Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 and the Samsung Galaxy M35. I'll break down the specs, provide real-world implications, and help you decide which phone might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a structured look at the key specs of each phone, along with a column explaining what they mean for you in day-to-day use:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.9 x 76.2 x 8 mm | 162.3 x 78.6 x 9.1 mm | Redmi Note 12 is taller & thinner, M35 is wider & thicker; M35 has larger volume. M35 feels bulkier |
| Weight | 188g | 222g | Redmi Note 12 is lighter, easier for one-handed use and extended periods. M35 feels heavy in the hand |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.6" | Both phones have virtually the same size display; negligibly small difference. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2340 | Sharpness is similar on both devices; the minimal difference isn't noticeable in use. |
| PPI | 395 | 390 | Pixel density is virtually the same; Both will appear sharp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both, great for media consumption. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 0 nits | Redmi Note 12 is significantly brighter, much better for outdoor use. Samsung is likely to not be readable on bright days. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 | Exynos 1380 | Exynos 1380 provides better performance in benchmarks, smoother operation. |
| AnTuTu Score | 460,800 | 578,500 | Galaxy M35 is more powerful, faster app loading and multi-tasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G68 MP5 | M35 will likely handle graphics-intensive tasks better. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2" | M35 has better sensor and larger pixel size, better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.45 | 13MP, f/2.2 | M35 with wider aperture could produce slightly better selfies in low light. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Similar performance for wide-angle shots. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Similar performance for close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | M35 records higher quality video, and stabilization across all. |
| Video Stabilization | No | EIS | M35 offers smoother video recording due to electronic image stabilization. |
| Slow Motion | 120fps | 480fps | M35 is better at creating smooth slow-motion footage. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | M35 will likely last longer, especially with the newer, more efficient chip. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Redmi Note 12 charges slightly faster, but the M35 has a bigger capacity. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | M35 has newer software with more recent features and security patches. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Samsung Galaxy M35 has faster Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 | M35 uses newer bluetooth with more features and more power efficient |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Ample storage for most users on both devices. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | M35 has a minimum of 6 GB of RAM for better performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | M35 has enhanced audio features for better listening experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side Fingerprint | Side Fingerprint | Quick and easy unlocking via fingerprint sensor on both devices. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass Victus | M35 has much stronger screen protection. |
2. Key Insights
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12:
- Strengths: Lighter, brighter display, faster charging, and a lower starting price.
- Competitive Advantages: If brightness and weight are top priorities, the Redmi Note 12 has a noticeable advantage.
- Trade-offs: Older software, lower benchmark scores, older bluetooth, and a less premium build quality (weaker glass protection).
- Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Strengths: Newer software, significantly higher benchmark scores, better camera, significantly better battery life, enhanced audio, higher video quality recording, and a more premium build quality.
- Competitive Advantages: The M35 has superior performance, camera quality, battery life, and build quality.
- Trade-offs: It is heavier, bigger and slightly more expensive.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12:
- Best Suited For: Users who prioritize a lighter phone with a bright display, don't do a lot of heavy tasks, and want the cheapest option.
- Use Cases: Casual browsing, social media, media consumption indoors, and users who frequently use their phone under bright sun.
Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Best Suited For: Users who need reliable performance, better camera quality, longer battery life, and more premium build quality.
- Use Cases: Gaming, photography, videography, long-term use without frequent charging, and users who appreciate premium audio quality.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- Do you prioritize performance and camera quality over weight and price? If yes, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is the better choice.
- Is having a super bright display for sunlight usage and light phone more important than having a top-tier camera or the latest software? If yes, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 could be a good option.
- How much does battery life matter to you? If a longer battery life is crucial, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is the clear winner.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Budget-Conscious User: If you are on a tight budget and need a bright display, the Redmi Note 12 is an acceptable option. Be ready for lower camera quality and older software
- Photography Enthusiast: The Samsung Galaxy M35 is much better for you.
- Mobile Gamer: The Samsung Galaxy M35 with its stronger processor and GPU will give better experience.
- Power User: The Samsung Galaxy M35 provides superior battery life and faster processing.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy M35. While the Redmi Note 12 is lighter and has faster charging with a brighter display, the Samsung's newer software, significantly better performance, better camera, longer battery life, and overall better quality (glass and audio) make it the superior option for me. I'm a power user who values consistent performance, good photography, long battery life, and I often need a good display for outdoor usage (even if it's not as bright), so for me it’s the easy option. Also I don't like how the Redmi Note 12 doesn't have much in terms of video stabilization, I prefer a better experience overall!
