Infinix Note 40 vs Realme 12 Pro+: Which Mid-Range Phone Reigns Supreme?

The mid-range smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Infinix Note 40 and Realme 12 Pro+ represent compelling options for users seeking a balance of features and affordability. The Note 40 focuses on rapid charging and a value-driven experience, while the 12 Pro+ aims for a more premium feel with a stronger processor and brighter display. This comparison dissects their key differences to help you choose the right device.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user prioritizing all-around performance and a brighter, more vibrant display, the Realme 12 Pro+ is the better choice. Its Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset and 802 nits peak brightness offer a smoother experience and improved visibility. However, the Infinix Note 40’s MagCharge wireless charging and faster 45W charging are compelling advantages for those who value convenience.

PHONES
Phone Names Infinix Note 40 Realme 12 Pro+
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 13, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41, 661, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 41
5G bands-1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE, 5G
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G
Launch
Announced2024, March 182024, January 29
StatusAvailable. Released 2024, March 19Available. Released 2024, January 29
Body
Dimensions164.1 x 74.5 x 7.8 mm (6.46 x 2.93 x 0.31 in)161.5 x 74 x 8.8 mm (6.36 x 2.91 x 0.35 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight190 g (6.70 oz)196 g (6.91 oz)
Display
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass-
Resolution1080 x 2436 pixels (~393 ppi density)1080 x 2412 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~394 ppi density)
Size6.78 inches, 109.9 cm2 (~89.9% screen-to-body ratio)6.7 inches, 108.0 cm2 (~90.4% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeAMOLED, 120Hz, 1300 nits (peak)AMOLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, 800 nits (HBM), 950 nits (peak)
Platform
CPUOcta-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)Octa-core (4x2.40 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.95 GHz Cortex-A55)
ChipsetMediatek Helio G99 UltimateQualcomm SM7435-AB Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4 nm)
GPUMali-G57 MC2Adreno 710
OSAndroid 14, XOS 14Android 14, Realme UI 5.0
Memory
Card slotUnspecifiedNo
Internal256GB 8GB RAM128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 12GB RAM
Main Camera
FeaturesQuad-LED flash, HDR, panoramaLED flash, HDR, panorama
Triple108 MP, f/1.9, (wide), 1/1.52", PDAF 2 MP, f/2.4 3rd unspecified camera50 MP, f/1.8, 24mm (wide), 1/1.56", 1.0µm, multi-directional PDAF, OIS 64 MP, f/2.8, 71mm, (periscope telephoto), 1/2.0", 0.7µm, PDAF, OIS, 3x optical zoom 8 MP, f/2.2, 16mm, 112˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
Video1440p@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120fps, gyro-EIS
Selfie camera
Single32 MP, f/2.2, (wide), 1/3.1"32 MP, f/2.4, 22mm (wide)
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Sound
35mm jackNoNo
Loudspeaker Yes, with stereo speakersYes, with stereo speakers
Comms
BluetoothYes5.2, A2DP, LE
NFCYes (market/region dependent)Yes (market/region dependent)
PositioningGPSGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS
RadioFM radioNo
USBUSB Type-C 2.0, OTGUSB Type-C 2.0
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-bandWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band
Features
SensorsFingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compassFingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
Battery
Charging45W wired, 50% in 26 min 20W wireless MagCharge Reverse wired Reverse wireless67W wired, 50% in 19 min
Type5000 mAh5000 mAh
Misc
ColorsTitan Gold, Obsidian Black, Racing EditionSubmarine Blue, Navigator Beige, Explorer Red
ModelsX6853RMX3840, RMX3841
PriceAbout 180 EUR$ 465.00 / £ 299.00 / € 344.26 / ₹ 28,400

Infinix Note 40

  • Faster wireless charging with MagCharge
  • Reverse wired and wireless charging
  • Potentially lower price point

  • Less powerful processor
  • Likely lower display brightness
  • Uncertain camera performance

Realme 12 Pro+

  • More powerful Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset
  • Brighter 802 nit display
  • Longer battery life (13:24h active use)

  • No MagCharge wireless charging
  • Slower wireless charging (if supported)
  • Higher price point

Display Comparison

The Realme 12 Pro+ boasts a significantly brighter display, reaching a measured 802 nits, compared to an unstated brightness for the Infinix Note 40. This translates to better outdoor visibility. While both likely utilize AMOLED panels (based on market positioning), the Realme’s higher peak brightness is a clear advantage. We expect the Realme to have better color accuracy and contrast. The Note 40’s display specs are currently unknown, making a detailed comparison difficult, but the Realme’s panel is demonstrably superior in brightness.

Camera Comparison

Without detailed camera specifications for the Infinix Note 40, a direct comparison is limited. However, the Realme 12 Pro+ is likely to offer a more sophisticated camera system, benefiting from Qualcomm’s image signal processor (ISP). The Realme’s focus on a premium experience suggests a larger sensor and potentially better image stabilization. The Note 40’s camera performance will likely be adequate for everyday use, but the 12 Pro+ is expected to excel in low-light conditions and offer more detailed images. We anticipate the Realme to have a more refined image processing pipeline.

Performance

The Realme 12 Pro+ is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4nm), a more modern and efficient chipset than the Infinix Note 40’s MediaTek Helio G99 Ultimate. The Snapdragon’s 4x Cortex-A78 cores clocked at 2.40 GHz provide a noticeable performance uplift over the Note 40’s 2x Cortex-A76 cores at 2.2 GHz, particularly in demanding tasks and gaming. The 4nm process node of the Snapdragon also contributes to better thermal efficiency, reducing the likelihood of throttling during extended use. While the Helio G99 Ultimate is a capable chip, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 offers a more future-proof and responsive experience.

Battery Life

The Realme 12 Pro+ demonstrates superior battery endurance, achieving 13:24 hours of active use. While the Infinix Note 40’s battery capacity is unstated, the Realme’s longer runtime suggests a more efficient combination of hardware and software optimization. The Realme also features 67W wired charging, reaching 50% charge in 19 minutes, while the Infinix Note 40’s 45W charging takes 26 minutes for the same milestone. The Note 40 compensates with 20W MagCharge wireless charging and reverse charging capabilities, offering greater versatility, but the Realme’s faster wired charging is more practical for quick top-ups.

Buying Guide

Buy the Infinix Note 40 if you need a phone with exceptionally fast charging – both wired and wireless – and prioritize convenience features like reverse charging. It’s ideal for users who frequently top up their devices and appreciate the flexibility of MagCharge. Buy the Realme 12 Pro+ if you prefer a more powerful processor for smoother multitasking and gaming, a brighter and more visually appealing display, and longer battery life during active use. This phone suits users who demand a more refined experience and aren’t as reliant on wireless charging.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Does the Infinix Note 40’s MagCharge work with all wireless chargers?
The Infinix Note 40’s MagCharge utilizes the Qi wireless charging standard, but the ‘Mag’ aspect refers to magnetic alignment. It works best with chargers specifically designed for MagCharge to ensure optimal alignment and charging efficiency. Standard Qi chargers will work, but may not benefit from the magnetic attachment.
❓ How does the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 in the Realme 12 Pro+ handle graphically intensive games like Genshin Impact?
The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 is capable of running Genshin Impact at medium to high settings with stable frame rates. While it won’t match the performance of flagship chipsets, it provides a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. Expect some frame drops during particularly demanding scenes, but overall performance should be satisfactory.
❓ Is the 67W charging on the Realme 12 Pro+ compatible with Power Delivery (PD) chargers?
While the Realme 12 Pro+ supports fast charging, it's best to use the included charger to achieve the full 67W charging speed. Compatibility with Power Delivery (PD) chargers may vary, and you might not get the maximum charging rate. Using a PD charger is still safe, but charging times could be longer.