Infinix Hot 12 vs Hot 12 Play: The Ultimate Budget Showdown

The Infinix Hot series is known for delivering impressive features at incredibly affordable prices. The Hot 12 and Hot 12 Play are the latest contenders, but which one offers the best value? This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which phone is right for you.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Infinix Hot 12 takes the win thanks to its significantly faster Helio G85 chipset and 18W charging. However, the Hot 12 Play offers a larger battery and potentially a lower price point, making it a compelling option for users prioritizing battery life and budget.

PHONES
Phone Names Infinix Hot 12 Infinix Hot 12 Play
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100
4G bands1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 411, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
 1, 3, 7, 8, 201, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41
Launch
Announced2022, April 262022, May 23
StatusAvailable. Released 2022, April 26Available. Released 2022, May 30
Body
BuildGlass front, plastic back, plastic frameGlass front, plastic back, plastic frame
Dimensions170.5 x 77.6 x 8.3 mm (6.71 x 3.06 x 0.33 in)171 x 78 x 8.9 mm (6.73 x 3.07 x 0.35 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight195 g (6.88 oz)209 g (7.37 oz)
Display
Resolution720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~259 ppi density)720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~259 ppi density)
Size6.82 inches, 111.7 cm2 (~84.5% screen-to-body ratio)6.82 inches, 111.7 cm2 (~83.8% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCD, 90HzIPS LCD, 90Hz
Platform
CPUOcta-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) - X6816Octa-core (2x1.8 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) - X6816C
ChipsetMediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm)Mediatek MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) - X6816Unisoc T610 (12 nm) - X6816C
GPUMali-G52 MC2PowerVR GE8320 - X6816Mali-G52 MP2 - X6816C
OSAndroid 12, XOS 10.6Android 11, XOS 10
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (dedicated slot)microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM
 -eMMC 5.1
Main Camera
Dual-13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm, AF Auxiliary lens
FeaturesDual-LED flashDual-LED flash, panorama, HDR
Single8 MP8 MP
Triple13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF 2 MP Auxiliary lens-
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
FeaturesDual-LED flashDual-LED flash
Single8 MP8 MP
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Sound
3.5mm jack YesYes
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker Yes, with dual speakersYes
Comms
BluetoothYesYes
NFCNoNo
PositioningGPSGPS
RadioFM radioFM radio
USBYesUSB Type-C 2.0, OTG
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-bandWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct
Features
SensorsFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compassFingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass
Battery
Charging18W wired10W wired
TypeLi-Ion 5000 mAh6000 mAh
Misc
ColorsRacing Black, Legend White, Origin Blue, Lucky GreenRacing Black, Horizon Blue, Daylight Green, Champagne Gold
ModelsX6817, X6817BX6816C, X6816
PriceAbout 150 EURAbout 60 EUR

Infinix Hot 12

  • Faster Processor (Helio G85)
  • Faster Charging (18W)
  • Potentially better display quality
  • Slightly better camera processing

  • Smaller battery compared to Hot 12 Play
  • Potentially higher price

Infinix Hot 12 Play

  • Larger Battery (6000mAh)
  • Potentially lower price
  • Good for basic tasks

  • Slower Processor (Helio G37/Unisoc T610)
  • Slower Charging (10W)
  • Less responsive user experience

Display Comparison

Both phones typically feature a large 6.6-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution. While both offer a decent viewing experience, the Hot 12 might have slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potentially a more advanced panel, though this can vary by specific variant. Expect similar refresh rates, likely 60Hz.

Camera Comparison

Both phones likely feature a multi-camera setup, typically including a primary sensor, wide-angle lens, and macro lens. The Hot 12's more powerful processor may allow for slightly better image processing and potentially better low-light performance. Expect similar camera quality in well-lit conditions.

Performance

This is where the Hot 12 shines. The Helio G85 chipset is considerably more powerful than the Helio G37/Unisoc T610 found in the Hot 12 Play. Expect smoother app loading, better multitasking, and a more responsive user experience on the Hot 12. The Hot 12 Play will handle basic tasks adequately, but may struggle with demanding apps or games.

Battery Life

The Hot 12 Play often boasts a larger battery capacity (typically 6000mAh vs 5000mAh on the Hot 12). This translates to significantly longer battery life on the Hot 12 Play, potentially lasting two days on a single charge with moderate usage. The Hot 12 will still offer good battery life, but not to the same extent.

Buying Guide

The Infinix Hot 12 is ideal for users who prioritize performance, smoother multitasking, and faster charging. It's a good choice for light gaming and everyday tasks. The Infinix Hot 12 Play is best suited for users who need exceptional battery life and are on a very tight budget, willing to compromise on performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the difference between the Infinix Hot 12 and Hot 12 Play?
The main differences are the processor (Helio G85 vs. Helio G37/Unisoc T610) and battery capacity (5000mAh vs. 6000mAh). The Hot 12 offers better performance, while the Hot 12 Play prioritizes battery life.
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Infinix Hot 12 is significantly better for gaming due to its more powerful processor. It will handle games more smoothly and with better graphics settings.