OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G: Which Mid-Ranger Wins?
Both the OnePlus Nord CE 5G (2021) and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G (2023) target budget-conscious buyers who want premium features without flagship prices. But which one is better for you? Let’s break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build Quality
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 165.7 × 76 × 7.9 mm | Redmi Note 12 is slightly larger, which may feel bulkier in the hand. |
| Weight | 170g | 183.5g | Nord CE 5G is lighter—better for one-handed use. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 12 has better drop resistance. |
Verdict:
- OnePlus Nord CE 5G is lighter and more compact.
- Redmi Note 12 4G has better screen protection but is bulkier.
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.67" AMOLED | Redmi Note 12 has a bigger screen, better for media. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Smoother scrolling and animations on Redmi Note 12. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | 1200 nits | Redmi Note 12 is far better in sunlight. |
Verdict:
- Redmi Note 12 4G wins in display quality—bigger, smoother, and brighter.
- Nord CE 5G still has a great AMOLED panel but falls behind in refresh rate & brightness.
Performance & Software
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G 5G (8nm) | Snapdragon 685 (6nm) | Nord CE 5G is faster (14% higher Antutu score). |
| RAM Options | Up to 12GB | Up to 8GB | More RAM means better multitasking on Nord CE 5G. |
| OS | Android 11 (Up to 13) | Android 13 (Up to 14) | Redmi Note 12 has newer software out of the box. |
Verdict:
- Nord CE 5G is faster for gaming and multitasking.
- Redmi Note 12 4G has a newer OS but weaker chipset.
Cameras
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP (f/1.79, 1/2") | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76") | Nord CE 5G has a larger sensor, better low-light shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP | 13MP | Slightly sharper selfies on Nord CE 5G. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Nord CE 5G supports 4K—great for content creators. |
| DXOMARK Score | 84 (Photo: 89) | 63 (Photo: 54) | Nord CE 5G is significantly better. |
Verdict:
- OnePlus Nord CE 5G wins in camera quality—better sensor, 4K video, and higher DXO score.
- Redmi Note 12 4G has a 2MP macro lens (useful for close-ups).
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 12 lasts longer on a charge. |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 33W | Almost identical—both charge quickly. |
| Reverse Charging | No | Yes | Redmi Note 12 can act as a power bank. |
Verdict:
- Redmi Note 12 4G has a bigger battery and reverse charging.
- Nord CE 5G still charges fast but loses in endurance.
2. Key Insights
Strengths of Each Phone
✅ OnePlus Nord CE 5G:
✔ Faster performance (better for gaming)
✔ Superior camera (4K video, better low-light shots)
✔ Lighter and more compact
✔ 12GB RAM option (better future-proofing)
✅ Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G:
✔ Bigger, smoother 120Hz AMOLED display
✔ Brighter screen (1200 nits—great for outdoors)
✔ Bigger battery (5000mAh)
✔ Newer software (Android 13 at launch)
Trade-Offs
⚠ Nord CE 5G: Smaller battery, no reverse charging.
⚠ Redmi Note 12 4G: Weaker chipset, no 4K video.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
- Power users (gamers, multitaskers)
- Photographers (better camera, 4K video)
- People who prefer compact phones
Who Should Buy the Redmi Note 12 4G?
- Media consumers (bigger, brighter screen)
- Battery-focused users (5000mAh)
- Those who want newer software
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do you prioritize performance & cameras? → Nord CE 5G
- Do you watch a lot of videos & need great battery life? → Redmi Note 12 4G
- Do you prefer a lighter phone or a larger display?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Gaming/Photography: Nord CE 5G
- Movies/Battery Life: Redmi Note 12 4G
- Budget Buyers: Redmi Note 12 4G (usually cheaper)
Final Verdict: Which One Would I Choose?
I’d pick the OnePlus Nord CE 5G.
Why?
- Faster performance (better long-term usability)
- 4K video and better camera quality
- Lighter & more comfortable in hand
The Redmi Note 12 4G is great for media & battery life, but the Nord CE 5G offers a better overall user experience—especially if you care about speed and cameras.
Alternative Choice:
If battery life & display are your top priorities, the Redmi Note 12 4G is a solid pick.
Bottom Line?
- For performance & cameras → OnePlus Nord CE 5G
- For battery & screen → Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G
Which would you choose? Let me know in the comments! 🚀
