OnePlus Nord CE 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro: Detailed Comparison
Both the OnePlus Nord CE 5G and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro are compelling mid-range smartphones, but they cater to slightly different priorities. Below, we break down their specifications, real-world performance, and ideal user profiles.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.2 × 73.5 × 7.9 mm | 163 × 76 × 8 mm | OnePlus is more compact and pocket-friendly, while Xiaomi has a slightly larger footprint. |
| Weight | 170g | 187g | OnePlus is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for long use. |
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass 5 | Xiaomi offers better drop protection. |
Display
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.43" AMOLED | 6.67" AMOLED | Xiaomi provides a larger screen for media consumption. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Smoother scrolling and animations on the Redmi Note 12 Pro. |
| Brightness | 700 nits | 900 nits | Xiaomi is much better in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G (8nm) | Dimensity 1080 (6nm) | Xiaomi’s newer chip is more efficient and slightly faster. |
| Antutu Score | 385,000 | 573,200 | Xiaomi is ~49% faster in benchmarks, meaning better multitasking and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Similar gaming performance, but Xiaomi has a slight edge. |
Camera
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 64MP (f/1.79, 1/2") | 50MP (f/1.88, 1/1.56") | Xiaomi’s larger sensor captures more light, improving low-light shots. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.25) | 8MP (f/1.9) | Xiaomi’s wider aperture allows better low-light performance. |
| Macro Lens | No | 2MP | Xiaomi has a dedicated macro camera (though low-res). |
| Stabilization | EIS (4K, 1080p) | OIS + EIS (4K, 1080p) | Xiaomi has optical stabilization, meaning smoother video. |
| DxOMark Score | 84 (Photo: 89, Video: 80) | 102 (Photo: 108, Video: 98) | Xiaomi wins—better dynamic range, detail, and stabilization. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Xiaomi lasts longer on a charge (~10-15% more endurance). |
| Charging Speed | 30W | 67W | Xiaomi charges over twice as fast (~30 min for 80%). |
Connectivity & Extras
| Feature | OnePlus Nord CE 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi & Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 5, BT 5.1 | Wi-Fi 6, BT 5.2 | Xiaomi offers better wireless speeds and efficiency. |
| Speakers | Single speaker | Stereo + Dolby Atmos | Xiaomi has far better audio, great for movies. |
2. Key Insights: Strengths & Trade-Offs
OnePlus Nord CE 5G
✅ Pros:
- Lighter, more compact design
- Slightly better front camera (Sony IMX471)
- Cleaner software (OxygenOS)
❌ Cons:
- Slower charging (30W vs. 67W)
- No macro camera
- Older chipset
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro
✅ Pros:
- Better display (120Hz, 900 nits brightness)
- Superior camera (OIS, larger sensor, higher DxOMark score)
- Faster charging (67W) & bigger battery
- Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, stereo speakers
❌ Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier
- MIUI software can have bloatware
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the OnePlus Nord CE 5G?
- Lightweight phone lovers who prioritize comfort.
- Selfie-focused users (better front cam).
- Those who prefer cleaner software (OxygenOS > MIUI).
Who Should Buy the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro?
- Photography & videography enthusiasts (OIS, better sensor).
- Media consumers (bigger, brighter screen, stereo sound).
- Gamers & power users (faster chip, better battery life).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do you prioritize camera quality? → Xiaomi wins.
- Do you want fast charging & long battery life? → Xiaomi wins.
- Do you prefer a lighter phone with cleaner software? → OnePlus wins.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Best for Photography & Video: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro
- Best for Comfort & Software: OnePlus Nord CE 5G
- Best for All-Around Value: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro.
Why?
- Camera quality is significantly better (OIS, larger sensor, higher DxOMark score).
- 120Hz + 900 nits display makes media consumption much more enjoyable.
- 67W charging is a game-changer for quick top-ups.
- Better battery life (5000mAh vs. 4500mAh).
The OnePlus Nord CE 5G is still a solid device, but Xiaomi’s superior display, camera, and charging make it the overall better choice for most users.
