Looking for a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank? The Realme Narzo 50i and Xiaomi Redmi 12C are popular contenders in the budget segment. But which one offers the best value for your money? This comprehensive comparison will break down their strengths and weaknesses.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Xiaomi Redmi 12C takes the win thanks to its significantly more powerful Helio G85 chipset, offering noticeably better performance for gaming and multitasking. While the Narzo 50i boasts reverse charging, the Redmi 12C's overall package is more compelling for most users.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE |
| | - | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, September 24 | 2022, December 31 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, October 07 | Available. Released 2023, January 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 76.4 x 8.9 mm (6.50 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) | 168.8 x 76.4 x 8.8 mm (6.65 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| | Splash-resistant design | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1650 pixels (~268 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~80.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.71 inches, 106.5 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 400 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 500 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.6 GHz | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | IMG8322 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, Realme Go UI | Android 12, MIUI 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP (depth) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | Reverse wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Black, Mint Green | Graphite Gray, Ocean Blue, Mint Green, Lavender Purple |
| Models | RMX3235 | 22120RN86G, 22120RN86I, 22126RN91Y, 2212ARNC4L |
| Price | About 90 EUR | £ 132.99 / € 107.41 |
| SAR | - | 1.08 W/kg (head) 0.64 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.98 W/kg (head) 0.99 W/kg (body) |
Realme Narzo 50i
- Reverse wired charging
- Long battery life
- Simple and user-friendly interface
- Affordable price
- Underpowered processor
- Basic camera
- Limited storage options
- HD+ display quality
Xiaomi Redmi 12C
- More powerful processor (Helio G85)
- Better gaming performance
- Improved camera quality
- Slightly better display
- 10W charging speed
- Can feel slightly less premium
- Software can be a bit cluttered
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a large 6.5-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution. The Redmi 12C might offer slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potentially improved panel technology, though detailed specifications are often lacking in this price range. Expect similar viewing experiences overall.
Camera Comparison
The Redmi 12C generally has a more versatile camera setup, often including a higher resolution main sensor and potentially a depth sensor. While both phones offer decent image quality in good lighting, the Redmi 12C is likely to produce more detailed and vibrant photos. Low-light performance will be similar on both, and not exceptional.
Performance
This is where the Redmi 12C shines. The Helio G85 chipset is a substantial upgrade over the Narzo 50i's processor. Expect smoother app loading, better multitasking, and a more enjoyable gaming experience on the Redmi 12C. The Narzo 50i will handle basic tasks adequately, but will struggle with demanding applications.
Battery Life
Both phones typically feature a large 5000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life. The Narzo 50i's efficiency might give it a slight edge in some scenarios, but the Redmi 12C's more powerful processor shouldn't significantly impact battery life.
Buying Guide
The Realme Narzo 50i is ideal for users prioritizing basic functionality, long battery life, and the convenience of reverse charging. The Xiaomi Redmi 12C is a better choice for those who want a smoother experience, improved gaming performance, and a slightly better camera, even within a tight budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Xiaomi Redmi 12C is significantly better for gaming due to its more powerful Helio G85 chipset.
❓ Does the Narzo 50i have reverse charging?
Yes, the Realme Narzo 50i features reverse wired charging, allowing you to charge other devices using its battery.
❓ Which phone has better battery life?
Both offer excellent battery life, but the Narzo 50i might have a slight edge due to its less demanding processor.
❓ Which phone is easier to use?
The Realme Narzo 50i's interface is generally simpler and more user-friendly, while the Redmi 12C's MIUI can be a bit more complex.
