better fit for map-based apps and some games. |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G21 Strengths:
- Lighter Build: At 190g, it's more comfortable for extended use, especially if you prefer a phone that doesn't weigh down your pocket.
- Battery Included: It does come with a charger in the box, which is useful for users without a USB-C charger.
- Decent Battery Life: The 5050mAh should offer a solid, all-day experience for most users.
Nokia G21 Limitations:
- Lower-End Performance: With the Unisoc T606 and less RAM, it may struggle with demanding apps, and overall feels noticeably slower
- Basic Display: The low-resolution IPS LCD is not as vibrant or sharp as the competition. It's brightness does not provide a good experience in bright conditions.
- Basic Camera: The camera performs adequately, however video is limited to 1080p at 30 fps.
- No Expandable Storage: The 64/128GB of storage is non-expandable which can be limiting.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ Strengths:
- Superior Display: The OLED panel, higher resolution, and 120Hz refresh rate create a visually superior experience with vivid colors and smooth scrolling.
- Exceptional Performance: The Dimensity 1080 chipset and more RAM translate into significantly better performance in all areas.
- Outstanding Camera System: With a 200MP main sensor and a variety of features, it provides exceptional photo and video quality.
- Blazing-Fast Charging: The 120W fast charging is a game-changer, allowing for quick top-ups.
- More Features: The Xiaomi offers much more modern feature, including WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, Stereo Speakers, and much more.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ Limitations:
- Heavier Build: At 208.4g, it's heavier than the G21, which may be a concern for some users.
- Battery (Slightly Smaller): With a 5000mAh battery it is slightly smaller than the G21, so may provide slightly shorter battery life, though this will likely be offset by the more efficient chipset.
- No Charger Included: The device does not come with a charger in the box.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G21
- Ideal User: A budget-conscious user who prioritizes basic functionality, battery life, and a lighter device, and doesn't demand high-end performance.
- Use Case: Good for everyday tasks, basic social media, web browsing, and casual use. Suitable for users who need a dependable phone for calls, messages, and basic media consumption.
- Price-to-Value: Offers decent value at its lower price point if performance is not a priority.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+
- Ideal User: A user who wants great performance and features, especially in display and camera quality, and is willing to pay a bit extra for it.
- Use Case: Excellent for gaming, photography, videography, social media, media consumption, and overall demanding daily tasks. It's a great all-around device that excels in many categories.
- Price-to-Value: Offers a high value for its features, making it an attractive option if you prioritize top-tier performance and display quality.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three crucial questions to help guide your decision:
- How Important is Performance and Display Quality to You?
- If you value smooth operation, vivid colors, and a crisp screen, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is the obvious choice. The G21's low-resolution display will not be a good experience
- Do You Prioritize Camera Quality and Video Recording?
- If you enjoy photography and capturing high-quality video, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers far superior capabilities, including 4K recording, OIS and a 200MP camera.
- What is your Budget and Do you need a basic device?
- If budget is your main constraint and you have basic use cases, the Nokia G21 might be more suitable.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Casual User: If you need a basic smartphone for calls, messages, and browsing and want to spend as little as possible, the Nokia G21 is the more affordable option.
- The Content Creator: If you prioritize photography and videography, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is the clear winner with its 200MP camera and 4K capabilities.
- The Gamer: If you play mobile games, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ will provide much smoother performance thanks to its much better processor and RAM, resulting in a better experience.
- The Media Enthusiast: If you consume a lot of video content, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+’s higher resolution and vibrant OLED display make it the superior choice.
- The Power User: If you value fast charging, excellent performance, and cutting-edge features, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is the better option.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+. While the Nokia G21 is more affordable, the Xiaomi offers a dramatically superior experience across almost all metrics. The OLED display, with its vibrant colors and high refresh rate, is a significant upgrade. The camera system, with its 200MP sensor, makes a massive difference in image quality. The faster charging is a quality of life improvement that I appreciate. While it's heavier, the overall performance and features it provides outweigh that for me. For anyone who spends a significant time on their phone, the Xiaomi provides a much more premium experience. The only exception might be someone who has a limited budget.
