Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12X and the OnePlus 10 Pro. I'll break down the tech specs, highlight key differences, and ultimately guide you toward which device might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a side-by-side look at these two phones, with a focus on what these specs actually mean for your daily use:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | OnePlus 10 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Physical Size | 152.7 × 69.9 × 8.2 mm | 163 × 73.9 × 8.6 mm | 12X is significantly more compact and easier to handle one-handed; 10 Pro is larger, offering more screen but less pocketable. |
| Weight | 176g | 201g | 12X is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.7" | 10 Pro provides a more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming due to its larger screen. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3216 | 10 Pro offers a significantly sharper and more detailed image with its higher pixel count. |
| PPI | 419 | 525 | 10 Pro's higher pixel density results in crisper text and images, noticeable for reading and close-up viewing. |
| Technology | AMOLED | 12X has the advantage of superior display technology offering deeper blacks, better contrast, superior power efficiency for dark themes, and more vibrant colors. 10 Pro does not specify its tech, but AMOLED is widely used for flagship phones in this category | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both phones offer very smooth scrolling and animations for an enhanced user experience. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1300 nits | 10 Pro will be easier to view in bright sunlight due to its higher peak brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | 10 Pro’s chip is more powerful, offering faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 900,491 | 10 Pro has higher performance for demanding tasks, while 12X still offers very good performance for most users. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 730 | 10 Pro’s Adreno 730 is more powerful, providing better graphics performance for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56", IMX766 | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/1.43", IMX789 | 12X has slightly higher resolution (50MP vs 48MP). OnePlus 10 Pro has a larger sensor and wider aperture resulting in better low-light performance |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45, 1/3", OV32B | 32MP, f/2.0, 1/2.74", IMX615 | 10 Pro's selfie camera benefits from a wider aperture, likely capturing better low light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", OV08A10 | 10 Pro offers better zoom capabilities due to the dedicated telephoto lens. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.4, 1/3.06", OV13B10 | 50MP, f/2.2, 1/2.76", S5KJN1 | 10 Pro's wide-angle lens has significantly higher resolution and larger sensor for better detailed and wider shots. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, Samsung | None | 12X offers macro lens for extreme close-up shots; 10 Pro lacks this feature. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps (EIS) | 8K@24fps, 4K@120fps (HDR, EIS) | 10 Pro offers more robust video features and higher frame rate for 4K, plus HDR for better dynamic range. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Tested | 122 (Mobile) | 10 Pro’s camera performs well in real-world tests, according to DxOMark. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | 10 Pro's larger battery will likely provide longer battery life throughout the day. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 80W Fast Charging | 10 Pro offers faster charging times, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable, 50W Wireless, Reverse | 10 Pro has a clear edge with wireless and reverse charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | 10 Pro has a newer OS, with future Android updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | 10 Pro supports the latest Wi-Fi standard for faster and more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | 10 Pro has the newer Bluetooth standard for more reliable connections, better range, and improved power efficiency. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB or 512 GB | 10 Pro offers more options and a higher 512GB tier for users who need lots of storage. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | Both devices offer plenty of RAM for multitasking and demanding applications. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers external storage via SD card. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Both phones have stereo speakers for an enhanced audio experience. The 10 Pro has a slight edge in audio due to better mics and noise cancelling for clearer calls and better audio capture. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both phones have a basic fingerprint sensor; not an advanced sensor. |
| Build | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both phones have premium screen protection for enhanced durability. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, RGB | 12X has a special ultrasonic proximity sensor; 10 Pro has RGB for enhanced display features. |
2. Key Insights
- Xiaomi 12X: This phone is a fantastic compact powerhouse. It's lighter, easier to handle, and boasts a vibrant AMOLED display. While it has a capable processor and good cameras, it's best for those who value portability and a premium display in a smaller package.
- OnePlus 10 Pro: The 10 Pro is designed for power users who prioritize top-tier performance, an excellent camera system, and a larger, sharper screen. It's a beast in terms of processing power, has better video capabilities, and boasts a more versatile camera setup. Its larger size and weight are the trade-offs for this level of performance and features.
Strengths:
- Xiaomi 12X:
- Compact and Lightweight: Ideal for one-handed use and portability.
- Excellent Display: The AMOLED panel provides great color accuracy and deep blacks.
- Fast Charging: 67W charging keeps you powered up quickly.
- OnePlus 10 Pro:
- High-End Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset is one of the most powerful on the market.
- Versatile Camera System: Telephoto and wide-angle lenses offer flexibility, and the larger main sensor captures impressive images.
- Larger, Sharper Display: The higher resolution screen offers more immersion.
- Faster Charging: 80W charging and the addition of wireless charging are significant advantages.
- Software Support: More current OS and future updates.
- Better Connectivity: Supports newer and faster WiFi standard.
- More Storage Options: 512 GB version is available.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Xiaomi 12X:
- Less Powerful Chipset: The Snapdragon 870 is excellent but not on par with the 8 Gen 1.
- No Telephoto Lens: Limited zoom capabilities compared to the 10 Pro.
- Smaller Screen: May feel cramped for heavy media consumption.
- Slightly Slower Charging: While still fast, the 67W charging is not as quick as the 10 Pro’s 80W.
- Older OS: Runs Android 11 out of the box.
- No Wireless Charging
- OnePlus 10 Pro:
- Larger and Heavier: Not as comfortable for single-handed use, and less pocketable.
- Lacks Macro Lens: Doesn't offer dedicated macro photography capabilities.
- No Expandable Storage: While a 512GB option is available, it might be limiting for some users.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12X:
- Ideal For: Users who prioritize a compact and light phone with a premium display. Great for casual users who need excellent performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.
- Use Cases: Everyday browsing, social media, light gaming, watching videos on the go, and those who prefer a smaller form factor that fits easily into pockets or bags.
- Price-to-Value: Offers excellent value for the price with its combination of portability, a great display, and good performance.
OnePlus 10 Pro:
- Ideal For: Tech enthusiasts, gamers, photographers, or users who need maximum performance and the most versatile camera system.
- Use Cases: Heavy gaming, demanding applications, professional photography and videography, users who enjoy consuming media on a large, high-resolution screen.
- Price-to-Value: A premium device that offers top-tier specifications and features, justifying the higher price tag for users who want the best of the best.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you choose:
What do you value most: portability or performance?
- If a compact phone is key, the 12X is the clear choice.
- If you need peak performance, a more versatile camera and don't mind a larger device, go for the 10 Pro.
How important are photography and videography?
- If casual photos and videos are enough, the 12X is very capable.
- If you want a versatile camera system with better zoom, HDR videos, and the latest tech, the 10 Pro is superior.
Do you prioritize wireless charging and the latest connectivity?
- If not, the 12X will be fine.
- If wireless charging, faster WiFi, and the latest Bluetooth version matter to you, then the 10 Pro is a step ahead.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The On-the-Go User: If you're always on the move and need a lightweight, compact phone with a great screen, the Xiaomi 12X is an excellent choice.
- The Power User: If you're a gamer or need a phone that can handle demanding applications, the OnePlus 10 Pro is the better option.
- The Media Enthusiast: For those who watch a lot of videos, the OnePlus 10 Pro's larger, sharper screen makes it ideal for media consumption.
- The Camera Buff: If mobile photography is a top priority, the OnePlus 10 Pro's more versatile camera system and features make it a better option.
My Choice
For my personal needs and given the available information, I would choose the OnePlus 10 Pro.
Here's why:
As a tech journalist and someone who uses their phone heavily for work, research, content consumption, and photography, the OnePlus 10 Pro ticks more boxes. Here's a deeper look at why this would be my choice.
- Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is a significant leap over the Snapdragon 870. This translates into faster app launches, smoother multitasking, and an overall more responsive experience. For research and writing, which involves heavy multitasking, a snappy device is a must.
- Camera Versatility: The 10 Pro's camera system is superior. I need good photos and videos for my work, and the telephoto lens, larger sensors, HDR video, and overall better quality would make a huge difference. I love to experiment with mobile photography, and this camera gives me the tools I need.
- Display: While both phones have 120Hz, the 10 Pro's higher resolution screen and higher brightness would be better for my use, especially under different lighting conditions and for media.
- Wireless Charging and Battery: While I don't depend on it, having wireless charging is a great plus, especially with the larger battery for longer usage.
- Future-Proofing: The 10 Pro comes with Android 12, with future updates. Since I tend to use my phones for more than a year, having that security of the latest version and future updates is essential.
Although I appreciate the compactness and lighter weight of the Xiaomi 12X, the OnePlus 10 Pro is overall a more suitable and feature-rich device to support my needs. It's the kind of phone that enhances my productivity and allows me to get creative, which is what I need from a daily driver.
