Alright, let's dive deep into the Xiaomi 12 and Redmi 12, two phones that, on paper, might seem similar but actually cater to very different users. I'll break down the specs, translate them into real-world scenarios, and help you figure out which one might be your next daily driver.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi 12 | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm | 168.6 x 76.3 x 8.2 mm | The Redmi 12 is significantly larger and may feel less comfortable for one-handed use; Both share same thickness. |
| Weight | 179g | 198.5g | The Xiaomi 12 is lighter, making it more pocketable and comfortable for extended periods. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.79" | The Redmi 12 offers a larger screen, great for media consumption. The Xiaomi 12 is more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2460 | Both phones have similar Full HD+ resolution, appearing sharp. |
| PPI | 419 | 396 | The Xiaomi 12 is slightly sharper with higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | The Xiaomi 12 has richer colors, deeper blacks, and better viewing angles. The Redmi 12 has a typical LCD. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | The Xiaomi 12’s screen is smoother, especially noticeable in animations and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Xiaomi 12 has dramatically better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. Redmi 12 brightness not mentioned. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Helio G88 | The Xiaomi 12 is a flagship killer with superior processing power for demanding tasks. The Redmi 12 is good for everyday usage, not gaming intensive use. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,150,831 | 249,400 | The Xiaomi 12's processor is in a completely different league. Significantly faster app loading, multitasking, and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Mali-G52 MC2 | The Xiaomi 12 handles graphics intensive tasks with much more ease. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56" Sony IMX766 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" Samsung S5KJN1 | Xiaomi 12 has a larger sensor and slightly smaller aperture, offering better low-light performance and shallower depth of field. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP | 8MP | Xiaomi 12 produces more detailed selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.4 | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" Sony IMX355 | Xiaomi 12 has a slightly higher resolution. Redmi 12 has slightly wider aperture on a smaller sensor. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | The Xiaomi 12 captures more detailed macro shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | The Xiaomi 12 is capable of capturing professional grade video content. |
| DXOMark Score | Mobile 113 Photo 118 Video 121 | No Rating | The Xiaomi 12 has a significant edge in the video and photo quality department. |
| Camera Features | OIS, 8K Recording, more modes | Digital Stabilization, Basic modes | Xiaomi 12 is designed for photography enthusiasts with more advanced features. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | The Redmi 12 should have longer battery life due to larger battery capacity. |
| Charging | 67W Fast, 50W Wireless | 18W Fast | The Xiaomi 12 charges significantly faster, both wired and wirelessly. |
| Features | Reverse, wireless charging | Reverse Charging | Xiaomi 12 offers convenient charging, especially with wireless capability. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 13 | The Redmi 12 comes with a newer version of Android. The Xiaomi 12 might have been upgraded to Android 13 too |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | 802.11ac | Xiaomi 12 has the latest Wi-Fi standard; Faster speeds, lower latency, better performance in crowded networks |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | Redmi 12 has the latest Bluetooth standard, better range, more energy efficient |
| GPS | More Standards | Less Standards | Xiaomi 12 has much better GPS precision |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both come with the same maximum storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Xiaomi 12 offers more RAM for smoother multitasking and heavy apps. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | The Xiaomi 12 offers a significantly enhanced audio experience for music and videos. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Xiaomi Redmi 12 has a more convinient side mounted finger print sensor |
| BUILD QUALITY | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Xiaomi 12 has a much more durable screen. |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Biometric, Motion, Proximity, RGB | Biometric, Motion, Proximity | Xiaomi 12 offers an RGB sensor for richer color information for enhanced camera performance |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12:
- Strengths:
- Flagship Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 provides top-tier performance for heavy gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Superior Display: AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and high peak brightness, providing excellent visuals.
- High-End Camera: Advanced camera system with OIS, 8K video recording and features that capture better quality photos and videos, particularly in low-light.
- Faster Charging: 67W wired and 50W wireless charging for quick power-ups.
- Premium Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Best for users looking for premium performance and a high quality media experience.
- The better option if you play games frequently, and often watch movies/videos.
- Significantly better performance in low-light situations and overall video quality.
- Limitations:
- The battery is smaller than Redmi 12.
- No expandable storage.
Xiaomi Redmi 12:
- Strengths:
- Larger Display: A bigger screen for a more immersive viewing experience, great for watching videos.
- Longer Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery is better for heavy day-to-day usage
- Newer Android: Comes with the newer Android 13 OS out of the box.
- More Affordable: Usually available at a lower price point.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Good choice for users needing a solid all-rounder that lasts a full day on a single charge.
- Best for users who prefer a larger screen.
- Limitations:
- Mediocre overall performance compared to Xiaomi 12.
- Standard LCD screen without premium features.
- Basic camera system without flagship capabilities.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12 is ideal for:
- Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for demanding apps and games.
- Content Creators: Users who rely on high-quality video recording and photography.
- Media Enthusiasts: Individuals who prioritize a premium display and audio for media consumption.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who value the latest technology and premium features.
Xiaomi Redmi 12 is ideal for:
- Everyday Users: Those who need a reliable device for daily tasks, web browsing, and social media.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users looking for a good value for money without needing the best features.
- Media Viewers: Those who prioritize screen size and battery life for watching videos on the go.
- Casual Photographers: Users who take occasional photos and don't require advanced camera features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- What is your primary usage? Do you play heavy games or do you need a phone for casual usage?
- How important is display quality? Is a vibrant, high-refresh-rate screen a priority, or is a standard LCD sufficient?
- How important is camera quality? Do you need flagship features or is the camera for casual snapshots?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming and Performance: If you are a serious gamer, the Xiaomi 12 is the clear choice.
- Scenario 2: Media Consumption and Casual Use: The Xiaomi Redmi 12 is great for a casual user.
- Scenario 3: Photography and Content Creation: The Xiaomi 12 is significantly better for those who want to capture high-quality photos and videos.
- Scenario 4: Budget Conscious Buyers: If you are trying to be budget friendly, the Xiaomi Redmi 12 is a good option.
Final Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Xiaomi 12 without a doubt, because of the flagship level processor which leads to superior performance and the premium AMOLED display. Although I love the big battery of the Redmi 12, I would much prefer having a smaller battery and be able to charge my phone wirelessly with the Xiaomi 12. The better camera of the Xiaomi 12 is also a major factor for me, since I take a lot of photos and record many videos. For me, this would be a no brainer, as I value premium features more than being budget friendly and slightly bigger battery, making the Xiaomi 12 the obvious choice.
