The budget smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Infinix Hot 12 and Tecno Camon 19 Neo are two strong contenders. Both offer compelling features at an affordable price, but which one truly comes out on top? This comprehensive review breaks down their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
It's a close call! Both phones share the same chipset and charging speed. The Tecno Camon 19 Neo likely edges ahead due to potentially better camera software and design refinements, but the Infinix Hot 12 might offer slightly better value depending on pricing and regional availability. Ultimately, it depends on your priorities.
| 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 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, April 26 | 2022, June 15 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, April 26 | Available. Released 2022, July |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | 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) | 168.8 x 76.9 x 8.5 mm (6.65 x 3.03 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~259 ppi density) | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.82 inches, 111.7 cm2 (~84.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~84.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, XOS 10.6 | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | Unspecified |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Quad-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 32 MP, f/2.5, 26mm (wide), 0.8µm |
| Triple | 13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
2 MP
Auxiliary lens | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 32 MP, f/2.5, 26mm (wide), 0.8µm |
| 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 | Yes |
| 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 | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Racing Black, Legend White, Origin Blue, Lucky Green | Eco Black, Ice Mirror, Dreamland Green |
| Models | X6817, X6817B | CH6i |
| Price | About 150 EUR | - |
Infinix Hot 12
- Potentially better value for money
- Reliable performance for everyday tasks
- Decent gaming capabilities
- Camera may not be as impressive as the Camon 19 Neo
- Design might be less premium
- Software experience can be inconsistent
Tecno Camon 19 Neo
- Potentially better camera quality and image processing
- More refined design and build quality
- Potentially smoother software experience
- May be slightly more expensive
- Performance is largely similar to the Hot 12
- 18W charging is relatively slow
Display Comparison
Both phones typically feature a 6.6-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution. While both are adequate for media consumption, the Tecno Camon 19 Neo might have slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potential panel upgrades. Expect similar viewing angles and responsiveness.
Camera Comparison
The Tecno Camon 19 Neo often boasts a more sophisticated camera setup, potentially including a higher resolution main sensor and improved image processing algorithms. While both offer decent camera capabilities, the Camon 19 Neo is likely to produce more detailed and vibrant photos, especially in challenging lighting conditions. Expect both to offer standard features like portrait mode and HDR.
Performance
Sharing the same Mediatek Helio G85 chipset and CPU configuration, expect similar performance in everyday tasks and moderate gaming. Real-world performance will depend heavily on software optimization; Tecno's HiOS or Infinix's XOS could influence the overall smoothness.
Battery Life
Both phones typically pack a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life under moderate usage. The 18W wired charging is standard for this price range, offering a reasonable charging time. Battery optimization will be key to maximizing longevity.
Buying Guide
The Infinix Hot 12 is ideal for users prioritizing a reliable, no-frills experience with a focus on gaming and everyday tasks. The Tecno Camon 19 Neo is a better choice for those who value camera quality, a more refined design, and potentially a slightly smoother user experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are the Infinix Hot 12 and Tecno Camon 19 Neo the same phone?
No, while they share the same chipset, they differ in design, camera capabilities, and potentially software optimization. The Camon 19 Neo generally offers a more premium experience.
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones offer decent gaming performance thanks to the Helio G85. However, the Infinix Hot 12 might offer slightly better value for gamers on a tight budget.
