Galaxy S23+ Vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro

Galaxy S23+
Galaxy S23+
Starting at

Refurbished price:295.00

Versus €1,019.00 new

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

Refurbished price:116.00

Versus €399.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro are both smartphones released in early 2023, offering distinct experiences for users. While the Galaxy S23 Plus positions itself as a premium device with a focus on refined performance and extended software support, the Redmi Note 12 Pro aims to deliver a strong feature set, particularly in display and charging, for a broader audience. Both devices operate on the Android platform, though with different software overlays and update policies.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key differentiators. The Galaxy S23 Plus, launched in February 2023, benefits from Samsung's commitment to extended updates, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro, released around the same time, follows a different update schedule.

  • Software Longevity: The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus is expected to receive four generations of Android operating system upgrades, extending its support until Android 17, along with five years of security updates, likely until 2028. In contrast, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro was committed to two major Android version updates and three years of security patches, with its final major update (HyperOS 2, based on Android 15) expected by the end of 2025, and security patches continuing until 2026.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S23 Plus features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for enhanced screen protection, offering greater resistance to scratches and drops. The Redmi Note 12 Pro uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 on its front, providing a good level of protection against everyday wear.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the longest possible software support and the latest security features will find the Galaxy S23 Plus to be a more future-proof option. The Redmi Note 12 Pro, while offering a solid initial experience, will see its software support conclude sooner, which might influence its practical lifespan for users who value up-to-date software.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of both smartphones is tailored to different user expectations, with the Galaxy S23 Plus offering a more robust experience for demanding tasks, and the Redmi Note 12 Pro providing smooth operation for daily use.

  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S23 Plus delivers consistently fast and smooth performance, handling demanding applications and multitasking without noticeable lag. Users report a fluid experience even with intensive gaming. The Redmi Note 12 Pro offers smooth performance for everyday tasks and good gaming performance, though some users of the 4G variant have reported heating issues with prolonged use.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 Plus, equipped with a 4700mAh battery, is noted for its excellent battery life, often lasting a full day or even two days for moderate users. Its efficient processor contributes significantly to this endurance. The Redmi Note 12 Pro features a larger 5000mAh battery, providing good battery backup that can last a full day for heavy users and potentially longer for light usage.
  • Storage and Multitasking: The Galaxy S23 Plus comes with 8GB of RAM and storage options of 256GB or 512GB, ensuring ample space and efficient multitasking. The Redmi Note 12 Pro offers various configurations, including 6GB, 8GB, or 12GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, allowing for smooth app switching and storage for most users. Neither device offers expandable storage.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

Both devices feature vibrant AMOLED displays, but they differ in brightness, adaptive refresh rate capabilities, and overall viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus boasts a 6.6-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, providing deep blacks and vibrant colors with a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 393 ppi. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro features a slightly larger 6.67-inch FHD+ Flow AMOLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels and a pixel density of about 394 ppi, also offering vibrant colors and DCI-P3 wide color gamut support.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S23 Plus offers a high peak brightness of 1750 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions, and an adaptive refresh rate that ranges from 48Hz to 120Hz for smooth scrolling and power efficiency. The Redmi Note 12 Pro has a peak brightness of 900 nits and a 120Hz refresh rate that can switch between 60Hz and 120Hz, providing a smooth user experience, especially during scrolling and gaming.
  • Viewing Experience: Both displays support HDR10+, with the Redmi Note 12 Pro additionally supporting Dolby Vision, enhancing the viewing experience for compatible content. The Galaxy S23 Plus's higher peak brightness offers a notable advantage for outdoor visibility.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

AMOLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both smartphones are designed to capture quality images and videos, though they approach photography with different sensor configurations and processing capabilities.

  • Rear Camera System: The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus features a versatile triple camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom and up to 30x digital zoom. It can record video at up to 8K resolution at 30 frames per second. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro also has a triple camera system, highlighted by a 50MP main sensor (Sony IMX766) with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. It supports 4K video recording at 30 frames per second.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S23 Plus is praised for its overall camera quality, producing clear and detailed photos, with users generally satisfied with its performance across various conditions. The Redmi Note 12 Pro's 50MP main camera performs well, especially in good lighting, and benefits from OIS for more stable shots. However, its secondary ultra-wide and macro cameras are considered less capable compared to the main sensor.
  • Front Camera and Audio: For selfies, the Galaxy S23 Plus includes a 12MP front camera. The Redmi Note 12 Pro features a 16MP front camera. Both devices offer stereo speakers for an immersive audio experience during media consumption.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance, several practical features and design elements distinguish these two smartphones, impacting daily usability and connectivity.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both the Galaxy S23 Plus and the Redmi Note 12 Pro support 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi 6 for fast internet speeds. The Galaxy S23 Plus uses Bluetooth 5.3, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro uses Bluetooth 5.2. The Galaxy S23 Plus features a USB-C port but omits a 3.5mm headphone jack. The Redmi Note 12 Pro includes a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and an IR blaster, offering more traditional connectivity options.
  • Security and Biometrics: The Galaxy S23 Plus incorporates an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor and supports face recognition for secure unlocking. The Redmi Note 12 Pro features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and AI Face Unlock.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S23 Plus measures 157.8 x 76.2 x 7.6 mm and weighs 196g, offering a premium feel with its Gorilla Glass Victus 2 front and metal frame. The Redmi Note 12 Pro is slightly larger and lighter at 162.9 x 76 x 7.9 mm and 187g, featuring a Corning Gorilla Glass 5 front and a plastic back and frame.

Weight

168 g

187 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.67

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro cater to different user priorities, each excelling in specific areas. Users frequently praise the Galaxy S23 Plus for its consistently smooth and fast performance, exceptional battery life that often extends beyond a single day, and its vibrant, bright display. Its camera system is generally well-regarded for producing quality photos, though some users note it may not reach the absolute pinnacle of smartphone photography compared to ultra-premium models. A common point of appreciation is its long-term software support, ensuring the device remains current and secure for many years.

On the other hand, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro receives positive feedback for its smooth 120Hz AMOLED display, capable performance for daily tasks, and its impressive 67W fast charging, which quickly replenishes its large battery. The main camera with OIS is also a highlight for its ability to capture good images. Criticisms sometimes point to the secondary cameras being less impressive and the software experience, with some users noting bloatware and a shorter software update commitment compared to its competitor.

Users prioritizing a premium, long-lasting device with extensive software support, top-tier performance, and a highly durable build may prefer the Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus. Its robust ecosystem and consistent performance make it suitable for professionals and power users who need a reliable daily driver for several years. Conversely, users who value a feature-rich experience, a large and smooth display, very fast charging, and a capable main camera without needing the absolute latest software updates for the longest duration might find the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro well-suited to their needs. It offers a strong balance of features for everyday use and media consumption.

For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, offering access to these technologies while extending product lifecycles.

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