1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164 × 75.9 × 9.7 mm | 163.6 × 75.8 × 8.8 mm | Redmi Note 11S 5G is slightly thinner and has a smaller overall volume, making it more pocketable and comfortable to hold. |
| Weight | 212g | 195g | Redmi Note 11S 5G is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Negligible size difference; both offer ample screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Redmi Note 11S 5G offers a much sharper display with significantly more detail, leading to better clarity for text, images, and videos. |
| PPI | 270 | 399 | Redmi Note 11S 5G's higher pixel density results in a crisper and more detailed visual experience, with less visible pixelation. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | IPS LCD | IPS LCD generally offers better viewing angles and color reproduction than PLS LCD, resulting in a more consistent and enjoyable display experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer a smoother visual experience compared to standard 60Hz displays, beneficial for scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have the same brightness (0 nits, not a valid number), brightness information missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) | Dimensity 810's smaller process node and architecture results in significantly better performance for daily tasks, gaming, and overall snappiness. |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,341 | 438,700 | Redmi Note 11S 5G is significantly faster and more capable, providing smoother multitasking and a more fluid user experience. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 (ARM Mali-G52) | Mali-G57 MC2 (Mali-G57 MC2) | The Mali-G57 MC2 is a more powerful GPU, resulting in better graphics performance, particularly for gaming and demanding apps. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP f/2.0, 1/2", 0.80µm pixel | 50MP f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm pixel | The Redmi Note 11S 5G has a wider aperture which should allow it to capture more light, while the Galaxy M12 has a larger sensor size, better capturing more light for better low-light performance |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP f/2.2 | 13MP f/2.4 | Redmi Note 11S 5G has a higher resolution front camera, likely resulting in more detailed selfies. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 5MP f/2.2 | 8MP f/2.2 | Redmi Note 11S 5G has a higher resolution wide-angle camera. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP f/2.4 | N/A | The Galaxy M12 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both have a macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps, Slow-mo 120fps | Redmi Note 11S 5G has a higher fps rate for video and supports slow-motion, resulting in more versatile video capabilities. |
| DXOMark | N/A | Main: 65 (Photo: 50, Video: 83) | Redmi Note 11S 5G has a DxOMark score indicating a decent camera performance, no information for the Samsung Galaxy M12 |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have a large capacity battery, providing sufficient battery life for a full day's use in most cases. |
| Charging | 15W fast charging | 33W fast charging | Redmi Note 11S 5G charges significantly faster, meaning less time plugged into the wall, and more time using the phone. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 | Both run on Android 11, so will have similar software features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Redmi Note 11S 5G supports Wi-Fi 5(802.11ac), offering faster speeds and better range. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 LE | Redmi Note 11S 5G has a newer version with low energy support, possibly increasing battery life for some use cases. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo | Similar location capabilities, with each phone supporting different satellite systems, ensuring reliability in various regions. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64/128 GB | 64/128 GB | Both have similar storage options, but the Galaxy M12 offers a less storage variant. |
| RAM | 3/4/6 GB | 4/6 GB | Both have similar RAM options, but the Galaxy M12 offers a less ram variant. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio features | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | The Redmi Note 11S 5G has significantly better audio quality with enhanced spatial audio, higher quality audio playback, better audio separation and immersion, and improved voice capture. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both feature a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick and secure unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 11S 5G has better screen protection against scratches and minor impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Both have the most used sensors, with some differences between the technologies. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy M12 Advantages:
- Dedicated depth sensor: Offers a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photography
- Larger Main Camera Sensor: Captures more light for better low-light performance.
- Beidou GPS Support: Offers location reliability in the regions that supports this.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G Advantages:
- Significantly better performance: The Dimensity 810 chipset provides a much faster and smoother user experience, excelling in daily tasks and gaming.
- Sharper display: Higher resolution and pixel density deliver a clearer and more detailed visual experience.
- Faster charging: 33W charging drastically reduces charging time.
- Superior Audio: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and stereo speakers provide a much better audio experience.
- Better Camera: Higher resolution and better quality video options.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Newer WiFi and Bluetooth standards offer better transfer speeds and efficiency.
- Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 offers more protection against screen damage.
- Better Video Recording: Supports 1080p video at 60fps, as well as slow-motion recording at 120fps
- Ultrasonic Virtual Proximity sensor
Practical Implications:
- The Redmi Note 11S 5G will feel much snappier and more responsive during everyday use, from opening apps to browsing the web and gaming.
- The difference in display quality is immediately noticeable, with the Redmi Note 11S 5G providing sharper visuals and a better viewing experience for media consumption.
- Faster charging on the Redmi Note 11S 5G is a significant convenience, as it will save valuable time.
- The enhanced audio on the Redmi Note 11S 5G elevates the experience of listening to music, watching movies, or playing games with much better sound quality.
- The Xiaomi has a more versatile camera with 60 fps video and slow motion capabilities.
Trade-offs:
- The Galaxy M12 has a dedicated depth camera, while the Redmi Note 11S 5G has higher resolution front and wide-angle cameras.
- The Galaxy M12 has a larger main camera sensor size, while the Redmi Note 11S 5G has a wider aperture.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy M12 Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize battery life and a decent display over performance and speed.
- Users who need a dedicated depth camera for portrait photos.
- Individuals who prefer a large phone but are not overly concerned with raw power.
- Users who prefer Samsung's UI.
Use Cases:
- Basic social media browsing and light app usage.
- Casual mobile gaming.
- Long battery life needed for travel or outdoor activities.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize performance and speed for smoother multitasking and gaming.
- Those who value a sharp and clear display for media consumption.
- Users who prefer a good audio experience with enhanced spatial audio.
- Individuals who like a more modern phone and do not have a hard budget.
- Users who need faster charging for their busy lives.
Use Cases:
- Playing demanding mobile games.
- Watching high-resolution videos and streaming content.
- Multitasking with multiple apps.
- Everyday use and needs a quick charge time.
- Want a better photography and videography experience.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Redmi Note 11S 5G typically offers better value for money due to its superior performance, display, and camera features, at a likely increase in price. However, it would still be a better experience even if a little pricier.
- The Galaxy M12 is a more budget-friendly option for those who are not demanding power users, but you should prioritize the Redmi Note 11S 5G if possible.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How important is performance? If you need a smooth, responsive experience for daily tasks, the Redmi Note 11S 5G is the better choice. If you use basic apps and can live with some slowdown, the Galaxy M12 is acceptable.
- What is your main use case? For media consumption and gaming, the Redmi Note 11S 5G has a much better display and audio system. The Galaxy M12 is better for users looking for a decent battery and a dedicated depth sensor.
- What is your budget? If your budget is extremely tight, the Galaxy M12 may be the more affordable option. But if you can afford a little more the Redmi Note 11S 5G will be a much better phone.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Casual User with Tight Budget: If you mainly browse social media, make calls, and don't play demanding games, and are on a tight budget, the Galaxy M12 is a suitable choice.
- Performance-Oriented User: If you are looking for a phone for gaming, multitasking, or want a smoother overall user experience, the Redmi Note 11S 5G is the clear winner.
- Media Consumer: If you watch videos, stream content, or listen to music often, the Redmi Note 11S 5G's better display and audio quality make it a much better option.
- Power User: If you need your phone for work with a lot of different apps open, the Redmi Note 11S 5G will provide you with the better experience.
Personal Choice
I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S 5G. While the Samsung Galaxy M12 offers a dedicated depth camera and bigger sensor, the performance difference is too large to ignore. The Redmi Note 11S 5G's significantly better processor, sharper display, faster charging, and superior audio features make it the better option, especially for anyone who plays games, watches videos, or uses their phone for more than just basic tasks. It also has more features like slow motion, better video quality, better screen protection, and better wireless standards. The Redmi Note 11S 5G provides a noticeably better overall user experience that outweighs the benefits of the Galaxy M12. I prefer the best experience over some small differences, which is why I would pick the Xiaomi device.
