Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 128GB Review: A Mid-Range Marvel

Introduction

Xiaomi has been a powerhouse in delivering feature-packed smartphones at an affordable price, and the Redmi Note 12 128GB continues this tradition. Released in January 2023, it promises stellar performance, an impressive display, and excellent battery life—all at a fraction of the price of flagship devices. But how does it stack up in real-world use? Let’s dive into the details.

Design and Build Quality

The Redmi Note 12 stands out with its sleek yet robust build. It balances portability and premium feel, measuring 165.9 x 76.2 x 8 mm and weighing 188 grams. Its IP53 rating ensures protection against dust and light splashes, making it ideal for everyday use.

The design, available in Frosted Green, Matte Black, and Mystique Blue, is visually appealing and caters to various aesthetic preferences. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor adds convenience while maintaining the sleek profile.

Performance

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chipset, the Redmi Note 12 easily handles everyday tasks. Available in 4GB, 6GB, and 8GB RAM variants, it caters to a wide range of users.

Benchmarks:

• AnTuTu Score: 360,745
• GeekBench 5.1 Score: 1,998 (single-core), 2,017 (multi-core)

Real-world tests confirm its capability to handle multitasking and moderate gaming. Popular titles like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty run smoothly on medium settings.

Camera System

The triple-camera setup ensures versatility:

• 48 MP main sensor: Excellent daylight performance with sharp details.
• 8 MP ultrawide lens: Perfect for landscapes but struggles in low light.
• 2 MP macro lens: Functional but not a standout feature.

The 13 MP front camera delivers decent selfies, though it could perform better under artificial lighting. The phone supports 1080p video recording, making it suitable for casual videography.

Software and User Experience

Running Android 12 with MIUI 14 (International) or MIUI 13 (India), the interface is polished and customizable. While some pre-installed apps may annoy purists, they don’t significantly hamper the experience. Regular updates ensure smooth operation and added security.

Battery Life and Charging

The 5000 mAh battery provides exceptional endurance, lasting over a full day with heavy use. The 33W fast charging replenishes 50% of the battery in just 22 minutes, making it perfect for on-the-go users.

Connectivity and Extras

The Redmi Note 12 excels in connectivity, supporting a wide range of features for modern users:

• 5G compatibility ensures blazing-fast internet speeds, future-proofing your investment.
• Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac and Bluetooth 5.1 provide stable and efficient wireless connections.
• NFC availability (market-dependent) enhances convenience for contactless payments.
• The infrared port is a unique addition, enabling remote control functionality for home appliances.

It includes a 3.5mm audio jack and Hi-Res audio support, which is a boon for audiophiles. These features offer excellent sound quality for wired headphones. The USB-C port with OTG support adds flexibility for external storage and accessories.

Gaming and Multimedia Experience

Gaming on the Redmi Note 12 is an enjoyable experience, thanks to the Adreno 619 GPU. While it isn’t designed for heavy-duty gaming, it handles popular games like Free Fire and Asphalt 9 at medium graphics settings with minimal lag.

For multimedia enthusiasts, the AMOLED display ensures immersive video playback with vibrant colors and deep blacks. Combined with its loudspeaker and 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res audio, watching movies or listening to music feels premium for this price range.

Storage and Expandability

The Redmi Note 12 comes with UFS 2.2 storage, offering fast read and write speeds for quicker app loading and file transfers. While the 128GB internal storage is sufficient for most users, the hybrid microSDXC slot allows expansion if you sacrifice the second SIM slot.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

1. Stunning AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
2. Solid performance with Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chipset.
3. Long-lasting 5000 mAh battery with fast charging.
4. Comprehensive connectivity options, including 5G and NFC.
5. Affordable pricing with excellent value for money.

Weaknesses:

1. The macro camera delivers underwhelming results.
2. Hybrid SIM slot limits the simultaneous use of dual SIM and microSD.

Pricing and Availability

The Redmi Note 12 is one of the most affordable smartphones in its segment:

Its availability in multiple regions and striking color options, such as Frosted Green, Matte Black, and Mystique Blue, ensure its wide appeal.

Market Comparison

In the competitive mid-range market, the Redmi Note 12 is independent against rivals such as the Realme Narzo 60x and Samsung Galaxy M14. While these phones offer similar specifications, the Redmi Note 12’s display quality, fast charging, and overall value make it a standout choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Conclusion

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 128GB strikes an impressive balance between affordability and functionality. It’s perfect for users seeking a reliable device with a high-quality display, decent performance, and long battery life without breaking the bank. While it has minor drawbacks, such as the shared SIM slot and average macro camera, its strengths far outweigh its limitations. For under $150, this phone is an absolute steal.