Smartphone Comparison: Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.2 × 77.3 × 9.1 mm | 159.9 × 73.9 × 8.1 mm | Note 12S is more pocketable and comfortable for smaller hands; Note 9T is bulkier. |
| Weight | 199g | 176g | Note 12S is lighter, reducing fatigue during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.53" | 6.43" | Note 9T offers a slightly larger screen, beneficial for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2400 | Both offer a sharp display; minor difference not noticeable in everyday use. |
| Pixel Density | 395 PPI | 409 PPI | Both are very similar, providing sharp images. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | Note 12S has superior display technology with better contrast, colors, and power efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Note 12S has a smoother scrolling experience and transitions. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1000 nits | Note 12S is significantly better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Mediatek MT6781 Helio G96 (12 nm) | Note 9T's chipset uses a more efficient 7nm process, but real-world implications depend on user case. |
| AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 412,400 | Note 12S offers slightly better performance in benchmarks. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Note 9T has a slightly more powerful GPU, but real-world gaming differences might be minor. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 108MP | Note 12S captures more detailed images, but quality depends on other factors too. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.8 | Note 9T’s slightly wider aperture may perform marginally better in low light. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/1.52" | Note 12S has a larger sensor which generally results in better light sensitivity and quality. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 13MP | 16MP | Note 12S captures slightly more detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.25 | f/2.4 | Note 9T’s slightly wider aperture may allow more light in low-light scenarios. |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | 8MP | Note 12S offers more versatility with a wide-angle lens. |
| Portrait (Depth) Lens | 2MP | No | Note 9T captures portrait shots with an added depth sensor. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | 2MP | Both have similar macro camera capabilities. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 1080p@30fps | Note 9T records higher-quality video with 4K support. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have comparable battery endurance. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | Note 12S charges significantly faster. |
| Charging Features | 22.5W charger inbox | Reverse charging | Note 9T comes with a charger; Note 12S can act as a power bank for other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS Version | Android 10 | Android 13 | Note 12S has a newer operating system, offering more features and security patches. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi MiMO | Note 12S has a slightly more advanced Wi-Fi with MiMO technology. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.2 LE | Note 12S has a more recent Bluetooth version, potentially offering better connectivity and efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Note 12S supports more satellite systems for improved location accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB or 128GB | 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB | Note 12S offers larger storage options for users with more apps and files. |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB or 8GB | Note 12S has more RAM, beneficial for multitasking and demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Both offer similar high-quality audio experiences. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both offer similar fingerprint sensor technology. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Note 9T has a more durable screen for better scratch resistance. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T Advantages:
- More Robust Build: Gorilla Glass 5 provides better screen protection, ideal for users prone to accidental drops.
- 4K Video Recording: Suitable for users who need higher-resolution video.
- Slightly more powerful GPU: More suitable for users who prioritize gaming performance.
- Slightly wider aperture on main and selfie camera : Potentially better low light performance
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with higher refresh rate provides a more immersive and smooth visual experience.
- Significantly Higher Brightness: Improved outdoor visibility under direct sunlight.
- Faster Charging: 33W charging fills the battery much quicker.
- Larger Main Camera Sensor and Higher Resolution: Captures more detailed photos with better light sensitivity.
- Wide-Angle Lens: More versatile camera system for different shooting situations.
- More RAM and Storage Options: Better multitasking capabilities and space for apps and media.
- Newer Android Version: Benefits from the latest features and security updates.
- Lighter and Thinner Design: More comfortable to carry and use.
- Reverse Charging: Can charge other devices if needed.
Trade-offs:
- Note 9T: Offers better screen protection, but has an inferior display panel and slower charging. It might be a better fit for rough users who prioritize durability over display quality.
- Note 12S: Provides a much better user experience in terms of display and performance, but has a weaker screen protection, less robust build, and doesn't offer 4k video recording.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T:
- Budget-conscious users: Might be a better option for those who prioritize durability.
- Users who prioritize robust design: The Gorilla Glass 5 screen and slightly more rugged build might appeal to users prone to drops or using in harsh conditions.
- Users who prioritize slightly better gaming performance : Note 9T has slightly more powerful GPU and will be more suitable for them
Specific Use Cases:
- Construction workers or outdoor enthusiasts: The robust design is useful in demanding environments.
- Casual gamers or video recorders The slightly more powerful GPU and 4k recording are beneficial here.
Ideal Users for Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S:
- Multimedia consumers: Those who enjoy watching videos and movies will appreciate the AMOLED screen.
- Social media users: The superior display and camera, combined with lighter design, make it great for media creation and consumption.
- Users seeking a modern smartphone experience: The newer Android version, better display, faster charging and lighter form make this ideal for them.
- Users who value camera versatility: The inclusion of a wide angle lens will benefit those who seek to capture more than just standard shots.
Specific Use Cases:
- Daily commuters: The lighter design and superior display make it comfortable for daily commutes and watching videos on the go.
- Students and young professionals: Its advanced features and versatile camera system make it a great all-arounder.
- Frequent travelers: Faster charging and lighter design make it travel-friendly.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality to me? (Do I prioritize color accuracy and viewing angles or high refresh rate and brightness?)
- How important is battery charging speed to me? (Do I mind waiting longer to charge or do I want faster charging?)
- Do I prioritize robust build quality and screen protection or do I want a newer OS and better camera versatility? (Am I prone to dropping my phone or do I value advanced features and camera versatility?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious with Durability Needs
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T is a suitable choice. Its screen protection and more robust build make it great for rough usage while staying cost effective.
- Scenario 2: Multimedia & Camera Enthusiast
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is the better pick. Its AMOLED display, superior camera system with the addition of the wide angle lens, and faster charging make it the superior experience.
- Scenario 3: Everyday User with Performance Needs
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S is the overall better choice. Its slightly faster performance, newer Android version, and lighter design provide a more fluid experience, while also offering a better display and camera system.
My Choice and Explanation
I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12S. While the Redmi Note 9T offers better screen protection, the advantages of the 12S far outweigh this benefit for my personal usage. The AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate will provide a significantly better viewing experience, and the higher brightness would be a welcome improvement for outdoor use. The faster charging is also a feature I consider essential for a modern device.
Furthermore, the better camera setup, especially the inclusion of a wide-angle lens, makes the 12S a more versatile camera phone. I also appreciate having more RAM for smoother multitasking and the larger storage option available. While the Note 9T has 4K video recording, this is a feature I personally don't utilize as frequently as I use the camera to take stills. Finally, the lighter and thinner design of the 12S contributes to an overall more user-friendly experience and I consider the screen protection trade-off acceptable.
