Alright, let's dive deep into the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S and Redmi Note 12 4G. These two phones are close cousins, but they have some key differences that could sway your decision. As usual, we will not get bogged down in specs alone; instead, we’ll focus on what these differences mean for you in the real world.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison table, with a special focus on translating tech specs into practical user experiences:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm, 179g | 165.7 × 76 × 7.9 mm, 183.5g | The Note 12 4G is slightly taller and wider, with negligible weight increase. Both are comfortable, but those with smaller hands may prefer the 11S. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.67" | Note 12 4G offers slightly more screen real estate, making it a bit better for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharpness is identical; both look crisp and clear. |
| Pixel Density | 409 PPI | 395 PPI | Minimal difference in visual clarity; both screens are sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both; great for viewing photos and videos. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | The Note 12 4G feels smoother, especially when scrolling through feeds or playing supported games. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 1200 nits | Note 12 4G is slightly easier to see under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 685 (6 nm) | Snapdragon 685 (6nm) is more power-efficient and slightly faster. You will see a modest improvement with the 12 4G for everyday tasks and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 302,877 | 338,900 | The Note 12 4G shows a marginal performance improvement. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Adreno 610 | The Adreno 610 in the Note 12 4G handles most mainstream games slightly better. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | The Note 11S offers a higher resolution and larger sensor, but pixel size is smaller (0.7µm vs 0.64µm), it offers good details in good lighting. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.4, 1/3.13" | 13MP, f/2.45 | Note 11S captures slightly sharper selfies with a bigger sensor and pixel size |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4" | The Note 11S has a slightly larger sensor, potentially offering slightly better wide-angle shots. |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | None | Note 11S has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both are similar, offering okay shots for up close details. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, 120fps slow-mo | 1080p@30fps | The Note 11S offers slow-motion capabilities. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Tested | Main score: 63, Photo: 54, Video: 66 | Note 12 4G has an overall score of 63, with a higher video score (66) than photo score (54) meaning that the video capabilities are decent |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones should provide all-day battery life for most users. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Charging speeds are identical, expect a full charge in about an hour. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13 (Upgradeable to 14) | The Note 12 4G offers a newer OS with the latest features and security updates and potentially longer software support. |
| Other | |||
| Storage | 64GB or 128 GB | 64 GB, 128 GB or 256 GB | Note 12 4G has a larger storage variant available (256GB) to store more media. |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 4 GB, 6GB, or 8 GB | Similar RAM options, good for multitasking and games. |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio features | Note 11S offers better audio quality for music and video enthusiasts with dedicated features. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S:
- Strengths: A slightly better main camera with a larger sensor for more detailed photos, better selfie camera, dedicated depth sensor, better audio experience with Hi-Res Audio and Stereo Speakers, and slightly better slow-mo video recording.
- Competitive Advantages: It’s a strong contender for users who prioritize photography with an emphasis on portrait and selfi shots, and audio quality.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G:
- Strengths: Newer, more power-efficient Snapdragon processor, faster display with 120Hz refresh rate, and a slightly brighter screen. It runs on a newer version of Android with likely longer software update support, and has an additional storage option available with 256 GB.
- Competitive Advantages: Great for those who want a smoother display, better outdoor visibility, modern software and a more future proof device.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S
- Ideal for: Photo enthusiasts who are budget-conscious and want detailed images and better audio features.
- Use Cases: Ideal for shooting everyday life, creating content, enjoying music and podcasts, and occasional slow-motion videos.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize the latest software, smooth display, and general performance.
- Use Cases: Ideal for daily usage, social media, consuming content, and mobile gaming, especially those who want that extra boost in performance and a future proof device.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- Do you prioritize smooth scrolling and gaming experience?
- If yes, the Redmi Note 12 4G with its 120Hz refresh rate is a better choice.
- Are you a photography enthusiast looking for better portrait shots and good audio quality?
- If yes, the Redmi Note 11S offers better value, thanks to its more detailed pictures with a higher resolution main sensor, dedicated depth sensor, and overall better audio experience.
- Do you want to have the latest version of android with better software support?
- If yes, the Redmi Note 12 4G, with Android 13 and update to Android 14, is a good choice.
My Personal Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I’d lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 4G. While the camera on the 11S is compelling, the slightly better chipset and 120Hz display on the Note 12 4G make a more significant difference for everyday performance, and the updated OS offers a more modern experience. The larger storage option is also important to me as I tend to take a lot of photos and videos, and the better software support for years to come is also a big plus.
However, if you do a lot of photography, the 11S is a great option that will offer good photos, a dedicated depth sensor and superior audio features and will be suitable for your needs.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your individual priorities and usage patterns. Hopefully, this breakdown has helped clarify those differences and guide you toward the phone that's right for you.
