1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | OnePlus 9R | Xiaomi 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-04-14 | 2021-12-31 | Xiaomi 12 is newer, potentially having longer software support |
| Dimensions | 161 × 74.1 × 8.4 mm | 152.7 × 69.9 × 8.2 mm | Xiaomi 12 is more compact, potentially easier to handle with one hand |
| Weight | 189g | 179g | Xiaomi 12 is slightly lighter, comfortable for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.55" | 6.28" | OnePlus 9R has a larger screen, better for media consumption; Xiaomi 12 is more pocketable |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer similar sharpness |
| PPI | 402 | 419 | Similar pixel density, no significant difference in clarity |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1100 nits | Xiaomi 12 is much brighter, far better visibility in sunlight; OnePlus 9R brightness information is missing |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 (7nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Xiaomi 12 has a more powerful and efficient processor, faster app loading and gaming |
| AnTuTu Score | 821,600 | 1,150,831 | Xiaomi 12 has significantly higher performance, noticeable in demanding tasks |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 730 | Xiaomi 12 has a more capable GPU, better gaming experience |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.7, 1/2" Sony IMX586 | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56" Sony IMX766 | Xiaomi 12 has a larger sensor, potentially better low-light performance, higher resolution |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" Sony IMX471 | 32MP, 1/3.14" Samsung JD1 | Xiaomi 12 has higher resolution for sharper selfies; OnePlus 9R sensor size is only marginally larger |
| Wide Angle Lens | 16MP, f/2.2, 1/3.09" Sony IMX481 | 13MP, f/2.4 | OnePlus 9R has a slightly higher resolution and wider aperture on the wide-angle lens |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | OnePlus 9R has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots; Xiaomi 12 relies on software for depth effect |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | 5MP, f/2.4 | Similar macro lens capabilities on both |
| Video | Up to 4K 60fps | Up to 8K 24fps | Xiaomi 12 supports higher video resolution, offers better creative flexibility |
| DXOMARK Score | Not tested | Mobile: 113, Photo: 118, Video: 121 | Xiaomi 12's camera performance is rated, giving it a clear advantage in this comparison |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, OIS, EIS | Triple camera, OIS, EIS, Ultra stable video, Night mode | Xiaomi 12 has an enhanced video mode and dedicated night mode; OnePlus 9R offers an additional camera lens (portrait) |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4500mAh | Similar battery capacity for comparable battery life |
| Charging | 65W fast charging | 67W fast charging | Xiaomi 12 charges slightly faster |
| Features | Non-removable | 50W Wireless Charging, Reverse Charging, Non-removable | Xiaomi 12 offers wireless and reverse charging, a clear advantage |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 (upgradable to newer) | Xiaomi 12 ships with a newer Android version |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support fast WiFi speeds |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Xiaomi 12 has a slightly newer Bluetooth version |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS | Xiaomi 12 has more accurate and versatile GPS systems |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both have similar storage options, adequate for most users |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 8/12 GB | Both provide sufficient RAM for smooth multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi 12 offers Hi-Res audio, which provides higher quality audio playback |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer basic fingerprint security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Xiaomi 12 has superior screen protection, making it less susceptible to scratches and damage |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity, RGB | Xiaomi 12 offers additional sensors for advanced functionality |
2. Key Differences Analysis
OnePlus 9R Advantages:
- Slightly Larger Display: The 6.55-inch screen is better for media consumption and gaming, giving a more immersive experience.
- Dedicated Portrait Camera: The dedicated depth sensor provides better portrait photos compared to the Xiaomi 12 which relies on software algorithms.
- Wider Aperture on Wide Angle Lens: The f/2.2 aperture on wide-angle lens can capture more light, improving low-light wide-angle photography.
Xiaomi 12 Advantages:
- More Powerful Processor: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 offers significantly higher performance, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Superior Display Brightness: The 1100 nits brightness provides excellent visibility in bright outdoor conditions.
- Higher Resolution Main Camera: The 50MP main camera with a larger sensor captures more detail and better low-light photos.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: The 32MP front camera provides sharper and more detailed selfies.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Charging: Xiaomi 12 provides a convenience boost with 50W wireless charging and reverse charging capabilities.
- 8K Video Recording: This allows for professional-level video capture.
- Superior Screen Protection: The Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides better scratch and drop protection.
- More Advanced GPS: The inclusion of QZSS, GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, and QZSS (L1 + L5) offers better location accuracy.
- Hi-Res Audio: Improves audio quality for a more immersive experience.
- Newer Android Version: Ships with Android 12, which translates to more up-to-date software features.
- Better DXOMARK Camera Score: This benchmark suggests a better overall camera performance.
Trade-offs:
- The OnePlus 9R's larger screen comes at the cost of a larger and heavier phone, making it less pocketable than the Xiaomi 12.
- The Xiaomi 12 does not have the convenience of a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode; however, this is less relevant due to software optimization advances.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
OnePlus 9R Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Users looking for a reliable phone with a good display and decent performance without breaking the bank.
- Casual Gamers and Media Consumers: Those who appreciate a larger screen for gaming and video watching.
- Users who value dedicated depth sensors: Users who prioritize the quality of the portrait mode in particular.
- Users seeking an established brand: Those who prefer the OnePlus ecosystem and software experience.
Specific Use Cases (OnePlus 9R):
- Watching movies and TV shows on a larger display.
- Playing games occasionally, benefiting from the larger screen.
- Taking photos and videos in a variety of scenarios and requiring a dedicated depth sensor for portraits.
- General daily use without needing the highest performance.
Xiaomi 12 Ideal User:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Users who demand the best possible performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a high-quality camera with advanced features, including enhanced video recording.
- Users who value premium build quality and modern technology: Users seeking top screen protection and modern features like wireless charging.
- Users who prioritize a pocketable design: Users who prefer a more compact, lightweight phone that is easy to handle.
- Users seeking cutting-edge features: Those seeking the latest software features and advanced functionality such as ultrasonic proximity sensing.
Specific Use Cases (Xiaomi 12):
- Intensive gaming with high frame rates and demanding graphics.
- Professional photo and video capture using the 8K recording capabilities.
- Heavy multitasking with multiple apps open simultaneously.
- Working outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Use cases that benefit from convenient features like wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize performance or screen size? If raw power and a compact form are essential, Xiaomi 12 wins. If a bigger screen is important, the OnePlus 9R is a better choice.
- How important is camera quality and features? If top-tier camera performance, especially for low light and video, is critical, the Xiaomi 12 is better. If having a dedicated depth sensor is important, the OnePlus 9R provides this convenience.
- What is your budget? If the budget is very tight, the OnePlus 9R might offer more value. However, if you're willing to pay extra, the Xiaomi 12 offers more features and better performance.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Mobile Gaming and Power User: If you are a heavy gamer or a power user who needs the fastest performance, the Xiaomi 12 is the clear winner.
- Scenario 2: Casual User on a Budget: For a user primarily using social media, web browsing, and media consumption with a limited budget, the OnePlus 9R offers a good experience with its larger display.
- Scenario 3: Photography Focused: If you value high-quality photos and videos, especially in low light, and features like 8k video recording, the Xiaomi 12 is the better option.
- Scenario 4: User Prioritizing the latest Technology: If you value having the most modern features, the newest software, and cutting edge technologies, the Xiaomi 12 has a slight advantage with wireless charging, superior screen protection and a more modern chipset.
Personal Choice
Given my priorities, I would choose the Xiaomi 12. While I appreciate the OnePlus 9R's larger screen and depth sensor, the Xiaomi 12's superior performance, brighter display, significantly better camera, wireless charging, and superior build quality make it the more compelling option for me. I also value a smaller, more pocketable design and the advanced GPS capabilities. As I often work outdoors, the superior brightness is crucial. The added performance ensures that my workflow remains smooth and fast and the camera enhancements on the Xiaomi 12 would serve me better for content creation. Although the OnePlus 9R is a capable device, the Xiaomi 12 is the better all-rounder for my needs.
