Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. It's a classic David vs. Goliath matchup, and the specifications reveal some fascinating differences.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the key specs, focusing on what they mean for everyday use:
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.9 × 76.2 × 8 mm | 162.3 × 79 × 8.6 mm | Xiaomi is taller, Samsung is wider/thicker. Consider hand size for comfort. |
| Weight | 188g | 232g | Redmi Note 12 is significantly lighter, better for one-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.8" | S24 Ultra offers a slightly larger screen for media consumption and productivity. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1440x3120 | S24 Ultra has noticeably sharper, more detailed images and text. |
| PPI | 395 | 505 | S24 Ultra's higher pixel density results in clearer visuals. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Redmi Note 12 has vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good power efficiency in dark mode. | |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both have smooth scrolling/animations, suitable for gaming and content viewing. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 2600 nits | S24 Ultra is vastly superior in outdoor visibility, especially in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) | S24 Ultra is drastically faster, with much smoother app loading, multitasking, and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 460,800 | 1,814,869 | S24 Ultra has roughly 4x the benchmark performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 750 | S24 Ultra delivers significantly superior graphics performance, crucial for gaming and graphic intensive apps. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones offer similar battery life, but real-world usage may vary by optimization |
| Charging | 33W fast charging | 45W fast charging | S24 Ultra recharges faster. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass, Reverse, Wireless, Reverse Wireless | S24 Ultra offers additional charging capabilities like wireless and reverse wireless charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.8 | 200MP, f/1.7 | S24 Ultra captures vastly more detailed photos with a higher resolution sensor. Better low-light and overall dynamic range. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | N/A | 50MP, f/2.4 | S24 Ultra has superior zoom and portrait capabilities. |
| Telephoto lens | N/A | 10MP, f/3.4 | S24 Ultra has enhanced zoom capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.45 | 12MP, f/2.2 | S24 Ultra has better low light performance from a wider aperture |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | S24 Ultra has better details in wide angle shots with a larger sensor. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | N/A | Redmi Note 12 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Up to 8K@30fps | S24 Ultra offers professional-grade video recording with higher resolution, features and better stabilisation. |
| DxoMark | Main Score: 69 | Main Score: 144 | S24 Ultra's camera significantly outperforms the Redmi Note 12 in both photo and video quality. |
| Features | Triple Cam, Digital Image Stabilisation | Quad Cam, Optical Stabilisation (OIS) | S24 Ultra's camera has optical image stabilisation for better video and photo results, more versatile camera setup |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | S24 Ultra has a more recent OS, with access to the latest features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Up to WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | Up to WiFi 6E (802.11ax) | S24 Ultra offers much faster speeds, lower latency, and better performance in crowded networks with advanced WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | S24 Ultra has a newer Bluetooth version and more connection features. |
| GPS | Standard | More Standard | S24 Ultra offers better accuracy with more satellite support. |
| SIM | Dual Sim | Dual Sim + eSIM | S24 Ultra supports eSIM, adding versatility in carrier management. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 256GB/512GB/1024GB | S24 Ultra provides much more storage for those who need it. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 12GB | S24 Ultra allows for smoother multitasking and handling of demanding applications. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Stereo Speakers & Noise Cancellation | S24 Ultra's dual speakers offer more immersive sound. Noise cancellation helps to clear up any external audio noise. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Redmi Note 12 features a more convenient side mounted sensor than the S24 Ultra. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass Armor | S24 Ultra's screen offers more advanced protection from scratches and damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Standard | Standard + Environmental | S24 Ultra's inclusion of Barometer, Hall, Geomagnetic sensors provides additional data for applications. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12:
- Strengths: Affordable, lightweight, vibrant AMOLED screen, good battery life, and decent performance for basic tasks.
- Competitive Advantages: Its price point makes it an excellent value for budget-conscious users, and its AMOLED display stands out in its class. The side fingerprint sensor offers quick, convenient unlock.
- Limitations: Performance is limited compared to flagships, camera quality is average, and it lacks advanced features like wireless charging or superior video recording.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra:
- Strengths: Top-tier performance, exceptional display, outstanding camera system, robust build, advanced connectivity, and a wealth of premium features.
- Competitive Advantages: It delivers a no-compromise experience for power users who demand the very best. The high-end camera, top of line processing power and additional features like wireless charging sets it apart.
- Limitations: Significantly more expensive, heavier, and bulkier than the Redmi Note 12.
Real-World Experience Translation:
- Everyday Tasks: The Redmi Note 12 handles browsing, social media, and messaging just fine, but the S24 Ultra feels noticeably smoother and more responsive, with faster app loading.
- Photography: If photography is a key concern, the S24 Ultra's camera is in a different league, offering incredible detail, superior low-light performance, and much greater zoom capabilities.
- Gaming: The S24 Ultra is a true gaming powerhouse, capable of running graphically intensive titles with ease, while the Redmi Note 12 will struggle with demanding games.
- Media Consumption: Both phones are good for videos/movies, but the S24 Ultra’s higher resolution, brighter display, and stereo speakers provide a more immersive experience.
- Outdoor Use: The S24 Ultra's brighter screen makes it easily usable in bright sunlight compared to the Redmi Note 12.
- Daily Tasks: For daily tasks like internet browsing, making calls, using social media, the Redmi Note 12 is very capable of handling these. However the S24 Ultra is far faster and more responsive for all these.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is best for:
- Budget-conscious users who need a reliable smartphone for daily tasks.
- Users who prioritize a lightweight and comfortable design.
- Individuals who value a good display for everyday use but don't need top-tier camera performance.
- Students and casual users who do not need the extra processing power.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is best for:
- Power users and professionals who demand the absolute best performance.
- Photography enthusiasts who want a top-tier camera system.
- Mobile gamers who need a device that can handle the most demanding titles.
- Users who want the latest and greatest features, including a cutting-edge display and extensive connectivity options.
- Professionals who need to take the best quality of photo/video on a device.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your choice:
Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a smartphone?
- If you are on a tight budget, the Redmi Note 12 is the clear choice.
- If you have a larger budget, the S24 Ultra will give you more performance and features for its premium price tag.
Priorities: What features are most important to you?
- If performance, camera quality, and advanced features are your focus, the S24 Ultra is the better option.
- If you prefer a simple and reliable phone, with good battery and display, the Redmi Note 12 will be suitable.
Use Cases: How will you primarily use your phone?
- For basic tasks, the Redmi Note 12 is sufficient.
- For gaming, photography, video editing, or anything requiring high performance, the S24 Ultra is essential.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Student: Redmi Note 12 for cost savings and basic smartphone capabilities.
- Content Creator: S24 Ultra for its high-quality camera, video recording, and processing power.
- Business Professional: S24 Ultra for seamless multitasking, performance, and advanced features.
- Casual User: Redmi Note 12 offers a good blend of features and affordability.
- Gamer: S24 Ultra for higher framerates and the ability to handle graphically demanding titles.
My Choice:
For me, the choice is clear: I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. While the Redmi Note 12 offers great value for the price, my needs align more with what the S24 Ultra provides. I value top-tier performance for demanding tasks like video editing, coding, and graphics-intensive gaming. Also, as a tech journalist, the camera performance and the features provided are necessary. Additionally, the S24 Ultra's display and connectivity features would give me a better overall experience. I appreciate the higher quality screen for consuming media. For me, the additional cost is justified by the features I would use.
