1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 159.9 x 73.9 x 8.1 | 162.3 x 78.6 x 9.1 | The M35 is slightly larger and thicker. |
| Weight (g) | 176 | 222 | The 12S is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.43 | 6.6 | The M35 offers a slightly larger screen for media consumption. |
| Resolution (px) | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2340 | Virtually identical sharpness. |
| Type | AMOLED, 90Hz | Super AMOLED, 120Hz | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. The M35's 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Peak Brightness (nits) | 1000 | Unspecified | The 12S's specified peak brightness suggests better outdoor visibility, but without data for the M35, this can't be confirmed. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G96 (12nm) | Exynos 1380 (5nm) | The Exynos 1380 in the M35 is significantly more powerful and energy-efficient due to its smaller manufacturing process. |
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.05 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | The M35 has a more powerful CPU architecture resulting in better performance for demanding tasks and multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G68 MP5 | The M35's GPU is more capable for gaming and graphics-intensive applications. |
| RAM (GB) | 6/8 | 8 | The reviewed M35 configuration offers more RAM, enabling better multitasking and app performance. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera (MP) | 108 | 50 | The 12S boasts higher resolution, potentially capturing more detail. However, sensor size and other factors also influence image quality. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps with EIS | The M35 offers significantly better video recording capabilities with higher resolution and Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) for smoother footage. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 5000 | 6000 | The M35 has a larger battery, potentially lasting longer on a single charge. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Advantages:
- Lighter and more compact: More comfortable for extended use and one-handed operation.
- Higher resolution main camera: Potentially captures more detail in photos.
- Potentially brighter display: Could be more visible in direct sunlight. (Requires confirmation as M35 data is missing)
Samsung Galaxy M35 Advantages:
- Significantly more powerful processor: Better performance for demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking due to the more advanced 5nm Exynos 1380.
- Higher refresh rate display: Smoother and more responsive user experience.
- Larger battery: Longer battery life.
- Superior video recording: 4K resolution and EIS provide higher quality and more stable videos.
- More RAM in reviewed configuration: Better multitasking and overall performance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S: Suitable for users who prioritize a lightweight, compact phone for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and casual photography. Budget-conscious users might also find this appealing.
Samsung Galaxy M35: Ideal for users who demand better performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications. Content creators will appreciate the superior video recording capabilities. Users who prioritize battery life will also benefit.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The Redmi Note 12S is generally more affordable.
- What is your primary phone usage? Casual use vs. demanding tasks/gaming.
- How important is battery life and performance? The M35 excels in these areas.
My Choice: Samsung Galaxy M35
While the Redmi Note 12S offers a lighter and potentially brighter experience, the Samsung Galaxy M35 provides a significant performance advantage, better video recording, a larger battery, and a smoother display. The 5nm Exynos 1380 is a crucial differentiator, offering a noticeable improvement in everyday usage and future-proofing the device. The superior video capabilities and larger battery are also valuable for many users. Although heavier, the M35's advantages outweigh the weight difference for me. The price difference is justifiable considering the substantial performance and feature upgrades.
