Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ vs. Honor 90: A Detailed Comparison
Let's dive deep into a comparative analysis of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ and the Honor 90, dissecting their technical specifications and translating them into real-world implications for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+ | Honor 90 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 162.9 x 76 x 8.9 | 161.9 x 74.1 x 7.8 | Honor 90 is slightly more compact and thinner. |
| Weight (g) | 208.4 | 183 | Honor 90 is noticeably lighter, improving one-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.67 | 6.7 | Negligible difference in screen real estate. |
| Resolution (px) | 1080 x 2400 | 1200 x 2664 | Honor 90 boasts a sharper display with higher pixel density (435 ppi vs 395 ppi). |
| Type | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 120 | 120 | Both deliver smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Peak Brightness | 900 nits | 1600 nits | Honor 90 offers significantly higher peak brightness, ensuring better visibility outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 1080 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated | Honor 90's newer and more powerful chip promises smoother performance in demanding tasks. |
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.6 GHz A78 & 6x2.0 GHz A55) | Octa-core (1x2.5 GHz A710 & 3x2.36 GHz A710 & 4x1.8 GHz A510) | Honor 90 has a more modern CPU architecture. |
| GPU | Mali-G68 MC4 | Adreno 644 | Honor 90 likely offers better gaming performance. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8/12/16GB | Honor 90 offers configurations with more RAM, beneficial for multitasking. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Sensor (MP) | 200 | 200 | Both have high-resolution main sensors. |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.4" | 1/1.4" | Identical sensor size suggests similar low-light performance potential. |
| DXOMARK Score | 113 | 122 | Honor 90 achieves a notably higher DXOMARK score, indicating superior overall camera quality. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 5000 | 5000 | Similar battery capacities suggest comparable battery life. |
2. Key Insights
- Performance: The Honor 90, with its Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated chipset, newer CPU architecture, and potentially faster GPU, is likely to deliver a more fluid and responsive user experience, especially in gaming and demanding applications.
- Display: While both phones offer excellent displays, the Honor 90's higher resolution and significantly brighter screen provide a tangible advantage in clarity and outdoor visibility.
- Camera: The Honor 90's higher DXOMARK score points towards superior image quality across various shooting scenarios.
- Design: The Honor 90's lighter and slimmer profile enhances portability and one-handed usability.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro+: Best suited for budget-conscious users who prioritize a good overall experience and fast charging. It's a solid choice for everyday tasks, media consumption, and casual gaming.
- Honor 90: Ideal for users who demand top-tier performance, a brilliant display, and excellent camera capabilities. It caters to mobile gamers, photography enthusiasts, and those who value a premium feel.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- What is your budget? The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ generally comes at a lower price point.
- What are your performance needs? For demanding tasks and gaming, the Honor 90's superior processor provides a smoother experience.
- How important is camera quality? The Honor 90 boasts a higher DXOMARK score, suggesting better overall camera performance.
My Choice: The Honor 90
While the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ offers excellent value, I would choose the Honor 90. The combination of a more powerful processor, brighter and sharper display, superior camera system, and lighter design makes it a more compelling overall package. The enhanced performance and premium feel justify the likely price difference for me. While benchmarks don't tell the whole story, the DXOMARK score, combined with the hardware specifications, suggest a noticeable difference in camera performance – a crucial factor for me. The lighter weight also contributes to a more comfortable daily usage experience.
