Umidigi F3 vs. Infinix Note 12 (2023): A Detailed Performance and Value Comparison

The Umidigi F3 and Infinix Note 12 (2023) represent compelling options in the crowded budget smartphone market. While both aim to deliver a solid experience without breaking the bank, they take different approaches to achieving this. The F3 relies on a slightly older, but still capable, Helio P70, while the Note 12 (2023) boasts the newer, more efficient Helio G99. This comparison will dissect the key differences to determine which device offers the best value for your money.
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🏆 Quick Verdict

For the average user prioritizing performance and future-proofing, the Infinix Note 12 (2023) is the clear winner. Its Helio G99 chipset, built on a 6nm process, provides a significant performance and efficiency advantage over the Umidigi F3’s Helio P70. The faster 33W charging is also a substantial benefit.

PHONES
Phone Names Umidigi F3 Infinix Note 12 (2023)
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 661, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41
SpeedHSPA, LTEHSPA, LTE
TechnologyGSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTEGSM / HSPA / LTE
 -1, 3, 5, 8, 38, 40, 41
Launch
Announced20222022, October 06
StatusAvailable. Released 2022Available. Released 2022, October 06
Body
Build-Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back
Dimensions168.3 x 76.6 x 8.8 mm (6.63 x 3.02 x 0.35 in)164.4 x 76.5 x 7.8 mm (6.47 x 3.01 x 0.31 in)
SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIMNano-SIM + Nano-SIM
Weight195 g (6.88 oz)195 g (6.88 oz)
Display
Resolution720 x 1650 pixels (~269 ppi density)1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~393 ppi density)
Size6.7 inches, 106.2 cm2 (~82.3% screen-to-body ratio)6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~86.2% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeIPS LCDAMOLED
Platform
CPUOcta-core (4x2.1 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53)Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
ChipsetMediatek Helio P70 (12 nm)Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm)
GPUMali-G72 MP3Mali-G57 MC2
OSAndroid 11Android 12, XOS 10.6
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXC (uses shared SIM slot)microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal128GB 8GB RAM128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM
Main Camera
FeaturesDual-LED flash, HDR, panoramaQuad-LED flash, HDR, panorama
Single-16 MP, (wide)
Triple48 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.0", AF 8 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide) 5 MP (macro)50 MP, f/1.6, (wide), PDAF Auxiliary lenses
Video1080p@30fps1440p@30fps
Selfie camera
Single16 MP, f/2.2, (wide)16 MP, (wide)
Video1080p@30fps1440p@30fps
Sound
3.5mm jack -Yes
35mm jackYesYes
Loudspeaker YesYes, with dual speakers
Comms
Bluetooth4.2, A2DPYes
NFCYesYes
PositioningGPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDSGPS
RadioWireless FM radioFM radio
USBUSB Type-C, OTGUSB Type-C 2.0, OTG
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi DirectWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band
Features
SensorsFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compassFingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
 -24-bit/192kHz audio
Battery
Charging18W wired33W wired
Type5150 mAh5000 mAh
Misc
ColorsHawaii Blue, Matte Silver, Starry Black, Sunglow Gold, Galaxy BlueVolcanic Grey, Tuscany Blue, Alpine White
Models-X676C
Price-About 220 EUR

Umidigi F3

  • Potentially lower price point.
  • Functional for basic smartphone tasks.
  • May offer a slightly larger battery capacity (unconfirmed).

  • Older, less efficient Helio P70 chipset.
  • Slower 18W charging.
  • Likely to exhibit more performance throttling under load.

Infinix Note 12 (2023)

  • More powerful and efficient Helio G99 chipset.
  • Faster 33W wired charging.
  • Improved performance for gaming and multitasking.
  • Likely better software support and updates.

  • May be slightly more expensive.
  • Potentially smaller battery capacity (unconfirmed).

Display Comparison

Neither device’s display specifications are provided, so a direct comparison is limited. However, given the market positioning, both likely utilize IPS LCD panels. The key differentiator will be color accuracy and peak brightness. The Note 12 (2023), being a newer release, may benefit from improved panel technology and calibration. Bezels are likely comparable, reflecting the budget nature of both devices.

Camera Comparison

Without detailed camera specifications, it’s difficult to make a definitive judgment. However, given the price points, both phones likely feature a primary sensor paired with auxiliary lenses of limited utility. The focus should be on the main sensor’s resolution and aperture. A larger sensor with a wider aperture will capture more light, resulting in better low-light performance. The image processing capabilities of the Helio G99 in the Note 12 (2023) may also offer an advantage in dynamic range and detail.

Performance

The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Infinix Note 12 (2023)’s Mediatek Helio G99 (6nm) is a substantial upgrade over the Umidigi F3’s Helio P70 (12nm). The 6nm process node translates to significantly improved power efficiency, meaning less heat generation and potentially less performance throttling during sustained tasks. The G99’s CPU configuration – 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 – also offers a performance boost over the F3’s 4x2.1 GHz Cortex-A73 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A53. While both are octa-core, the Cortex-A76 cores in the G99 are more powerful than the A73 cores in the P70. This will be most noticeable in demanding applications and games.

Battery Life

The battery capacity isn’t specified for either device, but the charging wattage is a key differentiator. The Infinix Note 12 (2023) supports 33W wired charging, significantly faster than the Umidigi F3’s 18W charging. This translates to a much quicker 0-100% charge time, reducing downtime. Even if the F3 has a slightly larger battery capacity, the Note 12 (2023)’s faster charging will likely result in a more convenient user experience. The G99’s efficiency also means less battery drain during use.

Buying Guide

Buy the Umidigi F3 if you need a functional smartphone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use, and are on an extremely tight budget. Buy the Infinix Note 12 (2023) if you prioritize smoother multitasking, occasional gaming, and faster charging, and are willing to spend a little more for a more responsive and efficient experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Will the Helio G99 in the Infinix Note 12 (2023) handle demanding games like PUBG Mobile smoothly?
The Helio G99 is specifically designed for gaming. While it won't deliver flagship-level performance, it should comfortably run PUBG Mobile at medium to high settings with stable frame rates. The 6nm process also helps prevent overheating and throttling during extended gaming sessions, providing a more consistent experience than the Umidigi F3’s Helio P70.
❓ How much faster is the 33W charging on the Infinix Note 12 (2023) compared to the 18W charging on the Umidigi F3?
The 33W charging on the Note 12 (2023) will significantly reduce charging times. While exact figures depend on battery capacity, you can expect a 0-100% charge to be approximately 30-50% faster than on the Umidigi F3. This means less time tethered to a wall charger and more time using your phone.
❓ Is the difference in chipset performance between the Helio G99 and Helio P70 noticeable in everyday tasks?
Yes, the difference is noticeable. While both chipsets can handle basic tasks, the Helio G99 provides a smoother and more responsive experience when multitasking, opening apps, and browsing the web. The more powerful CPU cores and improved efficiency of the G99 contribute to a snappier overall user experience.