Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S and the Redmi Note 12S. It's always fascinating to see how iterative upgrades play out, especially when they're from the same family line. Let's break down the tech and see what's what.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 mm | Identical size; pocket-friendly |
| Weight | 179g | 176g | Negligible difference in hand; both lightweight |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.43" | Comfortable for single-handed use |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Sharp, clear visuals for most content |
| Pixel Density | 409 PPI | 409 PPI | Crisp text and images; no visible pixellation |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors, deep blacks, good outdoor visibility |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations |
| Peak Brightness | 1000 nits | 1000 nits | Excellent readability under bright sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 | Mediatek Helio G96 | Same everyday performance and gaming ability |
| Antutu Score | 302,877 | 412,400 | Redmi Note 12S has better overall processing capabilities |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Same graphics capabilities for gaming and media |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 108MP (f/1.9) | 108MP (f/1.8) | Redmi Note 12S has better low-light potential with wider aperture |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP (f/2.4) | 16MP (f/2.4) | Similar front-facing camera quality |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Equivalent wide angle shots |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | N/A | Redmi Note 11S can take better portrait photos |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Similar performance for macro photography |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Suitable for social media recordings |
| Camera Features | Quadruple Camera | Triple Camera | Difference in lens setup |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | All-day battery for typical usage |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Quickly top up the battery |
| Battery Features | Reverse Charging, Non-Removable | Reverse Charging, Non-Removable | Can charge other devices; battery not user-replaceable |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 13 | Redmi Note 12S comes with newer software for better security and features |
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Reliable wireless internet access |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.2 LE | Redmi Note 12S has better power efficiency and range |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Precise location tracking |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Flexible dual-SIM support |
| Storage & Audio | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128GB | 64/128/256GB | Redmi Note 12S has an additional storage option |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 6/8GB | Great multitasking and app performance |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Can't add more storage with MicroSD card |
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res, Stereo | Hi-Res, Stereo | Good audio experience for media consumption |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Easy and quick unlocking |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Good screen protection against scratches |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Includes all the necessary sensors for everyday tasks and applications |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S
- Strengths: This phone has a capable quad-camera system and a reliable suite of sensors, offering a decent user experience. The device's strength is providing a decent phone experience at an affordable cost. It is also great for users who want a depth lens for portrait photos.
- Competitive Advantages: It is a phone that can do it all at an affordable price and has the added advantage of having a dedicated depth lens.
- Trade-Offs/Limitations: Its older Android version and lower benchmark scores indicate that it is not the best choice for a gamer.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S
- Strengths: The Note 12S has a more powerful processor, a better main camera aperture, and a newer Bluetooth version, leading to noticeable improvements in speed, low-light photography, and wireless connectivity. The main highlight is the bigger storage size option.
- Competitive Advantages: The phone excels in performance and camera quality, thanks to a better chipset and a wider aperture on the primary sensor and the latest android version.
- Trade-Offs/Limitations: It doesn't offer the depth sensor that the 11S has, so users who love taking portrait photos might prefer the 11S.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 11S: Best for users who want a good camera, especially for portraits, and need an affordable option. Ideal for users who want good overall performance at a low price.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S: Best for users who prioritize performance, low-light photography, and the latest software features. Great for multitasking, gamers, and users who want faster wireless connections.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- Do you prioritize performance or photography? If performance and a newer Android version matter more, the Redmi Note 12S is the better choice. If you want a more affordable option with a depth lens, go for the 11S.
- Do you take a lot of portrait photos? If so, the 11S is better due to its dedicated depth lens.
- Do you need a bigger storage option? If yes, then Redmi Note 12S is a better option, as it offers up to 256 GB of internal storage, while 11S offers 128 GB maximum.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Casual User: The Redmi Note 11S will handle daily tasks well, offer a good photo-taking experience, and is more affordable.
- The Social Media Enthusiast: The Redmi Note 12S's improved main camera and video features make it more appealing.
- The Gamer: The Redmi Note 12S is the better option due to its superior processor which will result in a better gaming experience.
What Would I Choose?
If I had to choose, I'd lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. While the 11S is a capable phone, the 12S's performance boost, better main camera aperture, more storage option, and latest Android version are significant improvements that justify the slightly higher price. As a tech enthusiast, I value speed and efficiency, especially when juggling multiple apps and tasks. Additionally, I value taking photos in all types of light. The Redmi Note 12S gives me more of what I would need. So, that is the phone I would personally go for.
