The Infinix Note series consistently delivers impressive features at competitive prices. Two contenders in this lineup are the Infinix Note 12 (2023) and the Infinix Note 12 G96. But which one offers the best value for your money? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Infinix Note 12 (2023) generally edges out the G96 thanks to its more efficient 6nm chipset and slightly improved performance. While both offer solid battery life and cameras, the (2023) model's processing power makes it the preferable choice for smoother multitasking and gaming.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 41, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, October 06 | 2022, May 16 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, October 06 | Available. Released 2022, May 16 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 76.5 x 7.8 mm (6.47 x 3.01 x 0.31 in) | 164.6 x 76.8 x 8 mm (6.48 x 3.02 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 185 g (6.53 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~393 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~393 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~86.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~85.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | AMOLED | AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.05 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6781 Helio G96 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, XOS 10.6 | Android 12, XOS 10.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Triple | 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lenses | 50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), 1/2.8", 0.64µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lenses |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1440p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide) | 16 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1440p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with dual speakers | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | 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, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| | 24-bit/192kHz audio | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 33W wired | 33W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Volcanic Grey, Tuscany Blue, Alpine White | Force Black, Snowfall, Sapphire Blue (Jewel Blue) |
| Models | X676C | X670 |
| Price | About 220 EUR | About 210 EUR |
Infinix Note 12 (2023)
- More efficient chipset (Helio G99)
- Potentially slightly higher price
Infinix Note 12 G96
- Generally more affordable
- Large display and battery
- Less powerful chipset (Helio G96)
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors and smooth scrolling. Resolution is typically FHD+ on both. While both are excellent, the (2023) model *might* have slightly better color accuracy due to potential display panel improvements, but this is often subtle.
Camera Comparison
Both phones typically feature a 50MP main camera, along with ultrawide and macro lenses. Image quality is generally comparable in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance might be slightly better on the (2023) due to the more modern image signal processor (ISP) within the G99 chipset. Video recording capabilities are similar on both.
Performance
This is where the biggest difference lies. The Note 12 (2023)'s Helio G99 (6nm) is significantly more efficient than the G96 (12nm). Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance on the (2023) model. The G96 is still capable, but the G99 provides a more premium feel.
Battery Life
Both devices boast a 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life. Charging speeds are identical at 33W wired, allowing for relatively quick top-ups. Real-world battery performance is likely to be very similar between the two.
Buying Guide
The Infinix Note 12 (2023) is ideal for users who prioritize performance and a slightly more modern chipset. It's great for moderate gaming and everyday tasks. The Infinix Note 12 G96 remains a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers who still want a large display, decent camera, and long battery life, especially if the price difference is significant.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Infinix Note 12 (2023) worth the extra money?
If you value performance and a smoother user experience, the (2023) model is generally worth the slight price premium. However, if you're on a tight budget, the G96 remains a solid option.
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Infinix Note 12 (2023) is the clear winner for gaming due to its more powerful and efficient Helio G99 chipset.
