Okay, let's get into it. Here's a deep dive comparing the Xiaomi 12 and Realme 9 Pro+, focusing on what these specs mean for real-world use.
Xiaomi 12 vs. Realme 9 Pro+: A Detailed Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the key specifications, presented in a table with a focus on real-world implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12 | Realme 9 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm | 160.2 x 73.3 x 8 mm | Xiaomi 12 is more compact and pocketable, while Realme 9 Pro+ offers a larger display in a slightly bigger chassis. |
| Weight | 179g | 182g | Negligible difference in weight, both feel similarly lightweight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.4" | Realme 9 Pro+ offers slightly more screen real estate for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both provide sharp and detailed visuals with the same FHD+ resolution. |
| PPI | 419 | 411 | Essentially identical pixel density; both displays are very crisp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast typical of AMOLED screens. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Xiaomi 12 provides smoother scrolling and animations, which is noticeable for gamers and heavy users. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Xiaomi 12 has much better outdoor visibility under bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Dimensity 920 (6 nm) | Xiaomi 12 provides significantly faster performance, better gaming and seamless multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,150,831 | 496,970 | The Xiaomi 12’s CPU and GPU offer a far more powerful user experience, especially for demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Xiaomi 12 has a much more powerful GPU, offering better graphics in gaming and media applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | |||
| Resolution | 50MP | 50MP | Both use the same 50MP sensor for high-resolution photos. |
| Aperture | f/1.88 | f/1.8 | Realme 9 Pro+ lets in slightly more light which can help in darker scenes. |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.56" | 1/1.56" | Both have the same large sensor for better low-light performance. |
| Sensor Model | Sony IMX766 | Sony IMX766 | Both use the same sensor, ensuring comparable quality in primary camera performance. |
| Pixel Size | 1.00 µm pixel size | 1.00 µm pixel size | Both offer similar pixel sizes for light capture. |
| Selfie Camera | |||
| Resolution | 32MP | 16MP | Xiaomi 12 has much higher resolution selfies, potentially capturing more details. |
| Sensor Size | 1/3.14" | 1/3.13" | Realme 9 Pro+ has a negligibly larger sensor but a smaller resolution. |
| Pixel Size | 0.70 µm pixel size | 1.00 µm pixel size | Realme 9 Pro+ has larger pixels which may help low-light photos. |
| Wide Angle Lens | |||
| Resolution | 13MP | 8MP | Xiaomi 12 captures higher-resolution ultrawide photos. |
| Aperture | f/2.4 | f/2.2 | Realme 9 Pro+ has a slightly wider aperture allowing more light. |
| Macro Lens | |||
| Resolution | 5MP | 2MP | Xiaomi 12 offers slightly more detailed macro shots. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Xiaomi 12 supports much higher resolution video recording, suitable for pro-level video shoots. |
| DXOMark (Main) | 113 | N/A | Xiaomi 12 has good overall camera performance (as rated by DXOMark). |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4500mAh | Both have similar battery capacity, likely providing comparable battery life on a single charge. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 60W Fast Charging | Xiaomi 12 charges slightly faster, getting you back up and running more quickly. |
| Wireless Charging | 50W Fast Wireless | Not Available | Xiaomi 12 offers convenient wireless charging, a feature absent from Realme 9 Pro+. |
| Reverse Charging | 10W | Not Available | Xiaomi 12 can charge other devices wirelessly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 (Upgradeable to 13) | Realme 9 Pro+ has an advantage in software as it supports up to Android 13. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer fast and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity using the latest standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE | Both have the latest version of Bluetooth for great audio and connectivity. |
| GPS | L1+L5, L1, B1, E1+E5a, B2, NavIC, L1 + L5 | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS | Xiaomi 12 offers more accurate positioning, especially in urban areas. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both come with similar internal storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12GB | 6/8GB | Xiaomi 12 provides more RAM, helpful for heavy multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither supports external storage via microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers, Noise cancelling mic | Both feature similar quality, however Realme has a slight edge due to a noise cancelling microphone, allowing for clearer calls. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both devices have a basic fingerprint sensor for security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 5 | Xiaomi 12 has stronger screen protection than the Realme 9 Pro+. |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Heart Rate, Proximity, Geomagnetic | Realme 9 Pro+ features Heart Rate sensor, while Xiaomi 12 has an advantage for having more sensors for advanced features and gaming. |
| ### 2. Key Insights |
Xiaomi 12 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset offers significantly better performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications, with double the AnTuTu score.
- Better Display: A smoother 120Hz refresh rate and dramatically higher brightness (1100 nits) make for a better viewing experience, especially under sunlight.
- Advanced Camera: While the main cameras are similar, the Xiaomi 12 offers higher resolution in its selfie camera, wide-angle lens, macro lens and much higher video resolution (up to 8K).
- Wireless Charging: The Xiaomi 12 offers fast wireless and reverse wireless charging options, absent on the Realme 9 Pro+.
- Stronger Screen Protection: The Xiaomi 12 uses Gorilla Glass Victus, which offers much stronger protection against scratches and drops.
Realme 9 Pro+ Strengths:
- Slightly Larger Display: A 6.4" display provides a bit more viewing area compared to the Xiaomi's 6.28" display.
- Main Camera Advantage: Slightly wider aperture may give a better performance in low-light conditions.
- Noise Cancellation Microphone: Realme 9 Pro+ has a noise cancellation microphone which enhances call quality.
- Software Support: The Realme 9 Pro+ has the advantage of being upgradable to Android 13.
- Price: Typically, the Realme 9 Pro+ is more budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious users.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- The Xiaomi 12's primary limitation is its smaller display compared to the Realme 9 Pro+, some users may prefer the larger screen of the Realme.
- Realme 9 Pro+ compromises on performance compared to the Xiaomi 12, which is noticeable for heavy users.
- The Realme 9 Pro+ has a relatively lower resolution selfie camera than the Xiaomi 12.
- The Realme 9 Pro+ misses out on key features like wireless charging, and has a weaker screen protection.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12:
- Tech Enthusiasts and Gamers: The high performance and high refresh rate make it great for gaming and heavy app use.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The 8K video, high-resolution selfie camera, better ultrawide, and macro capabilities, along with the DXOMark score, make it great for photography and videography.
- Users Who Need Good Outdoor Visibility: The 1100 nits brightness is ideal for bright environments.
- Users Who Love Wireless Charging: Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging options enhance convenience.
Realme 9 Pro+:
- Budget-Conscious Users: It's great value for those looking for a solid all-round phone at an attractive price.
- Casual Users: The Realme is perfect for everyday tasks, social media, and casual media consumption.
- Users Who Prefer Bigger Screens: The slightly larger display is appealing to those who enjoy watching videos.
- Users who need good voice quality: The noise cancellation microphone will improve call quality.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help users decide:
- How important is performance to you?
- If you’re a heavy user or gamer, the Xiaomi 12 is the clear winner with its flagship chipset and powerful GPU. If you just need it for basic tasks the Realme 9 Pro+ would suffice.
- How important is a brighter screen for outdoor viewing?
- If you regularly use your phone outdoors, especially in sunlight, the Xiaomi 12's display is significantly better.
- What features do you need the most?
- If you prefer wireless charging, better screen protection, higher resolution video recording, and advanced processing power, the Xiaomi 12 should be your pick. If you are looking for the best bang for your buck, the Realme 9 Pro+ is a solid choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Power User/Gamer: If you want the highest performance for demanding games or apps and are willing to spend a little extra, the Xiaomi 12 is the way to go.
- Scenario 2: Everyday User on a Budget: If your priorities are good all-around performance for everyday tasks at an affordable price, the Realme 9 Pro+ provides good value.
- Scenario 3: Photography/Videography Enthusiast: If you like taking high quality photos and videos and want the ability to record in 8K, the Xiaomi 12 is the better pick.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I would pick the Xiaomi 12. The massive boost in processing power thanks to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, coupled with the superior display and higher resolution camera capabilities makes it a much better phone to use. The 120Hz screen and the much higher peak brightness alone are major advantages in daily use. The faster wireless charging and better build quality are just the cherry on top. While the Realme 9 Pro+ is a great phone for the price and is fantastic for basic needs, the Xiaomi 12 delivers a premium experience that I would much prefer for my day-to-day usage.
