1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 164.8 × 77.2 × 8.1 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | Note20 Ultra is larger and may be less comfortable for single-handed use. Note 12S is more pocketable. |
| Weight | 208g | 176g | Note 12S is significantly lighter, better for extended use and portability. |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Note20 Ultra has significantly better scratch and drop resistance on the screen. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.9" | 6.43" | Note20 Ultra offers a more immersive viewing experience for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1440x3088 | 1080x2400 | Note20 Ultra has a much sharper and more detailed display, improving clarity for text and images. |
| Pixel Density | 496 PPI | 409 PPI | Note20 Ultra's higher pixel density results in crisper visuals and finer details. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Note20 Ultra provides smoother scrolling and animations, enhancing the user experience, especially in gaming. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1000 nits | Note20 Ultra is much more visible outdoors in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 990 (7 nm+) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Note20 Ultra offers significantly faster performance for demanding tasks, multitasking, and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 666,551 | 412,400 | Note20 Ultra delivers a noticeably smoother and more responsive experience. |
| GPU | Mali-G77 MP11 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Note20 Ultra's GPU provides better graphics performance for gaming and video editing. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" sensor | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.52" sensor | Note20 Ultra's larger sensor captures more light, potentially leading to better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Telephoto Lens | 13MP, f/3.0, 1/3.4" sensor | None | Note20 Ultra offers optical zoom capabilities for capturing distant subjects without significant quality loss. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/7.6" sensor | 8MP, f/2.2 | Note20 Ultra captures wider scenes with better detail. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" sensor | 16MP, f/2.4 | Redmi Note 12S provides higher resolution selfies, potentially resulting in more detailed shots. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | Yes | No | Note20 Ultra has better depth sensing for portrait mode and AR applications. |
| Macro Lens | No | 2MP, f/2.4 | Redmi Note 12S can take close-up shots of small objects. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | Note20 Ultra allows for professional-grade video recording with higher resolution and more features. |
| OIS | Yes | No | Note20 Ultra provides better image stabilization for smoother videos and sharper photos, especially in low light. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 12S likely offers longer battery life under similar usage conditions. |
| Charging | 45W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Note20 Ultra charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (Fast, 9W reverse) | No | Note20 Ultra offers convenient wireless charging and the ability to wirelessly charge other devices. |
Software
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 10 (upgradable to 13) | Android 13 | Redmi Note 12S has a more modern operating system out of the box, though the Note20 Ultra has been updated. |
Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Note20 Ultra supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | Redmi Note 12S has a newer Bluetooth version, potentially offering slightly improved performance and efficiency. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano/eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Note20 Ultra offers the flexibility of using an eSIM. |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal | 128GB/256GB/512GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Note20 Ultra offers higher storage options for users with large media libraries or demanding app usage. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for storage expansion via microSD card. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Redmi Note 12S offers stereo speakers for a more immersive audio experience, while Note20 Ultra provides software audio enhancement options. |
Security
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fingerprint Sensor | Under-display | Side-mounted | Side-mounted fingerprint sensors are often considered faster and more reliable by some users. |
Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Barometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Compass, Proximity | Note20 Ultra includes a barometer for measuring atmospheric pressure, useful for weather tracking. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster processor and GPU for demanding tasks and gaming.
- Better Display: Larger, higher resolution, brighter, and smoother display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Advanced Camera System: Telephoto lens for optical zoom, larger main sensor, and 8K video recording.
- Wireless Charging: Includes fast wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides superior screen protection.
- eSIM Support: Added flexibility with eSIM compatibility
Practical Implications:
- The Note20 Ultra is better suited for users who prioritize performance, display quality, and camera capabilities.
- Its advanced features and robust build make it a more durable and versatile device.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable for prolonged use.
- Larger Battery: Likely offers longer battery life.
- Macro Lens: Capability to take close-up photography shots.
- Newer OS Out of the Box: Comes with Android 13 installed.
- Stereo Speakers: Better and more immersive sound quality when listening to audio.
Practical Implications:
- The Redmi Note 12S is a more practical choice for users who value battery life, affordability, and portability.
- Its features are sufficient for everyday use and basic photography needs.
Trade-offs:
- Note20 Ultra: Higher price, heavier weight, and potentially shorter battery life.
- Redmi Note 12S: Lower performance, less advanced camera system, and less durable build.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G:
- Ideal User: Power users, professionals, and photography enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance, display quality, and camera capabilities.
- Use Cases:
- Gaming: Demanding mobile games at high settings.
- Content Creation: Shooting high-resolution videos and photos for professional use.
- Productivity: Multitasking with demanding apps and using the S Pen for note-taking and drawing.
- Media Consumption: Immersive viewing experience with HDR content.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who need a reliable smartphone for everyday tasks, social media, and casual photography.
- Use Cases:
- Daily Communication: Making calls, sending messages, and using social media apps.
- Casual Photography: Taking snapshots of friends, family, and everyday moments.
- Media Consumption: Watching videos and listening to music on the go.
- Long Battery Life: Users who need their phone to last through a full day of moderate usage.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Redmi Note 12S offers excellent value for its price, providing essential features and decent performance at an affordable cost.
- The Note20 Ultra is a premium device with a higher price tag, but it justifies the cost with its superior performance, display, and camera capabilities.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The Note20 Ultra is significantly more expensive.
- What are your primary use cases? Gaming, photography, and productivity vs. basic communication and media consumption.
- How important is battery life and portability? The Redmi Note 12S excels in these areas.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget is a major constraint. Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S.
- Scenario 2: Performance and camera quality are paramount. Choose the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G.
- Scenario 3: A balance of features and value is desired. Assess the current market price of both phones and weigh the advantages of each based on individual needs. If the Note20 Ultra is available at a heavily discounted price, it might be a compelling option.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G, even though it's an older model. My primary reasons are:
- Superior Performance: As someone who uses their phone for demanding tasks like photo editing, video streaming, and occasional gaming, the Exynos 990 and the Mali-G77 MP11 GPU will offer a smoother and more responsive experience.
- Better Display: The larger, higher-resolution display with a 120Hz refresh rate is essential for media consumption and provides a more enjoyable overall user experience.
- Advanced Camera System: The telephoto lens and 8K video recording capabilities are features I would frequently use.
- Build Quality and Wireless Charging: The added durability of Gorilla Glass Victus and the convenience of wireless charging are also important factors for me.
While the Redmi Note 12S offers a larger battery and is more affordable, the Note20 Ultra's advantages in performance, display, and camera outweigh these benefits for my specific needs.
