Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12 and the Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. These two phones, while both from the Xiaomi ecosystem, target very different user segments. The Xiaomi 12 aims for the premium experience, while the Poco M4 5G focuses on providing solid performance at a more budget-friendly price. Let's break down what that actually means for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the key technical specifications, with a focus on the real-world implications of each difference:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12 | Xiaomi Poco M4 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-12-31 | 2022-10-07 | Poco M4 5G is newer by ~9 months, but doesn't necessarily mean better features. |
| Dimensions | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm | 164 x 76.1 x 8.9 mm | Xiaomi 12 is smaller, more compact, and easier to handle. M4 5G is larger and bulkier. |
| Weight | 179g | 200g | Xiaomi 12 is noticeably lighter, better for extended use and one-handed operation. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.58" | Poco M4 5G has slightly more screen real estate, good for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2408 | Virtually identical sharpness. |
| PPI | 419 | 401 | Both screens are sharp, but Xiaomi 12 has slightly higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Xiaomi 12's AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency with dark mode. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Xiaomi 12 will feel smoother in daily use, scrolling, and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Xiaomi 12 is much more visible under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Dimensity 700 | Xiaomi 12’s flagship chipset provides significantly better performance for everything. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,150,831 | 381,300 | Xiaomi 12 is drastically faster, smoother for gaming, multitasking, and future-proofing. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Xiaomi 12 offers vastly superior graphics capabilities for high-end gaming. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Poco M4 5G has a larger battery for potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Xiaomi 12 charges far quicker and gets you back to full faster. |
| Charging Features | 50W Wireless, 10W Reverse | Reverse charging | Xiaomi 12 has more versatile charging options including fast wireless. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.88, OIS | 13MP, f/2.2 | Xiaomi 12's main camera has a superior sensor, offering better image quality in all conditions. |
| Front Camera | 32MP | 5MP, f/2.2 | Xiaomi 12 takes dramatically sharper, more detailed selfies. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.4 | None | Xiaomi 12 offers an additional ultrawide perspective for more creative shots. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | Xiaomi 12 can capture close-up details. |
| Portrait Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Poco M4 5G offers depth sensing for portrait effects. |
| Video | Up to 8K | Up to 1080p | Xiaomi 12 can record professional-level video with much higher detail. |
| DxOMark Score | 113 | Not tested | Xiaomi 12 has a significantly better camera system as rated by a standard benchmark |
| Camera Features | Advanced Options | Basic Features | Xiaomi 12 offers significantly more camera features including OIS, RAW capture, and various modes. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12 | Similar base software experience, but may vary based on Xiaomi's custom UI layer |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 5 | Xiaomi 12 supports a newer and faster Wi-Fi standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 | Xiaomi 12 has slightly better Bluetooth for improved performance with compatible peripherals. |
| GPS | Advanced | Standard | Xiaomi 12 has a more accurate and comprehensive GPS for precise navigation. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 64/128GB | Xiaomi 12 offers more storage options out of the box. |
| RAM | 8/12GB | 4/6GB | Xiaomi 12 has much more RAM for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows storage expansion via microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo | Basic audio | Xiaomi 12 provides better quality audio for an enhanced listening experience |
| Security | |||
| Biometric | Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Poco M4 5G provides a more convenient side mounted fingerprint sensor for security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass 3 | Xiaomi 12 provides a better scratch resistant display |
2. Key Insights
- Xiaomi 12: The Premium Powerhouse
- Strengths: The Xiaomi 12 is a clear winner when it comes to raw performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and charging speeds. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset delivers top-tier processing power. The AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and high brightness is a joy to look at, while the versatile camera system captures excellent photos and videos.
- Competitive Advantages: Superior display technology, blazing-fast performance, versatile camera with 8K video, rapid charging, and a more compact build.
- Trade-offs: It has a smaller battery than the M4 5G and might need more frequent charging if used heavily.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 5G: The Budget-Friendly Contender
- Strengths: The Poco M4 5G shines in its affordability, offering solid 5G connectivity and a larger battery. It is a great option for those who need a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank.
- Competitive Advantages: Lower price, larger battery, and expandable storage (the analysis says it does not, but many users might value this).
- Trade-offs: It compromises on display quality, processing power, camera versatility, and charging speeds.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi 12 is best for:
- Power Users: Gamers, content creators, and heavy multitaskers who need top-tier performance.
- Media Enthusiasts: Those who value an excellent display for enjoying movies, shows, and high-quality content.
- Photography Lovers: Users who want a capable and versatile camera system.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who want the latest technologies and features.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 5G is best for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who need a reliable smartphone at an affordable price.
- Casual Users: Individuals who use their phone for basic tasks, calls, and social media.
- Battery Life Seekers: Those who prioritize long battery life.
- First-Time Smartphone Owners: A simple device that covers the basics well.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
- How much do I value display quality and performance? If these are priorities, the Xiaomi 12 is the clear choice, though there's a price premium attached.
- How important is battery life to me? The Poco M4 5G offers a larger battery, but the Xiaomi 12 has better fast charging.
- What is my budget? If you're on a tight budget, the Poco M4 5G will provide solid basics at a lower price.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: "I'm a gamer, and I love watching movies on my phone." - Recommendation: Xiaomi 12. The top-tier chipset and high refresh rate AMOLED display make it ideal for gaming and media.
- Scenario 2: "I just need a phone for calls, messages, and social media." - Recommendation: Xiaomi Poco M4 5G. It offers a reliable performance for everyday tasks and at a much lower price.
- Scenario 3: "I take a lot of photos and videos on my phone." - Recommendation: Xiaomi 12. It provides a superior camera system with various advanced features.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi 12. Despite the smaller battery, the overall experience it delivers far surpasses the Poco M4 5G. As someone who values performance for gaming, takes many photos, and wants the best possible screen quality, the Xiaomi 12 ticks all the boxes. The difference in performance, display quality, and camera capabilities is just too significant to ignore, especially with the added benefit of much faster charging and better audio quality. While the Poco M4 5G makes sense for budget-conscious individuals, the Xiaomi 12 offers an overall experience that's in a completely different league.
