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.
🏆 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.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, April 26 | 2022, May 23 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, April 26 | Available. Released 2022, May 30 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 170.5 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) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 209 g (7.37 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~259 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~259 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.82 inches, 111.7 cm2 (~84.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.82 inches, 111.7 cm2 (~83.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-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 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765V/CB Helio G37 (12 nm) - X6816Unisoc T610 (12 nm) - X6816C |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 - X6816Mali-G52 MP2 - X6816C |
| OS | Android 12, XOS 10.6 | Android 11, XOS 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 64GB 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 |
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
2 MP
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | Yes | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 5000 mAh | 6000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Racing Black, Legend White, Origin Blue, Lucky Green | Racing Black, Horizon Blue, Daylight Green, Champagne Gold |
| Models | X6817, X6817B | X6816C, X6816 |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 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.