Why the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is the Best Budget Phone of 2023
Why the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is the Best Budget Phone of 2023
Hello, tech aficionados! If you’re scouring the market for a smartphone that offers premium features without the premium price tag, you’ve come to the right place. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 is not just another budget phone; it’s a game-changer in the affordable smartphone segment. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dissect every aspect of this remarkable device. So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s get started!
Key Features
Display: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 comes with a 6.7-inch AMOLED display that offers a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels. But what does this mean for you? It means you get vibrant colours, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. Whether you’re binge-watching your favourite series or scrolling through Instagram, the display is a treat for the eyes.
HDR10 Support: The display also supports HDR10, which enhances the dynamic range of the content you’re watching. This means brighter whites, darker blacks, and a broader spectrum of colours in between.
Refresh Rate: The device offers a 120Hz refresh rate, making animations and transitions smoother than ever. If you’re into mobile gaming, this feature will give you a competitive edge.
Camera: The camera setup on the Redmi Note 12 is nothing short of impressive. It features a 64MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5MP macro lens.
Night Mode: One of the standout features is the Night Mode, which allows you to capture stunning low-light photographs. The software algorithms work in tandem with the hardware to reduce noise and improve clarity.
Video Capabilities: The phone supports 4K video recording at 30fps. It also offers various video modes like slow-motion, time-lapse, and even a Pro mode for those who like to tinker with settings.
Performance: The Redmi Note 12 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G chipset, coupled with up to 8GB of RAM. This ensures a smooth and lag-free experience, whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or streaming HD content.
Gaming Experience: For gamers, the phone offers a dedicated gaming mode that optimizes the system resources to provide a seamless gaming experience. It also supports high-frame-rate games, so you can enjoy titles like PUBG and Call of Duty without any hiccups.
Battery Life: One of the most crucial aspects of any smartphone is its battery life, and the Redmi Note 12 doesn’t disappoint. It houses a 5000mAh battery that can easily last you a full day of heavy usage.
Fast Charging: The device supports 33W fast charging, allowing you to go from 0 to 50% in just 30 minutes. This is particularly useful for those always on the move.
Design and Build
Material: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 doesn’t cut corners when it comes to build quality. The device features a glass back and an aluminium frame, giving it a premium feel that’s often missing in budget smartphones.
Gorilla Glass Protection: The front and back are protected by Corning’s Gorilla Glass 5, providing resistance against minor drops and scratches. This added layer of protection ensures that your phone remains in pristine condition for a longer time.
Ergonomics: When it comes to handling, the Redmi Note 12 scores high on ergonomics. The phone’s curved edges and slim profile make it comfortable to hold, even during extended usage.
Button Placement: The power button and volume rocker are conveniently placed on the right side, making them easily accessible. The power button also doubles as a fingerprint sensor, providing a quick and secure way to unlock the device.
Button Placement: The device comes with a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a dual SIM card slot with a dedicated microSD card slot for expandable storage.
Software Experience
MIUI Features: The Redmi Note 12 runs on MIUI 12, Xiaomi’s custom skin over Android. MIUI offers a plethora of customization options, allowing you to tailor the user interface according to your preferences.
Themes and Icons: One of the standout features of MIUI is the Themes app, which lets you choose from a wide range of themes and icons to personalize your device. From minimalistic setups to vibrant, colourful themes, the options are endless.
Privacy Features: MIUI 12 also places a strong emphasis on privacy. The software comes with features like “Hidden Apps” and “Second Space,” allowing you to keep your personal and professional lives separate on the same device.
Updates and Security: Xiaomi has been consistent in rolling out software updates for its devices. With the Redmi Note 12, you can expect timely security patches and occasional feature updates to enhance the overall user experience.
Security Protocols: The device comes with multiple security options, including face unlock, fingerprint scanning, and traditional PIN and pattern methods. This ensures that your data remains secure at all times.
Connectivity and Extras
5G Support: In today’s fast-paced world, connectivity is key, and the Redmi Note 12 delivers on this front. The device comes with 5G support, ensuring that you’re ready for the next generation of mobile networks.
Dual SIM 5G: What sets this phone apart is its dual SIM 5G capability. This means you can use two 5G SIM cards simultaneously, a feature rarely seen in budget smartphones.
In-Display Fingerprint Sensor: Gone are the days of rear-mounted fingerprint sensors. The Redmi Note 12 features an in-display fingerprint sensor, adding a touch of modernity to the device.
Wireless Charging: While wireless charging is generally reserved for high-end smartphones, Xiaomi has managed to include this feature in the Redmi Note 12. It supports up to 15W wireless charging, making it convenient for those who prefer a wire-free charging experience.
Stereo Speakers: The device comes with stereo speakers that offer a rich and immersive audio experience, whether you’re watching movies or listening to music.
Price and Availability
Affordable Pricing: Starting at just $299 for the base model, the Redmi Note 12 offers incredible value for money. Considering the features it packs, this price point is a steal.
Availability: The phone is available in various configurations, ranging from 6GB RAM + 128GB storage to 8GB RAM + 256GB storage. It’s also available in multiple colour options, including Midnight Black, Ocean Blue, and Sunrise Orange.
Where to Buy: You can purchase the Redmi Note 12 from Xiaomi’s official website, authorized retailers, and various online platforms. However, availability may vary by region, so it’s advisable to check local listings.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable Price: One of the most compelling aspects of the Redmi Note 12 is its affordability. It offers premium features without burning a hole in your pocket.
- Impressive Camera Setup: The triple-camera setup is versatile, allowing you to capture stunning photos in various lighting conditions.
- Long Battery Life: With a 5000mAh battery, you won’t find yourself reaching for the charger frequently.
Cons
- No IP Rating: The device lacks an IP rating for water and dust resistance, which might be a concern for some users.
- MIUI Ads: While MIUI offers a range of features, it also comes with occasional ads, which can be intrusive.
FAQs
Is the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 waterproof?
The device lacks an official IP rating, so it’s not advisable to expose it to water or dust.
Does it support expandable storage?
Yes, it comes with a dedicated microSD card slot for expandable storage up to 512GB.
What operating system does it run on?
It runs on MIUI 12, which is based on Android 11.
Is the device suitable for gaming?
Absolutely, the Snapdragon 765G chipset and 8GB RAM ensure a smooth gaming experience.
How good is the camera for low-light photography?
The Night Mode feature allows for impressive low-light photography.
Does it have a headphone jack?
Yes, it comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Is wireless charging fast?
It supports up to 15W wireless charging, which is reasonably fast for a budget device.
Can I use two 5G SIM cards at the same time?
Yes, it supports dual SIM 5G.
Can I use two 5G SIM cards at the same time?
Yes, it supports dual SIM 5G.
Are software updates frequent?
Xiaomi is known for providing regular software updates and security patches.
Is the display protected by Gorilla Glass?
Yes, it features Gorilla Glass 5 protection on both the front and back.
What are the colour options available?
Midnight Black, Ocean Blue, and Sunrise Orange.
Does it have stereo speakers?
Yes, it offers a stereo speaker setup for an immersive audio experience.
Is the fingerprint sensor reliable?
The in-display fingerprint sensor is quick and reliable for everyday use.
How long does the battery last on a single charge?
You can expect up to a full day of heavy usage or up to two days of moderate use.
Is it worth the price?
Given its extensive feature set and affordable price, it offers excellent value for m
Conclusion
In a market flooded with budget smartphones, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 stands out as a true game-changer. From its stunning display and versatile camera setup to its robust performance and long-lasting battery, this device ticks almost all the boxes. While it does have a few shortcomings, such as the lack of an IP rating and occasional ads in MIUI, these are minor gripes in an otherwise stellar package.
So, should you buy the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12? If you’re looking for a feature-rich smartphone that doesn’t break the bank, the answer is a resounding yes. It offers an incredible value proposition that’s hard to beat, making it one of the best budget smartphones currently available on the market.
