Xiaomi Poco F4 vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G: A Detailed Comparison
Let's dive deep into the specs of the Xiaomi Poco F4 and the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G to see which phone comes out on top. Both are mid-range contenders, but subtle differences significantly impact the user experience.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco F4 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 163.2 x 76 x 7.7 | 164.2 x 76.1 x 8.1 | Poco F4 is slightly smaller and thinner, improving one-handed use. |
| Weight (g) | 195 | 201.8 | Poco F4 is noticeably lighter. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.67" | Identical screen sizes. |
| Type | AMOLED, 120Hz | AMOLED, 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and vibrant colors. |
| Peak Brightness | 1300 nits | 1100 nits | Poco F4 can get brighter, improving outdoor visibility. |
| HDR | HDR10+, Dolby Vision | Dolby Vision | Poco F4 supports HDR10+ for a wider range of HDR content. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 5G | Snapdragon 732G | Poco F4 boasts significantly faster CPU and GPU performance. |
| CPU | Octa-core (3.2 GHz Kryo 585...) | Octa-core (2.2 GHz Kryo 470...) | Poco F4 handles demanding tasks and gaming with greater ease. |
| RAM | 6/8/12GB | 6/8GB | More RAM options on Poco F4, catering to power users. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Sensor | 64MP Omnivision | 108MP Samsung | Redmi Note 12 Pro has higher resolution, potentially capturing more detail. |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 4K@30fps | Poco F4 allows for smoother, higher-resolution video recording. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 5000 mAh | Redmi Note 12 Pro has a larger battery, likely lasting longer. |
| Charging | 67W | 67W | Both offer fast charging speeds. |
2. Key Insights
- Performance: The Poco F4 is the clear winner in performance thanks to the powerful Snapdragon 870. This translates to smoother gaming, faster app loading, and a more responsive overall experience. The Redmi Note 12 Pro, with its Snapdragon 732G, is capable for everyday use but will show its limitations with more demanding tasks.
- Display: While both phones have impressive AMOLED displays with 120Hz refresh rates, the Poco F4's higher peak brightness ensures better visibility in sunlight. The inclusion of HDR10+ on the Poco F4 also provides a broader range of HDR content compatibility.
- Camera: The Redmi Note 12 Pro boasts a 108MP main sensor compared to the Poco F4's 64MP. While megapixels don't tell the whole story, the Redmi Note 12 Pro has the potential for more detailed images, especially in good lighting. However, the Poco F4's ability to record 4K video at 60fps gives it a significant edge in video recording.
- Battery: The Redmi Note 12 Pro packs a larger 5000 mAh battery, giving it an advantage in longevity. However, both phones support 67W fast charging, minimizing downtime.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Poco F4: Ideal for users who prioritize performance and a smooth, lag-free experience. Gamers, multitaskers, and those who demand the best possible performance from their phone will appreciate the Snapdragon 870.
- Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G: Suited for users who value battery life and camera resolution. Casual users, social media enthusiasts, and those who capture a lot of photos will find the Redmi Note 12 Pro a good fit.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- Are you a heavy gamer or multitasker? If yes, the Poco F4's superior performance is crucial.
- Is battery life your top priority? If yes, the Redmi Note 12 Pro offers a larger battery capacity.
- Do you shoot a lot of videos? If so, the Poco F4's 4K@60fps recording capability is a significant advantage.
My Choice: I would choose the Xiaomi Poco F4. As a tech journalist who frequently uses demanding apps and values a smooth, responsive experience, the Snapdragon 870's performance is a deciding factor for me. While the Redmi Note 12 Pro offers a larger battery and higher resolution camera, the performance difference is significant enough to sway my decision. The brighter display and HDR10+ support are welcome bonuses. I can always carry a power bank if battery life becomes a concern, but compromising on performance would hinder my daily workflow.
