ZTE nubia Red Magic 9 Pro vs Realme 12 Pro - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification
Realme 12 Pro
Realme 12 Pro
Realme

General

Launch Date November 23, 2023 January 29, 2024
Release Year 2023 2024

Physical

Volume 111.51 cm³ 105.17 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 2.97 "/g 3.53 "/g
Weight 229 g 190 g
Height 164 mm 161.5 mm
Width 76.4 mm 74 mm
Thickness 8.9 mm 8.8 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Sleet (Black)
  • Snowfall (Silver)
  • Cyclone (Transparent Black)
  • Submarine Blue
  • Navigator Beige

Display

Screen Size 6.8 " 6.7 "
Resolution 1116 x 2480 1080 x 2412
Aspect Ratio 20:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 89.1 % 90.4 %
Pixel Density 400 PPI 394 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A 800 nits
Peak Brightness 1600 nits 950 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 140.57 mAh/in² 111.38 mAh/in²
Battery Density 58.29 mAh/cm³ 47.54 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 6500 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) Qualcomm SM6450 Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4 nm)
CPU Octa-core (1x3.3 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3x3.2 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2x3.0 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2x2.3 GHz Cortex-A520) Octa-core (4x2.2 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Adreno 750 Adreno 710

Connectivity

USB Version 3.2 2.0
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort 1
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 3.2, Gen 2, OTG, DisplayPort, Accessory Connector USB Type-C 2.0

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 14 14
Maximum OS Version

Comparison Summary

ZTE nubia Red Magic 9 Pro vs. Realme 12 Pro: A Deep Dive

The smartphone arena is heating up with the ZTE nubia Red Magic 9 Pro and Realme 12 Pro vying for attention. While both fall into the "medium price" range, their distinct specifications cater to different user needs. Let's dissect these devices to uncover which one reigns supreme.

1. Specifications Breakdown

FeatureZTE nubia Red Magic 9 ProRealme 12 ProReal-World Implications
Design
Dimensions164x76.4x8.9mm161.5x74x8.8mmRed Magic 9 Pro is slightly larger and heavier. Realme 12 Pro might offer a more comfortable one-handed grip.
Weight229g190gNoticeable difference in weight; Realme 12 Pro is significantly lighter for extended use.
Display
Size6.8"6.7"Negligible difference in screen real estate.
TypeAMOLED, 120HzAMOLED, 120HzBoth offer smooth scrolling and vibrant colors. Red Magic 9 Pro boasts higher peak brightness (outdoors).
Resolution1116x24801080x2412Red Magic 9 Pro offers slightly sharper visuals due to higher pixel density.
Peak Brightness1600 nits950 nitsRed Magic 9 Pro's screen will be significantly more visible in direct sunlight.
Performance
ChipsetSnapdragon 8 Gen 3Snapdragon 6 Gen 1Massive performance difference. Red Magic 9 Pro will handle demanding games and multitasking with ease.
CPUOcta-core (up to 3.3 GHz)Octa-core (up to 2.2 GHz)Red Magic 9 Pro offers significantly faster processing speeds.
GPUAdreno 750Adreno 710Red Magic 9 Pro boasts superior graphics performance for gaming and visually intensive tasks.
RAM16GB8GBDouble the RAM on the Red Magic 9 Pro allows for seamless multitasking and app switching.
Storage512GB256GBRed Magic 9 Pro provides significantly more storage space for apps, photos, and videos.
Battery
Capacity6500mAh5000mAhRed Magic 9 Pro offers longer battery life.
Other
USBUSB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2USB Type-C 2.0Faster data transfer and charging potential for the Red Magic 9 Pro.
Video Capabilities8K@30fps4K@30fpsRed Magic 9 Pro supports higher resolution video recording.

2. Key Insights

The Red Magic 9 Pro is a clear powerhouse, targeting mobile gamers and power users. Its Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, coupled with 16GB RAM, delivers blistering performance. The brighter display and larger battery further enhance the gaming experience.

The Realme 12 Pro, with its Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 and 8GB RAM, is a more mid-range device aimed at general users. It offers a decent display and respectable battery life but lacks the raw power of the Red Magic 9 Pro. It's likely more affordable, making it a potential value pick.

3. User Profiles and Recommendations

Red Magic 9 Pro: Ideal for mobile gamers, content creators, and power users who demand top-tier performance and a premium display.

Realme 12 Pro: Suitable for everyday users who prioritize affordability and a balanced experience for social media, web browsing, and casual gaming.

4. Buying Decision Framework

  • What is your primary use case? Gaming and heavy multitasking? Choose the Red Magic 9 Pro. Casual use and content consumption? The Realme 12 Pro might suffice.
  • What is your budget? The Red Magic 9 Pro, with its flagship specs, will command a higher price. The Realme 12 Pro offers a more budget-friendly option.
  • How important is battery life and screen brightness? If you need all-day battery and excellent outdoor visibility, the Red Magic 9 Pro is the clear winner.

My Choice: The ZTE nubia Red Magic 9 Pro

While the Realme 12 Pro offers decent value, the Red Magic 9 Pro's superior performance, stunning display, and larger battery are compelling. As someone who values a smooth, lag-free experience and enjoys pushing mobile technology to its limits, the Red Magic 9 Pro aligns perfectly with my needs. The future-proofing offered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and ample RAM ensures this phone will remain a top performer for years to come. The significantly brighter screen is a huge win for outdoor usage. Yes, it comes at a premium, but the investment is justified for the sheer power and longevity it delivers.

Alex Griffin
Alex Griffin

Technology analyst specializing in mobile devices and consumer electronics.

Core Expertise

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Consumer electronics evaluation
  • Technical specification interpretation
  • User experience insights

Professional Mission Empowering readers to make informed technology decisions by transforming intricate specifications into understandable, practical guidance.

Demystifying technology, one device at a time.