Okay, let's dive deep into a side-by-side comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 and the Redmi Note 12. As a tech journalist, my goal is to break down the specs into real-world implications, helping you make an informed decision.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison table, translating tech specs into everyday usability:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | 165.9 × 76.2 × 8 mm | Redmi Note 12 is slightly larger; might feel less comfortable in smaller hands. |
| Weight | 179g | 188g | Redmi Note 11 is slightly lighter, may be more comfortable for long use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.67" | Redmi Note 12 offers a slightly larger viewing area for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp and clear visuals. |
| Pixel Density | 409 PPI | 395 PPI | Similar sharpness, though the Redmi Note 11 has slightly higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, great for media and gaming. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Redmi Note 12 has smoother animations and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1200 nits | Redmi Note 12 offers better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6 nm) | Redmi Note 12 offers better performance for apps and games, especially for demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 314,000 | 460,800 | Redmi Note 12 provides a more noticeable performance boost. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Adreno 619 | Redmi Note 12 provides better graphics processing, better for mobile gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 48MP, f/1.8 | Redmi Note 11 captures slightly more detailed images (50 vs 48 MP). Both have the same aperture and sensor size. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.4 | 13MP, f/2.45 | Similar selfie performance, with a slight edge for the Note 11 in terms of aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Both offer similar wide angle quality. |
| Portrait (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Redmi Note 11 has an additional depth sensor for better portrait shots. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer similar macro performance. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both record video at 1080p@30fps. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple, Digital Zoom, Digital Image Stabilization, etc. | Triple Camera, Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, etc. | Redmi Note 11 has Quad camera while the Note 12 has a triple. Note 12 has additional features that are better for videography. |
| DxOMark | None | 69 Mobile, 74 Photo, 49 Video | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 has better camera testing results. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer comparable battery life for daily use. |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 33W fast charging | Both devices charge at the same speed. |
| Features | Reverse charging | None | Redmi Note 11 can reverse charge other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 12 | Redmi Note 12 has the newer operating system out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Both offer similar Wi-Fi performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.1 LE | Redmi Note 12 has a slightly newer version of Bluetooth with better codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1) | Redmi Note 12 offers more accurate GPS location. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both have the same SIM capabilities. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64, 128 or 256 GB | 128 or 256 GB | Redmi Note 11 is available in more storage configurations. |
| RAM | 4, 6, or 8 GB | 4, 6, or 8 GB | Both offer similar configurations. |
| Expandable Storage | None | None | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | Redmi Note 11 has stereo speakers for better audio output |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both have side-mounted fingerprint sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Both have similar glass protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Both have the same sensors |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Strengths:
- Lighter Design: At 179g, it's more comfortable for extended use than the Redmi Note 12.
- Better Audio Output: The inclusion of stereo speakers provides a richer audio experience.
- Portrait Camera: It has a dedicated 2MP depth sensor, which enhances portrait photos.
- Reverse Charging: Allows you to charge other devices.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Strengths:
- Performance Boost: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chipset offers a significant jump in performance, making it smoother for daily tasks and gaming.
- Smoother Display: The 120Hz refresh rate offers a more fluid and responsive visual experience.
- Brighter Display: The 1200 nits display is much more usable in sunny conditions.
- Better Bluetooth: Supports more audio codecs (LDAC, SBC, AAC) for better audio quality via Bluetooth.
- Better GPS: More accurate for location services.
- Newer OS: Comes with Android 12 out of the box, and likely has a longer software update support period.
- Camera Testing: Has been tested with DxOMark, providing better context on overall camera performance.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Redmi Note 11: While it offers a lighter build and better audio, its chipset is less powerful, potentially struggling with demanding applications. The lack of expandable storage can be limiting.
- Redmi Note 12: While it has a more powerful chip and smoother screen, it is slightly heavier and lacks the reverse charging feature, plus the Portrait (Depth) sensor.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Redmi Note 11: Best for users who prioritize a lightweight phone with good audio for general usage, media consumption, and photography. This is also a great option if you don't play intensive games.
- Redmi Note 12: Ideal for users who need better performance for gaming, multitasking, and want a smoother visual experience. Better camera testing scores and newer Bluetooth make it a great choice for everyday use.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your decision:
- How important is performance for you?
- If you want the best performance for gaming and heavy usage, go for the Redmi Note 12.
- If you are a light to moderate user, the Redmi Note 11 may be adequate.
- How much do you value screen smoothness and brightness?
- If you prioritize a fluid display experience with the best outdoor viewing, the Redmi Note 12 is the way to go.
- If you prefer better audio and like being able to reverse charge, the Redmi Note 11 is the better choice.
- Do you prefer the more updated device or a more established one?
- The Redmi Note 12 has the latest Android OS and will likely have the better software support life.
- If you are looking for a more established device with more storage options, the Redmi Note 11 is a better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For Casual Users: The Redmi Note 11 is a great option if you value a lightweight phone with good audio.
- For Gamers: The Redmi Note 12, with its superior performance and smoother screen, offers a more responsive experience.
- For Power Users: The Redmi Note 12 provides better overall performance for multitasking, browsing and a more future proof OS.
- For Photographers: Both cameras are very similar, although Redmi Note 11 has a depth sensor for portraits. Redmi Note 12 does have better video features and has been tested through DxOMark.
My Choice
Personally, I'd lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12. The performance jump from the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 is significant, and the 120Hz display will feel much smoother and more responsive on a daily basis. While the Note 11 has a depth sensor and stereo speakers, the performance gains and higher screen brightness on the Note 12 are too significant to ignore. This makes the Note 12 a more future-proof option that will likely feel faster for longer. While the reverse charging is nice, I don't think it's a make or break feature. For me, the slight increase in weight is a trade-off I'm willing to accept for the benefits the Note 12 brings. The camera also has better scores and videography, and the newer Bluetooth is more future proof for audio.
