Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12X and the Huawei Mate X3. Buckle up, because we're going deep into the tech details and real-world implications.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of the specifications, organized into categories with an emphasis on what they mean for you:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | Huawei Mate X3 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard Smartphone | Foldable Smartphone | The Mate X3 offers a larger screen in a more compact form when folded, a premium experience. |
| Dimensions | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm | 156.9 x 141.5 x 5.3 mm (unfolded) | Mate X3 is much wider when unfolded, the 12X is easier to use one handed. |
| Weight | 176g | 239g | 12X is significantly lighter and more comfortable to hold for extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 7.85" | Mate X3 provides a significantly larger display, great for media and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 2224 x 2496 | Mate X3 offers a much sharper and more detailed image due to its higher resolution. |
| Pixel Density | 419 PPI | 426 PPI | Both have similar sharpness; individual pixels will not be visible. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | 12X likely has superior contrast, colors and blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | 12X shines with a much brighter display, excellent for outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 5G (7nm) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 4G (4nm) | Mate X3 has a significantly faster and more power-efficient chipset. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 1,238,400 | Mate X3 offers smoother gaming and quicker app loading. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 730 | Mate X3 provides better graphics performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.88 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Similar main sensor; Mate X3 has a wider aperture, better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45 | 8MP, f/2.4 | 12X takes sharper selfies, while Mate X3 might perform better in low light with wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 16MP, f/3.4 | Mate X3 excels with optical zoom capabilities, 12X does not offer any telephoto lens. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.4 | None | 12X can capture wider scenes. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | 12X can capture detailed close-up images. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 12MP, f/2.2 | Mate X3 has a more versatile wide angle + macro configuration. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps, EIS | Up to 4K@60fps, EIS | 12X allows higher resolution recording; Both offer stabilization for smooth footage. |
| Camera Features | 8K Video, OIS, EIS, Macro, Wide, Night Mode | Optical Zoom, OIS, EIS, Main for Selfies | 12X offers 8K recording & Night Mode; Mate X3 has optical zoom & better main selfies |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4800mAh | Mate X3 has a slightly larger battery; expected slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 67W Fast | 66W Fast, 50W Wireless | Mate X3 has wireless charging; 12X has slightly faster wired charging; |
| Other | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Unknown | OS is a key factor, more information on Mate X3 is needed |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both feature fast and stable Wi-Fi connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Mate X3 uses newer standard, but both offer similar features; |
| Storage | 128/256GB | 256/512/1024GB | Mate X3 offers significantly more storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12GB | 8/12GB | Both offer ample memory for multitasking and demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | Stereo Speakers | 12X has more immersive audio and better quality sound; Mate X3 only has Stereo speakers |
| Security | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Mate X3 has a faster and more convenient fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | 12X features a more robust screen protection. |
| Sensors | Ultrasonic Proximity Virtual | Proximity, Barometer, Gravity, Hall, RGB | Mate X3 includes additional sensors; 12X features the Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12X Strengths:
- Compact and Lightweight: The 12X is noticeably lighter and smaller, making it easier to handle and pocket.
- Excellent Display: The AMOLED display with 1100 nits brightness ensures excellent visibility even under bright sunlight and deep blacks.
- High-Resolution Video: 8K video recording provides professional-grade video capture capabilities.
- Comprehensive Camera Features: Wide-angle, macro, and solid selfie camera.
- Superior Audio Quality: Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res audio enhance the listening experience.
Huawei Mate X3 Strengths:
- Large Foldable Display: Offers a tablet-like screen experience in a compact form, ideal for media consumption and multitasking.
- Powerful Performance: The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip delivers superior processing and graphics power.
- Versatile Camera System: Telephoto lens provides optical zoom capabilities, the wide angle + macro lens offers increased flexibility.
- Wireless Charging: The inclusion of wireless charging is a very useful addition to the phone.
- Greater Storage Options: Offers significantly more internal storage.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Xiaomi 12X: Lacks a telephoto lens, has a smaller battery, and is not the best performance wise.
- Huawei Mate X3: Significantly heavier, larger when unfolded, lacks expandable storage, we don't know the OS it runs and the screen protection is unknown, it only has 4G.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi 12X:
- Best For: Users who prioritize a compact and lightweight device, an excellent display, and good video capabilities.
- Use Cases: Everyday smartphone use, content consumption, photography, video recording, gaming, and media playback.
- Price-to-Value: Offers a good price point, making it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality smartphone experience without the premium price.
- Huawei Mate X3:
- Best For: Users who desire a large screen experience on a portable device, top-tier performance, flexible camera system, and wireless charging.
- Use Cases: Media consumption, multitasking, gaming, professionals who need large screen for work, and users who need maximum storage.
- Price-to-Value: This is a very premium device, so it is designed for the premium segment.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- What is your priority for screen size and form factor? Do you prefer a standard compact phone (Xiaomi 12X), or a large, foldable display (Huawei Mate X3)?
- How important is the camera system, and do you need optical zoom or 8k recording? If optical zoom is a must, Mate X3 is your choice. For the highest video quality with 8k capabilities, the Xiaomi 12X is better.
- What is your typical usage and storage needs? For those that need a lot of storage and a large display, the Mate X3 should be considered. For everyday use, the Xiaomi 12X shines with its compactness.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Minimalist: If you value a lightweight, easily pocketable device with a very bright screen for outdoor visibility, choose the Xiaomi 12X.
- The Multitasker/Media Buff: If you need a large display for productivity and entertainment with top performance, you should choose the Mate X3.
- The Mobile Photographer: If you value more lenses, especially telephoto for zoom photography, and wireless charging, the Mate X3 is for you. If you care about video quality, the Xiaomi 12X is the better option.
My Pick and Why
Given my preference for a device that balances performance, size, and camera versatility without compromising too much on the price, I would choose the Xiaomi 12X.
Here's why:
- Practicality: Its compact size makes it easy to handle and carry around, which is important for me as a tech journalist always on the go.
- Excellent Display: The AMOLED screen with 1100 nits is a joy to use. I work outdoors a lot, so a bright and clear display is very important for me.
- Comprehensive Feature Set: The combination of a solid main camera, wide-angle lens, macro, and high-quality audio features, 8K video capabilities, makes it more than adequate for my everyday needs.
- Price to performance: The price to performance ratio is amazing, I am able to get a great experience without paying a premium price.
While the Huawei Mate X3 is an impressive piece of engineering with its foldable design and cutting-edge performance, it is overkill for my needs. I prefer the practicality and balance the Xiaomi 12X offers for everyday use. If I needed to have a tablet like experience I would opt for an actual tablet rather than a smartphone/tablet hybrid.
I hope this in-depth analysis helps you make an informed decision!
