Sony Xperia 1 IV vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+: A Deep Dive
Let's dissect the Sony Xperia 1 IV and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+, two compelling smartphones with distinct personalities. We'll go beyond the spec sheet to understand how these devices perform in the real world.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Sony Xperia 1 IV | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 165 x 71 x 8.2 | 162.9 x 76 x 8.9 | Xperia 1 IV is slightly taller and thinner. Redmi Note 12 Pro+ is a bit wider and heavier. |
| Weight (g) | 185 | 208.4 | Xperia 1 IV feels noticeably lighter in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Type | OLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Size (inches) | 6.5 | 6.67 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ has a slightly larger screen. |
| Resolution | 1644 x 3840 | 1080 x 2400 | Xperia 1 IV boasts a significantly sharper display (643 ppi vs. 395 ppi). |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 120 | 120 | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| HDR | BT.2020 | Dolby Vision, HDR10+ | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ supports wider HDR formats for enhanced video streaming experience. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Dimensity 1080 | Xperia 1 IV packs a flagship processor, promising superior performance in demanding tasks. |
| CPU | Octa-core (X2, A710, A510) | Octa-core (A78, A55) | Xperia 1 IV's CPU architecture offers a higher performance ceiling. |
| RAM (GB) | 12 | 8 (up to 12GB variant available) | Xperia 1 IV's configuration offers more RAM for multitasking and demanding applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Sensor (MP) | 12 | 200 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ boasts a much higher resolution main sensor. |
| DxOMark Score | 105 | 113 | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ achieves a higher overall camera score according to DxOMark. |
| Video | Up to 4K@120fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Xperia 1 IV offers significantly more advanced video recording capabilities, including 4K@120fps. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 5000 | 5000 | Both have the same battery capacity. |
| Fast Charging | 30W | 120W | Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers drastically faster charging speeds. |
2. Key Insights
The Xperia 1 IV is a content creation powerhouse. Its stunning 4K HDR display, coupled with advanced video recording capabilities, caters to professionals and enthusiasts. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 ensures smooth performance, even with demanding tasks.
The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ prioritizes fast charging and a high-resolution main camera sensor. Its 120W charging is incredibly impressive, topping up the battery in minutes. While its processor is less powerful than the Xperia's, it's still capable of handling everyday tasks with ease.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xperia 1 IV: Ideal for creative professionals, mobile gamers, and anyone who prioritizes a top-tier display and advanced video features. The price reflects its premium positioning.
Redmi Note 12 Pro+: Suits users who value fast charging, a high-resolution camera for stills, and a large display. It offers excellent value for its price, making it a strong contender in the mid-range segment.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- What is your budget? The Xperia 1 IV is significantly more expensive.
- What are your primary use cases? Content creation and gaming favor the Xperia; everyday use with a focus on photography and fast charging leans towards the Redmi.
- How important is display quality? The Xperia's 4K HDR display is a clear winner in this area.
My Choice: As Alex Griffin, I'd choose the Sony Xperia 1 IV. While the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers compelling features like blazing-fast charging and a 200MP camera, the Xperia 1 IV's superior display, powerful processor, and advanced video capabilities align better with my professional needs and personal preferences for a premium, content-focused smartphone experience. The smoother performance, sharper screen for consuming media, and the higher quality video recording capabilities are worth the price premium for me. The unique 21:9 aspect ratio is also a compelling differentiator for media consumption and multitasking.
