Introduction

In a world saturated with smartphones, finding the perfect blend of affordability and functionality can be quite the quest. Allow us to introduce the Redmi Note 12, a smartphone that truly shines in the budget category. This comprehensive review delves deep into the device's features, specifications, and overall user experience.

Redmi Note 12 Review

The Redmi Note 12: A Budget Smartphone Worth Considering

In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, finding the perfect balance between affordability and functionality can be quite the challenge. Enter the Redmi Note 12, an intriguing device that stands out in its price category. In this comprehensive review, we'll dive deep into the features, specifications, and user experience of this budget-friendly smartphone.

Unboxing the Redmi Note 12

The Redmi Note 12 arrives in style with three attractive color options: Onyx Gray, Mint Green, and Ice Blue. Inside the box, you'll find a set of essentials, including manuals, a SIM ejector tool, a USB Type-C cable, a blazing-fast 33W charger, and a durable TPU case. The quick charging capability is a notable feature, as it powers up your smartphone from 0% to 100% in just one hour and four minutes.

Redmi Note 12 Review



Build Quality and Design

Crafted with a plastic rear and sides, the Redmi Note 12 boasts durability against drops and scratches, thanks to Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protecting the front. Its slim design ensures a comfortable grip, weighing in at a mere 183 grams. Additionally, the smartphone is rated IP53 for dust and splash resistance, adding an extra layer of protection.

 User-Friendly Features

The Redmi Note 12 incorporates various user-friendly elements, such as a mic, an IR blaster, and a 3.5mm audio jack at the top. On the left side, you'll discover the Dual 4G nano SIM card and memory card tray, while the right side hosts the volume and power buttons, with the power button doubling as a fingerprint scanner. The device also offers fast and reliable face unlock functionality.

Impressive Camera Setup

When it comes to capturing memories, the Redmi Note 12 excels with its camera setup. The rear camera includes a 50-megapixel main camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera, a 2-megapixel macro camera, and a LED flash. The front houses a 30-megapixel selfie camera, promising stunning photos both indoors and outdoors. Portrait mode shines with excellent subject-background separation, but remember to manually enable HDR for the best results.

A Visual Treat: The Display

One of the most compelling reasons to consider the Redmi Note 12 is its 6.67-inch 1080p AMOLED display. With a 120Hz refresh rate in certain applications, this smartphone ensures a smooth and vibrant visual experience. Even under direct sunlight, the display remains usable, thanks to its impressive peak brightness of 1200 nits. While it doesn't support HDR, the size and quality of the display make content consumption enjoyable.

Performance that Matters

The Redmi Note 12 is powered by a Snapdragon 685 chipset, offering impressive performance within its price range. Benchmark tests reveal a score of 295k on Antutu, showcasing its dominance in the mid-range segment. However, when it comes to gaming, you may need to compromise on graphics settings and frame rates for more demanding titles. 

Memory Matters

This version of the Redmi Note 12 comes with 4 gigabytes of RAM, suitable for regular usage. However, if you're a multitasking enthusiast or a fan of second space, consider opting for the 6 or 8 gigabyte RAM variant. It's worth noting that the 4GB version might not handle multitasking as smoothly as you'd like.

Software and Updates

The Redmi Note 12 runs on Android 13 with MIUI 14.0.5, and Xiaomi promises two major OS updates and three years of security updates. While the device does come with a few pre-installed apps, the good news is that you can uninstall them, allowing for a cleaner user experience.

Camera Performance

The Redmi Note 12's 30-megapixel front-facing camera delivers decent indoor shots, but its true potential shines outdoors. The camera handles dynamic range quite well, but it's advisable to enable HDR when capturing outdoor scenes for optimal results. Zooming in reveals acceptable detail, making it a reliable choice for everyday photography.

Portrait Mode Excellence

One area where the front-facing camera truly excels is portrait mode. It effectively separates subjects from backgrounds, creating professional-looking photos. Notably, HDR mode doesn't automatically activate in portrait mode, so remember to toggle it as needed.

Conclusion

In summary, the Redmi Note 12 offers an enticing package for budget-conscious consumers. With its impressive display, capable performance, and commendable camera system, it stands as a strong contender in its price category. While gaming enthusiasts might need to make some compromises, the device's overall value and user experience make it a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the Redmi Note 12 support 4K video recording?

No, the Redmi Note 12 is limited to 1080p video recording. It lacks 4K video capability.

2. Can I expand the storage on the Redmi Note 12?

Yes, the Redmi Note 12 features a memory card tray, allowing you to expand storage using a microSD card.

3. Does the Redmi Note 12 receive regular software updates?

Yes, Xiaomi promises two major OS updates and three years of security updates for the Redmi Note 12.

4. How does the Redmi Note 12 perform in low-light photography?

The Redmi Note 12 performs reasonably well in low-light conditions, thanks to its HDR capabilities. However, for optimal results, it's advisable to use additional lighting when needed.

5. Is the Redmi Note 12 compatible with 5G networks?

No, the Redmi Note 12 is a 4G smartphone and does not support 5G connectivity.