Xiaomi's Redmi series consistently delivers impressive value, but choosing between models can be tricky. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G and the standard Redmi Note 12 both offer compelling features, but cater to slightly different needs. Let's break down the key differences to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G takes the lead with its significantly faster Snapdragon 732G chipset and 67W charging. However, the Redmi Note 12 boasts exceptional battery life and a vibrant display, making it a strong contender for users prioritizing longevity and screen quality over raw power.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, March 03 | 2022, October 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, April 11 | Available. Released 2023, January 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 164.2 x 76.1 x 8.1 mm (6.46 x 3.00 x 0.32 in) | 165.9 x 76.2 x 8 mm (6.53 x 3.00 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 201.8 g (7.13 oz) | 188 g (6.63 oz) |
| | - | IP53, dust and splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~85.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | AMOLED, 120Hz, Dolby Vision, 700 nits (HBM), 1100 nits (peak) | AMOLED, 120Hz, 1200 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 470 Gold & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 470 Silver) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM7150 Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | Qualcomm SM4375 Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 619 |
| OS | Android 11, MIUI 13 | Android 12, MIUI 14 (International), MIUI 13 (India) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| | UFS 2.2 | UFS 2.2 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, panorama |
| Quad | 108 MP, f/1.9, (wide), 1/1.52", 0.7µm, PDAF
8 MP, 120˚, (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Triple | - | 48 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro) |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 16 MP, f/2.4, (wide) | 13 MP, f/2.5, (wide), 1/3.0" |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | Yes (market/region dependent) | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 67W wired | 33W wired, 50% in 22 min |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Star Blue, Graphite Gray, Polar White, Ice blue | Frosted Green, Matte Black, Mystique Blue |
| Models | 2209116AG, 2209116AG | 22111317I, 22111317G |
| Price | About 150 EUR | € 151.99 / $ 219.99 / ₹ 11,999 |
| SAR | - | 1.09 W/kg (head) 1.05 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.68 W/kg (head) 0.91 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Battery life | - |
Endurance rating 101h
|
| Camera | - |
Photo / Video |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: Infinite (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
-28.0 LUFS (Good)
|
| Performance | - |
AnTuTu: 360745 (v9)
GeekBench: 1998 (v5.1), 2017 (v6) |
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G
- Faster Processor (Snapdragon 732G)
- 67W Fast Charging
- Potentially Better Camera
- Slightly More Premium Build
- Likely Shorter Battery Life
- Potentially Higher Price
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12
- Exceptional Battery Life
- Bright Display (706 nits)
- More Affordable
- Excellent Value
- Slower Processor (Snapdragon 4 Gen 1)
- Slower Charging (33W)
- Potentially Less Detailed Camera
Display Comparison
The Redmi Note 12 shines with its measured 706 nits max brightness, offering excellent visibility even in direct sunlight. While the Note 12 Pro 4G's display is good, it lacks the same level of peak brightness. The Note 12's 'infinite' contrast ratio (likely a marketing term) suggests deep blacks, contributing to a more immersive viewing experience. Both phones likely feature AMOLED panels, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks.
Camera Comparison
Both phones offer 'Photo / Video' capabilities, but detailed camera specs are missing. Generally, the Pro models in the Redmi series have slightly better camera hardware and image processing. Expect the Note 12 Pro 4G to potentially offer better low-light performance and more detail in photos. However, both are likely to produce decent results for casual photography.
Performance
Here, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G clearly wins. The Snapdragon 732G is a significantly more powerful chipset than the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 found in the Redmi Note 12. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better gaming performance on the Pro model. The Note 12 is still capable for everyday tasks, but will struggle with demanding games or heavy workloads.
Battery Life
The Redmi Note 12 is the clear winner in battery life. Its endurance rating of 101h is exceptional, and active use lasting 10:58h is impressive. The Note 12 Pro 4G's battery life is likely good, but not in the same league as the Note 12. The Note 12 Pro 4G's 67W charging does offer a faster top-up, mitigating the battery life difference somewhat.
Buying Guide
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is ideal for users who prioritize performance, faster charging, and a slightly more premium feel. The Redmi Note 12 is a great choice for those who value exceptional battery life, a bright display, and a more budget-friendly price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G worth the extra money?
If you prioritize performance and faster charging, then yes. However, if battery life and a budget-friendly price are your top concerns, the standard Redmi Note 12 is a better choice.
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is significantly better for gaming due to its more powerful processor.
