Okay, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Realme C35 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. I'm approaching this with my usual blend of technical curiosity and a focus on how these specs translate into real-world experiences for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the specs, laid out for easy comparison and with a keen eye on real-world implications:
| Feature | Realme C35 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-02-14 | 2023-04-26 | Redmi Note 12S is a newer model with potentially updated software and features. |
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75.6 x 8.1 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | Realme C35 is slightly larger, which might affect one-handed use. Both have the same thickness. |
| Weight | 189g | 176g | Redmi Note 12S is lighter, potentially more comfortable for long periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.43" | Realme C35 provides a slightly larger viewing area, good for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2408 | 1080 x 2400 | Both offer sharp, detailed visuals, practically indistinguishable in normal usage. |
| Pixel Density | 401 PPI | 409 PPI | Both offer very similar clarity, ensuring sharp text and visuals. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Redmi Note 12S has a superior display with deeper blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors. More efficient with darker themes |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Redmi Note 12S provides smoother scrolling and animations, improving the user experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1000 nits | Redmi Note 12S is dramatically brighter, much better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12nm) | Helio G96 in the Redmi Note 12S is significantly faster for overall performance and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 230,726 | 412,400 | Redmi Note 12S offers 79% better performance, translating into snappier app loading and smoother multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Redmi Note 12S provides better graphics performance, important for gaming and graphically intensive applications. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have similar battery capacity, expect comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 12S charges much faster, reducing downtime and improving convenience. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse Charging, Non-removable | Redmi Note 12S can be used as a power bank for other devices via reverse charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP (f/1.8) | 108MP (f/1.8, 1/1.52", 0.7µm) | Redmi Note 12S captures significantly more detailed images and has a larger sensor, which is better for low-light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP (f/2.0, Sony Exmor) | 16MP (f/2.4) | Redmi Note 12S takes higher resolution selfies, Realme C35 has wider aperture that is good for low light conditions. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP (f/2.2) | Redmi Note 12S offers a wider perspective, allowing for creative landscape and group shots. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Both have comparable Macro cameras, good for detailed close-up shots. |
| Black & White Camera | 2MP (f/2.8) | None | Realme C35 offers creative options for black and white photography |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, No Slow-mo | 1080p@30fps, Yes Slow-mo (120fps) | Redmi Note 12S can capture slow-motion videos which can provide creative possibilities. |
| Camera Features | PDAF, CDAF, Continuous Shooting, Panorama | Night Mode | Realme C35 gives more focus control (PDAF/CDAF) and creative modes. Redmi Note 12S can take better photos in the dark. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13 | Redmi Note 12S has a more recent OS, potentially receiving updates longer than the Realme C35. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi Display, Wi-Fi MiMO | Redmi Note 12S has more advanced Wi-Fi features, improving speed and reliability. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.2 LE, HID | Redmi Note 12S has a newer Bluetooth version which results in better performance and battery life |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Redmi Note 12S offers more accurate location tracking with the addition of Galileo support. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM for added flexibility in managing multiple numbers. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Redmi Note 12S offers more internal storage options for storing more files. |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB/8GB | Redmi Note 12S has more RAM for smoother multitasking and app performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone provides expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic audio features | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Redmi Note 12S offers superior audio experience with better audio and stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Both offer basic biometric security through a fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 12S provides better screen protection against scratches and minor impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Proximity; Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Ultrasonic Proximity | Redmi Note 12S has a more comprehensive sensor suite for advanced features, including a biometric fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Realme C35:
- Strengths: A slightly larger screen, a black & white camera, and a lower price tag make it appealing to budget-conscious buyers who prioritize media consumption.
- Advantages: Offers slightly more creative control over images through PDAF and CDAF, and offers a dedicated black and white sensor.
- Limitations: It lags behind in display quality, processing power, charging speed, and the camera department in comparison with the Redmi Note 12S
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S:
- Strengths: Superior AMOLED display with higher brightness, faster processing, better cameras, faster charging, and a newer version of Android.
- Advantages: Excellent all-around performance, an advanced camera system with a wide-angle lens, faster charging, and a more robust connectivity suite.
- Limitations: Might be a bit more expensive compared to the Realme C35.
User Experience:
- Everyday Use: The Redmi Note 12S feels more responsive and smoother thanks to the 90Hz display and more powerful chipset.
- Media Consumption: Both are fine, but the Redmi Note 12S wins with its higher brightness and better colors thanks to the AMOLED display.
- Photography: The Redmi Note 12S takes more detailed and versatile photos thanks to its 108 MP sensor and inclusion of a wide-angle lens.
- Gaming: The Redmi Note 12S will offer a much smoother experience.
- Battery: Both will provide a full day of use but the Redmi Note 12S will charge much faster.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Realme C35: Best for budget-conscious users who prioritize a larger screen for media consumption and are okay with a less powerful phone and camera. Suitable for users with basic needs, such as social media and basic photo taking.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S: Ideal for users who want a well-rounded smartphone with a good camera, excellent display, and fast performance. Suitable for those who consume lots of media, take a lot of photos, or play mobile games.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your choice:
- How important is display quality? If you value vibrant colors and high brightness, the Redmi Note 12S is the clear choice.
- How much do you value performance and camera capabilities? If you need a fast phone for gaming or like taking photos, the Redmi Note 12S wins.
- How tight is your budget? If cost is your top concern, the Realme C35 is a more affordable option but it comes with big performance tradeoffs.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Basic Use: If you just need a phone for calling, texting, and browsing, the Realme C35 will do the job.
- Media Lover: If you watch a lot of videos or browse social media, the Redmi Note 12S’s superior display makes it a more enjoyable experience.
- Photo Enthusiast: The Redmi Note 12S is the clear winner with its 108MP camera and wide-angle lens.
- Gamer: The Redmi Note 12S is the better performer, with a more powerful chipset and GPU.
- Traveler: The Redmi Note 12S is the better option thanks to its faster charging, GPS capabilities, and overall versatility.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I'd absolutely go with the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. The sheer difference in display quality—the vibrant AMOLED, high brightness, and 90Hz refresh rate—makes a significant impact on daily use. The performance leap, thanks to the Helio G96 chipset, is also crucial for smoother multitasking and gaming. And let’s not forget the vastly superior 108MP camera with its additional wide-angle lens, plus the faster 33W charging.
While the Realme C35 might be more budget-friendly, the trade-offs in display, performance, camera, and battery are simply too significant for me, someone who uses their phone heavily. The Redmi Note 12S offers a much more complete and satisfying experience for most use cases.
