Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the Xiaomi Redmi 10 and the Redmi 12C. These two budget-friendly smartphones from Xiaomi offer a compelling mix of features, but they target slightly different needs. I'll break down the technical specs and translate them into real-world experiences to help you decide which one is right for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a side-by-side comparison table, focusing on practical implications for everyday use:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi 10 | Xiaomi Redmi 12C | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Size | 162 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm | 168.8 x 76.4 x 8.8 mm | Redmi 12C is slightly taller and wider; 10 feels more compact |
| Weight | 181g | 192g | Redmi 10 is lighter, which might be better for one-handed use |
| Build Quality | Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Redmi 10 has screen protection, potentially more resistant to scratches |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.71" | Redmi 12C has a larger display, better for media consumption |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1650 | Redmi 10's display is significantly sharper, text is clearer and images are more detailed |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 405 | 268 | Redmi 10’s higher pixel density means a sharper and more vibrant screen |
| Technology | IPS LCD | Redmi 12C's IPS LCD should have good viewing angles, while the tech is not available for Redmi 10 | |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Redmi 10 provides smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have same peak brightness, but is not reported in nits |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | MediaTek Helio G88 | MediaTek Helio G85 | Redmi 10 has a slightly more powerful chipset for better overall performance |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,600 | 225,154 | Redmi 10 will perform better in demanding apps and games |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 | Similar graphics performance for gaming and multimedia |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Comparable main camera; Expect good photos in well-lit conditions |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 5MP | Redmi 10 takes better selfies thanks to more megapixels |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | None | Redmi 10 has an extra lens for wider shots |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Redmi 10 can capture depth information for portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both can take close up shots |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, 120fps slow-mo | 1080p@30fps, No slow-mo | Redmi 10 offers slow-mo video at higher frame rate |
| DXOMark | N/A | Main: 45 (Photo: 50, Video: 43) | Redmi 12C has a benchmark but not for Redmi 10 |
| Camera Features | Quad, 4K Video, RAW | Dual, PDAF, Panorama | Redmi 10 has a more versatile camera setup; Redmi 12C has PDAF autofocus |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacity; Expect similar battery life |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | Redmi 10 charges significantly faster |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging | None | Redmi 10 can charge other devices |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 12 | Redmi 12C ships with a newer version of Android out of the box |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac | Both have modern Wi-Fi standards for fast wireless connections |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1, AptX | Bluetooth 5.1 | Redmi 10 supports higher quality audio for wireless headphones |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128 GB | 32GB/64GB/128GB | Redmi 12C offers the lowest storage option |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB | 3GB/4GB/6GB | Similar ram options for multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No expandable storage for either, select your storage option carefully |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio Features | Redmi 10 has a slight edge in audio features offering better audio separation and immersion |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | rear-mounted fingerprint sensor | Redmi 10 features a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Accelerometer, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Redmi 10 additionally features: Light sensor, Compass, Gyroscope |
| SIM | |||
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Micro SIM + Nano SIM) | Both phones support dual SIMS, Redmi 12C has a micro Sim |
2. Key Insights
- Xiaomi Redmi 10 Strengths:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and smoother 90Hz refresh rate offer a significantly better visual experience.
- Better Performance: The Helio G88 chip and higher AnTuTu scores translate to smoother multitasking and gaming.
- More Versatile Camera: The inclusion of a wide-angle lens and higher resolution selfie camera provides greater flexibility.
- Faster Charging & Battery Features: 18W fast charging and reverse charging make it more convenient.
- Enhanced Audio: Stereo speakers enhance the overall media consumption experience.
- Better Security: Side mounted fingerprint sensor is more advanced.
- More Sensors: Light sensor, compass and gyroscope for a more complete experience.
- AptX support: Higher quality audio for wireless headphones.
- Xiaomi Redmi 12C Strengths:
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 12 out of the box.
- Larger Screen: The 6.71" screen is great for media consumption.
- DXOmark: Camera has been tested by DXOMark for a score.
- Affordability: Likely to be more budget-friendly, making it attractive to some users.
- Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Redmi 10: Slightly older model, no expandable storage.
- Redmi 12C: Lower resolution screen, slower charging, less capable camera system, lack of additional sensors and no stereo speakers.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi 10:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize screen quality, performance, and camera versatility.
- Use Cases: Great for daily social media, streaming, photography, and mobile gaming.
- Value: Offers a more premium experience for the price point.
Xiaomi Redmi 12C:
- Ideal for: Budget-conscious users looking for a large screen for media consumption and basic usage.
- Use Cases: Suitable for browsing, basic apps, and casual video watching.
- Value: An entry-level device that offers a good screen experience at the lowest price.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
How much do you value display quality? If you need a crisp and smooth screen, the Redmi 10 is the clear winner. If a large screen is your priority, then the Redmi 12C is better.
What are your main use cases? If you are planning on intensive gaming or multitasking, the Redmi 10 is better. If your needs are simpler such as calls, text and basic media, then Redmi 12C will be enough.
What is your budget? The Redmi 12C will be more affordable, but the Redmi 10 is better value if you can afford it.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Budget Buyer: If you have a tight budget but need a new phone, the Xiaomi Redmi 12C is the way to go. Its larger screen is ideal for media at a very affordable price.
Performance Seeker: If you want the best performance for gaming, multitasking, and media consumption then the Xiaomi Redmi 10 is the better choice because of the smoother display, better chipset, faster charging, and overall better features.
Camera Enthusiast: If you enjoy photography, the Xiaomi Redmi 10 is more versatile, thanks to its extra lenses, and more detailed selfie camera.
What I Would Choose and Why
Personally, I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi 10. As a tech journalist and someone who uses my phone extensively for everything from work to photography and gaming, I value a good screen and responsive performance. The higher resolution display and 90Hz refresh rate would make a huge difference in my daily experience. The better chipset, camera system with wide-angle lens, and faster charging makes it a superior overall package for my needs. While the Redmi 12C is a solid budget option, the Redmi 10 provides a level of performance and functionality that justify the cost for me. I do not prioritize a big screen, but rather a crisp and responsive experience.
