1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 165.7 × 76 × 7.9 mm | Redmi Note 12 4G is slightly taller and wider; might feel less comfortable in smaller hands. |
| Weight | 177g | 183.5g | Realme 8 is slightly lighter, which could be noticeable during prolonged use. |
| Build | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 12 4G has more robust screen protection against scratches. |
Display
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.4" | 6.67" | Redmi Note 12 4G offers a slightly larger viewing area, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same level of detail, resulting in sharp images. |
| PPI | 411 | 395 | Both phones provide a sharp display, with the Realme 8 having a slightly higher pixel density which is negligibly better in terms of sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both phones. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Redmi Note 12 4G offers much smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1200 nits | Redmi Note 12 4G is easier to see in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 (6 nm) | Realme 8 has a slightly more powerful chipset based on Antutu benchmarks, but the Redmi Note 12 4G uses a more efficient chip built on a smaller node. |
| Antutu Score | 409,874 | 338,900 | Realme 8 shows a higher benchmark score which translates to slightly faster app loading and smoother multitasking in theory. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Adreno 610 | The Realme 8's GPU may offer slightly better gaming performance in some titles. |
Camera
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.79, 1/2" sensor | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" sensor | Realme 8 has higher resolution and larger sensor for potentially better detail and low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13" sensor | 13MP, f/2.45 | Realme 8 captures selfies with more detail. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.25 | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4" sensor | Redmi Note 12 4G has a slightly wider aperture for potentially better low-light photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer similar macro lens capabilities. |
| Black & White Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | Not Available | Realme 8 offers a dedicated black and white camera for stylistic photos. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | 1080p@30fps | Realme 8 records higher resolution videos with more frame rate options for smoother footage. |
| Slow Motion Video | 240fps | No Slow-motion | Realme 8 can record at a higher frame rate for more dramatic slow-motion effects. |
| DXOMARK | Not tested | Overall 63, Photo 54, Video 66 | Redmi Note 12 4G has a benchmarked camera performance while Realme 8 has none. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, Quadruple camera, Ultra stable video | Triple camera | Realme 8 has more features and a dedicated B&W lens, whereas Redmi Note 12 has a triple camera setup only. |
Battery
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life expectancy on both phones. |
| Charging | 30W | 33W | Redmi Note 12 4G charges slightly faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Redmi Note 12 4G can charge other devices with reverse charging capability. |
Software
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13 (Upgradeable to 14) | Redmi Note 12 4G comes with a newer operating system and better future software support. |
Connectivity
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi MiMO | Wi-Fi 5 | Realme 8 offers the same wifi support, plus the MiMO feature which can help in faster download speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.0 | Realme 8 has a more recent version of Bluetooth for more efficient connections. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Both phones offer similar location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Dual SIM, Dual Standby | Both offer dual SIM capabilities. |
Storage
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal | 64GB, 128GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | Redmi Note 12 4G offers more internal storage options for users with extensive media libraries. |
| RAM | 4GB, 6GB, 8GB | 4GB, 6GB, 8GB | Both offer similar options for multitasking and app performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Both lack expandable storage, limiting storage capacity. |
Audio
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio | Basic | Realme 8 offers superior audio quality via Hi-Res audio support. |
Security
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Redmi Note 12 4G has a more convenient and modern side-mounted fingerprint scanner. |
Sensors
| Feature | Realme 8 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Both phones offer similar motion tracking with the addition of magnetomter on the Realme 8, and a compass on the Redmi Note 12 4G. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 8 Advantages:
- Slightly Better Performance: The Helio G95 chipset scores higher on benchmarks, suggesting smoother app loading and multitasking.
- Higher Resolution Main Camera: The 64MP main camera captures more detailed photos and videos.
- 4K Video Recording: Allows for higher-quality videos, useful for content creation and preserving memories.
- Dedicated Black and White Lens: This allows for creative, stylistic photography.
- Hi-Res Audio: Enhances the listening experience with higher fidelity sound.
- Magnetometer: Allows for more precise magnetic field tracking.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G Advantages:
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 13 (upgradable to 14) providing access to newer features, security updates and better app compatibility compared to the Android 11 on the Realme 8.
- Smoother Display: The 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations feel much more fluid.
- Brighter Display: 1200 nits brightness offers better visibility in direct sunlight.
- Larger Screen: A bigger display for more immersive media consumption.
- Longer Software Support: Given its more recent launch, it's likely to receive software updates for longer.
- Slightly Faster Charging: 33W charging helps top-up the battery faster compared to the 30W on the Realme 8.
- Reverse Charging: The ability to charge other devices can be very useful.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More convenient and modern compared to standard fingerprint scanners.
- Corning Gorilla Glass 3 Screen Protection: More resistant to scratches.
- Larger Storage Option: The 256GB internal storage option will benefit those who need more space.
- Compass: Offers more accurate directions.
Trade-offs:
- Realme 8 has the edge in camera and general performance. Its chipset performs better on benchmarks, and its primary camera captures more details. Its video capabilities are also superior, with 4K recording and 120FPS slow-motion capabilities.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G compromises slightly in performance and camera for a superior and smoother viewing experience, as well as a more refined software and security experience, and reverse charging capability.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme 8 Ideal User:
- Camera Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize high-quality photos and videos, especially in different lighting conditions, due to the 64MP main camera and 4K video recording.
- Performance Seekers: Individuals looking for slightly better gaming performance in certain titles due to the faster CPU and GPU.
- Audio Enthusiasts: Those who want high-quality audio playback for music and media.
Use Cases for Realme 8:
- Creating high-quality social media content with its versatile camera setup and 4K recording.
- Playing graphically intensive games where every bit of extra processing power and smooth performance matters.
- Listening to music or other media with enhanced audio quality and detail.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G Ideal User:
- Media Consumers: Users who primarily use their phone for watching videos, browsing social media, and reading content, due to the larger, smoother, brighter display.
- Everyday Users: People who want a reliable phone with a modern software experience and convenient features like reverse charging and side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Users Seeking Longevity: Those who prefer longer software support as well as a more recent device.
Use Cases for Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G:
- Enjoying a smooth and immersive experience while watching videos or browsing the web.
- Using the phone for daily tasks with the convenience of faster charging and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Taking clear photos with a capable camera, with the advantage of having good photo performance.
- Charging other devices, such as wireless headphones, using the reverse charging feature.
Price-to-Value:
- Both phones offer a good balance of features for their price range. The Redmi Note 12 4G likely carries a slight premium due to its newer features, better display, and software, while Realme 8 appeals more to those looking for better core performance at a slightly lower cost. The better value will depend on individual needs.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How important is camera quality for you? If you are a photo or video enthusiast, the Realme 8's higher resolution and 4K video capabilities might be more important than the refresh rate.
- How much do you value a smooth, bright display? If you prioritize a fluid and immersive visual experience, the Redmi Note 12 4G's 120Hz display will have a more significant impact.
- Do you prefer newer software and longer support? If having the latest Android version and extended software updates is essential, the Redmi Note 12 4G is the better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
For the casual user: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G provides a better overall experience with its newer software, smoother display, and more convenient features. Its camera is also good enough for casual photos, and its software support is more recent.
For the avid gamer or content creator: The Realme 8's slightly better CPU and GPU, higher-resolution main camera, and 4K video recording capabilities make it a more suitable choice.
For the long-term user: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G's combination of newer software, better display, and overall user experience make it a more compelling choice for those looking to hold on to a device for longer.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I would pick the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G. While the Realme 8 has its advantages in camera and raw performance, the Redmi Note 12 4G provides a more well-rounded user experience that aligns with my preferences. The smoother 120Hz display, the newer Android version (with a clear upgrade path), the slightly faster charging, and the side-mounted fingerprint sensor contribute significantly to daily usability. Furthermore, the improved screen protection gives me better peace of mind. While I appreciate the Realme 8's 4K video capability, I'd rather have a better day-to-day user experience and know that my phone will likely receive updates for longer with the Redmi Note 12 4G. The reverse charging capability on the Redmi Note 12 4G also gives it an edge in versatility.
