Alright, let's dive deep into this comparison between the Xiaomi 12X and the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G. Both are solid contenders, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. I'll break it all down in a way that’s both informative and easy to digest.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the key specs, along with their practical implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm | 155.7 x 74.5 x 7.9 mm | Xiaomi 12X is slightly more compact and easier to handle, Samsung is taller and wider. |
| Weight | 176g | 177g | Practically identical, both feel relatively lightweight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.4" | Samsung offers a slightly more immersive visual experience due to larger screen size. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both are sharp, and you won't see a massive difference in daily usage. |
| PPI | 419 | 403 | Both are very crisp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Expect vibrant colors and deep blacks on both. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1300 nits | Samsung has a clear edge in outdoor visibility due to higher peak brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 5G (7nm) | Snapdragon 888 5G (5nm) | Samsung has the edge in raw power, potentially smoother performance in demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 923,836 | Samsung scores around 13% higher, indicating a performance advantage. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 660 | Samsung's Adreno 660 offers better graphics performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4500mAh | Expect comparable battery life on both devices. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Xiaomi charges significantly faster, a big time-saver. |
| Features | Non-removable | Wireless, Reverse Charging | Samsung’s wireless charging and reverse charging are convenient. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.88, 1/1.56" | 12MP f/1.8, 1/1.76" | Xiaomi’s larger sensor captures more light, Samsung’s larger pixels do too. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 8MP f/2.0 | Samsung has a dedicated zoom lens for better close up images. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP f/2.45, 1/3" | 32MP f/2.2, 1/2.8" | Samsung's wider aperture should capture slightly better low-light selfies and larger sensor. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP f/2.4 | 13MP f/2.2 Wide + Macro | Both provide ultrawide perspectives, Samsung has a macro included, Xiaomi doesnt. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP f/2.4 | None | Xiaomi has a dedicated macro lens for close up images. |
| Video | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | 4K@60fps | Xiaomi has 8k capture, offering potentially higher quality recordings. |
| DXoMark Mobile Camera | - | 117 | Samsung tested better in overall mobile camera. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 | Samsung gets newer base Android and long term support.. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both offer the latest Wi-Fi technology. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.0 | Xiaomi has a newer version, potentially more stable and efficient. |
| GPS | More systems | Basic systems | Xiaomi has higher accuracy in location. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Standard storage options, ample for most users. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 6GB/8GB | Xiaomi offers more RAM for more seamless multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows external storage, keep that in mind. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res | Dolby Atmos, Noise Cancelling Mic | Xiaomi has Hi-Res Audio, which would provide higher quality audio playback. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both phones have a basic fingerprint sensor for unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Both phones use the same high end screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensor Suite | Ultrasonic Proximity Virtual | Barometer | Samsung has a barometer for environmental readings, Xiaomi does not. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12X:
- Strengths:
- Faster Charging: The 67W charging is a huge advantage, reducing downtime.
- More RAM: Up to 12GB RAM for better multitasking and gaming.
- Hi-Res Audio: This is a major win for audiophiles.
- Compact Design: Easier to handle one-handed.
- Higher Video Resolution: 8K recording is great for detailed footage.
- Superior GPS: Supports more systems for better accuracy in location tracking.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Prioritizes speed and power-user features, like faster charging and Hi-Res audio.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G:
- Strengths:
- Brighter Display: Superior outdoor visibility.
- Wireless Charging & Reverse Wireless Charging: Convenient for on-the-go power needs.
- Better Main Camera Sensor: For better low-light performance.
- More versatile camera system: A dedicated telephoto lens and a wide + macro sensor.
- Better Selfies: Due to the larger sensor.
- Better Operating System: Ships with Android 12 and provides 4 OS updates.
- Better Benchmark Scores: Has slightly more processing power
- Better Overall Camera Scores: Tested better in DXoMark tests.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Offers a more convenient overall experience with wireless features and an all-around superior camera.
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- Xiaomi 12X: Lacks wireless charging and a telephoto lens, and its camera isn't as versatile.
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G: Slower charging speed, slightly less RAM.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12X is best for:
- Speed Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize fast charging and snappy performance.
- Audiophiles: Those who value high-quality audio with Hi-Res support.
- Compact Phone Lovers: Users who prefer a more pocketable device.
- Heavy Multitaskers & Gamers: 12 GB of RAM is better suited for these users.
- 8K video shooters: Users who want high quality recordings.
Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is best for:
- Outdoor Users: Those who need a brighter screen for visibility in daylight.
- Convenience Seekers: People who appreciate wireless charging and reverse charging capabilities.
- Camera Lovers: Those who want a versatile, good all around camera.
- Selfie Takers: Users who frequently use the front-facing camera.
- Long Term Users: People who want a phone that is supported for longer with OS updates.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three crucial questions to help you decide:
- How important is fast charging to you? If you hate waiting for your phone to charge, the Xiaomi 12X is the clear choice.
- Do you prioritize convenience features like wireless charging and reverse charging? If yes, go with the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G.
- Do you prioritise a high quality camera system with zoom capabilities and good low light performance over 8k video resolution? The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is the clear choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- On-the-Go Professional: Choose the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G for its wireless charging, better screen visibility, and versatile camera for quick shots.
- Gaming Enthusiast: The Xiaomi 12X’s superior RAM and faster charging are very useful for longer gaming sessions.
- Casual User: Both are great choices, but consider the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G for its wireless convenience and better all-around camera experience, or the Xiaomi for its faster charging and Hi-Res audio.
- Content Creator: The Xiaomi 12X for its 8k video and superior video quality, although the Samsung has better photos.
What I Would Choose
If I had to pick one, I'd lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G. While I appreciate the Xiaomi's speed, as a tech journalist, I’m frequently taking photos and video, and the Samsung's more balanced camera, especially the Telephoto lens, would be more beneficial to me day-to-day. The wireless charging and the brighter screen are also big pluses. Although the Xiaomi would be a great gaming phone due to the more RAM, I don't do much mobile gaming. The fact that the Samsung has longer software support is also very appealing to me.
Ultimately, the best phone for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both the Xiaomi 12X and the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G are excellent devices; it's all about which features matter most to you!
