Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12X and the TCL 50 SE. These two phones represent different ends of the smartphone spectrum, and understanding their strengths and weaknesses is key to picking the right one.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of the key technical specifications and their practical implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | TCL 50 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 × 69.9 × 8.2 mm | 168.2 × 75.5 × 8.1 mm | The TCL is noticeably larger, making the Xiaomi more pocketable and easier to use one-handed. |
| Weight | 176g | 195g | Xiaomi is lighter, enhancing comfort during extended use. |
| Build | Gorilla Glass Victus (Screen) | Unknown (Screen) | Xiaomi has stronger screen protection, offering better resistance to scratches and drops. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.78" | TCL's larger screen is better for media consumption; Xiaomi is more comfortable for one-hand use. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2460 | Both offer sharp images with minimal difference in quality. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 419 | 396 | Xiaomi's display is slightly sharper, potentially offering better text clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Xiaomi's AMOLED provides superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Xiaomi's smoother refresh rate enhances animations and gameplay. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 900 nits | Xiaomi is better for outdoor visibility with its brighter display. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 | Helio G88 | Xiaomi offers significantly faster performance, smoother multitasking, and better gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 250,000 | Xiaomi shows vastly superior performance in benchmarks, indicating faster overall operation and better performance in demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Xiaomi’s GPU provides superior graphical performance for gaming and other graphically intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.88, 1.0µm) with Sony IMX766 | 50MP (f/1.8, 0.64µm) | TCL has a wider aperture for slightly better low-light performance, but Xiaomi has a larger sensor and pixel size that would make it better overall. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (f/2.45, 0.70µm) | 8MP (f/2.0, 1.12µm) | Xiaomi's selfie camera has a much higher resolution. TCL's wider aperture is better for low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP | None | Xiaomi can capture more in each shot with its dedicated wide-angle lens. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP | 2MP | Xiaomi's macro lens offers greater detail than TCLs. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K 24fps with EIS | 1080p 30fps | Xiaomi can record professional-quality video. |
| Camera Features | OIS, EIS, Ultra Stable, 4K/8K video | PDAF, Dual Camera | Xiaomi's video features and OIS provide higher quality video capabilities. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5010mAh | TCL has a larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Xiaomi charges much faster, reducing downtime significantly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | TCL has the latest version of Android with the benefits of new features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, MIMO | Wi-Fi 5 | Xiaomi has better Wi-Fi performance, with faster speeds and better stability. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 (A2DP, LE, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC) | 5.1 (A2DP, LE, EDR) | Xiaomi's bluetooth supports higher audio fidelity and transfer speeds. |
| 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, Galileo | Xiaomi supports a broader range of satellite systems for improved GPS accuracy and reliability. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB/12GB | 4GB/6GB | Xiaomi has significantly more RAM, better for heavy multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Features | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi offers much greater audio quality with more features. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | TCL has a more modern sensor with convenient side mounting. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Proximity | Xiaomi features a more comprehensive sensor suite. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12X Strengths:
- Performance Powerhouse: The Snapdragon 870 chipset offers a far superior performance than the Helio G88, leading to smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and better gaming.
- Superior Display: The AMOLED display is significantly better, with deeper blacks, vibrant colors, and a smoother 120Hz refresh rate.
- Advanced Camera System: The Xiaomi's camera system offers more features including higher resolution video recording, a wide-angle lens, and better stabilization.
- Faster Charging: The 67W fast charging significantly reduces charging times.
- Enhanced Audio Quality: Features like Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res audio, and dual speakers make the Xiaomi an audiophile’s choice.
TCL 50 SE Strengths:
- Larger Display: The 6.78” screen is preferable for users who like to immerse themselves in content consumption.
- Bigger Battery: The 5010mAh battery could translate to longer battery life for extended use.
- Latest Android Version: Ships with Android 14, ensuring access to the latest features and security updates.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Offers a more modern and convenient biometric authentication method.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- The Xiaomi 12X is older, meaning it might have a shorter software support cycle compared to the TCL.
- The TCL 50 SE lags behind in performance, display quality, and camera features. Its overall build feels like a budget option compared to Xiaomi's.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12X is best for:
- Performance Users: Gamers, multitaskers, and anyone who needs a phone that doesn't lag.
- Media Enthusiasts: Users who watch videos and stream content will appreciate the AMOLED display's superior visual quality.
- Photography Lovers: Those who like photography or videography, will appreciate the advanced camera features and stabilization.
- Users who need a compact phone: The Xiaomi's more manageable dimensions make it a comfortable fit for most hands.
TCL 50 SE is best for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those looking for a large-screen phone at a lower price point.
- Casual Users: Who prioritize battery life and larger screen size, without needing high performance.
- Users who prefer newer software: Android 14 gives the TCL an advantage in terms of feature and security updates.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Performance or Price? If you need smooth performance and advanced features, choose the Xiaomi. If price is the priority and you are willing to compromise on power, the TCL is more affordable.
- Display Quality or Size? Do you want a vibrant, smooth, and high-quality screen, or a larger one at the expense of contrast? If you choose quality the Xiaomi is the right phone, while if you want size, the TCL is the choice.
- Photography or Battery Life? Do you prioritize taking high-quality photos and videos, or longer battery life? The Xiaomi offers better photo capabilities, while the TCL aims to last longer through the day.
Scenario Recommendations:
- Frequent traveler needing power on the go: The Xiaomi 12X, with its fast charging and performance, would be ideal for quick power-ups and seamless multitasking.
- Student on a budget: The TCL 50 SE offers a balance of features and affordability.
- Passionate photographer/videographer: The Xiaomi 12X offers the more sophisticated camera system and high-quality video features that allow content creation.
- User needing a large screen for media consumption: The TCL 50 SE is better for longer content consumption with its large screen.
My Choice
If I were to choose, I'd go for the Xiaomi 12X. As someone who uses my phone for both productivity and entertainment, the enhanced performance, superior display, better camera capabilities, and faster charging make it a much more compelling option for me. The older operating system of the Xiaomi is a bit of a drawback, but the benefits outweigh it. While the larger screen and bigger battery of the TCL are enticing, the performance difference and superior camera of the Xiaomi are more impactful on my everyday experience. I value responsiveness, great visuals, and versatility and the Xiaomi 12X fits that bill perfectly.
