Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Poco M3 vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco M3 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 162.3 × 77.3 × 9.6 mm | 165.9 × 76.2 × 8 mm | Redmi Note 12 is taller and thinner, Poco M3 is slightly wider and thicker. The Poco M3 will feel bulkier, while Redmi Note 12 more slender. |
| Weight | 198g | 188g | Redmi Note 12 is 10g lighter, potentially more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.53" | 6.67" | Redmi Note 12 offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2400 | Minimal difference; both are FHD+ displays, providing sharp visuals. |
| PPI | 395 | 395 | Identical pixel density, so sharpness is the same for both. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Redmi Note 12's AMOLED provides deeper blacks, richer colors, better contrast, and superior power efficiency when using dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Redmi Note 12 offers noticeably smoother scrolling and animations, improving the overall user experience, especially in gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Redmi Note 12 has vastly superior outdoor visibility, easily readable in bright sunlight. Poco M3 would be difficult to see in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6 nm) | Redmi Note 12's newer 6 nm chip offers significantly better performance and efficiency than the 11 nm chip in the Poco M3. |
| AnTuTu Score | 185,028 | 460,800 | Redmi Note 12 is significantly faster (149% difference), resulting in smoother app launches, better multitasking and improved gaming performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Adreno 619 | Redmi Note 12's newer GPU provides better graphics performance for gaming and other visually intensive applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 6000mAh | 5000mAh | Poco M3 has a larger battery for potentially longer battery life, although actual usage will vary. |
| Charging | 18W | 33W | Redmi Note 12 charges significantly faster, reducing time spent tethered to a power outlet. |
| Features | Reverse charging, 22.5W charger | Non-removable | Poco M3 can act as a power bank for other devices. It also includes a 22.5W charger, while the Redmi Note 12 may include a different one in the box |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/2", 0.8µm | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | Poco M3 has a larger sensor and wider aperture that can capture more light potentially leading to better low light photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 1/4", 1.12µm | 13MP, f/2.45, 1.12µm | Redmi Note 12 offers higher resolution but with a narrower aperture, which impacts light sensitivity. |
| Wide Angle | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4", 1.12µm | Redmi Note 12 can take wide-angle photos, while Poco M3 can not. |
| Macro | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | Redmi Note 12 can take macro shots, while Poco M3 can not. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, slow-motion: 120fps | 1080p@30fps, slow-motion: 120fps | Both offer similar video recording capabilities. |
| DXOMark Score | N/A | Mobile: 69, Photo: 74, Video: 49 | Redmi Note 12 has a measured camera performance, while Poco M3 does not |
| Camera Features | Basic features | Includes RAW, Night Mode and more | Redmi Note 12 has a greater range of shooting modes and more advanced photography features, better for flexible and advanced users |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 12 | Redmi Note 12 has a newer operating system with more features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5, Dual Band | Wi-Fi 5, Dual Band, MiMO | Both support similar Wi-Fi standards, Redmi Note 12's MiMO could lead to slightly more stable connections under certain circumstances |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 5.1 LE, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Redmi Note 12's Bluetooth 5.1 has better performance and supports high-quality audio codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, NavIC | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1) | Both offer similar GPS functionality. Poco M3 offers NavIC while Redmi Note 12 has better GPS support |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Redmi Note 12 has higher storage options for more photos, videos, and apps. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Redmi Note 12 has an 8GB option for better multitasking and more demanding applications. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio | Poco M3 has better audio output and provides more immersive audio experience for music and videos. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both have similar side-mounted fingerprint sensors, offering convenient biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Both phones use the same version of Corning Gorilla Glass screen protection |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Redmi Note 12 has a gyroscope sensor allowing use of augmented reality, better gaming controls and improved orientation based apps |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Poco M3 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 6000 mAh battery can provide longer usage time between charges. Practical implication: users who are away from power sources for extended periods or require heavy usage will benefit.
- Reverse Charging: Can be used as a power bank to charge other devices, which could be useful in emergencies.
- Hi-Res Audio & Stereo Speakers: Delivers superior audio playback for a more enjoyable media consumption experience.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate offers better colors, contrast, and significantly smoother visuals. Practical impact: much better for gaming, video watching, and overall user experience.
- Significantly Faster Performance: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chipset provides much faster app loading, multitasking and better gaming capabilities.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging reduces downtime significantly.
- Better Camera System: Wide angle and macro lens, better camera software and additional features leads to more versatile photography.
- More Storage & RAM Options: Up to 256GB storage and 8GB RAM allows for more apps, files, and better multitasking capabilities.
- Newer Operating System: Android 12 offers better features, security, and compatibility.
- Advanced Bluetooth and GPS: Offers LDAC for better wireless audio and more precise positioning with dual band GPS.
Trade-offs:
- The Poco M3 prioritizes battery life and audio quality at the expense of display quality and performance.
- The Redmi Note 12 has better screen, performance and charging but at the expense of raw battery capacity.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Poco M3 is ideal for:
- Users on a tight budget: It offers a large battery and decent core features at a very affordable price.
- Media Consumers: The large battery, stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio makes it excellent for watching movies and listening to music.
- Users who prioritize battery life: Those who need their phone to last throughout the day without needing a recharge.
- Users who do not game: The performance won't handle heavy gaming but is okay for basic use cases.
Use Cases: Long commutes, travel, outdoor activities, and users who primarily consume media.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is ideal for:
- Users who prioritize overall performance: It offers faster processing, a better display, and superior camera features.
- Gamers: The 120Hz AMOLED display and the faster processor enhance gaming performance.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The more versatile camera system and additional software features provides better results for photography and video.
- Users who want a modern smartphone experience: The newer OS and features provides better usability.
- Users who value fast charging: Those who need to quickly top up their device.
Use Cases: Daily usage, social media, casual gaming, photography, and users who need a balanced phone.
Price-to-Value: The Poco M3 is designed for budget-conscious users who want long battery life and media consumption while the Redmi Note 12 is a better overall device that offers superior value for its cost, thanks to its significantly improved performance, display, and camera.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my primary use case? (Media consumption, gaming, photography, basic usage).
- How important is battery life to me? (Do I need a phone that can last for multiple days, or can I charge daily).
- How much am I willing to spend? (Poco M3 is budget-friendly, but the Redmi Note 12 is better value for its cost).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget Conscious User: If your main concern is cost, and you value battery life over everything else, the Poco M3 is still a decent choice.
- Scenario 2: Performance & Display Priority: If you prioritize smooth performance, a high-quality display, and better camera features, the Redmi Note 12 is the better pick.
- Scenario 3: All-Round User: For users who need a balance of good performance, a decent display, and good camera features, the Redmi Note 12 is the better all-around phone, offering the better value for the increased cost.
- Scenario 4: Long Battery Life & Media Consumption: if your main usage is for media consumption and need a device that lasts for more than a day, then Poco M3 is the better choice.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would select the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12. The advantages in display technology (AMOLED 120Hz), processing power, camera versatility, faster charging, and the newer operating system are significant enough to outweigh the Poco M3’s larger battery and better audio. The Redmi Note 12 offers a more modern smartphone experience and is better for diverse use cases, providing better value and performance for the price. While the Poco M3 has its niche with users needing a long lasting battery and basic media capabilities, the Redmi Note 12 is the more practical and powerful device for most users in 2024, offering much better performance overall.
