Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12 Pro and the vivo X100 Pro. As a tech journalist with a penchant for getting into the nitty-gritty, I’m here to break down these specs and translate them into what really matters for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the Xiaomi 12 Pro and vivo X100 Pro, with a focus on their real-world implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12 Pro | vivo X100 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.6 × 74.6 × 8.2 mm | 164.1 × 75.3 × 8.9 mm | Very similar size but the X100 Pro is a bit thicker and heavier, could feel bulkier in hand. |
| Weight | 204g | 221g | The Xiaomi 12 Pro is lighter, which will make it more comfortable for longer use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.73" | 6.78" | Negligible size difference, both offer a large display for immersive experience. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1260x2800 | Xiaomi 12 Pro’s sharper display will render finer details. |
| Pixel Density | 521 ppi | 452 ppi | Xiaomi 12 Pro’s screen will appear crisper, especially for text and detailed images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, no clear edge here. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animation for both phones. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 3000 nits | vivo X100 Pro has much better outdoor visibility and performance under bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 9300 (4nm) | vivo X100 Pro has a newer and significantly more powerful chip; Expect faster app loading, better gaming, and improved multi-tasking |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,177,498 | 1,881,325 | vivo X100 Pro benchmark results reveal a notable performance edge; this translates to better handling of demanding apps and games |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Immortalis-G720 MC12 | The X100 Pro's GPU suggests better graphics performance; beneficial for mobile gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Sensor | 50MP, f/1.9, 1/1.28" Sony IMX707 | 50MP, f/1.75, 1" Sony IMX989 | vivo X100 Pro has a larger sensor, more light capture, better low-light images, wider aperture for better bokeh. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, 1/3.14" Samsung JD1 | 32MP, f/2.0, 1/2.8" Samsung S5KGD2 | vivo X100 Pro's selfie camera may perform slightly better in low light due to a bigger sensor. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76" Samsung S5KJN1 | 50MP, f/2.0, 1/2.76" Samsung S5KJN1 | vivo X100 Pro has a slightly wider aperture, potentially better low light images here. |
| Portrait Camera | 50MP, f/1.9, 1/2.76" Samsung S5KJN1 | None | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a dedicated portrait lens. |
| Telephoto Camera | None | 50MP, f/2.5, 1/2" Omnivision OV64B | vivo X100 Pro offers more versatile zoom capabilities, including macro shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24/60fps | Up to 8K@30fps | Both offer high-end video but Xiaomi offers slightly higher frame rate options at lower resolutions |
| DXOMARK Score | 129 | 150 | vivo X100 Pro has significantly better overall camera performance according to DXOMARK scores. |
| Camera Features | OIS, EIS, RAW, Night Mode, etc. | Gimbal, OIS, EIS, RAW, Night Mode, etc. | vivo X100 Pro has the addition of Gimbal stabilization, Cinematic Mode and Laser AF features; giving an edge in video recording and low light performance |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4600mAh | 5400mAh | vivo X100 Pro has a larger battery, likely offering better battery life throughout the day. |
| Charging | 120W wired, 50W wireless | 100W wired, 50W wireless | Xiaomi 12 Pro charges faster over wire while both phones offer wireless charging. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14, upgrade to 15 | vivo X100 Pro has a newer version of android and a guaranteed OS upgrade, providing a modern software experience. |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 | vivo X100 Pro benefits from newer Wi-Fi standards, faster and more stable connection capabilities. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.4 | vivo X100 Pro's Bluetooth supports more advanced audio features and lower energy consumption |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM / eSIM | vivo X100 Pro supports eSIM for more flexibility in choosing networks, travel convenience. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Storage | 128/256 GB | 256/512/1024 GB | vivo X100 Pro provides substantially more storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 12/16 GB | vivo X100 Pro offers more RAM, improving the multitasking performance, especially under heavy loads. |
| Other | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a known screen protection with Gorilla Glass Victus, while the X100 Pro has no screen protection specifications known. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both offer high-quality audio with the Xiaomi offering an improved voice capture and a slightly higher spatial audio |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Xiaomi 12 Pro has the addition of Barometer, RGB and Ultrasonic proximity virtual; vivo X100 Pro has the addition of Proximity and Gravity sensor. |
| ## 2. Key Insights |
Xiaomi 12 Pro Strengths:
- Sharper Display: The higher resolution and pixel density will be appreciated by those who love crisp visuals and sharp text.
- Faster Charging: 120W wired charging will quickly juice the phone up.
- Dedicated Portrait Lens: A dedicated portrait lens may give slightly better portraits in some situations.
- More Environmental Sensors: Barometer, RGB and Ultrasonic proximity sensors may be preferred by a subset of users.
vivo X100 Pro Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The newer Dimensity 9300 chip paired with 12-16GB of RAM offers a significant performance leap.
- Better Low-Light Camera Performance: The larger main camera sensor and wider apertures promise excellent low-light images and video.
- Enhanced Video Stabilization: Gimbal stabilization and other video focused features make this a top pick for content creators.
- Bigger Battery: The 5400mAh battery should provide all-day battery life for most users.
- Newer Software and Connectivity: Running Android 14 with a promised upgrade to 15, plus Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, means a more modern experience.
- More Storage Options: 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB storage options cater to power users who need lots of space.
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi 12 Pro: Its performance is a generation behind, and the camera won't match the vivo in low light. The battery is smaller and screen is less bright outdoors.
- vivo X100 Pro: It’s heavier and thicker, and lacks a dedicated portrait camera lens. The display resolution isn't as high.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12 Pro is best for:
- Users who prioritize a crisp display and fast charging capabilities.
- Individuals who like a lighter phone with a focus on high resolution images.
- Those who are less concerned with the absolute best performance or low-light camera capabilities.
- Users seeking a more balanced overall smartphone experience for everyday use at a potentially lower price point.
vivo X100 Pro is best for:
- Power users who want the very best performance, especially for gaming and multitasking.
- Photography and videography enthusiasts who value low-light performance and video stabilization.
- Users who prioritize battery life and want a phone that will last all day.
- Anyone who wants the latest software and connectivity standards and is okay with a heavier device.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is top-tier performance for you?
- If essential, the vivo X100 Pro is the clear winner.
- If not critical, the Xiaomi 12 Pro offers good performance that will handle daily tasks with ease.
- How much do you value camera quality, especially in low light?
- If extremely important, the vivo X100 Pro's larger sensor and advanced stabilization is better.
- If good enough is fine, the Xiaomi 12 Pro still takes solid photos and has some notable video features.
- What kind of battery life and fast-charging is ideal for you?
- If all-day battery and extended use are a must, the vivo X100 Pro is better.
- If fast wired charging is all you need, the Xiaomi 12 Pro is a strong contender.
Scenario-based recommendations:
- The Photographer: The vivo X100 Pro is the better pick. It excels in low light, provides better image quality overall, and offers advanced video features.
- The Gamer: The vivo X100 Pro's superior chip and GPU will offer the best possible experience with demanding games.
- The Everyday User: If you mostly browse, use social media, and take the occasional photo, the Xiaomi 12 Pro is a solid choice. However, the vivo X100 Pro would offer a superior experience with its extended battery life.
- The Battery Life Fiend: If you need the phone to last for extended periods of time, the vivo X100 Pro is the go to choice here.
My Choice
If I had to pick between these two, I’d go with the vivo X100 Pro. While the Xiaomi 12 Pro offers a crisper display and faster wired charging, the vivo X100 Pro's significantly better performance, superior low-light camera capabilities, and longer battery life win it for me. I tend to prioritize performance and camera quality in my daily use, and the vivo's larger sensor, wider aperture, Gimbal Stabilization, and newer chipset is exactly what I need. The newer software and connectivity standards are also a significant benefit for me as a tech journalist always looking for the latest features. While it’s a bit bulkier, the enhanced user experience more than makes up for it. The vivo X100 Pro isn't just an upgrade—it’s a leap forward in mobile technology, and that's why it's my choice!
