1. Specifications Comparison
Design
Feature | vivo V21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Practical Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Dimensions | 159.7 × 73.9 × 7.3 mm | 165.9 × 76.2 × 8 mm | Redmi Note 12 is larger, potentially less comfortable for single-handed use. V21 5G is slimmer and may feel more premium. |
Weight | 176g | 188g | V21 5G is lighter, which may be noticeable during extended use or if portability is a concern. |
Build | Unknown Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Xiaomi has better screen protection |
Display
Feature | vivo V21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Practical Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Size | 6.44" | 6.67" | Redmi Note 12 offers a slightly more immersive experience for media consumption, gaming. |
Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same level of sharpness. |
Pixel Density | 409 PPI | 395 PPI | Both are sharp, with the V21 having slightly more detail. Difference is negligible. |
Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Redmi Note 12 will have smoother scrolling and animations, which is useful for fast paced games and for browsing. |
Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Redmi Note 12 has far better outdoor visibility, especially in bright sunlight. |
Performance
Feature | vivo V21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Practical Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Qualcomm SM4375 Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6 nm) | Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6 nm) is slightly more efficient and powerful, handling tasks more efficiently. |
AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 460,800 | Redmi Note 12 is noticeably faster for everyday tasks, gaming and multitasking. |
GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Adreno 619 | Adreno 619 offers better graphical performance, which may lead to smoother gameplay experience on the Redmi Note 12. |
Camera
Feature | vivo V21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Practical Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Rear Camera | 64MP f/1.79 | 48MP f/1.8 | V21 5G has higher resolution, potentially more detail, and a wider aperture for better low-light performance, but the sensor size is not specified. |
Front Camera | 44MP f/2.0 | 13MP f/2.45 | V21 5G has significantly higher resolution for selfies and a wider aperture, offering better low-light selfies. |
Wide Angle Lens | 8MP f/2.2 | 8MP f/2.2 | Comparable wide-angle performance |
Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Comparable macro performance. |
Video | 4K@30fps with OIS, 1080p@60fps with OIS | 1080p@30fps | V21 5G offers significantly better video resolution with OIS, making it better for video recording. |
Video Stabilization | OIS | Digital Image Stabilization | V21 5G offers better video stability with OIS |
DxOMark Score | Not Tested | Mobile: 69 (Photo: 74, Video: 49) | Redmi Note 12 has an overall average camera performance according to DxOMark; V21 5G has no score. |
Camera Features | 4K Video, OIS, Front Flash | Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, RAW, Night Mode | V21 5G offers better video quality and front flash; Redmi Note 12 gives more control in photo capture. |
Battery
Feature | vivo V21 5G | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Practical Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Redmi Note 12 is expected to last significantly longer. |
Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Both charge quickly, though the Redmi Note 12 charges a larger capacity with the same power which will result in a longer charge time. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Advantages of vivo V21 5G
- Superior Front Camera: 44MP with f/2.0 aperture offers high-resolution, great low-light selfies.
- Better Video Recording: Supports 4K video with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), and 1080p@60fps with OIS.
- Lighter & Slimmer: More comfortable and potentially more premium feel.
- Wider Aperture on Main Camera: f/1.79 aperture offers improved light gathering in low light conditions.
- GPS Support: GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo
Advantages of Xiaomi Redmi Note 12
- Larger Battery: 5000mAh provides significantly longer battery life.
- Brighter Display: 1200 nits for much better visibility in bright sunlight.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate for a more fluid user experience.
- Better Performance: Faster processor and GPU results in a smoother user experience.
- More advanced Camera features: Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, RAW, Night Mode
- GPS Support: A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1)
Trade-offs
- V21 5G: Sacrifices battery life and display brightness for better selfie camera, video recording capabilities, and design.
- Redmi Note 12: Sacrifices front camera quality and video features for better battery life, display and performance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for vivo V21 5G
- Selfie Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize front camera quality for photos and videos.
- Video Creators: Users who frequently record videos and require 4K and OIS capabilities.
Users Who Value a Slim Design: Those who prefer a lighter, more elegant-looking phone.
Use Cases:
- High-quality video blogging, video calls, social media posting.
- Taking high-resolution selfies in various lighting conditions.
Ideal User for Xiaomi Redmi Note 12
- Power Users: Users who demand long battery life and a smooth user experience.
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a bright display for easy viewing in sunlight.
- Mobile Gamers: Benefit from higher refresh rate display and better processing power.
Casual Photographers: Users who need a versatile camera but don't prioritize selfie/video quality.
Use Cases:
- All-day usage without worrying about battery life.
- Outdoor activities where a bright screen is essential.
- Gaming and running intensive applications smoothly.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Ask Before Buying:
- How important is front camera quality and video recording to you? (If very important, the V21 5G excels)
- How important is battery life, a smooth display and performance? (If very important, the Redmi Note 12 excels)
- Do you frequently use your phone outdoors in bright sunlight? (Redmi Note 12 is significantly better due to higher brightness)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For social media influencers or vloggers: The vivo V21 5G is better due to its better selfie camera and 4K recording with OIS.
- For outdoor adventurers: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is better because of its brighter display and larger battery capacity.
- For mobile gamers: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is better because of its 120Hz refresh rate, better performance, and larger battery.
- For casual users: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is generally more well-rounded with its better battery life and performance.
What I Would Choose
If I were to choose, I would opt for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12. While the vivo V21 5G has a superior front camera and video recording capabilities, the practical advantages of the Redmi Note 12 are more broadly applicable. The significantly better battery life, brighter display, smoother refresh rate, and superior performance are compelling for everyday use. I value the improved outdoor visibility and the peace of mind knowing the phone will comfortably last through a day of heavy use. Additionally, while the V21 5G has a great selfie camera, the overall camera experience on the Redmi Note 12 is acceptable. For my personal use, the Redmi Note 12 hits a better balance of features and performance.