Xiaomi's Redmi series consistently delivers value, but navigating the options can be tricky. The Redmi 11A and 12C represent two compelling choices in the ultra-budget segment. While both aim to provide essential smartphone functionality at a low price, the 12C introduces a more modern chipset, the MediaTek Helio G85, raising the question: is the upgrade worth the potential price difference?
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Redmi 12C offers a noticeable performance boost thanks to its Helio G85 chipset, making it the better choice. While both phones share the same 10W charging, the 12C’s more efficient processor and improved CPU architecture translate to a smoother user experience, especially for multitasking and light gaming.
| 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, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE |
| | - | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | Not announced yet | 2022, December 31 |
| Status | Cancelled | Available. Released 2023, January 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | - | 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 | - | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1650 pixels (~269 ppi density) | 720 x 1650 pixels (~268 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.7 inches, 106.2 cm2 | 6.71 inches, 106.5 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD, 500 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 2.0 GHz | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | - | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, MIUI | Android 12, MIUI 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 6GB 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), AF
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, (wide), PDAF
0.08 MP (depth) |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO |
| Radio | No | FM radio |
| USB | Yes | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | Li-Ion 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black; other colors | Graphite Gray, Ocean Blue, Mint Green, Lavender Purple |
| Models | 22120RN86C | 22120RN86G, 22120RN86I, 22126RN91Y, 2212ARNC4L |
| Price | - | £ 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) |
Xiaomi Redmi 11A
- Lowest possible price point
- Functional for basic smartphone tasks
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Noticeably slower performance
- Less responsive user experience
- Limited multitasking capabilities
Xiaomi Redmi 12C
- Superior performance with Helio G85
- Smoother multitasking and app launching
- Improved gaming capabilities
- Slightly higher price
- Still utilizes 10W charging
- Camera quality limited by budget sensor
Display Comparison
Both devices lack detailed display specifications in the provided data, suggesting they utilize standard LCD panels common in this price bracket. However, the 12C’s chipset suggests a potentially more capable display driver, possibly leading to slightly better color reproduction. Bezels are likely similar, given the shared target market. Without specific brightness or resolution data, it’s difficult to definitively declare a winner, but the 12C’s more modern platform hints at a marginal advantage.
Camera Comparison
Without sensor details, a direct camera comparison is challenging. Both phones likely feature a primary camera paired with auxiliary lenses (often 2MP macro/depth sensors). The Helio G85’s integrated image signal processor (ISP) in the 12C likely offers superior image processing capabilities, potentially resulting in better dynamic range and noise reduction compared to the 11A. However, the overall image quality will still be limited by the sensor itself, which is likely a budget-oriented component in both cases. Focusing on the ISP advantage, the 12C is expected to produce more usable photos in challenging lighting conditions.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipset. The Redmi 11A’s Octa-core 2.0 GHz processor is a general-purpose unit, while the Redmi 12C features the MediaTek Helio G85 (12 nm). The G85’s architecture – utilizing 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 and 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 cores – is significantly more efficient and powerful than the 11A’s likely all-A53 configuration. The Cortex-A75 cores provide a substantial boost in single-core performance, crucial for app launch speeds and responsiveness. This translates to a smoother experience when navigating the UI and running apps. The 12nm process node of the Helio G85 also contributes to better power efficiency, potentially offsetting the performance gains.
Battery Life
Both devices are equipped with 10W wired charging, indicating similar charging speeds – expect around 3-4 hours for a full charge. The actual battery capacity isn’t specified, but given the market segment, both likely house around a 5000mAh battery. While the capacity might be similar, the Helio G85’s improved power efficiency in the 12C could translate to slightly longer battery life during typical usage. The more efficient CPU architecture means less power is consumed during everyday tasks.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 11A if you prioritize absolute affordability and only need a phone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media. It’s a functional device for those on the tightest of budgets. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 12C if you want a more responsive experience, enjoy occasional gaming, or frequently switch between apps. The Helio G85 provides a tangible performance advantage for a relatively small price increase.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Redmi 12C handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty?
The Helio G85 in the Redmi 12C is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty at medium settings with reasonable frame rates. However, don't expect a flagship gaming experience. Lowering graphics settings will be necessary for smoother gameplay. The Redmi 11A will struggle with these titles.
❓ Is the 10W charging speed a significant drawback on either phone?
Yes, 10W charging is slow by modern standards. Both phones will take approximately 3-4 hours to fully charge from 0%. This isn't ideal for users who need a quick top-up, but it's typical for phones in this price range. Prioritize overnight charging.
❓ Does the Redmi 12C overheat during extended use or gaming?
The Helio G85 is generally well-managed in terms of thermals. While it may get warm during prolonged gaming sessions, it's unlikely to overheat to the point of performance throttling. The 12nm process node contributes to better thermal efficiency compared to older, larger node processors.
❓ What kind of storage and RAM options are available for these phones?
While not specified in the provided data, both the Redmi 11A and 12C typically come in configurations with 32GB or 64GB of storage and 2GB or 4GB of RAM. Opting for the 64GB/4GB variant is recommended for a smoother experience, especially on the 12C to take advantage of its processing power.
