Galaxy S10 Vs Xiaomi 12T

Galaxy S10
Galaxy S10
Starting at

Refurbished price:114.00

Versus €549.00 new

See options
Xiaomi 12T
Xiaomi 12T
Starting at

Refurbished price:140.00

Versus €649.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S10, released in March 2019, and the Xiaomi 12T, launched in October 2022, are both Android smartphones that offer distinct user experiences. While the Galaxy S10 represents an earlier generation of flagship devices, the Xiaomi 12T provides a more recent take on smartphone technology. The primary differentiators between these two models lie in their release timelines, impacting aspects like software support, processing power, and camera capabilities.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release date and the manufacturer's commitment to software updates and repairability.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S10 was released in March 2019, making it an older device compared to the Xiaomi 12T, which launched in October 2022. This age difference directly impacts the duration of official software and security support.
  • OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S10 originally shipped with Android 9 Pie and received updates up to Android 12. The Xiaomi 12T launched with Android 12 and is expected to receive three major Android OS updates, with Android 15 as the final software version, along with four years of security updates. This means the Xiaomi 12T will benefit from a longer period of official software support.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S10 features Gorilla Glass 6 on the front and Gorilla Glass 5 on the back, along with an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The Xiaomi 12T uses Gorilla Glass 5 for its screen and has a plastic frame, with some sources indicating an IP53 rating for splash resistance, offering less comprehensive protection against water and dust compared to the S10.

Year of Release

2019

2022

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key aspect for daily smartphone use, encompassing how smoothly applications run and how efficiently the device manages power.

  • Processing Power: The Xiaomi 12T, with its newer generation processor, generally offers more responsive performance for demanding applications and multitasking compared to the Galaxy S10's processor. Users of the Xiaomi 12T report fast speeds and smooth operation when opening and closing apps.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices are equipped with ample RAM for smooth multitasking, with the Galaxy S10 typically offering 8GB of RAM and the Xiaomi 12T also featuring 8GB of RAM. However, the newer architecture of the Xiaomi 12T's processor contributes to a more fluid overall user experience, especially with current applications.
  • Battery Behavior: The Xiaomi 12T features a larger 5000 mAh battery, which generally translates to longer usage times between charges for many users. The Galaxy S10 has a 3400 mAh battery, which users have reported can last a full day with moderate use. The Xiaomi 12T also supports significantly faster charging speeds.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer distinct visual experiences.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy S10 and Xiaomi 12T feature AMOLED displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Galaxy S10 has a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a QHD+ resolution (3040x1440 pixels), resulting in a high pixel density. The Xiaomi 12T has a larger 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 2712x1220 pixels, which is often referred to as 1.5K resolution.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The Xiaomi 12T offers a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother scrolling experience and more fluid animations compared to the Galaxy S10's standard 60Hz refresh rate. This higher refresh rate can make a noticeable difference in daily interactions and gaming.
  • Brightness and Viewing Experience: Both displays offer good brightness levels for outdoor visibility. The Galaxy S10's display is noted for its high brightness, making it clear even in direct sunlight. The Xiaomi 12T also provides a bright and detailed viewing experience.

Resolution

1440 x 3040

1220 x 2712

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, and both smartphones offer versatile camera systems.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S10 features a triple rear camera setup, including a 12MP main lens with dual aperture, a 12MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 16MP ultrawide lens. The Xiaomi 12T also has a triple rear camera system, with a high-resolution 108MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro lens.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S10 is known for producing quality photos with good detail and dynamic range, though some users note it doesn't always stand out against top competitors. The Xiaomi 12T's 108MP main camera is praised for vibrant and detailed stills, even in low-light conditions when using night mode.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: Both devices support 4K video recording with their main cameras. The Galaxy S10's front camera is a 10MP sensor. The Xiaomi 12T features a 20MP front camera and can record video at up to 4K at 30fps with its main camera, and 1080p at 60fps with the selfie camera.

Main camera

12 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

20 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of a smartphone.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S10 includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature absent on the Xiaomi 12T. Both devices support USB-C for charging and data transfer. The Xiaomi 12T supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, while the Galaxy S10 supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S10 features an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor. The Xiaomi 12T also utilizes an optical in-display fingerprint sensor.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S10 has dimensions of 149.9 x 70.4 x 7.8 mm and weighs 157g, offering a compact and comfortable feel for one-handed use. The Xiaomi 12T is larger and heavier at 163.1 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm and 202g. The Xiaomi 12T also includes dual stereo speakers.

Weight

158 g

220 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.67

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S10 and Xiaomi 12T cater to different user priorities, largely due to their respective release dates and technological advancements. The Galaxy S10, despite being an older model, is often praised for its vibrant QHD+ AMOLED display, compact design, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack. Users appreciate its reliable camera system and the overall premium feel of its build. Some common criticisms for the S10, particularly as it ages, relate to its battery life for heavy users and the eventual cessation of major software updates.

The Xiaomi 12T, a more recent offering, receives positive feedback for its smooth 120Hz AMOLED display, powerful performance for current applications, and its large battery with exceptionally fast charging capabilities. Its 108MP main camera is also a highlight for many. User feedback sometimes points to potential software quirks or less robust water resistance compared to some flagships. Some users also note that the phone can feel large for one-handed use.

Users prioritizing a compact form factor, a high-resolution display, and the convenience of a headphone jack may find the Galaxy S10 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value extended software support, a higher refresh rate screen, superior processing power for demanding tasks, and rapid charging will likely lean towards the Xiaomi 12T. Both devices offer compelling features, and for those considering a quality-assured refurbished option, both models can provide an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new. Ultimately, the choice depends on which set of features aligns best with individual usage patterns and preferences.

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