Galaxy S23 Vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro

Galaxy S23
Galaxy S23
Starting at

Refurbished price:249.00

Versus €959.00 new

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Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:106.00

Versus €399.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23, released in February 2023, and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro, launched globally in January 2023, are both Android smartphones that cater to different segments of the market. While the Galaxy S23 is positioned as a compact flagship device, the Redmi Note 12 Pro offers a larger display and a focus on multimedia experiences. Both devices run on the Android operating system, but they feature distinct software overlays and hardware configurations that influence their overall user experience.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its build quality, software support, and repairability. These two devices offer different expectations in these areas.

  • Software Support: The Galaxy S23 typically receives four years of major Android OS updates and five years of security updates, extending its software relevance further into the future. The Redmi Note 12 Pro generally receives two major Android OS updates and three years of security updates, which is standard for its category.
  • Build Materials: The Galaxy S23 features Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back, along with an Armor Aluminum frame, providing robust protection and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The Redmi Note 12 Pro uses Gorilla Glass 5 on the front, a glass back, and a plastic frame, with an IP53 rating for dust and splash resistance.
  • Repairability: Samsung has made efforts to improve the repairability of the Galaxy S23 series, including features like battery pull tabs, which can simplify battery replacements. The Redmi Note 12 Pro is also designed with some repairability in mind, though specific scores can vary.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key differentiator, impacting how smoothly applications run and how efficiently the device handles demanding tasks.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy S23 is equipped with a processor designed for high-end performance, enabling it to handle graphically intensive games, complex applications, and heavy multitasking with ease and efficiency. The Redmi Note 12 Pro features a processor that provides smooth performance for everyday tasks, social media, and moderate gaming, offering a balanced experience.
  • Storage and RAM: The Galaxy S23 typically comes with 8GB of RAM and storage options up to 512GB, utilizing faster storage technology for quicker app loading and data access. The Redmi Note 12 Pro offers various configurations, including 6GB, 8GB, or 12GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage, which is suitable for most users' needs.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23, with its 3900 mAh battery, is optimized for efficient power consumption, often lasting a full day for moderate users. The Redmi Note 12 Pro houses a larger 5000 mAh battery, which, combined with its processor, generally provides extended usage times, often exceeding a full day even with heavy use.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is the primary interface for user interaction, and both devices offer vibrant viewing experiences with some notable differences.

  • Display Technology and Brightness: The Galaxy S23 features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a peak brightness of up to 1750 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions. The Redmi Note 12 Pro comes with a larger 6.67-inch AMOLED display, offering rich colors and a peak brightness of 900 nits, which is bright enough for most indoor and outdoor scenarios.
  • Resolution and Refresh Rate: Both phones offer a Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 for S23, 1080 x 2400 for Note 12 Pro), providing sharp and clear visuals. The Galaxy S23 has an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, which can scale down to conserve battery. The Redmi Note 12 Pro also features a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and fluid animations.
  • Viewing Experience: The smaller form factor of the Galaxy S23 makes it comfortable for one-handed use, while its high peak brightness enhances media consumption outdoors. The larger screen of the Redmi Note 12 Pro provides a more expansive canvas for watching videos and gaming, with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support for enhanced content.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

AMOLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, and both smartphones aim to deliver quality imaging, though with different strengths.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S23 features a versatile triple-camera setup with a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, excelling in detail, color accuracy, and zoom capabilities. The Redmi Note 12 Pro also has a triple-camera system, including a 50MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens, providing good performance in various lighting conditions.
  • Low-Light and Video Performance: The Galaxy S23 offers strong low-light photography with advanced processing, and its video recording capabilities extend to 8K at 30fps with excellent stabilization. The Redmi Note 12 Pro performs well in low light, especially with its dedicated night mode, and records video up to 4K at 30fps, offering good quality for its segment.
  • Front Camera: The Galaxy S23 includes a 12MP front camera that captures detailed selfies and supports high-quality video calls. The Redmi Note 12 Pro features a 16MP front camera, suitable for clear selfies and video conferencing.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core features, several other aspects contribute to the overall user experience and practical utility of these devices.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Galaxy S23 includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, along with a USB-C 3.2 port. The Redmi Note 12 Pro supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, featuring a USB-C 2.0 port and retaining a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometrics and Audio: The Galaxy S23 uses an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor and facial recognition for secure unlocking. It also offers stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support. The Redmi Note 12 Pro has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and facial recognition, alongside dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S23 is a more compact device, weighing 168g, making it comfortable for one-handed operation. The Redmi Note 12 Pro is larger and slightly heavier at 187g, offering a more expansive screen experience.

Weight

167 g

187 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.67

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback indicates that the Samsung Galaxy S23 is often praised for its powerful performance, excellent camera system, and premium compact design. Users frequently highlight its smooth operation, vibrant display, and reliable battery life for its size. Some common criticisms include its charging speed not being the fastest compared to some competitors, and the display not being LTPO like its Ultra counterpart.

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro generally receives positive remarks for its impressive AMOLED display, long-lasting battery, and capable main camera, especially considering its positioning. Users appreciate the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack and fast charging. Some users note that the ultrawide and macro cameras are less impressive than the main sensor, and that the software updates might not be as extensive as higher-end devices.

Users prioritizing a compact, high-performance device with a top-tier camera and extended software support will find the Galaxy S23 well-suited to their needs. Its robust build and powerful processing make it ideal for demanding applications and photography enthusiasts. Conversely, users who value a larger display for media consumption, extended battery life, and the convenience of a headphone jack may lean towards the Redmi Note 12 Pro. It offers a strong multimedia experience and reliable everyday performance.

Both devices represent solid choices within their respective categories, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either can be a sustainable choice, offering excellent value while extending the lifespan of electronic products.

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