Smartphone Comparison: Realme GT 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Realme GT 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 158.5 × 73.3 × 8.4 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | Redmi Note 12S is slightly taller and thinner; differences unlikely to be noticeable in daily use. |
| Weight | 186g | 176g | Redmi Note 12S is 10g lighter, which might be preferable for extended periods of handling. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.43" | Identical screen size for both phones. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Similar sharpness in visuals. |
| PPI | 409 | 409 | Both phones provide the same level of detail. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Identical vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Realme GT 5G offers smoother scrolling and animations, beneficial for gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1000 nits | Redmi Note 12S has significantly better visibility in bright sunlight. Realme's brightness is unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Realme GT 5G offers significantly better performance for demanding apps, multitasking, and gaming due to its superior processor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 912,342 | 412,400 | Realme GT 5G has more than double the performance, translating to faster app loading and smoother overall experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Realme GT 5G's GPU is much better suited for demanding graphics, resulting in smoother gameplay. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682, 0.8µm | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.52", Samsung S5KHM2, 0.7µm | Redmi Note 12S has higher resolution, potentially more detailed photos; slightly larger sensor may also allow for better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.5 | 16MP, f/2.4 | Redmi Note 12S has a slightly wider aperture, allowing for slightly better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.3 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Redmi Note 12S has a slightly wider aperture for potentially better wide-angle photos in lower light. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Comparable macro capabilities. |
| Video | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps with EIS | 1080p@30fps | Realme GT 5G records higher quality videos with support for 4K and 1080p slow motion. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Laser AF, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Panorama, RAW | Exposure compensation | Realme GT 5G offers more advanced photography and videography features. Redmi offers exposure compensation. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 12S has a larger battery, likely providing longer usage time between charges. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Realme GT 5G charges much faster, convenient for users needing quick power-ups. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Redmi Note 12S can charge other devices, potentially useful in emergencies. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Upgradable to 14 | Android 13 | Redmi Note 12S comes with a more recent OS and future updates are unknown. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi Display | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi Display, Wi-Fi MiMO | Redmi Note 12S includes additional WiFi MIMO technology. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE, aptX, LDAC, SBC, AAC | 5.2, A2DP, EDR, HID, LE | Realme GT 5G has more advanced audio codecs, likely improving the listening experience. Redmi offers EDR and HID. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Realme GT 5G has more precise location tracking capabilities via added GPS systems. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB | 64 GB or 128 GB or 256 GB | Both phones offer identical maximum storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | Realme GT 5G can have up to 12GB of RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 Microphones | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Realme GT 5G has superior audio with Dolby Atmos and dual microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Redmi has better fingerprint sensor placement |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 12S offers better screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Redmi Note 12S includes gyroscope and an ultrasonic proximity sensor, making it more suitable for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme GT 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers significantly higher processing power compared to the Helio G96, resulting in much faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming experiences.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging is much quicker than 33W, allowing for rapid battery replenishment.
- Advanced Audio: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and dual microphones deliver superior audio quality for entertainment and calls.
- Better Video Recording: Supports 4K recording at 60 fps, offering higher quality video output and slow motion options.
- Smoother Display: The 120Hz refresh rate provides a visibly smoother visual experience compared to the 90Hz display.
- More Precise GPS Uses more GPS bands than the Redmi
- Advanced Connectivity: Includes APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC Bluetooth codecs and additional GPS tracking.
- More RAM: Offers up to 12 GB of ram compared to Redmi's 8 GB
- More Camera Features: Offers 4K Video, Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Laser AF, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Panorama, RAW.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Advantages:
- Better Battery Life: 500mAh larger battery capacity ensures a longer time between charges.
- Brighter Display: 1000 nits brightness allows for superior outdoor visibility under bright sunlight.
- Reverse Charging: The ability to charge other devices is a convenient emergency feature.
- More Recent Android Version: Comes with Android 13.
- Better Fingerprint Sensor: Side mounted sensor is more useful
- Better Screen Protection: Uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3
- More Sensors: Has gyroscope and ultrasonic proximity sensor.
- Lower Weight: The phone is 10 grams lighter.
- Wider Aperture on Wide and Selfie Cameras: Leads to better low light capabilities.
Trade-offs:
- Realme GT 5G: Sacrifices battery life and brighter display for superior performance and faster charging. Lacks expandable storage.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S: Sacrifices raw processing power and advanced camera features for better battery life, screen brightness, and more modern software. Lacks expandable storage.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme GT 5G Ideal Users:
- Gamers: The powerful Snapdragon 888 and Adreno 660 GPU provide smooth gaming at high graphics settings.
- Power Users: Those who need fast performance for multitasking, demanding apps, and content creation.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: The superior display, advanced audio codecs and higher video resolution make it great for consuming media.
- Users needing quick charging: 65W fast charging allows for rapid battery top-ups.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Ideal Users:
- Everyday Users: People who prioritize battery life and a smooth experience for typical daily tasks.
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: The bright display ensures good visibility even under sunlight.
- Users needing reverse charging: A handy feature for powering other devices on the go.
- Budget Conscious: May be a more affordable option while still offering solid performance for everyday tasks.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is raw performance for gaming or demanding apps?
- If crucial, the Realme GT 5G is the better choice. If not, the Redmi Note 12S is fine.
- Do you need the best battery life, or prioritize quick charging?
- If battery life is critical, choose the Redmi Note 12S. If fast charging is more important, go with the Realme GT 5G.
- How often do you use your phone in direct sunlight?
- If frequently, the Redmi Note 12S is superior. If not, the Realme GT 5G should be adequate.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Gaming: Choose the Realme GT 5G for its superior performance, better graphics, and higher refresh rate screen.
- Scenario 2: All-Day Usage: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S for its superior battery life.
- Scenario 3: Bright Sunlight Use: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S for its much brighter display.
- Scenario 4: Value-Focused: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S as it is most likely a less expensive option.
- Scenario 5: Multimedia: Choose the Realme GT 5G for higher quality audio and video recording.
- Scenario 6: Future proofing: Choose Redmi Note 12S for it's more recent Android OS.
My Choice
I would choose the Realme GT 5G.
While the Redmi Note 12S offers a brighter display and better battery life, the sheer performance difference of the Realme GT 5G is too significant to ignore, specially in demanding tasks. As a user who frequently multitasks, plays games, and enjoys multimedia, the extra power and smoother display will enhance the overall experience significantly. Additionally, the faster charging means I wouldn't be as inconvenienced by the slightly smaller battery. Although it is an older phone, I find the performance benefits and features more compelling than the Redmi Note 12S.
