1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco M3 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 162.3 × 77.3 × 9.6 mm | 164.2 × 76.1 × 8.1 mm | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is slightly taller and thinner, potentially feeling more modern. Poco M3 is a bit wider and thicker. |
| Weight | 198g | 201.8g | Virtually identical weight; negligible difference in hand. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones with no foldable design. |
| ### Display |
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco M3 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.53" | 6.67" | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers a slightly more immersive viewing experience due to the larger screen. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2400 | Very similar sharpness on both phones; minor difference not noticeable in most situations. |
| PPI | 395 | 395 | Identical pixel density; similar level of sharpness. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has superior display with deeper blacks, higher contrast, vibrant colors, and better outdoor visibility. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has smoother scrolling and animations, making it feel more responsive. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers dramatically better visibility in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco M3 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6115 Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Qualcomm SM7150 Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a more powerful processor; faster app loading, better multitasking, smoother gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 185,028 | 397,200 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers significantly better performance, noticeable in everyday use and demanding applications. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Adreno 618 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers better gaming and graphics performance. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco M3 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/2", Samsung S5KGM1, 0.80 µm | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52", Samsung S5KHM2, 0.70 µm | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G captures more detailed images due to higher resolution and larger sensor. Poco M3 has a wider aperture which might be better in some low light situations. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 1/4", Omnivision OV8856, 1.12 µm | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.13", Sony IMX471 Exmor RS, 1.00 µm | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has higher resolution and a larger sensor, potentially better detail and low-light performance. Poco M3's wider aperture might help in low light |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX355, 1.14 µm | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers the flexibility of capturing wider scenes; Poco M3 lacks this feature. |
| Portrait (Depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", GalaxyCore GC02M1, 1.75 µm | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G can create more realistic bokeh in portrait mode. Poco M3 doesn't offer a dedicated depth sensor. |
| Macro Lens | None | 5MP, f/2.4, 1/5", Omnivision OV5675, 1.12 µm | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G can take close-up macro shots; a feature missing on the Poco M3. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, Slow-motion 120fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps; Slow-motion 960fps | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers higher quality video recording with 4K resolution and faster slow-motion capabilities, also supports 60fps at 1080p |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, DIS, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Cont. shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detect., WB, ISO, Exposure, Scene, Self-timer | 4K Video, Digital zoom, Quadruple camera, DIS, Autofocus, Touch focus, Cont. autofocus, Cont. shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detect., WB, ISO, Exposure, Scene, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has more versatile camera features, including 4K video recording, continuous autofocus, RAW support, and dedicated Night Mode for better low light shots. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco M3 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6000mAh | 5020mAh | Poco M3 offers better battery life, likely lasting longer on a single charge. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 67W fast charging | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G charges much faster, convenient for quickly topping up the battery. |
| Features | Reverse, Non-removable, 22.5W charger in-box | Reverse, Non-removable | Both phones offer reverse charging but Poco M3 includes a faster 22.5W charger in box. |
Storage and Memory
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco M3 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G provides more storage space for photos, videos and apps; Poco M3 comes with lower base storage options |
| RAM | 4/6 GB | 6/8 GB | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers better multitasking performance and app handling due to more RAM. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for storage expansion via microSD card. |
Other
| Feature | Xiaomi Poco M3 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 10 | Android 11 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a slightly newer operating system. |
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band, Hotspot, Direct, Display | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual-band, Hotspot, Direct, Display | Both phones support similar WiFi standards for reliable connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE, A2DP | 5.1 LE, A2DP, EDR, HID | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a newer version with additional features like EDR and HID, potentially slightly better performance. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, NavIC System | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Poco M3 supports additional satellite navigation systems (NavIC), potentially offering more precise location tracking in certain areas. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both phones support two SIM cards simultaneously. |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both phones provide high-quality audio output and an immersive experience through stereo speakers. |
| Security | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both phones offer secure and convenient biometric unlocking. |
| Build Quality | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers slightly better scratch and shatter resistance due to newer generation of Gorilla Glass. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a gyroscope, which is beneficial for gaming and advanced motion-based apps. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness for vivid visuals and smooth performance, especially in outdoor conditions.
- Enhanced Performance: Significantly faster chipset (Snapdragon 732G) and GPU (Adreno 618) for smoother multitasking, gaming, and app performance.
- Advanced Camera System: Higher resolution main camera, an ultrawide lens, macro lens and dedicated depth sensor, coupled with higher quality video recording up to 4K.
- Faster Charging: 67W fast charging provides substantially quicker battery top-ups.
- Newer Bluetooth and Operating System: Bluetooth 5.1 and Android 11 offering more up-to-date connectivity options.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 offers better protection
Practical Implications: The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers a far more premium and responsive user experience. It's better for those who value high-quality visuals, gaming, demanding apps, and capturing superior photos and videos.
Xiaomi Poco M3 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: 6000mAh battery offers longer battery life, potentially lasting through a day and half or even two days for light usage.
- More Precise Location: Includes NavIC system for better location tracking in certain regions.
- Fast charger in-box: Comes with a 22.5W fast charger in the box
Practical Implications: The Poco M3 is suitable for users who prioritize long battery life and don't need the highest level of performance. It's a great option for budget-conscious users that value endurance over performance.
Trade-offs:
- Poco M3 sacrifices display quality, camera versatility and overall performance for better battery life and a more affordable price point.
- Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G sacrifices some battery capacity for higher performance, better visuals and much faster charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G:
- Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize a premium visual experience and smooth performance.
- Gamers who want to play mobile games at higher settings.
- Photography and videography enthusiasts who want versatile camera options and high-quality output.
- Those who value fast charging for convenient battery management.
- Specific Use Cases:
- Playing graphics-intensive games.
- Watching high-resolution video content on the go.
- Capturing detailed photos and 4K videos.
- Heavy multitasking with numerous apps running in the background.
Xiaomi Poco M3:
- Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious consumers who prioritize long battery life.
- Users who perform basic everyday tasks and don't require intense performance.
- Individuals who need a reliable phone that can last multiple days on a single charge
- Specific Use Cases:
- Browsing the web, social media, emails and consuming content
- Long commutes where charging might not be readily available.
- Basic photography and video recording
- Users that want to make calls and text messages.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality to you? (Do you value vibrant colors, high refresh rates, and outdoor visibility, or is a basic screen sufficient?)
- How much do you value performance for gaming or demanding apps? (Are you a heavy mobile gamer, or do you just need a phone for basic use?)
- How important is battery life versus fast charging? (Do you need a phone that can last multiple days, or is rapid charging more important?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User with Basic Needs: If you're primarily concerned with affordability and long battery life, the Xiaomi Poco M3 is the better choice, as it provides a reliable experience for basic tasks.
- Scenario 2: User Prioritizing Visuals and Performance: If you prioritize a high-quality display, gaming capabilities, a versatile camera, and want quick charging, then the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is the superior option.
- Scenario 3: Balanced User with Moderate Needs: If you want a good balance between price, display, and performance, while still having a good camera experience, then the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is still the preferred option due to better hardware and screen tech.
- Scenario 4: User needs a phone with long battery life and doesn't care about performance or camera: If you want a phone with a larger battery and you don't care about the screen, the camera or the performance, then Xiaomi Poco M3 will be better as the battery capacity is 16% larger.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G. While the Poco M3 has a larger battery, the improvements in display quality (AMOLED vs IPS LCD), performance (Snapdragon 732G vs Snapdragon 662) and camera quality (108MP main sensor with ultrawide lens vs 48MP main sensor without) on the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G make it the better choice for me. The faster 67W charging is also a major convenience that outweighs the slightly shorter battery life as it is much more convenient to top up the battery quickly.
