Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12X and the Motorola Moto G04s. This isn't just about specs on paper; we're going to break down what these differences actually mean for your day-to-day use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the core specifications, presented in a way that highlights their real-world impact:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | Motorola Moto G04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm, 176g | 163.5 x 74.5 x 8 mm, 178.8g | 12X is more compact and lighter, making it easier to handle one-handed. G04s is taller and wider, potentially less comfortable for smaller hands. |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus (Screen) | Gorilla Glass 3 (Screen) | 12X has more durable screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.56" | G04s has a slightly larger screen for more immersive media consumption. 12X is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1612 | 12X has a much sharper display, offering more detail and clarity. G04s display will appear less crisp and potentially pixelated for detailed content. |
| Pixel Density | 419 PPI | 269 PPI | 12X's higher PPI means text and images look clearer and smoother. G04s will have noticeably less sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | 12X has superior color accuracy, deeper blacks, and better contrast, leading to a richer viewing experience. G04s has an IPS display which doesn't have the same depth. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | 12X offers smoother scrolling and animations. G04s is still smooth but doesn't appear as fluid as a 120Hz display. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | 12X has excellent outdoor visibility, even under direct sunlight. G04s will struggle outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 5G (7nm) | Unisoc T606 (12nm) | 12X is significantly faster, handling heavy apps and gaming with ease. G04s is more suited for basic tasks; struggles with intensive usage. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 220,000 | 12X will feel much more responsive and snappy. G04s will feel sluggish by comparison, especially with multiple apps open. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G57 MP1 | 12X offers much better graphics performance for gaming and media editing. G04s struggles in demanding games. |
| RAM | 8GB or 12GB | 4GB | 12X can handle much more multitasking and heavy apps before slowing down. G04s will struggle to have more than a couple of apps open. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP (1/1.56" Sony IMX766) | 50MP (1/2.76" Samsung S5KJN1) | 12X has larger sensor captures more light and detail, leading to better low-light and image quality. G04s will have slightly less quality due to its smaller sensor. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (1/3" Omnivision OV32B) | 5MP | 12X has higher quality, detailed and crisp selfies. G04s selfie camera will not be as crisp or capture as much detail. |
| Additional Lenses | Wide & Macro Lenses (Xiaomi) | None (Motorola) | 12X offers more versatility in photography with wide-angle and macro options. G04s does not have this versatility. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | 12X allows for high-resolution video capture, ideal for content creators. G04s is suitable for casual video recording. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | G04s has slightly better battery capacity, likely offering a few more hours of usage. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 12X charges much faster, minimizing downtime. G04s will take significantly longer to charge. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 14 | G04s runs a more recent version of Android, potentially offering more features and security updates. 12X may require a manual update. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 | 12X supports faster and more reliable Wi-Fi for better network performance. G04s is an older version of wifi. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 | Bluetooth 5.0 | 12X uses a slightly newer version, offering more features and better connectivity. |
| GPS | More systems | Less systems | 12X has more accurate and reliable location services. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Both offer up to 256 GB storage options. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos | 12X has higher audio quality for better music and video experiences. G04s has good audio but doesn't have enhanced features. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Motorola has a more advanced fingerprint reader experience. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Ultrasonic proximity virtual and compass | Proximity | 12X has better range of sensors to allow for more advanced features and gaming. G04s is suitable for more basic users. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12X:
- Strengths: The Xiaomi 12X is a powerhouse when it comes to performance. Its Snapdragon 870 chipset, coupled with ample RAM, means you can throw pretty much anything at it – games, demanding apps, multitasking – and it will barely break a sweat. The AMOLED display is gorgeous, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and high sharpness, making it a joy for media consumption. The camera system is also impressive, offering detailed images and videos, especially in low light, and a more flexible shooting experience thanks to the wide and macro lenses. The 67W fast charging is a lifesaver, getting you back up and running in a flash.
- Competitive Advantages: The Xiaomi 12X stands out as the superior choice in terms of performance, display quality, and camera versatility. The combination of a high-end chipset, an AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, and a capable camera system makes it a top performer in its class.
Motorola Moto G04s:
- Strengths: The Moto G04s is designed for users who need a reliable, affordable smartphone for everyday tasks. Its battery will likely last longer, its larger display is suitable for media consumption. It also runs a more recent version of Android out of the box.
- Competitive Advantages: The Moto G04s’s primary advantage is its lower price point. For users who need basic functionality and prioritize battery life, it represents a value-focused option.
Significant Trade-offs
- Xiaomi 12X: The 12X's biggest trade-off is its battery life, although this is counteracted by its much faster charging. It also runs an older version of Android out of the box, however, this can be updated.
- Motorola Moto G04s: The G04s makes significant compromises in display quality, processing power, and camera performance to reach its lower price point. Its screen resolution is significantly lower and it has a slower processor which limits the type of applications that can be used.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi 12X:
- Ideal Users: Tech enthusiasts, mobile gamers, content creators, photography enthusiasts, and anyone who values a fast, smooth, and high-quality smartphone experience.
- Use Cases: Playing graphically demanding games, editing photos and videos, watching high-resolution movies, using multiple apps simultaneously, capturing high-quality images and videos in a range of lighting conditions.
- Motorola Moto G04s:
- Ideal Users: Budget-conscious buyers, casual smartphone users, those who prioritize battery life, and users needing a reliable device for basic communication and media consumption.
- Use Cases: Making calls, texting, browsing social media, watching videos casually, using basic productivity apps, and for users who don't want to charge their phones as often.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Performance Requirements: Do you need a phone that can handle heavy apps, games, and multitasking, or will you primarily use it for basic tasks?
- Display Quality: How important is a high-resolution, vibrant display for you?
- Photography Needs: Do you need versatile cameras for a range of shooting scenarios, or are basic photos and videos sufficient?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance-Oriented User
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 12X. The powerful processor, ample RAM, and high-refresh-rate display make it ideal for heavy use and gaming.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious User
- Recommendation: Motorola Moto G04s. If you are on a budget and you don't need advanced features and performance then this is the phone for you.
- Scenario 3: Media Consumption Focus
- Recommendation: Xiaomi 12X. The AMOLED display with high resolution and brightness makes the 12X the better choice here.
- Scenario 4: Casual User Needing Long Battery
- Recommendation: Motorola Moto G04s. The Motorola phone has a slightly larger battery for people that need long-lasting power for general use.
Final Thoughts: My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would absolutely go for the Xiaomi 12X. The reasons are quite clear:
- Superior Performance: As someone who frequently uses multiple apps, I need a phone that can keep up. The Snapdragon 870 offers a snappier experience for all tasks, and as a gamer, the Adreno 650 GPU is essential for smooth performance.
- Stunning Display: I value a high-quality display for my media consumption, and the AMOLED panel on the 12X is far superior to the IPS LCD on the G04s. The vibrant colors, high resolution, and high brightness make everything I do feel a lot better.
- Versatile Camera System: As an avid photography enthusiast, the multiple lenses on the Xiaomi 12X provide more opportunities to be creative. Having a good sensor in low light is a must for me, as is recording in 4k or higher.
- Fast Charging: While the battery on the G04s may be slightly larger, the 67W fast charging on the 12X means I can quickly top up when needed, making it much more convenient.
While the Moto G04s has the advantage of a newer Android version and potentially longer battery life, the overall package offered by the Xiaomi 12X is compelling enough for me to pick it every time. I am looking for a phone that doesn't hold me back, one that is fast, has good battery, has an amazing screen and takes great photos.
