Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Nokia G21 and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. Both are solid contenders in the budget-friendly smartphone arena, but they target slightly different needs. I'll break down the specs, highlight key differences, and give you the practical implications you need to make the best choice.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the key specifications of the Nokia G21 and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S, with a focus on how these translate to real-world user experiences:
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 x 75.9 x 8.5 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | The Redmi Note 12S is more compact and slightly lighter, making it more comfortable for one-handed use and carrying. |
| Weight | 190g | 176g | The Redmi Note 12S is noticeably lighter, reducing fatigue during extended use. |
| Build | Plastic | Plastic | Both have plastic frames and backs, but the Xiaomi has Gorilla Glass 3 for better screen protection. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.43" | Very similar size, the difference is negligible in day-to-day use. |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 | 1080 x 2400 | The Redmi Note 12S has a significantly sharper display, text and images will appear crisper. |
| PPI | 270 | 409 | Noticeably sharper display on the Redmi Note 12S, which will improve the viewing experience. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | AMOLED offers deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and better power efficiency, especially with dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both have a smooth 90Hz display, making scrolling and animations feel fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1000 nits | The Redmi Note 12S offers excellent outdoor visibility under bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | The Helio G96 in the Redmi Note 12S offers much better performance for gaming and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 412,400 | Redmi Note 12S is noticeably faster, and will offer better app loading and overall performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G57 MC2 | The Redmi Note 12S’s GPU is better for graphically intensive tasks, including gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear (Main) | 50MP (f/1.8) | 108MP (f/1.8) | The Redmi Note 12S captures more detailed images, especially in good lighting conditions, due to its higher resolution. |
| Rear (Ultrawide) | None | 8MP (f/2.2) | The Redmi Note 12S has a wide-angle lens, which allows capturing wider scenes. |
| Rear (Macro) | 2MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Both are limited for Macro lens |
| Rear (Depth) | 2MP (f/2.4) | None | The Nokia has depth sensor for portrait shots, however this does not mean better quality, the Redmi takes better portraits. |
| Front | 8MP (f/2.0) | 16MP (f/2.4) | The Redmi Note 12S captures more detailed selfies. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both are capped at 1080p at 30fps. |
| Slow Motion | No | Yes (120 fps) | The Redmi Note 12S can capture smoother slow-motion videos. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery capacities that will likely last all day for moderate usage. |
| Charging | 18W | 33W | The Redmi Note 12S charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | 10W in-box charger | Reverse charging | Redmi Note 12S's reverse charging is a convenient addition for some. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 13 (no planned updates) | The Redmi Note 12S has a more modern version of Android out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11n | 802.11ac | The Redmi Note 12S supports more modern WiFi standards for faster and more stable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.2 LE | The Redmi Note 12S has a more modern version of Bluetooth with better efficiency and connection. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 64/128/256 GB | The Redmi Note 12S has more storage capacity, especially with 256GB option, for a greater number of files. |
| RAM | 4/6 GB | 6/8 GB | The Redmi Note 12S has more RAM for better multitasking and future-proofing. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | 2 microphones | Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | The Redmi Note 12S provides higher quality sound and immersive audio experience with stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side fingerprint | Side fingerprint | Both have fingerprint sensors for quick and secure unlocking. |
2. Key Insights
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S: The Redmi Note 12S is a clear winner in terms of display quality, performance, and camera capabilities. Its AMOLED display is vibrant and sharp, the Helio G96 processor is faster and more capable, and its 108MP camera captures more detail. It also boasts a faster charging speed and a more up-to-date version of Android. Its design is more compact, light, and has Gorilla Glass. This phone is the clear winner, if your budget is within range.
- Nokia G21: The G21's main advantage is its solid build and the promise of software updates for longer periods of time. However, it lags behind in performance, display quality, and camera capabilities. It has basic features that are good for simple usage and for a more secure Android experience with longer updates. This phone is the clear winner in terms of budget, if all you need is a simple experience.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize a high-quality display, smooth performance for gaming and multitasking, and a versatile camera system.
- Use Cases: Mobile gamers, social media enthusiasts, users who consume a lot of video content, users who value better and more modern hardware.
- Value: Delivers a much better user experience for the price, with the only drawbacks of plastic build and no expandable storage.
Nokia G21:
- Ideal for: Users with a lower budget or who prioritize solid battery life and a secure software experience.
- Use Cases: Basic everyday use like browsing, calls, and light social media, long-term use, software security, basic camera usage.
- Value: Offers good value if you don't need or use the high end features and performance of more modern mid-range phones.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- How important is display quality to you? If you value sharp text, vibrant colors, and deep blacks, the Redmi Note 12S's AMOLED display is the clear choice.
- What is your usage type? If your focus is performance for gaming or other intensive tasks, the Redmi Note 12S's processor will make a world of difference. If you prefer a simple experience for calls, messages, and browsing, the G21 will be more than enough.
- What is your budget? The G21 is cheaper and has limited hardware, but can still offer a smooth experience for basic tasks. The Redmi Note 12S costs more but the difference is well worth it with the increased hardware and experience.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Power User: If you value a premium experience with superior display, faster performance, and versatile camera, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is the winner here. The superior specs are noticeable, especially in heavy everyday use.
- For the Budget-Conscious User: If you are looking for a reliable, no-frills phone for everyday tasks, and you are on a tight budget, the Nokia G21 is a decent choice.
- For the Multimedia Lover: If watching videos, gaming, or browsing the web is your primary phone activity, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S wins with its higher resolution and quality of display.
- For the Photographer: If taking pictures is one of your main priorities, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is the winner in this comparison, with more megapixels, larger sensors, and more camera options.
My Choice
If I were choosing between the two, I'd go for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. While the Nokia G21 is a solid, budget-friendly device, the Redmi Note 12S offers a much better overall experience. The superior display quality alone is a game-changer for me, and coupled with the faster performance and significantly better camera, it just makes more sense for my day-to-day usage. The slightly higher price is worth it for the enhanced performance, sharper visuals, and overall premium feel. The lack of expandable storage is a bit disappointing, but the 256GB option is good enough for my needs. For me the experience would be much more enjoyable with the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S.
