The Samsung Galaxy A12 Nacho and Xiaomi Redmi Note 11R represent compelling options in the ultra-budget smartphone segment. While both aim to deliver essential smartphone functionality at a low price, they diverge significantly in their core hardware. This comparison dissects the differences between the Exynos 850-powered A12 Nacho and the Dimensity 700-equipped Redmi Note 11R, focusing on performance, battery life, and overall value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11R emerges as the stronger choice. Its Mediatek Dimensity 700 chipset, built on a more efficient 7nm process, provides a noticeable performance uplift over the Samsung Galaxy A12 Nacho’s 8nm Exynos 850, translating to smoother multitasking and gaming. The slightly faster 18W charging is a bonus.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 5, 8, 28, 41, 78 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| | - | CDMA 800 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, August 09 | 2022, September 30 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, August 09 | Available. Released 2022, September 30 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.8 x 8.9 mm (6.46 x 2.98 x 0.35 in) | 164 x 76.1 x 8.9 mm (6.46 x 3.00 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 205 g (7.23 oz) | 201 g (7.09 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~401 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.58 inches, 104.3 cm2 (~83.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 400 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5.1 | Android 12, MIUI 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | 48 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), AF
5 MP, f/2.2, 123˚ (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.2 | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio, RDS, recording | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| | Virtual proximity sensing | - |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Red | Black, Blue, Gray |
| Models | SM-A127F/DSN, SM-A127F/DS, SM-A127F, SM-A127M, SM-A127U | 22095RA98C |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 160 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.67 W/kg (head) 1.38 W/kg (body) | - |
Samsung Galaxy A12 Nacho
- Samsung Brand Recognition
- Potentially wider accessory availability
- Clean Software Experience (potentially)
- Less powerful Exynos 850 chipset
- Slower 15W charging
- 8nm process less efficient
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11R
- More powerful Mediatek Dimensity 700 chipset
- Faster 18W charging
- 7nm process for better efficiency
- Xiaomi’s MIUI software can be polarizing
- Potentially less brand recognition in some markets
- Build quality may be slightly lower
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely feature LCD panels, common in this price bracket. However, detailed specs like resolution and peak brightness are missing. The focus here is on the chipset, as display performance is often tied to GPU capabilities. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, and color accuracy will likely be standard for the segment.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed camera specs, a direct comparison is difficult. Both phones likely feature a primary camera and several auxiliary lenses, potentially including a depth sensor and a 2MP macro. The Redmi Note 11R’s image processing algorithms, typical of Xiaomi, may prioritize vibrant colors, while Samsung often aims for more natural tones. The chipset’s ISP (Image Signal Processor) plays a crucial role, and the Dimensity 700’s more modern ISP likely offers better noise reduction and dynamic range. The usefulness of a 2MP macro lens on either device is questionable.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11R’s Mediatek Dimensity 700, fabricated on a 7nm process, offers a clear advantage over the Samsung Galaxy A12 Nacho’s Exynos 850 (8nm). The Dimensity 700’s CPU configuration – 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 and 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 – is more powerful than the A12 Nacho’s all-Cortex-A55 setup at 2.0 GHz. This translates to faster app loading times and a smoother experience with multitasking. The Dimensity 700 also includes a more capable integrated GPU, benefiting gaming performance. While both phones likely feature similar RAM configurations, the chipset’s efficiency will impact sustained performance under load.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified, but both phones likely house batteries in the 5000mAh range, typical for this segment. The Redmi Note 11R’s 18W wired charging is slightly faster than the Galaxy A12 Nacho’s 15W charging. While the difference isn’t massive, it will shave off some time during charging cycles. The Dimensity 700’s 7nm process contributes to better power efficiency, potentially offsetting any capacity difference and leading to longer real-world battery life on the Redmi Note 11R.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy A12 Nacho if you prioritize brand recognition and a potentially wider availability of accessories within the Samsung ecosystem. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11R if you prioritize performance-per-dollar, especially for gaming and demanding applications, and appreciate a more modern chipset architecture. The Redmi Note 11R is the better option for users who want a phone that feels more responsive and future-proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Exynos 850 in the Galaxy A12 Nacho struggle with demanding games like PUBG?
Yes, the Exynos 850 is a relatively basic chipset. While it can run PUBG Mobile, you’ll likely need to lower graphics settings significantly to achieve a playable frame rate. The Redmi Note 11R’s Dimensity 700 will provide a much smoother gaming experience, even at higher settings.
❓ Is the 18W charging on the Redmi Note 11R a significant improvement over the A12 Nacho’s 15W charging?
While not a massive leap, the 18W charging on the Redmi Note 11R will noticeably reduce charging times. Expect a roughly 30-minute difference for a full charge, making it more convenient for users who frequently need to top up their battery.
❓ How does the software experience differ between the Galaxy A12 Nacho and the Redmi Note 11R?
Samsung’s One UI is generally considered cleaner and more intuitive, while Xiaomi’s MIUI is feature-rich but can be more cluttered and include pre-installed bloatware. MIUI also tends to be more aggressive with battery optimization, which can sometimes interfere with app functionality.
❓ Will I notice a difference in everyday tasks like browsing and social media between these two phones?
Yes, you will. The Redmi Note 11R’s Dimensity 700 chipset will make everyday tasks feel snappier and more responsive. App loading times will be faster, and multitasking will be smoother compared to the Galaxy A12 Nacho.
