Smartphone Comparison: OnePlus 9 Pro vs. Xiaomi Redmi 12
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 163.2 × 73.6 × 8.7 mm | 168.6 × 76.3 × 8.2 mm | Redmi 12 is slightly taller and wider, potentially less comfortable for one-handed use. OnePlus 9 Pro is slightly thicker. |
| Weight | 197g | 198.5g | Virtually identical weight, negligible difference in feel. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard non-folding smartphones. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.79" | Negligibly small difference in screen size. |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3216 | 1080 x 2460 | OnePlus 9 Pro offers significantly sharper images and text due to much higher pixel density. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 525 | 396 | OnePlus 9 Pro display will appear much sharper and more detailed than Redmi 12. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | Redmi 12 has an IPS LCD panel, while the technology for the OnePlus 9 Pro is not specified. This makes it difficult to compare color accuracy, contrast ratio, and overall image quality. The lack of information of the OnePlus 9 Pro makes the Redmi 12 have the better screen, and the IPS LCD technology typically provides good color accuracy and viewing angles. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | OnePlus 9 Pro offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | OnePlus 9 Pro screen is significantly easier to see outdoors in bright sunlight. The Xiaomi Redmi 12's screen brightness is unknown, making it difficult to evaluate performance in sunny environments. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G88 (12 nm) | OnePlus 9 Pro offers much faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming performance due to its high-end processor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 877,600 | 249,400 | OnePlus 9 Pro is significantly more powerful, handling demanding apps and games with ease. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G52 MC2 | OnePlus 9 Pro has a significantly more powerful GPU for superior graphics rendering and gaming performance. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | Redmi 12 has slightly higher resolution, but OnePlus 9 Pro main sensor has larger pixel size. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.43" | 1/2.76" | OnePlus 9 Pro main camera has a larger sensor that captures more light, resulting in better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 16MP | 8MP | OnePlus 9 Pro captures more detailed selfie images. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.4 | f/2.1 | Redmi 12's wider aperture can potentially let in more light for slightly better low-light selfies (however the lack of sensor information makes it difficult to accurately compare). |
| Telephoto Lens | Yes (8MP) | No | OnePlus 9 Pro offers optical zoom capabilities, enabling better close-up photos without losing detail. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | Yes (50MP) | Yes (8MP) | OnePlus 9 Pro captures far more detailed wide-angle shots with a higher resolution and larger sensor. |
| Macro Lens | No | Yes (2MP) | Redmi 12 can capture close-up shots of very small subjects. |
| Black & White Lens | Yes (2MP) | No | OnePlus 9 Pro provides a dedicated sensor for black and white photography. |
| Video Recording | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps | 1080p@30fps | OnePlus 9 Pro can record significantly higher-resolution and more versatile video footage. |
| DXOMark Score | 122 (Mobile) | Not Available | OnePlus 9 Pro's camera performance is measured with a DXOMark score, while the Redmi 12 is not. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode, RAW 12 bits | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW | The OnePlus 9 Pro offers a greater range of advanced features. |
Battery
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi 12 has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | OnePlus 9 Pro charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Reverse charging, Wireless charging 50W, Reverse wireless charging | Reverse charging, 9W Reverse Wired charging | OnePlus 9 Pro offers more versatile charging options, including wireless and reverse wireless charging. |
Software
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 14 | Android 13, upgradable to 14 | Redmi 12 has a more modern Android version out-of-the-box. |
Connectivity
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | OnePlus 9 Pro supports faster, more reliable Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | Redmi 12 has a slightly more recent Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | More satellite systems | Fewer satellite systems | OnePlus 9 Pro has more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both phones support dual SIM functionality. |
Storage and Audio
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both phones offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | OnePlus 9 Pro can handle more apps simultaneously and offers a smoother experience. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | OnePlus 9 Pro provides a more immersive and better overall audio experience. |
Security, Build & Sensors
| Feature | OnePlus 9 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Xiaomi Redmi 12 has a more convenient and reliable fingerprint sensor placement. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | OnePlus 9 Pro screen offers superior scratch and impact protection. |
| Sensors | Comprehensive sensor suite | Comprehensive sensor suite | Both phones offer a comprehensive sensor suite. The OnePlus 9 Pro has a dedicated Proximity sensor, while the Redmi 12 utilizes an ultrasonic proximity virtual sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9 Pro Advantages:
- Significantly Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers a much faster and smoother experience in all tasks compared to the Helio G88.
- Much Better Display: The higher resolution, pixel density, and brightness provide a sharper, more vibrant display, and is far more usable in bright conditions.
- Advanced Camera System: The OnePlus 9 Pro features a more versatile and capable camera setup, including telephoto and higher-resolution wide-angle lenses, resulting in higher-quality images and videos.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Options: 65W fast charging and 50W wireless charging significantly reduce charging times and offer better versatility.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, and noise cancellation microphones provide a more immersive audio experience.
- More Accurate Location Tracking: Supports more satellite systems for better GPS performance.
- Wi-Fi 6: Faster and more reliable wireless connectivity
Xiaomi Redmi 12 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: May offer slightly longer battery life.
- More Modern OS Out of the Box: Comes with Android 13 from factory, whereas OnePlus 9 Pro launched with Android 11.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Easier to access.
- Macro Lens: Allows for dedicated close-up photography.
- Slightly Newer Bluetooth: Features Bluetooth 5.3 for improved connectivity.
Trade-offs:
- OnePlus 9 Pro: Higher price point, larger thickness, non-expandable storage.
- Xiaomi Redmi 12: Significantly lower performance, inferior camera system, less vivid display, slower charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9 Pro Ideal User:
- Power Users: Those who need fast processing for demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize camera quality, versatility, and video recording capabilities.
- Media Consumers: Those who value high-resolution, bright, and smooth displays for watching videos and browsing.
- Professionals: Those who need fast charging, premium build quality and better connectivity.
Use Cases for OnePlus 9 Pro:
- High-end mobile gaming
- Professional photo and video editing
- Outdoor use in bright sunlight
- Smooth multitasking with many apps
- Long-term usage due to higher performance
Xiaomi Redmi 12 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those looking for an affordable phone with decent features.
- Casual Users: Those who primarily use their phone for basic tasks like browsing, social media, and messaging.
- Users Needing Long Battery: Those who need a device that lasts a full day with typical use.
- Beginner Photographers: Who are interested in having a macro lens.
Use Cases for Xiaomi Redmi 12:
- Everyday social media browsing
- Basic mobile gaming
- Long battery life for extended use
- General photography with a macro lens
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The OnePlus 9 Pro is a high-end device, while the Redmi 12 is a budget option.
- What is your primary use case? Prioritize performance and camera quality if needed or choose battery life and affordability if that's more important.
- How important is display quality and brightness? The OnePlus 9 Pro has a vastly superior screen compared to the Xiaomi Redmi 12.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance and Camera are Top Priorities: Choose the OnePlus 9 Pro. Its high-end chipset and advanced camera system make it suitable for demanding tasks, photography, and gaming.
- Scenario 2: Budget is the Main Concern: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi 12. It provides a basic smartphone experience with a focus on battery life at a lower price point.
- Scenario 3: Need a great screen and smooth experience on the go: Choose the OnePlus 9 Pro because of its much higher brightness and PPI, as well as its 120Hz refresh rate.
Personal Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the OnePlus 9 Pro.
While the Xiaomi Redmi 12 has the advantage of a larger battery and more modern Android version, the OnePlus 9 Pro is a vastly superior phone in almost every other key area.
The difference in performance is dramatic. The Snapdragon 888 chipset in the OnePlus 9 Pro allows for a smooth and responsive user experience that the Redmi 12 simply cannot match. I often multitask and require fast application loading times which is only possible with the OnePlus 9 Pro.
The display quality is also much more important to me as I consume a lot of media. The significantly higher resolution, brightness, and refresh rate of the OnePlus 9 Pro provide a more immersive and visually pleasing experience, especially outdoors. The main drawback of the Redmi 12 is the lack of brightness information, which could indicate very poor visibility in sunny environments.
Finally, as a photography enthusiast, the superior camera system of the OnePlus 9 Pro is a significant advantage. The main sensor, telephoto, and wide-angle lenses offer better image quality and more creative options. Although it does not have a macro camera, the other lenses outperform the Redmi 12 in most areas and are more versatile. The enhanced video recording capabilities are also a great bonus for content creators.
For me, the superior performance, display quality, camera, and faster charging of the OnePlus 9 Pro outweigh the benefits of a slightly larger battery and lower cost offered by the Redmi 12. It's a premium phone that offers premium experience and features.
