Xiaomi Redmi 12

Overview & Display

The Xiaomi Redmi 12 presents a modern aesthetic with its glass front and back, framed by a durable plastic construction. Its dimensions of 168.6 x 76.3 x 8.2 mm and a weight of 198.5g offer a comfortable in-hand feel. The expansive 6.79-inch IPS LCD display boasts a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, making scrolling and animations feel more fluid. With a resolution of 1080 x 2460 pixels and a peak brightness of 550 nits, the screen promises a vibrant and easily viewable experience, even in brighter conditions, and a respectable 85.1% screen-to-body ratio.

Powering the Xiaomi Redmi 12 is a Mediatek Helio G88 chipset paired with various RAM options – 2GB, 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB – and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, utilizing eMMC 5.1 technology. The octa-core processor, featuring two Cortex-A75 cores and six Cortex-A55 cores, provides adequate performance for daily tasks and light gaming. Running on Android 13, upgradable to Android 14 and HyperOS, the phone should handle multitasking well, offering a responsive user experience for those who need it.

Camera & Battery

The rear camera system of the Xiaomi Redmi 12 includes a 50MP wide lens with PDAF, an 8MP ultrawide lens with a 120° field of view, and a 2MP macro lens. This versatile setup allows for capturing a range of perspectives and subjects. Video recording is supported at 1080p resolution at 30fps, offering decent quality for casual video creation. The 8MP front-facing camera also records 1080p video at 30fps, suitable for selfies and video calls.

Equipped with a large 5000 mAh battery, the Xiaomi Redmi 12 promises extended usage throughout the day. While it supports 18W wired charging with PD compatibility, charging times will depend on the power adapter used. Endurance tests suggest an impressive 117-hour rating, indicating solid battery life for moderate daily use. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack and a loudspeaker adds to the overall convenience and multimedia experience.

Who Should Buy This

The Xiaomi Redmi 12 is a compelling option for users seeking a large display, dependable battery life, and solid everyday performance without breaking the bank. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy multimedia consumption, casual photography, and general daily tasks. Individuals needing a reliable phone for communication, browsing, and light gaming will find the Redmi 12 a good fit. However, users demanding top-tier performance or advanced camera features might want to consider alternatives with more powerful processors and larger sensors.

Pros

• Large 6.79-inch 90Hz display
• Versatile triple rear camera system
• Long-lasting 5000 mAh battery
• Supports dual Nano-SIM cards
• Includes a 3.5mm headphone jack

Cons

• Plastic frame construction
• eMMC 5.1 storage type
• Charging speed limited to 18W
• Performance might be limited for demanding tasks

Verdict

Overall, the Xiaomi Redmi 12 delivers a well-rounded experience with its large, smooth display, capable camera system, and excellent battery life. While the plastic frame and eMMC storage represent compromises, they contribute to an affordable package. The phone’s strengths lie in its dependable performance for everyday use and its impressive longevity. If you're looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone at a competitive price point, the Redmi 12 is certainly worth considering. It's a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers.