Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G vs. Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 161.8 × 75.3 × 8.9 mm | 168.6 × 76.3 × 8.2 mm | Redmi 12 5G is taller and slightly wider, but thinner. Note 10 5G might feel more compact but also slightly bulkier. |
| Weight | 190g | 199g | Redmi Note 10 5G is marginally lighter, which could be noticeable during extended use. |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.79" | Redmi 12 5G offers a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2460 | Both have similar FHD+ resolution; slight difference is negligible. |
| Pixel Density | 405 PPI | 396 PPI | Both offer a similar level of sharpness; difference is barely perceptible. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | IPS LCD | Both use the same technology, meaning similar color reproduction and viewing angles. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have the same peak brightness, but the actual level is not provided. This makes it difficult to compare real-world visibility in bright light. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Redmi 12 5G has a more modern and efficient chip, likely resulting in better performance and battery management. |
| AnTuTu Score | 381,300 | 456,552 | Redmi 12 5G has a higher benchmark score, indicating better overall performance for demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 613 | Redmi 12 5G likely has better graphics performance, benefiting gamers. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/2" sensor | 50MP, f/1.8 | Redmi 12 5G has a higher megapixel count. Redmi Note 10 5G has a wider aperture and larger sensor size which would improve performance in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 5MP, f/2.2 | Redmi Note 10 5G has a higher resolution and wider aperture for selfies. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both are similar for bokeh effects in portrait mode. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | Not Available | Redmi Note 10 5G offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, No stabilization | 1080p@30fps, Yes stabilization | Redmi 12 5G offers better video quality with stabilization while Redmi Note 10 5G's videos are less stable. |
| DxOMark Score | Not Available | Mobile: 63 (Photo: 57, Video: 76) | Redmi 12 5G has a verified camera score indicating decent photo and video quality. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, Triple camera, Night Mode | Dual camera, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Panorama | Redmi Note 10 5G offers 4K video and a dedicated night mode. Redmi 12 5G has better autofocus, OIS and panorama features. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G | Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery capacity, for similar daily usage. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 18W fast charging | Both support 18W fast charging, resulting in comparable charging times. |
| Features | Reverse charging | Non-removable | Redmi Note 10 5G has a minor advantage of being able to charge other devices. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Slightly lighter and smaller, making it easier to handle.
- Better Selfie Camera: Higher resolution front camera with a wider aperture.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.
- 4K Video recording Ability to shoot in 4K
- Reverse Charging: Ability to charge other devices using its battery.
- Hi-Res Audio: Higher quality audio playback.
- Gyroscope: Better for gaming and motion-based applications.
- Galileo GPS: More satellite system support for better location accuracy.
Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G Advantages:
- Newer & Faster Chipset: Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 offers better performance, efficiency, and future-proofing.
- Better AnTuTu Score: Significantly higher benchmark score, indicating overall performance advantage.
- Marginally Larger Display: Slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience.
- Video Stabilization: Offers stabilization for smoother video recording.
- Optical Stabilization (OIS): Better image stabilization, especially in low light conditions.
- Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF): Faster and more accurate autofocus.
- Newer Android Version: Ships with Android 13 and is upgradable to Android 14, offering the latest features and security updates.
Trade-offs:
- The Redmi Note 10 5G sacrifices performance for a better selfie camera, macro lens, 4k video and reverse charging and Hi-Res Audio, while the Redmi 12 5G prioritizes performance and the latest features, at the cost of the above features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize a balance of camera features, a compact size, and basic functionality. Good for individuals who listen to music, do not do much video, and need to charge other devices.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday photography including macro close-up images.
- Casual users who need a phone for daily tasks, social media, and some media consumption.
- Users who value audio quality
- Users who need reverse charging for other devices
- Users who prefer more compact designs.
Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize performance, a larger screen, and the latest software, and are willing to trade some camera features.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gamers who need good graphics performance.
- Users who consume a lot of video content and prefer larger screens.
- Users who need their device to be future-proof with software updates.
- Users who want stable and crisp video recording.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance vs. Camera? Do you value the latest features, or is a balanced camera setup with a Macro lens, 4k video and Hi-Res Audio more important?
- Size and Handling? Do you prioritize a more compact phone or a larger display for content consumption?
- Software Updates? Do you want the latest Android version with potential future upgrades?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User: If you primarily use your phone for social media, browsing, and basic tasks, the Redmi Note 10 5G provides a balanced experience at a potentially lower price.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Gamer: The Redmi 12 5G is the better option with its stronger performance, making it more suitable for gaming and demanding applications.
- Scenario 3: Media Enthusiast: If you enjoy watching videos and movies on your phone, the Redmi 12 5G's larger display and video stabilization is more appealing.
- Scenario 4: Photography Focused: If you like casual photography with macro lens capability, the Redmi Note 10 5G would be more appealing for you.
My Choice and Explanation
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G.
Here's why:
- Performance: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset offers a significant advantage in performance compared to the Dimensity 700. As someone who frequently uses various apps, the snappier and more efficient performance of the Redmi 12 5G is a better long-term investment.
- Future-Proofing: The Redmi 12 5G's newer software and potential for future upgrades are also important. Getting Android 13 out of the box and an upgrade to Android 14 gives it an advantage in terms of the longevity of software support, and security updates.
- Video Recording: While I appreciate the 4K video offered in the Redmi Note 10 5G, I prefer a smoother video experience, the optical stabilization of the Redmi 12 5G makes it a superior choice for capturing memories on video.
- Screen Size: The slightly larger display is also a plus for me, as it improves the experience of consuming media and reading articles on the phone.
- Compromise: Although the Redmi Note 10 5G offers features I value like a dedicated Macro lens, Hi-Res audio and reverse charging, the Redmi 12 5G's improvements in processing power and its newer and more feature-rich operating system, are more important for my overall usage patterns.
While the Redmi Note 10 5G offers a few advantages, the Redmi 12 5G seems like a better choice if I had to pick one.
