Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G Hands-on Review: Unboxing, Specifications, and More

Introduction:

The Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G Review

The Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G takes center stage in Xiaomi's latest affordable Redmi series. While its name might cause some confusion with the Redmi 12, these two smartphones have key differences. The Redmi 12 5G positions itself a tier above, offering more than just 5G connectivity.

Specifications:

Display: A generous 6.79-inch 90Hz display, the largest in the Redmi lineup.

Design: A fresh design with an updated glass back.

Battery: A powerful 5000mAh battery.

Camera: Equipped with a 50MP primary camera.

Processor: Powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chip (5G) and MediaTek Helio G88 (4G).

The primary distinction between the two models lies in the processors and camera setup. The Redmi 12 5G boasts the Snapdragon chip, enabling 5G connectivity, while the Redmi 12 4G offers an ultrawide camera in addition to the 50MP main camera.

Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G Key Specifications:

Body: Slim design, Gorilla Glass front and back, IP53 dust, and splash resistance.

Display: 6.79" IPS LCD, 90Hz, 1080x2460px resolution.

Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, ensuring smooth performance.

Memory: Options include 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, and 256GB 8GB RAM.

OS/Software: Running Android 13 with MIUI 14 for a seamless user experience.

Camera: 50 MP primary rear camera, 2 MP depth sensor; 8 MP front camera.

Video: Record in 1080p at 30fps.

Battery: Impressive 5000mAh battery with 18W wired charging.

Connectivity: Supports 5G, Hybrid Dual SIM, Wi-Fi 5, BT 5.3, Infrared port, and a 3.5mm jack.

Security: Features a side-mounted fingerprint reader and virtual proximity sensing.

With the Redmi 12 starting at $120 and the Redmi 12 5G at $145, Xiaomi continues its tradition of offering budget-friendly smartphones. In this review, we will focus on the Redmi 12 5G to see how it performs.

Unboxing:

Opening the Redmi 12 5G box reveals a 22.5W charger, a charging cable with a USB-A connector, and a clear soft silicone case.

Design:

The Redmi 12 5G boasts a sleek and sophisticated design, defying its affordable price point. The front is dominated by a massive 6.79-inch display, the largest ever seen in a Redmi series device. While there are noticeable bezels, they don't significantly distract from the viewing experience.

The phone's frame is crafted from plastic but features a matte finish that mimics aluminum. On the right side, you'll find the power button and volume rocker, with the power button also doubling as a fingerprint sensor.

At the bottom, a single loudspeaker and microphone accompany the USB-C connector, while the top houses an IR blaster and a headphone jack. The left side of the phone is the home to the very SIM tray pack of the phone.

Turning to the back, you'll find a glass cover that not only adds a premium touch but also offers better scratch resistance compared to glossy plastic. The Redmi 12 5G comes in three elegant colors: glossy black, iridescent silver, and a pastel blue variant.

The camera arrangement on the back follows a modern pattern without any surrounding borders, resulting in a clean and contemporary look. Metallic rings adorn the camera lenses, adding a touch of sophistication.

Build and Durability:

The Redmi 12 5G impresses with its robust build and durability. The use of Corning Gorilla Glass on both the front and back enhances the device's premium feel. Additionally, the IP53 splash resistance rating provides peace of mind, although the phone's weight can make it feel slightly unwieldy due to its large size.

Display:

The Redmi 12 5G features a 6.79-inch IPS LCD panel with a resolution of 2460 x 1080 pixels. The display supports an 8-bit color output and a refreshing 90Hz rate.

While the color gamut isn't particularly broad, the display offers vividness, especially in Vivid or Saturated modes. The Standard mode provides better white point calibration compared to the cooler tones of Vivid and Standard.

Contrast and black-level performance are commendable for an IPS panel. However, viewing angles are somewhat limited, with a noticeable dimming effect off-axis.

The display provides flexibility, with refresh rate options including 30Hz, 48Hz, 60Hz, and a Default mode that dynamically adjusts based on on-screen content.

In conclusion, the Xiaomi Redmi 12 5G presents itself as a feature-packed and affordable smartphone with a sleek design, impressive build quality, and a satisfactory display. Stay tuned for our detailed review, where we delve deeper into its performance and capabilities.