1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi 9T | Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 162.3 x 77.3 x 9.6 mm | 168.6 x 76.3 x 8.2 mm | Redmi 12 5G is taller and thinner, potentially feeling more modern. Redmi 9T is wider, and thicker which may feel more bulky in pocket. |
| Weight | 198g | 199g | Virtually identical; both feel similar in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.53" | 6.79" | Redmi 12 5G has a slightly larger screen, more immersive for videos and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 1080 x 2460 | Redmi 12 5G has a slightly sharper image, though the difference may not be noticeable in everyday use. |
| PPI | 395 | 396 | Both have similar sharpness; images will look crisp on both. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Similar color reproduction and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Redmi 12 5G has smoother scrolling and animations, offering a slightly more fluid experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness specification is missing. It's hard to compare how they fare under bright daylight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 (11nm) | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (4nm) | Redmi 12 5G has a newer, more efficient chipset resulting in significantly faster performance in apps and games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 174,500 | 456,552 | Redmi 12 5G offers significantly better performance, smoother for multitasking and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Adreno 613 | Redmi 12 5G offers better graphics performance for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | Redmi 12 5G captures slightly more detailed photos. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.8 | Redmi 9T lets in slightly more light, could be better in low light (though sensor size is more important than aperture). |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | Unknown | Redmi 9T has a larger sensor, generally better image quality |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 8MP | 5MP | Redmi 9T captures more detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/2.2 | Redmi 9T lets in more light for selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Yes | No | Redmi 9T has an ultra-wide lens for more flexible photos. |
| Macro Lens | Yes | No | Redmi 9T has a dedicated macro lens. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes | Redmi 12 5G has Electronic Image stabilization for smoother video recording |
| Camera DxOMark | Not Available | 63 (Mobile) | Redmi 12 5G's camera performance is benchmarked, while Redmi 9T has no comparable score, making direct comparisons harder. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 6000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Redmi 9T has a larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 18W | 18W | Both have similar charging speeds; not class-leading. |
| Charging Features | Reverse charging, 22.5W charger inbox | None | Redmi 9T can charge other devices and comes with a faster charger, which still charges at 18W max. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 13 (upgradable to 14) | Redmi 12 5G has a much newer OS, more features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac | Both support similar Wi-Fi standards, dual-band is present. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 | Redmi 12 5G has additional features (EDR, HID) |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | Redmi 9T supports more satellite systems, potentially better accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Redmi 12 5G offers more storage. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Redmi 12 5G can have more RAM, better multitasking performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | Redmi 9T has better audio quality due to Hi-Res Audio and Stereo Speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both have similar fingerprint sensor tech for quick unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Both phones have same screen protection. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi 9T Advantages:
- Larger Battery: 6000mAh battery provides significantly longer battery life, ideal for users who need all-day power without frequent charging.
- Better Audio: Hi-Res Audio and stereo speakers offer a superior audio experience for music and media consumption.
- More Camera Lenses: It includes a Wide Angle lens and macro lens.
- Reverse Charging: The ability to charge other devices can be useful in a pinch.
- Better Selfie Camera Higher resolution and wider aperture provide better selfie shots.
Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset provides significantly better overall performance for gaming, apps and general usage.
- Smoother Display: 90Hz refresh rate offers a smoother user experience.
- Newer Android OS: Comes with Android 13 (upgradable to 14) providing the latest software features and security.
- Larger Internal Storage: Offers more storage capacity for apps, media, and files (256GB option).
- Better Video Recording Uses stabilization technology for smoother video recording.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Redmi 9T sacrifices performance for better audio and battery life.
- The Redmi 12 5G trades battery capacity for a smoother, faster experience.
- Both phones don't offer expandable storage which may be important for users with large media libraries.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi 9T is ideal for:
- Users needing maximum battery life: People who are away from power outlets for extended periods and prioritize battery life above all else.
- Audiophiles on a budget: Users who enjoy listening to music or watching videos and appreciate better audio quality through its stereo speakers.
- Casual photographers: Users who want a versatile camera setup with wide-angle and macro lenses for flexibility.
Use Cases:
- Long travel days without access to chargers.
- Listening to music or podcasts for extended periods without worrying about battery life.
- Casual photography with diverse perspectives using a wide-angle or macro lens.
Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G is ideal for:
- Users prioritizing performance: Gamers and those who need a phone for heavy multitasking and fast app loading.
- Users who value a smooth display: People who appreciate smooth animations and scrolling for a more fluid user experience.
- Users who want the latest Android version: Those who want the latest features and security updates.
Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming.
- Smooth multitasking between various apps.
- Watching videos and general content consumption with smoother scrolling.
Price-to-Value:
- The Redmi 9T might be more attractive for price-sensitive buyers who prioritize battery and audio quality over raw speed.
- The Redmi 12 5G will provide better value for users who want newer tech, faster performance, and a smoother display.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is battery life to you? If you need a device that can last a long time without charging, Redmi 9T is the better option. If you charge often, Redmi 12 5G offers better performance for moderate usage.
- Do you prioritize performance or audio quality? If you frequently game, use heavy apps or perform many multitasking operations, the Redmi 12 5G is a much better choice. If you want a device with better sound and don't need to play demanding games, the Redmi 9T's stereo speakers would be more valuable.
- Do you need a wide-angle lens or macro lens? If you need creative freedom with these types of lenses, go for the Redmi 9T. If you don't use them frequently, go for the Redmi 12 5G.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Phone User, Battery Priority: Choose Redmi 9T for its larger battery and good performance for daily usage.
- Scenario 2: Gamer/Multi-Tasker: Redmi 12 5G is the clear choice for its superior performance and smooth display.
- Scenario 3: Casual User, Budget Conscious: Redmi 9T may be more suitable due to potentially lower price and solid basic features.
- Scenario 4: General user who values smooth experience: Go for the Redmi 12 5G because of its smoother display and better performance.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would select the Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G.
Here's why:
- The performance difference is substantial. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 offers a much more fluid and responsive experience in everyday usage, something I value highly.
- The 90Hz display offers a noticeable upgrade in terms of visual smoothness, which improves the experience of browsing social media, reading text, and using the phone in general.
- While I value having a long-lasting battery, the 5000mAh battery of the Redmi 12 5G is adequate for a full day of moderate use, which suits my typical needs.
- The newer Android version is also important, as I prefer to be running on the latest available software and enjoy the new features.
Although I appreciate the Redmi 9T's larger battery and stereo speakers, the benefits of the Redmi 12 5G's performance and display smoothness make it a better all-around experience for my usage. I often multitask and play games on the go, and the improved performance makes this a much better option. The lack of a wide-angle camera is something I rarely use, and I do not need the reverse charging feature. Therefore, it is not a big loss.
