The Samsung Galaxy M12 is a popular budget smartphone, but a regional variant exists specifically for the Indian market. While appearing identical at first glance, subtle differences in RAM configuration and pricing can significantly impact the user experience. This deep dive dissects these variations to determine which M12 offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user in India, the Galaxy M12 (India) is the clear winner. The inclusion of 6GB of RAM for ₹13,999 provides a noticeable performance boost over the standard M12, making it better suited for multitasking and demanding applications, without sacrificing any core features.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 26, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, February 05 | 2021, April 19 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, March 18 | Available. Released 2021, April 30 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.9 x 9.7 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.38 in) | 164 x 75.9 x 9.7 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 221 g (7.80 oz) | 212 g (7.48 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD, 90Hz | PLS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Exynos 850 (8 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Mali-G52 |
| OS | Android 11, One UI 3.1 | Android 11, One UI Core 3.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Quad | 48 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 123˚ (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 48 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 123˚ (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Single | - | 8 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 8 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 | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer |
| | Virtual proximity sensing | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 15W wired | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 6000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Attractive Black, Elegant Blue, Trendy Emerald Green | Black, Blue, Green |
| Models | SM-M127F, SM-M127F/DS, SM-F127G, SM-F127G/DS, SM-M127G, SM-M127G/DS | SM-M127F, SM-M127F/DSN, SM-M127N |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 170 EUR |
| SAR | 1.19 W/kg (head) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.54 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) | 0.54 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
| Pricing |
|---|
| 128GB 6GB RAM | ₹ 13,999 | - |
Samsung Galaxy M12 (India)
- 6GB RAM for improved multitasking
- Competitive price of ₹13,999 (India)
- Efficient Exynos 850 chipset
- 15W charging is relatively slow
- Display resolution likely limited to 720p+
Samsung Galaxy M12
- Efficient Exynos 850 chipset
- Large battery capacity (estimated)
- Samsung’s One UI software experience
- RAM configuration unspecified, potentially lower than 6GB
- 15W charging is relatively slow
Display Comparison
Both the Samsung Galaxy M12 (India) and the standard M12 share the same display characteristics, lacking detailed specifications in the provided data. However, given their market segment, we can infer a PLS LCD panel, likely with a 720p+ resolution. The absence of high refresh rates or advanced features like LTPO is typical for this price point. Bezels are expected to be moderate, prioritizing screen real estate over a premium aesthetic. Color accuracy will likely be tuned towards Samsung’s vibrant, saturated profile.
Camera Comparison
Camera specifications are not detailed enough to draw meaningful distinctions. Both devices likely feature a multi-camera setup, but the provided data doesn't specify sensor sizes or lens apertures. It's reasonable to assume a primary sensor around 13MP, accompanied by ultrawide and macro lenses. The inclusion of a 2MP macro camera is a common, but often underwhelming, feature in this price range. Image processing will likely rely on Samsung’s software algorithms to enhance colors and details, but don't expect flagship-level image quality.
Performance
The core performance of both devices is identical, powered by the Exynos 850 (8nm) chipset with an octa-core CPU configuration (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55). However, the key differentiator lies in the RAM. The Indian variant boasts 6GB of RAM alongside 128GB of storage, while the standard M12’s RAM configuration is unspecified. This 6GB advantage in the Indian model translates to significantly improved multitasking capabilities and reduced app reloading times. The 8nm process node of the Exynos 850 offers reasonable power efficiency, but sustained gaming may lead to thermal throttling, a common limitation in this segment.
Battery Life
Both the Samsung Galaxy M12 (India) and the standard M12 are equipped with 15W wired charging. While not particularly fast by today’s standards, it’s adequate for a budget device. The battery capacity is not specified, but given the device’s size and target market, a 5000mAh battery is highly probable. A full charge from 0-100% is estimated to take around 2.5 to 3 hours with the included charger. The Exynos 850’s power efficiency contributes to all-day battery life with moderate usage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy M12 (India) if you prioritize multitasking and smoother app switching, and are located within India, benefiting from the increased RAM for the price. Buy the standard Samsung Galaxy M12 if you are outside of India, or if the price difference is negligible and you don't anticipate heavy multitasking demands. Both devices cater to the budget-conscious user, but the Indian variant offers a superior RAM-to-price ratio.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Exynos 850 chip in the Galaxy M12 overheat during prolonged gaming sessions?
The Exynos 850 is a relatively efficient chip, but it's not a powerhouse. Expect some thermal throttling during extended gaming sessions, particularly with graphically demanding titles. Lowering graphics settings can mitigate this issue. The 8nm process helps, but passive cooling is the norm at this price point.
❓ Is the 2MP macro camera on the Galaxy M12 actually useful for taking detailed close-up photos?
Generally, 2MP macro cameras on budget smartphones offer limited detail and image quality. They are often included for marketing purposes but struggle in low-light conditions and lack the resolution to capture truly impressive close-up shots. Expect soft images with limited clarity.
❓ What is the typical screen-on time I can expect from the Galaxy M12 with moderate usage?
With moderate usage – including browsing, social media, and occasional video streaming – you can realistically expect around 7-9 hours of screen-on time from the Galaxy M12. The likely 5000mAh battery combined with the efficient Exynos 850 chipset provides good battery life.
❓ Is the Samsung Galaxy M12 (India) compatible with VoLTE and VoWiFi on all Indian carriers?
The Samsung Galaxy M12 (India) is designed to be fully compatible with VoLTE and VoWiFi on all major Indian carriers. However, it's always recommended to check with your specific carrier for the latest compatibility information, as network configurations can change.
