Samsung Galaxy S23 vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date February 17, 2023 March 30, 2023
Release Year 2023 2023

Physical

Volume 78.83 cm³ 99.49 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.63 "/g 3.63 "/g
Weight 168 g 183.5 g
Height 146.3 mm 165.7 mm
Width 70.9 mm 76 mm
Thickness 7.6 mm 7.9 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Green
  • Graphite
  • Phantom Black
  • Lavender
  • Cream
  • Lime
  • Ice Blue
  • Mint Green
  • Onyx Gray

Display

Screen Size 6.1 " 6.67 "
Resolution 1080 x 2340 1080 x 2400
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 88.1 % 85.3 %
Pixel Density 425 PPI 395 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A 450 nits
HBM Brightness 1200 nits 700 nits
Peak Brightness 1750 nits 1200 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 104.81 mAh/in² 112.39 mAh/in²
Battery Density 49.47 mAh/cm³ 50.26 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 3900 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 685 (6 nm)
CPU Octa-core (1x3.36 GHz Cortex-X3 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A715 & 2x2.8 GHz Cortex-A710 & 3x2.0 GHz Cortex-A510) Octa-core (4x2.8 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x1.9 GHz Cortex-A53)
GPU Adreno 740 Adreno 610

Connectivity

USB Version 3.2 2.0
OTG Support 1 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 3.2, OTG USB Type-C 2.0, OTG

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 13 13
Maximum OS Version 17 14

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureSamsung Galaxy S23Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4GPractical Impact
Design
Dimensions (mm)146.3 x 70.9 x 7.6165.7 x 76 x 7.9S23 is significantly more compact and pocketable.
Weight (g)168183.5S23 is noticeably lighter, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.
BuildBuild materials not specified, limiting comparison.
Display
Size (inches)6.16.67Redmi Note 12 offers a larger screen for media consumption, S23 is more one-hand friendly.
Resolution1080 x 23401080 x 2400Similar pixel density, sharpness should be comparable. Redmi Note 12 slightly taller aspect ratio.
TypeDynamic AMOLED 2X, 120HzAMOLED, 120HzS23's Dynamic AMOLED 2X likely offers better color accuracy, contrast, and HDR performance.
Peak Brightness1750 nits1200 nitsS23 will be significantly brighter and more visible in direct sunlight.
Performance
ChipsetSnapdragon 8 Gen 2Snapdragon 685S23 boasts a flagship processor, resulting in much faster performance in demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking.
CPUOcta-core (1x3.36 GHz Cortex-X3 & ...)Octa-core (4x2.8 GHz Cortex-A73 & ...)S23's CPU architecture is significantly more powerful.
GPUAdreno 740Adreno 610S23's GPU offers superior graphics performance for gaming.
RAM8GB4GB/6GB/8GBRAM parity at 8GB configuration, but lower RAM options on Redmi Note 12 may hinder multitasking.
Camera
Main Camera50MP, f/1.850MP, f/1.8Similar megapixel count, but S23 likely uses a larger sensor (1/1.57" vs 1/2.76") for improved low-light performance and dynamic range. Sensor model differences (Samsung GN5 vs S5KJN1) also suggest image quality discrepancies.
Ultrawide12MP, f/2.28MP, f/2.2S23's ultrawide offers higher resolution.
Telephoto10MP, f/2.4, 3x Optical ZoomNoneS23 offers optical zoom for better image quality at longer distances. Redmi Note 12 only offers digital zoom.
VideoUp to 8K@30fpsUp to 1080p@30fpsS23 offers significantly higher video resolution and frame rates.
Battery
Capacity3900 mAh5000 mAhRedmi Note 12 has a larger battery capacity, potentially leading to longer battery life.
Charging25W wired, 10W wireless33W wiredRedmi Note 12 offers faster wired charging, but S23 supports wireless charging.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Samsung Galaxy S23 Advantages:

  • Significantly faster performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 provides a substantial performance advantage for demanding tasks and gaming.
  • Superior camera system: Better overall image quality, optical zoom, and 8K video recording.
  • More compact and premium design: Easier to handle and carry.
  • Brighter and more vibrant display: Better outdoor visibility and HDR experience.
  • Wireless charging: Added convenience.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G Advantages:

  • Larger battery capacity: Potentially longer battery life.
  • Faster wired charging: Quicker top-ups.
  • Lower price: Offers a more budget-friendly option. (Based on limited price data provided.)

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Samsung Galaxy S23: Users who prioritize performance, camera quality, a premium design, and a vibrant display. Ideal for:

  • Mobile gamers: Smooth and responsive gaming experience.
  • Photography enthusiasts: High-quality photos and videos.
  • Power users: Demanding multitasking and app usage.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G: Users seeking a large screen, long battery life, and affordability. Ideal for:

  • Casual users: Basic tasks like browsing, social media, and media consumption.
  • Budget-conscious buyers: Value for money.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions:

  1. What is your budget? The S23 is significantly more expensive.
  2. What are your primary use cases? (Gaming, photography, basic tasks)
  3. Do you prioritize performance, camera quality, or battery life?

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Limited budget, basic usage: Redmi Note 12 4G
  • Prioritize performance and camera: Samsung Galaxy S23

My Choice: Samsung Galaxy S23

While the Redmi Note 12 4G offers a compelling value proposition with its large battery and lower price, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is the clear winner for me. I prioritize a smooth and responsive user experience, which the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 delivers in spades. The superior camera system, brighter display, and more compact design further solidify my choice. The wireless charging is a bonus. While battery life is a concern, I'd rather carry a power bank than compromise on performance and features. The price difference is significant, but the S23 offers a tangible upgrade in almost every aspect of the user experience.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Digital media communication
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Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.