Alright, let's break down the Realme C35 and Infinix Note 12 G96. I've got my engineering hat on, and I'm ready to dive into the details and, most importantly, figure out what it all means for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison table, focusing on how the specs translate into real-world use:
Feature | Realme C35 | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Real-World Implications |
---|---|---|---|
Design | |||
Dimensions | 164.4 × 75.6 × 8.1 mm | 164.6 × 76.8 × 8 mm | Very similar size, the Infinix is slightly wider. Both are thin enough for comfortable grip. |
Weight | 189g | 185g | Both are light enough for comfortable use, differences are negligible. |
Build | Standard | Standard | Both are typical non-foldable smartphones |
Display | |||
Size | 6.6" | 6.7" | Infinix Note 12 G96 has a marginally larger screen; difference not too noticeable |
Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1080x2400 | Both provide crisp, full HD visuals; difference barely perceptible |
Pixel Density | 401 PPI | 393 PPI | Both have sharp screens, with slightly higher pixel density on the Realme C35 |
Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast; superior viewing experience, especially in dark environments. |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Standard refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations, nothing too special. |
Brightness | 0 nits | 650 nits | Infinix has much brighter display, more comfortable in direct sunlight, and offers better visibility outdoor |
Performance | |||
Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Helio G96 provides better all-round performance for daily tasks, and gaming. |
AnTuTu Score | 230,726 | 307,000 | Infinix Note 12 G96 is noticeably faster for everyday apps and games, and performs better in intensive tasks |
GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Infinix Note 12 G96’s GPU allows for smoother visuals in gaming |
Battery Life | |||
Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both will likely provide a full day's use under moderate use. |
Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Infinix Note 12 G96 charges faster, which means less time tethered to the charger. |
Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Both provide similar performance and durability, difference negliglible |
Camera | |||
Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/2.76" sensor size | Infinix Note 12 G96's wider aperture and larger sensor should allow for slightly better low-light performance with more light capture |
Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 16MP, f/2.0 | Infinix Note 12 G96 takes sharper, more detailed selfies. |
Portrait Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Infinix has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait shots with blurred background; Realme C35 will use software to calculate the portrait. |
Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Realme C35 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, albeit a basic one. |
Black & White Lens | 2MP, f/2.8 | None | Realme C35 has a dedicated black and white lens. |
Video Resolution | 1080p@30fps | 1440p@30fps | Infinix Note 12 G96 is capable of shooting in 2K resolution, thus producing sharper videos. |
Slow-Motion Video | No, 30fps | Yes, 120 fps | Infinix Note 12 G96 allows for more detailed slow-motion capturing. |
Camera Features | PDAF, CDAF, Continuous Shooting | Manual Focus, Night Mode | Realme C35 offers slightly faster focus due to PDAF. Infinix offers more creative control. |
Software | |||
Operating System | Android 11 | Android 12 | Infinix Note 12 G96 offers a newer OS, meaning longer support period and features |
Connectivity | |||
Wi-Fi | 802.11 ac | 802.11 n | Realme supports newer Wifi standards. Infinix is dual band. Both support Hotspot |
Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.1 LE | Infinix offers more reliable Bluetooth connection. |
GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS | Realme C35 will have more accurate positioning due to GLONASS, Beidou satellite systems |
SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support using two SIM cards, simultaneously |
Storage & RAM | |||
Internal Storage | 64GB or 128GB | 64GB or 128GB | Both offer adequate storage for apps, photos, and videos |
RAM | 4GB | 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB | Infinix Note 12 G96 offers better multitasking and more headroom for running multiple apps. |
Expandable Storage | No | No | Users will have to make sure that the internal storage meets their needs |
Audio | |||
Quality | Basic Audio | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Infinix Note 12 G96 provides an immersive audio experience with rich surround sound. |
Security | |||
Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Quick and convenient fingerprint access |
Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Fingerprint | Infinix Note 12 G96 additional biometric sensors. Realme C35 additional compass sensor for better navigation. |
2. Key Insights
Realme C35
- Strengths:
- Slightly higher pixel density, meaning a sharper display.
- More accurate GPS tracking with GLONASS and Beidou.
- Includes a macro and black and white camera for creative flexibility.
- Newer WiFi standard
- Trade-offs:
- IPS LCD screen compared to the AMOLED on the Infinix, affecting vibrancy and brightness.
- Slightly less powerful processor and lower benchmark scores.
- Slower charging speed.
- No expandable storage.
Infinix Note 12 G96
- Strengths:
- Superior AMOLED display offering richer colors, higher brightness, and true blacks.
- More powerful processor and higher benchmark score, meaning better overall performance.
- Faster 33W charging for quicker refills.
- A better selfie camera and the addition of a depth sensor for portrait mode.
- Supports 2K video resolution.
- Has Stereo Speakers, and DTS X for better audio quality.
- Trade-offs:
- Slightly lower pixel density.
- No macro lens for close-up shots.
- Less accurate GPS tracking.
- No expandable storage.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme C35: Best for users who prioritize:
- Having a decent camera, especially if macro and black and white photography is of interest.
- Higher navigation accuracy.
- Are on a budget but are still looking for a good screen.
Infinix Note 12 G96: Ideal for users who prioritize:
- Immersive viewing experience and are watching lots of multimedia.
- Better performance and smooth multitasking.
- Faster charging to minimize downtime.
- Better video and selfie capturing.
- Better audio quality due to stereo speakers.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three crucial questions to help decide between these phones:
- How important is display quality for you?
- If you value vibrant colors and excellent outdoor visibility, the Infinix Note 12 G96's AMOLED display is the clear winner.
- Do you do heavy multitasking or gaming?
- If you frequently use multiple apps or play demanding games, the Infinix Note 12 G96's more powerful processor and RAM would be ideal.
- Are you a heavy photography user?
- If you use the camera often, both phones offer various benefits. The Realme offers dedicated Macro and black and white lenses while the Infinix offers better selfie and standard camera experience. If the need is more for standard, general photography, the Infinix excels.
Recommendations Based on Scenarios
Scenario 1: The "Multimedia Lover"
- Winner: Infinix Note 12 G96. The AMOLED screen, stereo speakers, and faster processor make it the better choice for watching videos, streaming content, and enjoying games.
Scenario 2: The "Casual User"
- Winner: It depends. If you are on a budget and do not have a preference between display and performance, either is a good option. If the user prefers a much better display, then the Infinix should be the clear winner.
Scenario 3: The "Photo Enthusiast"
- Winner: It depends on the type of photo enthusiast. If they need more macro, the Realme is a better option, while the Infinix is a better choice for standard shooting conditions and selfies, and 2k video recording.
Personal Choice
If I had to choose, I’d go with the Infinix Note 12 G96. The superior AMOLED display alone is a big draw for me, as it significantly enhances the visual experience. The more powerful processor, 2k video recording, and faster charging are compelling benefits that contribute to a more fluid and enjoyable user experience. It is also more future-proof with a newer OS, and better audio quality, and makes it a superior choice. Even though I like the macro and black and white lenses, that utility is not enough to compensate for the overall better features of the Infinix Note 12 G96.