Xiaomi's Redmi series consistently delivers impressive value, but choosing between models can be tricky. The Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed 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 Speed takes the crown for performance thanks to its Snapdragon 778G chipset and faster charging. However, the Redmi Note 12 boasts exceptional battery life and a potentially more appealing price point for budget-conscious buyers. It depends on your priorities!
| 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, 8, 19, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 8, 40, 41 |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 38, 41, 77, 78 SA/NSA | 1, 3, 5, 8, 28, 40, 78 SA/NSA |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| | CDMA2000 1x | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, December 27 | 2022, October 27 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, December 27 | Available. Released 2023, January 11 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 162.9 x 76 x 7.9 mm (6.41 x 2.99 x 0.31 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 | 181 g (6.38 oz) | 188 g (6.63 oz) |
| | IP53, dust and splash resistant | 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 (~86.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.67 inches, 107.4 cm2 (~85.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | OLED, 1B colors, 120Hz, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, 500 nits (typ), 900 nits (HBM) | AMOLED, 120Hz, 1200 nits (peak) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (1x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 3x2.2 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.9 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM7325 Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) | Qualcomm SM4375 Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 642L | Adreno 619 |
| OS | Android 13, MIUI 14 | Android 12, MIUI 14 (International), MIUI 13 (India) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 12GB 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 |
| Triple | 108 MP, f/1.9, (wide), 1/1.52", 0.7µm, PDAF
8 MP, 119˚ (ultrawide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro) | 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@30/60/120fps, 720p@960fps, gyro-EIS | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | HDR | HDR |
| Single | 16 MP, (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | 13 MP, f/2.5, (wide), 1/3.0" |
| Video | 1080p@30/60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| | 24-bit/192kHz audio | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.1, A2DP, LE |
| Infrared port | Yes | Yes |
| NFC | Yes | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS (L1), GLONASS (G1), BDS (B1I+B1c), GALILEO (E1), QZSS (L1) | 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/6, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 67W wired, PD3.0, QC3+ | 33W wired, 50% in 22 min |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Green | Frosted Green, Matte Black, Mystique Blue |
| Models | 22101320C | 22111317I, 22111317G |
| Price | About 230 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 Speed
- Superior Performance (Snapdragon 778G)
- Faster 67W Charging
- Likely Higher Refresh Rate Display
- Potentially Better Camera System
- Likely Higher Price
- Potentially Shorter Battery Life Compared to Note 12
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12
- Exceptional Battery Life (101h Endurance)
- More Affordable Price
- Reliable Everyday Performance
- Good Display Brightness (706 nits)
- Less Powerful Chipset (Snapdragon 4 Gen 1)
- Slower 33W Charging
- Potentially Less Advanced Camera
Display Comparison
Both phones feature AMOLED displays, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed likely has a slightly higher refresh rate (assumed 120Hz) for smoother scrolling, while the Redmi Note 12's 706 nits brightness is respectable. Overall, both offer a good viewing experience, but the Pro Speed potentially edges ahead in smoothness.
Camera Comparison
While both have 'Photo / Video' listed, the Pro Speed likely has a more advanced camera system. Expect better image quality, especially in low light, and potentially more features like optical image stabilization (OIS). The Note 12's camera is adequate, but not a standout feature. Detailed camera specs are needed for a more precise comparison.
Performance
This is where the Pro Speed shines. The Snapdragon 778G is significantly more powerful than the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 in the Redmi Note 12. Expect noticeably faster app loading, smoother gaming, and better overall responsiveness on the Pro Speed. The Note 12 is still capable for everyday tasks, but struggles with demanding applications.
Battery Life
The Redmi Note 12 excels in battery life, boasting an impressive endurance rating of 101 hours. The Pro Speed's battery capacity is likely similar, but the less efficient chipset means shorter real-world usage. However, the Pro Speed's 67W charging significantly reduces charging times.
Buying Guide
The Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed is ideal for users who prioritize performance, faster charging, and smoother multitasking. The Redmi Note 12 is a great choice for those seeking exceptional battery life, a more affordable price, and a reliable everyday smartphone experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed worth the extra money?
If performance and fast charging are your priorities, then yes. The Snapdragon 778G offers a significant upgrade. However, if you primarily need a phone for basic tasks and long battery life, the standard Note 12 is a better value.
❓ What is the difference in camera quality between the two phones?
While both are listed as 'Photo / Video', the Redmi Note 12 Pro Speed likely has a more advanced camera system with better image quality, especially in low light. More detailed camera specifications would be needed for a definitive answer.
