Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12 Pro and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G. These two phones, while sharing a brand name, target different segments of the market. I'll break it down with my usual blend of tech specs and real-world user experience.
Xiaomi 12 Pro vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G: A Deep Dive
Here’s a structured comparison focusing on practical implications, not just numbers:
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi 12 Pro | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163.6 × 74.6 × 8.2 mm | 164.2 × 76.1 × 8.1 mm | 12 Pro slightly narrower, Note 12 Pro slightly thinner. Both are similarly sized and should feel familiar in hand. |
| Weight | 204g | 201.8g | Negligible weight difference; both feel substantial, not feather-light. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.73" | 6.67" | Very similar; both offer large screens suitable for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1440x3200 | 1080x2400 | 12 Pro: Significantly sharper images and text; Note 12 Pro still good but less crisp. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 521 | 395 | 12 Pro: Much sharper display for detailed viewing; Note 12 Pro is noticeably less dense and therefore less sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations; no difference in responsiveness. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 1200 nits | 12 Pro: Much better visibility in bright sunlight; Note 12 Pro suitable but not quite as great in harsh light. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | 12 Pro: Flagship-level performance, excellent for demanding apps/games; Note 12 Pro: Mid-range performance; struggles with heavier tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,177,498 | 397,200 | 12 Pro: Significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, better gaming; Note 12 Pro: Will lag behind on demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Adreno 618 | 12 Pro: Better graphics performance for gaming and GPU intensive tasks; Note 12 Pro will show significantly reduced graphical fidelity. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP, 1/1.28" sensor, 1.22µm pixels | 108MP, 1/1.52" sensor, 0.70µm pixels | 12 Pro: Larger sensor captures more light, especially in low light. Note 12 Pro: higher resolution, but less sensitivity. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 32MP, 1/3.14" sensor, 0.70µm pixels | 16MP, 1/3.13" sensor, 1.00µm pixels | 12 Pro: Higher resolution; Note 12 Pro: Slightly larger pixel size, better light capture. |
| Wide Angle Camera Resolution | 50MP, 1/2.76" sensor, 0.64µm pixels | 8MP, 1/2.8" sensor, 1.14µm pixels | 12 Pro: Much higher resolution, captures more detail; Note 12 Pro: lower resolution, less detail. |
| Portrait Camera Resolution | 50MP, 1/2.76" sensor, 0.64µm pixels | 2MP, 1/5" sensor, 1.75µm pixels | 12 Pro: Much higher resolution, sharper portrait shots; Note 12 Pro: very low resolution, depth only for blur effects. |
| Macro Camera | None | 5MP, 1/5" sensor, 1.12µm pixels | 12 Pro: No dedicated macro; Note 12 Pro: Provides a dedicated close-up lens. |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 4K@30fps | 12 Pro: Higher video resolution and frame rates; better for professional-grade videography. Note 12 Pro: Good for casual video. |
| Stabilization | Yes (OIS) | No | 12 Pro has more video stability; the Note 12 Pro will shake more often. |
| DXOMARK Main Score | 129 | Not tested | 12 Pro: good camera quality with a lot of flexibility. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4600mAh | 5020mAh | Note 12 Pro: Slightly larger battery; may offer slightly longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 120W wired, 50W wireless | 67W wired | 12 Pro: Significantly faster wired and wireless charging; very quick top-ups, Note 12 Pro: decent speeds but much slower. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 | Android 11 | 12 Pro: newer software; Note 12 Pro: an older build but should still function. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | 12 Pro: faster and more efficient WiFi. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.1 | 12 Pro: Newer version, more features. Note 12 Pro: Slightly older. |
| GPS | More, including L1+L5 | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | 12 Pro: More accurate GPS. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer same capacity options. No expandable storage on either. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 6/8 GB | 12 Pro: More RAM, smoother multitasking; Note 12 Pro is more limited on multi-tasking. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, 2 mics | Hi-Res Audio | 12 Pro has enhanced audio experience; Note 12 Pro lacks the same level of spatial features. |
| Security | |||
| Biometrics | Basic Fingerprint | Side-Mounted Fingerprint | Note 12 Pro: more responsive security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | 12 Pro: Better screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | More, including Barometer | Standard Set | 12 Pro has a more comprehensive suite of sensors for specialized features. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12 Pro:
- Strengths: The Xiaomi 12 Pro is a true flagship device. Its standout features include a significantly sharper, brighter display, top-tier performance thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, a versatile and capable camera system with high-quality sensors and 8k video, and much faster charging capabilities both wired and wireless, and a better screen protection and audio experience.
- Real-World Advantages: If you’re a power user or avid gamer who needs the best performance and visual quality or you are a content creator, the 12 Pro is the clear winner. Its display is fantastic for watching HDR content, and the camera is excellent for those who want the best picture and video quality. The wireless charging is a massive quality of life improvement.
- Trade-offs: The 12 Pro comes with a higher price tag and a slightly smaller battery, which might not last as long as the Note 12 Pro's under certain heavy usage conditions.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G:
- Strengths: The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is a solid mid-range phone that prioritizes battery life and a decent all-around experience with features such as a macro camera, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and a bigger battery.
- Real-World Advantages: This phone is ideal for users who need a phone for everyday tasks, social media, and casual gaming, without wanting to spend too much money. It is ideal for those who value having a bigger battery.
- Trade-offs: The performance is limited by the Snapdragon 732G, the screen is notably less sharp and bright compared to the 12 Pro and there is no OIS. The camera is good for everyday use, but doesn't reach the level of the 12 Pro, especially in low-light conditions and for video stability.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12 Pro:
- Best for: Power users, gamers, photography enthusiasts, content creators, and anyone who values top-of-the-line performance and display quality and wireless charging.
- Use Cases: Demanding gaming, heavy multitasking, professional photography, high-resolution video recording, viewing high-quality media, and anyone that values quick charge and wireless charging.
- Recommendation: If you want a flagship experience and are willing to pay for it, the 12 Pro is the superior choice.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G:
- Best for: Budget-conscious users, everyday users, students, social media users, and casual gamers who want a long-lasting battery and a solid all-around phone.
- Use Cases: Daily tasks, social media browsing, casual gaming, media consumption, and users who require all day battery.
- Recommendation: If your priority is value and battery life, and you don’t require cutting edge display or processing power, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers a good balance.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your decision:
- How important is top-tier performance? If you need the absolute best in speed and responsiveness (for gaming and demanding apps), the Xiaomi 12 Pro is the clear choice. If not, then the Note 12 Pro might be more suitable.
- What is your budget? The 12 Pro is the more expensive option and therefore has better specs. If your budget is tight, then the Redmi Note 12 Pro is ideal.
- How much emphasis do you put on camera quality and display? If you want the best visual experience and higher quality video with OIS and more versatile photography capabilities, the Xiaomi 12 Pro wins. If you just need a "good enough" camera for basic tasks then the Note 12 Pro will work just as well.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- High-Performance Scenario: If you're a gamer who needs the best frame rates, or a professional user doing video editing on your phone, go with the Xiaomi 12 Pro.
- Budget-Conscious Scenario: For a phone that handles everyday tasks with a long battery life, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G will suit your needs well.
- Balanced Usage Scenario: If you want a phone that performs well and has a great screen and camera but don’t want to pay the price premium then the Xiaomi 12 Pro is the better option.
My Choice
If I were buying a phone for myself, I'd choose the Xiaomi 12 Pro. My usage leans heavily towards demanding tasks, content creation and gaming. The superior display, performance, camera, and charging speeds all make a significant difference to me. While the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is a good phone at a lower price point, the performance difference of the 12 Pro would make a big difference in my workflow, which is why I would value that over the slightly better battery.
