Alright, let's dive deep into this head-to-head matchup between the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 and the Huawei Pura 70 Pro. I'm going to break down these specs with an eye toward real-world usage and give you the lowdown on which phone might be the right pick for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Huawei Pura 70 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.9 × 76.2 × 8 mm | 162.6 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | Redmi Note 12 is slightly taller and wider; Pura 70 Pro is a touch thicker. Overall, the difference is marginal for handling. |
| Weight | 188g | 220g | Redmi Note 12 is significantly lighter making it more comfortable to hold for long periods. Pura 70 Pro will feel more substantial, but heavier in the hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.8" | Pura 70 Pro has a slightly larger display providing a more immersive experience for media consumption, but the difference is not significant. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1260x2844 | Pura 70 Pro has a considerably sharper display, resulting in clearer text and more detailed images. |
| Pixel Density | 395 PPI | 460 PPI | Pura 70 Pro offers noticeably sharper visuals, with less pixelation, making it better for high-resolution content. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, but the Pura 70 Pro’s OLED likely has superior dynamic range. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and fluid animations; great for gaming. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 2500 nits | Pura 70 Pro is much brighter, offering vastly superior visibility in direct sunlight. The Redmi Note 12 may struggle outdoors. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 | Kirin 9010 (7nm) | Pura 70 Pro offers significantly more processing power; Apps will open faster, multitasking will be smoother, and graphics performance will be far superior. |
| AnTuTu Score | 460,800 | 869,707 | Pura 70 Pro is nearly twice as powerful, capable of handling demanding tasks like 3D gaming, video editing and heavy multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Maleoon 910 | Pura 70 Pro’s GPU is designed for significantly better graphics performance in modern games. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5050mAh | Both have very similar battery capacity, suggesting comparable day-to-day battery life with average usage. |
| Charging | 33W | 100W | Pura 70 Pro charges much faster, making it incredibly convenient to top up and get back to using the phone quickly. |
| Features | Non-removable | 100W fast, wireless, and reverse | Pura 70 Pro has more sophisticated charging options; The reverse wireless option allows it to charge other devices. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | 50MP, f/1.4, 1/1.3" | Pura 70 Pro's main camera is superior with better low-light capabilities due to larger sensor and wider aperture, resulting in higher quality images. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.45 | 13MP, f/2.4 | Pura 70 Pro has a slightly wider aperture, offering slightly better low-light selfies, but similar performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 48MP, f/2.1 | Pura 70 Pro includes a dedicated telephoto lens for enhanced zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/4" | 12.5MP, f/2.2 | Pura 70 Pro’s wide-angle is slightly better with a higher megapixel count and potentially less distortion. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Redmi Note 12 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, a feature Pura 70 Pro lacks. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps; No; 120 fps | Yes; 960 fps | Pura 70 Pro offers higher-quality video recording, with enhanced stabilisation and slow-motion capabilities. |
| DXoMark Score | 69 (Mobile) | Not tested | Redmi Note 12 has been tested on DXoMark; Pura 70 Pro score unknown. |
| Camera Features | Standard | Advanced (OIS, 4k, more) | Pura 70 Pro features OIS, 4K, optical zoom, CDAF, and LAF, offering better image quality and versatile options. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Unknown | Different operating systems; Huawei Pura 70 Pro operating system unknown, but often runs HarmonyOS. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | Pura 70 Pro supports Wi-Fi 6 for faster wireless speeds and better network performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 (LE) | 5.2 | Pura 70 Pro has a slightly newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | Limited | Advanced | Pura 70 Pro has better GPS capabilities with a more comprehensive suite of satellite systems for greater location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both phones support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 256/512/1024 GB | Pura 70 Pro offers much larger storage options; very useful for those who need more storage space. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 12 GB | Pura 70 Pro has significantly more RAM, offering smoother multitasking, especially with apps that require lots of memory. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage via microSD card. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic features | Dolby Atmos, Stereo | Pura 70 Pro offers a more immersive audio experience with stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos enhancements. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Basic fingerprint | Redmi Note 12 has a more convenient side-mounted fingerprint reader, although both phones will get the job done. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Unknown | Redmi Note 12 has known screen protection, while the Pura 70 Pro is unknown. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Standard; Ultrasonic Proximity | Advanced | Pura 70 Pro includes a comprehensive suite of sensors, but both have the core sensors needed for daily use. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12:
- Strengths: This device is an affordable option that strikes a balance between price and features. Its lighter weight and adequate display make it practical for daily use.
- Competitive Advantages: The Redmi Note 12 excels as an entry-level device for users not needing bleeding-edge features, offering reliable performance and a decent screen.
- Trade-offs: It has a lower-powered processor, less impressive cameras, and is not as bright as other high end smartphones. It also does not have expandable storage.
Huawei Pura 70 Pro:
- Strengths: The Pura 70 Pro is a powerful device that excels in display quality, performance, and camera capabilities. Its impressive camera array, high-resolution display, and fast charging make it a premium choice.
- Competitive Advantages: This device stands out with its high-performance chipset, high-quality camera system, much brighter display, fast wireless charging, and large storage options.
- Trade-offs: It is a heavier device, and may not be as comfortable for extended periods. It also is expected to be much more expensive than the Redmi Note 12.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12:
- Best Suited For: Budget-conscious users, first-time smartphone buyers, users with basic needs (social media, browsing, everyday tasks).
- Use Cases: Casual photography, general use, students, individuals seeking an affordable daily driver.
- Huawei Pura 70 Pro:
- Best Suited For: Tech enthusiasts, photographers, content creators, users who prioritize performance, top-tier display, and high-end camera capabilities.
- Use Cases: Mobile photography, video editing, demanding games, those who need fast charging.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- What's your budget? If you're on a tight budget, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is the more affordable option, but if you can splurge, the Huawei Pura 70 Pro gives you more for the money.
- What do you value most in a smartphone? If display quality, performance, and camera are paramount, the Pura 70 Pro is the clear winner. However, the Redmi Note 12 is still a capable phone for more basic usage scenarios.
- What's your use case? Are you mostly browsing the internet, checking emails, and social media? Or do you intend to use your phone for demanding tasks like mobile gaming, high-quality photography, or video editing?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget Shopper: Choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 for basic smartphone needs at an affordable price.
- Scenario 2: Camera Enthusiast: Opt for the Huawei Pura 70 Pro due to its advanced camera system, offering superior versatility.
- Scenario 3: Performance Seeker: Pick the Huawei Pura 70 Pro for its powerful chipset, making it ideal for gaming and heavy multitasking.
- Scenario 4: Everyday User: For daily tasks and multimedia consumption, both are good choices, but consider how much you value screen quality, performance and cost. The Huawei Pura 70 Pro is the best option here unless cost is a major concern.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Huawei Pura 70 Pro. While it is undoubtedly going to be more expensive than the Redmi Note 12, the enhancements in display quality, processing power, camera capabilities, and charging speeds are substantial. As someone who appreciates high-quality imagery, fast performance, and a smooth user experience, the Pura 70 Pro's premium features justify the investment. While the Redmi Note 12 is a good, capable entry level smartphone, the Pura 70 Pro is truly in a different class, designed for the power user who wants and needs a flagship experience.
There you have it! I hope this detailed breakdown helps you make an informed decision. Let me know if you have any more questions.
