Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi 10 and Redmi 12. Both phones are aiming for that sweet spot of affordability and functionality, but they have some key differences that can sway your decision. Here's a breakdown, as if we're chatting over coffee about the latest tech:
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi 10 | Xiaomi Redmi 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-08-20 | 2023-06-15 | Redmi 12 is nearly 2 years newer, benefiting from more recent tech and software advancements. |
| Dimensions | 162 × 75.5 × 8.9 mm | 168.6 × 76.3 × 8.2 mm | Redmi 12 is taller but slimmer; Redmi 10 is more compact. |
| Weight | 181g | 198.5g | Redmi 10 is noticeably lighter, likely more comfortable for long periods of use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.79" | Redmi 12 offers a larger screen for more immersive viewing; a better experience for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2460 | Both offer sharp visuals, but the Redmi 12 has a negligibly higher pixel count. |
| PPI | 405 | 396 | Virtually identical pixel density, both displays will look very crisp. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | Redmi 12 has the benefit of a more refined IPS LCD panel. | |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both provide smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is the same on both devices. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm) | Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm) | Same processor on both, indicating very similar day-to-day performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,600 | 249,400 | Very similar performance, both being in the low end of the midrange. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Identical graphics performance, meaning similar gaming capabilities. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Similar main sensors on both; expect comparable image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.1 | Redmi 10's slightly wider aperture may result in better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Same wide-angle sensor on both, meaning similar results. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Redmi 10 offers a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots; may have more natural bokeh. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both include a basic macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both offer similar standard video capabilities. |
| Features | Quadruple Camera | Triple Camera | Redmi 10 has an additional dedicated depth sensor; Redmi 12 does not |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer similar battery life, easily lasting a full day for most users. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Identical charging speeds, a bit slow in comparison to today's standards. |
| Features | Reverse charging | Reverse charging | Both can charge other devices; a nice little bonus. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13 (upgradable to 14) | Redmi 12 has a newer version of Android out of the box, potentially with more features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | Both offer the latest WiFi standards for fast and reliable internet. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 LE | Redmi 12 uses a newer Bluetooth version for potentially better connectivity and battery efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou | Similar GPS performance, accurate enough for navigation and tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both phones support two SIM cards at the same time. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Redmi 12 provides greater storage options. |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6 GB | 4 GB or 6GB or 8 GB | Redmi 12 offers an 8GB RAM variant, which will give much smoother multitasking experience. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage, so you're stuck with what you buy. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | Redmi 10 has dual speakers, which provide much better audio experience, especially when watching videos or listening to music. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both phones use fingerprint readers for easy and secure device unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Redmi 10 is more resistant to screen scratching and breaking. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Full suite of sensors | Full suite of sensors | Both phones offer standard motion, proximity, and light sensors for advanced features. |
2. Key Insights
- Redmi 12: The Modern Upgrade: It has a larger screen and a newer operating system, which provides a better user experience and longer software support. The higher RAM option is definitely a perk.
- Redmi 10: The Budget Contender: It is lighter, and comes with dual speakers, it also has a depth camera that may result in better portrait pictures.
- Performance is Similar: Both phones use the same chipset and GPU and deliver nearly identical real-world performance.
- Camera Differences: Redmi 10 has a dedicated depth sensor that may give slightly better portrait pictures, but the rest of the cameras are the same.
- Battery is Identical: Both devices have similar battery capacity and charging speed.
- Storage and RAM: Redmi 12 wins in this category, offering higher internal storage and RAM options.
- Design: The Redmi 12's slimmer profile and slightly larger screen give it a more modern feel.
- Audio: Redmi 10 has stereo speakers that will enhance the experience when listening to audio.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Redmi 10 is best for:
- Users seeking a more lightweight and compact phone.
- Those who value better audio quality when watching videos, movies or listening to music.
- People who prefer a dedicated depth camera for portrait shots.
- Budget-conscious buyers who don't need the latest OS.
- Redmi 12 is best for:
- Users who want a larger display for content consumption.
- Those who want the most up-to-date software and future support.
- Those who require more internal storage and RAM.
- Users looking for a slimmer and more modern design.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your choice:
- Do I prioritize a more modern software experience and larger screen? If yes, the Redmi 12 is better.
- Is a lighter and more compact device a priority? If yes, the Redmi 10 is better.
- Do I value better audio output, particularly when watching videos or listening to music? If yes, the Redmi 10 is better because of the stereo speakers.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Content Lover: If you're someone who watches a lot of videos, you'd appreciate the Redmi 12's larger screen and newer software and the Redmi 10's stereo speakers might improve the audio experience.
- On-the-Go User: If portability is key, you might prefer the Redmi 10's lighter design and more compact form.
- Budget Conscious: Both devices are good if you are on a budget, but given the small price differences, the Redmi 12 offers a newer operating system and more RAM for better performance.
- Photography Enthusiast: While both have similar main cameras, if you really care about portrait photos, the dedicated depth sensor of the Redmi 10 may be worth the trade-off.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I would lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi 12. Despite some disadvantages, such as the lack of dual speakers, the extra RAM, modern OS, bigger display, and higher storage options are essential features for modern usage. The Redmi 12 feels like it offers slightly better future-proofing. While the Redmi 10 is a great budget-friendly option, the minor compromises for a slightly modern device feel worth it in the long run. However, I will miss the Redmi 10 stereo speakers.
