The Karbonn A12+ and A9+ represent a segment of the market focused on affordability. While visually similar, a key difference lies under the hood: their processors. This comparison dissects the impact of the A12+'s 1.3 GHz dual-core CPU versus the A9+'s 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, revealing which device offers a smoother user experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing responsiveness in apps and multitasking, the Karbonn A12+ is the better choice. The 100 MHz clock speed advantage, while seemingly small, translates to a noticeable performance boost in everyday tasks, making it worth the potential price difference.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 2100 | HSDPA 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA | HSPA 7.2/0.384 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2013, October. Released 2013, October | 2012 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | - | 120 x 60.5 x 11.3 mm (4.72 x 2.38 x 0.44 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~233 ppi density) | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~233 ppi density) |
| Size | 4.0 inches, 45.5 cm2 | 4.0 inches, 45.5 cm2 (~62.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.3 GHz | Dual-core 1.2 GHz |
| OS | Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) | Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 4GB 512MB RAM | 4GB 512MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | 1.3 MP |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 2.0 |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 200 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 4 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 1400 mAh battery | Li-Ion 1420 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black/White | Pearl White |
| Price | About 60 EUR | About 120 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.66 W/kg (head) |
Karbonn A12+
- Slightly faster processor for improved responsiveness
- Potentially smoother multitasking experience
- Likely better app launch times
- May have a slightly shorter battery life due to higher clock speed
- Potentially higher price point
Karbonn A9+
- Potentially lower price point
- Slightly longer battery life (potentially)
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Slower processor leading to lag in demanding apps
- Less responsive user interface
Display Comparison
Given the limited data, we can assume both devices utilize similar LCD panels common in this price bracket. Display quality will likely be comparable, focusing on basic viewing angles and color reproduction. Neither device is expected to feature high brightness or advanced features like LTPO.
Camera Comparison
Without sensor details, a camera comparison is difficult. Both devices likely feature basic camera setups geared towards casual photography. Image processing will be limited, and low-light performance will be subpar. Any included 'macro' cameras are likely 2MP sensors offering minimal practical benefit.
Performance
The core difference lies in the CPU: the A12+ boasts a 1.3 GHz dual-core processor, while the A9+ operates at 1.2 GHz. This 8.3% clock speed increase, while not revolutionary, directly impacts processing speed. The A12+ will exhibit faster app launch times and smoother multitasking. The architecture of the cores is unknown, but given the market segment, they are likely ARM Cortex-A53 or similar. RAM speed and capacity are not specified, but lower-end LPDDR3 is probable on both, further limiting performance gains.
Battery Life
Battery capacity and charging wattage are not provided. However, given the low-power processors, both devices should offer all-day battery life with moderate usage. Charging times will likely be several hours using the included charger. The A12+'s slightly faster processor may draw marginally more power, but the difference is unlikely to be significant.
Buying Guide
Buy the Karbonn A12+ if you frequently use social media, browse the web with multiple tabs open, or occasionally play light games. The slightly faster processor will provide a more fluid experience. Buy the Karbonn A9+ if your primary use case is basic calling, texting, and limited app usage. It's a functional device for those with minimal smartphone needs and a tighter budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the A12+ handle popular social media apps like Facebook and WhatsApp smoothly?
Yes, the A12+'s 1.3 GHz processor should provide a reasonably smooth experience with Facebook and WhatsApp, even with multiple chats and browsing. However, expect some lag when loading image-heavy content or using the apps for extended periods.
❓ Can the A9+ run basic games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers?
The A9+ can run simple games like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers, but performance will be limited. Expect lower frame rates and occasional stuttering, especially during more complex game scenes. It's suitable for casual gaming, but not for demanding titles.
❓ Is there a noticeable difference in app loading times between the A12+ and A9+?
Yes, the A12+ will generally load apps faster than the A9+ due to its higher clock speed. While the difference may not be dramatic, it will be noticeable when switching between apps frequently.
