Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the Xiaomi 12X and the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. As always, we'll focus on what these specs actually mean for you, the user, rather than just reciting numbers.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the key specs, along with what they translate to in real-world use:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 × 69.9 × 8.2 mm, 176g | 162 × 77.3 × 8 mm, 213g | Xiaomi 12X is more compact and noticeably lighter, better for one-handed use; S24 FE feels larger in the hand. |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus Screen | Gorilla Glass Victus+ Screen | Both offer great scratch resistance, with S24 FE having a slightly enhanced protection |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.7" | S24 FE's larger display is better for media consumption, gaming, and productivity. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both are sharp, with the 12X having a very slightly sharper image due to higher pixel density. |
| Pixel Density | 419 ppi | 385 ppi | Xiaomi 12X delivers a slightly sharper visual experience with a higher pixel density |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both devices. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1900 nits | S24 FE offers superior outdoor visibility, especially in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 (7 nm) | Exynos 2400e (4 nm) | S24 FE's newer chip offers significantly better performance, faster app loading, better multitasking and suitable for heavy gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 1,600,000 | S24 FE has much more processing muscle for gaming and heavy tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Xclipse 940 | S24 FE's GPU is more powerful, providing a better gaming experience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" | Similar main camera capabilities, with the S24 FE slightly wider aperture for better low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45, 1/3" | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65" | Xiaomi 12X has much higher res for details; S24 FE's larger sensor collects more light. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4" | S24 FE has a dedicated telephoto lens for zoom. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.4, 1/3.06" | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1" | Similar wide angle capabilities, with the S24 FE slightly wider aperture. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Xiaomi 12X has a dedicated macro lens for close up photos. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps with EIS | Up to 8K@30fps with EIS | Similar high-resolution video capabilities with stabilization. |
| DXOMark | N/A | Mobile: 133, Photo: 136, Video: 125 | S24 FE's camera performance is confirmed through these scores |
| Features | OIS, EIS, 4K/8K, Digital Zoom, Macro | OIS, EIS, 4K/8K, Optical Zoom, PDAF | S24 FE has additional features like Optical zoom, and PDAF, while 12X has Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, and Manual focus. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 4700 mAh | S24 FE has a slightly larger battery, but practical difference may be small. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Xiaomi 12X charges much faster, a significant convenience. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging, 15W wireless charging, Non-removable | S24 FE offers extra charging options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | S24 FE offers much newer software out of the box (Android 14). |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E | S24 FE can access the 6 GHz band for less congested, faster networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | S24 FE has a slightly more modern Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), Galileo (E1+E5a), NavIC System | Both support various positioning systems for accurate navigation. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM / eSIM + Nano SIM / eSIM) | S24 FE supports eSIM for carrier flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | S24 FE offers more storage options, including a larger 512GB capacity. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 8GB | Xiaomi 12X offers more RAM for better multitasking with the 12GB variant. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage via microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi 12X has enhanced audio quality with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res while S24 FE offers noise cancellation. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both offer similar fingerprint sensor technology. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Samsung has additional sensors like Barometer, Hall, and Geomagnetic. |
| ## 2. Key Insights |
Xiaomi 12X:
- Strengths: This phone is a compact powerhouse with a focus on premium feel and audio. The 67W fast charging is a standout feature, and the higher RAM option is a plus. The 12X's camera system is decent with the macro lens but lacks the versatility of the telephoto lens available in the S24 FE.
- Competitive Advantages: Lighter, more compact design, faster charging, potential for smoother multitasking with the higher RAM option, Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio.
- Trade-offs: Older chipset and software mean it lags behind in raw power and modern Android features. It has weaker outdoor visibility, with a lower screen brightness, and less versatility in the camera system compared to the S24 FE.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE:
- Strengths: This is the performance beast with a much more powerful and efficient chipset, a larger, brighter display, and a more versatile camera setup with a dedicated telephoto lens. It also comes with the latest Android version, offering a more modern experience.
- Competitive Advantages: Significantly better performance, much brighter display, more versatile camera with telephoto lens, wireless charging, newer software, and expandable storage options.
- Trade-offs: It is larger, heavier, slower charging, higher price, and only 8GB RAM.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12X:
- Best For: Users who prioritize a compact, lightweight phone with good audio and the convenience of blazing-fast charging. Ideal for those who don't push their phones to the limit and prefer a premium feel over maximum raw power.
- Use Cases: Casual gaming, media consumption, everyday use. This device shines for those who appreciate the finer details, such as audio quality and lightweight design.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE:
- Best For: Power users, gamers, and anyone who wants the latest tech. This is the phone for those who prioritize performance, screen quality, and camera versatility.
- Use Cases: Heavy gaming, demanding apps, photography, videography, content creators, and users who require a bright display for outdoor use.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- How much do I prioritize sheer performance and display brightness? If these are high priorities, the S24 FE is the clear choice. If you're a casual user who doesn't push your phone too hard, the 12X is enough.
- Do I prefer a compact, lightweight phone, or am I okay with a larger device for a better screen experience? If compactness is a must, the Xiaomi 12X is your pick. If a bigger, brighter screen wins, go for the S24 FE.
- How much am I willing to pay for the latest technology and advanced features? The S24 FE is likely to come with a higher price tag but offers more advanced tech like the latest chipset, better screen, wireless charging, telephoto lens, and latest OS version. If your budget is a concern, or if you don't necessarily need cutting-edge tech, then the Xiaomi 12X is a solid option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget Conscious User: Xiaomi 12X is better for those who want a balance between features and affordability.
- Mobile Gamer/Power User: Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. Its superior performance and display are ideal for gaming and demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiast: Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. The versatile camera system with the telephoto lens and brighter screen makes it superior for photography.
- Commuter/Traveler: Xiaomi 12X. Its faster charging is convenient, but the lack of a telephoto lens might be a drawback. If size isn't a problem, then the S24 FE will be perfect.
My Choice
If I had to choose between the two, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. Even though I appreciate the compact size of the Xiaomi 12X and the convenience of its fast charging, the S24 FE's sheer power, significantly brighter display, more modern software, and better overall camera system are more appealing to me. I use my phone for a bit of everything, from gaming and video editing to photography and productivity on the go, and the S24 FE is better suited for my needs. The larger screen and the brighter display is also a necessity for me, since I'm often out and about under direct sunlight. While the faster charging on the Xiaomi 12X is a very nice feature to have, it doesn't outweigh all of the advantages that the S24 FE offers.
