Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi 12X and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. I'll break down their specs, explain what they mean for you, and help you figure out which one might be the better fit.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | The Redmi Note 12S is noticeably taller and wider, slightly less thick, making the 12X more pocketable. |
| Weight | 176g | 176g | Both phones are remarkably identical in weight. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.43" | The Redmi Note 12S has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption, and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same level of sharpness, making them equally good for reading and video. |
| Pixel Density | 419 PPI | 409 PPI | The 12X has a slightly sharper image due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both devices, ideal for media consumption and viewing. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | The 12X has smoother animations, noticeable when scrolling or playing fast-paced games. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1000 nits | The 12X is easier to see in bright sunlight, making it a better outdoor companion. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 (7 nm) | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | The 12X offers superior performance for demanding tasks and gaming due to its more advanced processor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 412,400 | The 12X is significantly faster in benchmarks, indicating noticeably better performance in everyday tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G57 MC2 | The 12X has a more powerful GPU which translates into better graphics in games and faster processing of visuals. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP (f/1.88, 1/1.56", 1.0µm, Sony IMX766) | 108MP (f/1.8, 1/1.52", 0.7µm, Samsung S5KHM2) | The Redmi Note 12S has a higher-resolution sensor, but the 12X has a larger individual pixel size for better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP (f/2.45, 1/3", 0.7µm, Omnivision OV32B) | 16MP (f/2.4) | The 12X offers significantly higher-resolution selfies with better image quality. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 13MP (f/2.4, 1/3.06", 1.12µm, OV13B10) | 8MP (f/2.2) | The 12X's wide-angle captures more details, resulting in superior shots. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP (f/2.4, Samsung) | 2MP (f/2.4) | The 12X will capture more detailed macro shots than the 12S. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps with EIS | 1080p@30fps | The 12X has significantly more versatile video capabilities including 8K and 4K recording, whereas the Note 12S is capped at 1080p. |
| Features | OIS, 4K/8K, many advanced | basic, no 4K | The 12X features optical image stabilization, providing smoother video and sharper photos. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 5000 mAh | The Redmi Note 12S has a bigger battery for potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | The 12X charges much faster, getting you back up and running quicker. |
| Reverse Charging | No | Yes | The Redmi Note 12S can charge other devices. |
| Other | |||
| Software | Android 11 | Android 13 | The Redmi Note 12S has a more recent Android version out of the box. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | 802.11ac | The 12X supports faster, more stable Wi-Fi connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | The Redmi Note 12S has the latest version of Bluetooth. |
| Storage Options | 128GB or 256GB | 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB | Both phones offer up to 256GB of storage; the Redmi Note 12S offers a base configuration of 64GB. |
| RAM Options | 8GB or 12GB | 6GB or 8GB | The 12X offers more RAM, resulting in better performance for multitasking, and gaming. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers, 2 mics | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | The 12X delivers better audio quality and has 2 microphones for clearer calls and recordings. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | basic | side-mounted | The Redmi Note 12S provides a more ergonomically friendly way to unlock the phone. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | The 12X's screen is more scratch and crack resistant. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers additional storage via microSD card. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12X:
- Strengths: The 12X is a performance powerhouse, boasting a superior processor and GPU, significantly better display and camera quality, faster charging speeds, and more advanced Wi-Fi. Its compact size also makes it more pocketable.
- Competitive Advantages: It's ideal for gaming, demanding apps, and users who want top-notch image and video quality.
- Trade-offs: The 12X has a smaller battery and runs on an older Android version.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S:
- Strengths: The Redmi Note 12S has a larger battery for potentially longer usage, a higher-resolution main camera, and a more recent version of Android. It also offers a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Competitive Advantages: This phone is perfect for those who prioritize battery life, an updated operating system, and the convenience of side fingerprint reader.
- Trade-offs: The Redmi Note 12S has a slower processor, a less capable GPU, slower charging, and inferior image processing and video capabilities.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12X is best for:
- Gamers: The Snapdragon 870 and Adreno 650 provide a smooth gaming experience, and the 120Hz display provides fluid animations.
- Creative professionals: The higher video quality, stabilized video, and high-resolution cameras make it a great tool for content creation.
- Tech enthusiasts: It is a high-performance device with the latest connectivity standards.
- Users who value a compact device: The smaller form factor will be appealing for those who prefer portability.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is best for:
- Casual users: It has all the basics for daily usage, a long-lasting battery, and runs on a more recent Android OS.
- Budget-conscious consumers: If you don't need top-tier performance but want a reliable smartphone, this is a great option.
- Users who value battery life: The 5000mAh battery is a boon for those who are on the go and not near a charger all the time.
- Users who prefer side-mounted fingerprint sensor: If you do not like the under-display fingerprint sensor, the side-mounted one might be a better fit.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
Performance or Battery? If you need peak performance, the 12X is the better choice. If battery life is your primary concern, go with the Redmi Note 12S.
Camera Quality or High Resolution? The 12X excels in overall image quality, especially in low light, while the Redmi Note 12S offers a higher resolution for its main camera. Do you need the image quality, or the high-resolution sensor?
Compact Size or Larger Screen? If you like smaller phones, the 12X is the more compact device; otherwise, if you prefer bigger displays, the Redmi Note 12S is a more viable option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming Enthusiast - If you play graphic-intensive games frequently, the Xiaomi 12X is the clear winner with its powerful processor, GPU, and smoother 120Hz display.
- Scenario 2: Travel Blogger - The Xiaomi 12X's advanced video capabilities, OIS, and superior image quality make it ideal for content creation on the go.
- Scenario 3: Everyday User - If you use your phone for browsing, social media, and occasional photos, and want a longer battery life, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is an excellent and more affordable choice.
- Scenario 4: Performance Lover - If you prioritize performance in all kinds of tasks, the Xiaomi 12X is a top performer.
Personal Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally go with the Xiaomi 12X.
Here's why:
As a tech journalist and analyst, I prioritize performance, camera quality, and display fidelity above all else. The 12X’s superior processor and GPU make it more versatile, handling everything from heavy multitasking to demanding games. The significantly better screen and camera quality also play a huge role in my decision. Although it has a smaller battery, the significantly faster charging allows me to use the phone to its full extent. While the Note 12S is a solid phone for general use, the 12X better aligns with my performance and feature needs.
Ultimately, the "better" phone depends on the user. But for my specific use cases and priorities, the Xiaomi 12X takes the lead, showcasing the benefits of opting for a device that's a power-packed option over a generalist.
