The budget smartphone market is fiercely competitive, and the Tecno Camon 18T and Infinix Hot 12 are two strong contenders. Both offer compelling features at an affordable price, but which one truly delivers the best value? This comprehensive comparison will break down their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
It's a close call! The Tecno Camon 18T edges out the Infinix Hot 12 due to its slightly better camera performance and potentially more refined software experience. However, the Hot 12 might offer a more attractive price point depending on current deals.
| 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 | LTE | 1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | - | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, November 30 | 2022, April 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2021, November 30 | Available. Released 2022, April 26 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 168.9 x 76.7 x 8.9 mm (6.65 x 3.02 x 0.35 in) | 170.5 x 77.6 x 8.3 mm (6.71 x 3.06 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | 195 g (6.88 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 720 x 1612 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~259 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~84.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.82 inches, 111.7 cm2 (~84.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 500 nits (typ) | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 11, HIOS 8.0 | Android 12, XOS 10.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | Unspecified | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 48 MP, (wide) | 8 MP |
| Triple | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), PDAF
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
2 MP
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 48 MP, (wide) | 8 MP |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with dual speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | Yes |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Iris purple, Dusk Gray, Ceramic White | Racing Black, Legend White, Origin Blue, Lucky Green |
| Models | - | X6817, X6817B |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 150 EUR |
Tecno Camon 18T
- Potentially better camera quality
- Slightly more refined software (HiOS)
- Often includes a more versatile camera setup
- Good value for money
- Can be slightly more expensive than the Hot 12
- Software updates may be less frequent
Infinix Hot 12
- More affordable price point
- Large battery for all-day use
- Focus on entertainment features (e.g., enhanced audio)
- Stylish design
- Camera performance may be slightly inferior
- Software experience (XOS) can be inconsistent
- Build quality might feel less premium
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.6-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution. While both offer a large viewing area, the Camon 18T might have slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to potential panel differences. Expect similar viewing experiences overall, suitable for everyday use and media consumption.
Camera Comparison
The Camon 18T typically boasts a more versatile camera system, often including a higher resolution main sensor and potentially additional lenses like a macro or depth sensor. While both offer decent image quality in good lighting, the Camon 18T is likely to produce more detailed and vibrant photos, especially in challenging conditions. The front-facing camera on the Camon 18T often has a higher resolution as well.
Performance
Powered by the same Mediatek Helio G85 chipset, performance should be largely comparable. Expect smooth multitasking and decent gaming capabilities at medium settings. Real-world performance will also depend on software optimization; Tecno's HiOS and Infinix's XOS may have varying levels of efficiency.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for moderate usage. Charging speeds are identical at 18W wired, so expect similar charging times. Battery optimization will play a crucial role in real-world performance.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Camon 18T is ideal for users prioritizing camera quality and a potentially smoother user interface. The Infinix Hot 12 is a great choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option with a large battery and a focus on entertainment features.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone has better gaming performance?
Both phones offer similar gaming performance thanks to the Helio G85 chipset. Expect playable frame rates on medium settings for most games.
❓ Which phone has a better user interface?
This is subjective. Tecno's HiOS is generally considered more polished, while Infinix's XOS can be inconsistent. It depends on personal preference.
