Alright, let's dive deep into the specs of the Xiaomi 12 Pro and the Poco X4 Pro 5G. These two phones, while both from the Xiaomi stable, target distinctly different user segments. I've broken down the tech into a side-by-side comparison to illuminate their strengths and where they differ.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi 12 Pro | Xiaomi Poco X4 Pro 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-12-31 | 2022-03-23 | Poco X4 Pro 5G is newer by about 3 months. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are typical smartphones. |
| Dimensions | 163.6 × 74.6 × 8.2 mm | 164.2 × 76.1 × 8.1 mm | Poco X4 Pro is slightly taller and wider, but similar thickness. |
| Weight | 204g | 205g | Both are virtually the same weight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.73" | 6.67" | Similar size, negligible difference |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | 12 Pro's display is significantly sharper with more detail. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 521 | 395 | 12 Pro has a noticeably sharper display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED technology |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness (nits) | 1500 | 1200 | 12 Pro is significantly brighter, better visibility outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Snapdragon 695 5G (6 nm) | 12 Pro has much higher processing power, better for demanding apps/games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,177,498 | 395,978 | 12 Pro is considerably faster in real-world use. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 619 | 12 Pro handles complex graphics with ease. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4600mAh | 5000mAh | Poco X4 Pro might have slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 120W Fast | 67W Fast | 12 Pro charges much faster, making it convenient. |
| Features | 120W wired, 50W wireless, 10W reverse | Non-removable | 12 Pro offers wireless and reverse charging, a notable edge. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP | 108MP | Poco X4 Pro has higher resolution; does not mean better quality |
| Main Camera Sensor | Sony IMX707 (1/1.28") | Samsung S5KHM2 (1/1.52") | 12 Pro has a larger sensor; usually better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 32MP | 16MP | 12 Pro captures higher-resolution selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor | Samsung JD1 (1/3.14") | Omnivision OV16A1Q (1/3.06") | Poco X4 Pro selfie camera sensor is negligibly larger. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 50MP | 8MP | 12 Pro captures much higher quality ultra-wide images. |
| Portrait Lens | 50MP | N/A | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers a dedicated portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 2MP | Xiaomi Poco X4 Pro offers a dedicated macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | 1080p@30fps | 12 Pro can capture high-resolution video with more advanced features. |
| DXOMark Score | 129 | Not tested | 12 Pro has a proven good camera performance. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 | Android 11 | 12 Pro ships with newer Android version. |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | 12 Pro offers faster and more efficient Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 | Both are very similar. |
| GPS | Advanced suite | Basic suite | 12 Pro offers better location accuracy with more satellite support. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both are very similar. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128 GB/256 GB | 64GB/128 GB/256 GB | Both offer a 256GB max, but Poco offers lower storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB/12 GB | 6 GB/8 GB | 12 Pro offers more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers microSD card support. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both are evenly matched in audio capabilities. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | Poco X4 Pro provides a more advanced method. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | 12 Pro has more durable screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Comprehensive suite | Basic suite | 12 Pro includes additional environmental sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12 Pro:
- Strengths: This is a performance powerhouse. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset, coupled with its high-resolution, bright display, makes for a premium user experience. The camera system is versatile and high-performing, especially in low light, and its 120W fast charging is a game-changer. Its comprehensive sensor suite, premium build with Gorilla Glass Victus, and better connectivity options make it the superior choice.
- Competitive Advantages: The Xiaomi 12 Pro is the clear winner in performance and image quality, sporting top-tier specs across the board. It also includes some advanced features like wireless and reverse wireless charging that the Poco lacks.
- Trade-offs: It's pricier and has a slightly smaller battery than the Poco.
Xiaomi Poco X4 Pro 5G:
- Strengths: It offers a great balance of features at a lower price point. The 108MP main camera is impressive on paper, and the 5000 mAh battery provides a good amount of usage time. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is a solid, practical security feature, and it is available with a 64GB base storage option for lower budgets.
- Competitive Advantages: The Poco X4 Pro 5G is a more budget-friendly option, offering good value for money with a focus on essential features and good battery life.
- Trade-offs: It falls behind in processing power, display sharpness, camera performance, and lacks some of the premium features like wireless charging, and the screen protection is a step below the 12 Pro.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi 12 Pro: Best suited for power users, gamers, and photography enthusiasts who want the best performance, display, and camera quality without compromise. It excels in demanding tasks, video editing, high-end gaming, and low-light photography.
- Xiaomi Poco X4 Pro 5G: Ideal for everyday users who want a reliable, feature-rich phone without breaking the bank. It's great for social media, casual gaming, watching videos, and anyone who values battery life and affordability.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help decide between these phones:
- How much do I value performance?
- If top-tier speed and responsiveness for gaming and demanding apps is a must, the 12 Pro is the clear choice. If your use is more basic, the Poco will likely suffice.
- What is my main use for the camera?
- If you need superior low-light performance and versatile video capabilities, including 8K resolution, the 12 Pro is best. If you are an occasional photographer, the Poco will do.
- Is a premium display experience worth the extra money?
- The sharper, brighter display of the 12 Pro offers an immersive viewing experience. If it is just for media consumption, the Poco display is decent.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Power User: Choose the Xiaomi 12 Pro for its top-tier performance, camera, and display.
- The Budget-Conscious User: Go with the Poco X4 Pro 5G, which offers essential features at a lower price, with decent battery life.
- The Mobile Photographer: The Xiaomi 12 Pro is best, thanks to its larger sensors, more versatile camera system and better video recording capabilities.
My Choice and Why
If it were my money on the line, I'd pick the Xiaomi 12 Pro, and here's why: As a tech journalist and an enthusiast, I value the performance and the image quality, and I'm willing to pay for that. The 12 Pro’s superior processing power and camera system give me all the tools I need for work and play. While the battery is smaller, the 120W charging will mitigate that. It is also slightly lighter which I prefer. While the Poco X4 Pro 5G offers great value, I am drawn to the more premium experience, which the Xiaomi 12 Pro undoubtedly delivers.
