1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S | Xiaomi 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 160.5 × 74.5 × 8.3 mm | 163.6 × 74.6 × 8.2 mm | Xiaomi 12 Pro is slightly taller, but similar width and thickness. The difference is minimal and shouldn't noticeably impact handling for most users. |
| Weight | 178.8g | 204g | Redmi Note 10S is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for long usage periods. Xiaomi 12 Pro is heavier, which might be felt when held for extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.73" | Xiaomi 12 Pro's larger display provides a more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming. Redmi Note 10S offers a slightly more compact and comfortable experience for smaller hands. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3200 | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers noticeably sharper images, text, and finer details, providing a premium viewing experience. Redmi Note 10S is still sharp, but not as crisp for discerning eyes. |
| PPI | 409 | 521 | Xiaomi 12 Pro has higher pixel density which enhances sharpness. The difference would be noticeable in side-by-side comparisons, but for most users, the Redmi is very good too. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors, deep blacks, and wide viewing angles. The display technology is very comparable in terms of quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Xiaomi 12 Pro's smoother animations are more visually appealing for scrolling, gaming, and general interface use. The Redmi Note 10S's 60Hz will appear less fluid in comparison. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 1500 nits | Xiaomi 12 Pro is significantly better outdoors in sunlight, providing better screen visibility compared to the Redmi Note 10S. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers much faster processing, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance due to its flagship chipset. The Redmi Note 10S is suitable for daily tasks, but struggles with more demanding applications. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 1,177,498 | Xiaomi 12 Pro's much higher score translates into faster app loading, better gaming, and a smoother user experience overall. This difference is huge. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Adreno 730 | Xiaomi 12 Pro’s GPU excels in graphics-intensive tasks like gaming, providing better frame rates and visuals. Redmi Note 10S is less capable for high-end graphics. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4600mAh | Redmi Note 10S has a slightly larger battery, which might offer slightly longer battery life, although this is dependent on usage. |
| Charging | 33W | 120W | Xiaomi 12 Pro's much faster charging means you can quickly top up the battery in very little time. Redmi Note 10S’s charging is slower in comparison. |
| Charging Features | Reverse, non-removable | 120W Wired, 50W Wireless, 10W Reverse, Non-removable, Surge P1 chip | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers wireless charging, much faster wired charging using the Surge P1 chip and it can also wirelessly reverse charge other devices, which the Redmi Note 10S does not offer |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res | 64MP | 50MP | Redmi Note 10S has a higher megapixel count, but this doesn't necessarily mean better quality. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.9 | Redmi Note 10S has a slightly wider aperture which could mean it takes a little bit better pictures in low light |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/1.28" | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a larger sensor which typically leads to better dynamic range and low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.70 µm pixel size | 1.22 µm pixel size | Xiaomi 12 Pro’s larger pixels capture more light, improving low-light performance and image quality. |
| Selfie Camera Res | 13MP | 32MP | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a much higher resolution selfie camera, meaning clearer and more detailed images. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.06" | 1/3.14" | Redmi Note 10S has a slightly larger sensor, which is better for low light conditions |
| Wide Angle Res | 8MP | 50MP | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a significantly higher resolution ultrawide camera, for very detailed images. |
| Wide Angle Sensor Size | 1/2.8" | 1/2.76" | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a slightly larger sensor, which will perform a little bit better in low light |
| Portrait Mode Res | 2MP | 50MP | Xiaomi 12 Pro has much higher resolution for portraits. |
| Portrait Mode Sensor Size | 1/5" | 1/2.76" | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a much larger sensor, which will capture better details and low light. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | None | Redmi Note 10S offers a dedicated macro camera for close up photography which the Xiaomi 12 pro lacks. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 8K@24fps | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers significantly higher video resolution, useful for professional-grade filming. It also offers better video stabilization. |
| DXOMark Score | N/A | 129 | Only the Xiaomi 12 Pro has been tested on DXOmark which gives an indication of its professional level camera capabilities. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, Standard features | Triple camera, Optical zoom, OIS, Ultra stable, Standard features and RAW | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers additional features like Optical Zoom, OIS and RAW images for post-processing. Redmi Note 10S offers quad camera setup, which includes a macro lens and a depth sensor. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Up to 13) | Android 12 (No max version defined) | Xiaomi 12 Pro has a newer OS version at launch, with Redmi Note 10S being upgradable to Android 13. Software support is more prolonged for the Xiaomi 12 Pro. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (ac) | Wi-Fi 6 (ax) | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers faster Wi-Fi speeds, lower latency, and better performance in congested networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | Xiaomi 12 Pro features more modern Bluetooth version, which offers improved stability and more audio codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | Xiaomi 12 Pro has more accurate location services due to its additional satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIM usage. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers double storage space for high quality videos and photos. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB/12GB | Xiaomi 12 Pro has more RAM, providing a better user experience with more apps open at once |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither support external memory cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Xiaomi 12 Pro offers better audio features and more immersive experiences, with enhanced spatial audio and better audio capture capabilities. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint | basic fingerprint sensor | Xiaomi 12 Pro provides basic biometric security with fingerprint while Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has a more advanced side-mounted option which is better overall. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Xiaomi 12 Pro has more modern and durable screen protection making it more resistant to scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | Biometric, Motion, Proximity | Biometric, Motion, Environmental, Proximity | Xiaomi 12 Pro has additional sensors which improve its feature set and gives it an advantage for gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S Advantages:
- Lighter Design: More comfortable for extended use due to its lower weight.
- Potentially Longer Battery Life: Marginally larger battery could lead to slightly longer usage times between charges (although this will vary depending on use).
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens is good for those interested in taking close-up photography.
- Side Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: A more ergonomic and easier to reach fingerprint sensor than the one on the Xiaomi 12 Pro.
- Lower price: This is significantly cheaper than the Xiaomi 12 Pro making it accessible to budget conscious buyers.
Xiaomi 12 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Display: Larger, higher resolution, smoother refresh rate, and higher brightness make the display significantly better for visual experience.
- Flagship Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 provides much faster processing, better multitasking, and a smoother gaming experience, making it suitable for the most demanding tasks.
- Significantly Faster Charging: 120W wired and 50W wireless charging drastically reduces the time spent plugged in, and also allows reverse charging for other devices.
- Superior Camera System: Larger sensors, higher resolution on the ultrawide and front cameras and better video recording quality with additional professional features.
- Better Audio: Dolby Atmos and improved microphones for better audio capture and playback.
- Modern Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for faster, more reliable wireless connections.
- Advanced Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus offers superior protection against scratches and drops.
- Additional Sensors: The inclusion of additional sensors such as a Barometer and RGB improves the user experience for niche uses.
- Better build quality The use of higher quality materials gives a more premium feel than the Redmi Note 10S
Significant Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi 12 Pro is Heavier: It might not be as comfortable to hold for long periods for some users, due to its weight.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has a lower price : It is much cheaper than the Xiaomi 12 Pro and more accessible to budget conscious users.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has an additional Macro lens: The Redmi Note 10S comes with a macro lens that might be useful for users who want to take close up photos
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: People looking for a solid performing phone without flagship price
- Everyday Users: Those who mainly use their phone for communication, social media, and casual browsing.
- Users Seeking Lightweight Comfort: Prefers a lighter device that is more comfortable to hold for longer periods.
- Users who prefer taking close up photography: The addition of a macro lens might be useful for those interested in this type of photography.
Use Cases for Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S:
- Daily Commute: Listening to music, light browsing, and social media use.
- Basic Photography: Casual photography with good image quality for sharing on social media.
- Budget Gaming: Play less demanding games, although high graphics games may struggle.
- Long Use Days: Longer battery life will enable the phone to last a whole day of usage.
Xiaomi 12 Pro Ideal User:
- Power Users: People who demand top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize camera quality, advanced features, and the ability to take professional-level photos and videos.
- Media Consumers: Individuals who appreciate a large, high-quality display for immersive viewing experiences.
- Users seeking fast charging: Those who don't want to worry about running out of battery and want the convenience of fast and wireless charging.
Use Cases for Xiaomi 12 Pro:
- Gaming: High-performance gaming with smooth frame rates and detailed graphics.
- Professional Photography/Videography: Capturing high-resolution photos and 8K video for professional use or serious amateur photography.
- Media Consumption: Enjoying movies, videos, and games with a high-quality display and enhanced audio.
- Productivity: Smooth multitasking, quick app loading, and efficient performance for work-related tasks.
- Travel: Advanced GPS, superior camera, high quality screen and long battery life makes it a great travel phone.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers to Consider:
- What is your budget? The price difference is substantial between these two phones.
- How important is performance? Are you an avid gamer or do you use demanding applications regularly?
- How important is camera quality? Do you need professional quality photos and videos?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget User: If the budget is the primary concern and you only need basic functionality, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S provides excellent value for everyday use, with a macro camera for close up photography.
- Everyday User: If you are an average user and want a phone that will last you the day, then the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has the upper hand due to its larger battery capacity.
- Photography Enthusiast: If you want a top end camera experience with the ability to record professional-level video, the Xiaomi 12 Pro is the clear choice, with significantly better image and video quality, 8k resolution support and more professional level features.
- Power User: If gaming and demanding tasks are a priority, the Xiaomi 12 Pro provides the performance needed with its much more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor.
- Screen Quality Enthusiast: If a crisp, bright, large, high refresh rate screen is a priority, then the Xiaomi 12 Pro is the better choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Xiaomi 12 Pro. While the Redmi Note 10S is a very capable phone and a great budget option, the 12 Pro simply excels across all the important metrics. The dramatically better display, vastly superior performance, professional level camera system, much faster charging and a more modern feature set make it a clear winner. I prioritize performance, display quality and camera quality for my personal use, and the 12 Pro simply offers so much more in these aspects. While the price is much higher, for my use case, the extra cost is worth the huge performance jump, and higher quality user experience. The weight is a small trade off I am willing to make for such huge gains.
