Xiaomi's Redmi series consistently delivers value, but navigating the options can be tricky. The Redmi A3x and Redmi 12C represent two distinct approaches to the ultra-budget segment. The A3x utilizes a newer Unisoc chipset, while the 12C relies on the established MediaTek Helio G85. This comparison dives deep into the specifications to determine which phone offers the best experience for your money.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Redmi 12C emerges as the better choice. Its Helio G85 chipset, built on a more efficient 12nm process, provides a noticeable performance advantage in everyday tasks and gaming, offsetting the A3x's newer processor. Both offer similar battery and charging capabilities, making the 12C's performance edge decisive.
| 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 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 - International |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE |
| | - | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2024, May 24 | 2022, December 31 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, May 24 | Available. Released 2023, January 01 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), glass back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 168.4 x 76.3 x 8.3 mm (6.63 x 3.00 x 0.33 in) | 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 | 193 g (6.81 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1650 pixels (~268 ppi density) | 720 x 1650 pixels (~268 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.71 inches, 106.5 cm2 (~82.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.71 inches, 106.5 cm2 (~82.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 500 nits | IPS LCD, 500 nits (typ) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core 1.8 GHz | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Unisoc T603 (22 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | - | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 14, up to 2 major Android upgrades, MIUI | Android 12, MIUI 13 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB 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), PDAF
0.08 MP (depth) |
| Features | LED flash, HDR | LED flash, HDR |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", PDAF
Auxiliary lens |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | - |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 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 | 4.2, A2DP | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 10W wired | 10W wired |
| Type | 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Midnight Black, Moonlight White (Starry White), Aurora Green (Ocean Green), Olive Green | Graphite Gray, Ocean Blue, Mint Green, Lavender Purple |
| Models | 24048RN6CG, 24048RN6CI | 22120RN86G, 22120RN86I, 22126RN91Y, 2212ARNC4L |
| Price | $ 99.99 / € 85.45 / ₹ 6,428 | £ 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 A3x
- Potentially longer software support due to newer chipset.
- Unisoc T603 offers a different chipset experience.
- May be slightly cheaper depending on region.
- Inferior CPU performance compared to the Helio G85.
- Less efficient 22nm process node.
- Likely to struggle with demanding applications.
Xiaomi Redmi 12C
- More powerful MediaTek Helio G85 chipset.
- More efficient 12nm process node.
- Smoother multitasking and gaming experience.
- Potentially better sustained performance.
- Older chipset architecture.
- May receive fewer software updates in the long run.
- Potentially slightly higher price.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both are likely to feature LCD panels, typical for this price point. However, detailed display specs (resolution, brightness, color gamut) are missing. The focus here is on processing power, not visual fidelity. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both, prioritizing cost reduction over premium aesthetics.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar, with both phones expected to feature a primary sensor paired with basic auxiliary lenses (often a 2MP macro). Without specific sensor details, it's difficult to make a definitive judgment. Image processing will likely be heavily reliant on software algorithms, and the differences will be minimal. Users shouldn't expect flagship-level image quality from either device. The 12C's slightly more powerful processor *may* allow for faster image processing, but the impact will be subtle.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Redmi 12C’s MediaTek Helio G85 (12nm) features a dual-core Cortex-A75 cluster clocked at 2.0 GHz, paired with six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz. This architecture provides a significant boost in peak performance compared to the Redmi A3x’s Unisoc T603 (22nm), which utilizes an octa-core configuration of solely Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz. The 12nm process node of the Helio G85 also contributes to better power efficiency, potentially leading to slightly longer sustained performance under load. While both are adequate for basic tasks, the 12C will handle multitasking and gaming more smoothly.
Battery Life
Both the Redmi A3x and Redmi 12C are equipped with 10W wired charging. This is a slow charging standard by today's standards, meaning a full charge will take well over two hours. Battery capacity is not specified, but both are likely to house a 5000mAh battery, common in this segment. The Helio G85’s improved power efficiency might translate to slightly better battery life in real-world usage, but the difference will likely be marginal.
Buying Guide
Buy the Xiaomi Redmi A3x if you prioritize a potentially longer software support lifecycle due to its newer processor, and are primarily focused on basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media. Buy the Xiaomi Redmi 12C if you value smoother multitasking, a more responsive user experience, and the ability to play moderately demanding games without significant lag. The 12C is the better option for anyone who doesn't want to constantly wait for their phone to catch up.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio G85 in the Redmi 12C overheat during prolonged gaming sessions?
While the Helio G85 isn't a flagship gaming chip, its 12nm process and integrated thermal management features should prevent significant overheating during moderate gaming. Expect some throttling after extended play, but it's unlikely to shut down or become unusable. The Unisoc T603 in the A3x may throttle even more quickly due to its less efficient manufacturing process.
❓ Is the performance difference between the Unisoc T603 and Helio G85 noticeable in everyday tasks like browsing and social media?
Yes, the difference is noticeable. The Helio G85's more powerful Cortex-A75 cores provide a snappier experience when switching between apps, loading web pages, and scrolling through social media feeds. The A3x will handle these tasks, but with slightly more lag and hesitation.
❓ How long will it take to fully charge both phones with the 10W charger?
Expect a full charge to take approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours for both devices. 10W charging is a slow standard, and these phones likely have 5000mAh batteries. It's best to charge them overnight.
❓ Does the Redmi 12C support any form of fast charging?
No, the Redmi 12C is limited to 10W charging. While some third-party chargers might claim compatibility, the phone itself doesn't support faster charging protocols.
