Google Pixel 6A Vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro

Google Pixel 6A
Google Pixel 6A
Starting at

Refurbished price:150.00

Versus €459.00 new

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

Refurbished price:125.00

Versus €399.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Google Pixel 6A, released in July 2022, and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, launched globally in March 2023, are both Android smartphones. While the Pixel 6A emphasizes a streamlined Android experience and advanced computational photography, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G focuses on a larger, smoother display and faster charging capabilities. Both devices run on the Android operating system, offering distinct approaches to software and hardware integration.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and physical resilience. The Google Pixel 6A was released in July 2022, while the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G saw its global launch in March 2023.

  • Software Support: The Pixel 6A is expected to receive Android operating system updates until at least July 2025 and security updates until at least July 2027, providing a solid period of software relevance. Xiaomi typically offers a few years of major Android updates and security patches for its Redmi Note series, though specific end dates are not as precisely defined as for Pixel devices.
  • Physical Protection: The Pixel 6A features an IP67 rating, indicating strong resistance to dust and the ability to withstand immersion in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes. Its display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G comes with an IP53 rating, offering protection against dust and splashes, but not full immersion. It uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection, which generally provides enhanced scratch and drop resistance.
  • Build Materials: The Pixel 6A utilizes a "thermoformed composite back" (plastic) with an alloy frame. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G features a glass front and back, paired with a polycarbonate frame, giving it a refined appearance.

Year of Release

2022

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Evaluating smartphone performance involves looking at how smoothly devices handle daily tasks, demanding applications, and multitasking.

  • Processing Power: The Google Pixel 6A is equipped with a processor designed by Google, which enables efficient handling of complex tasks and advanced AI features, contributing to a responsive user experience. Users generally report smooth operation for everyday apps and gaming. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 1080 chipset, which provides capable performance for multitasking and mobile gaming.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Pixel 6A comes with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, which is not expandable. This configuration supports typical multitasking needs. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G offers more flexibility with RAM options, including 6GB, 8GB, and 12GB, alongside 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. The 5G version does not support expandable storage.
  • Battery Behavior: The Pixel 6A has a 4410 mAh battery. While it can last a full day for many users, some heavy users have noted quicker battery drain. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G features a larger 5000 mAh battery, often translating to extended usage times, even with heavy use. It also supports 67W turbo charging, allowing for significantly faster recharges compared to the Pixel 6A's 18W charging.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and differences in technology and specifications can significantly impact the viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Google Pixel 6A features a 6.1-inch OLED display, known for its deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G offers a larger 6.67-inch Flow AMOLED display, which also delivers rich colors and high contrast.
  • Resolution and Clarity: Both devices provide a Full HD+ resolution (1080x2400 pixels), resulting in sharp images and text for typical viewing distances. The pixel density is comparable, ensuring clarity on both screens.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: A key differentiator is the refresh rate; the Pixel 6A has a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which provides a smooth experience for most content. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G boasts a 120Hz refresh rate, offering noticeably smoother scrolling and more fluid animations, particularly beneficial for gaming and fast-paced content. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G also achieves a higher peak brightness of 900 nits, which can improve outdoor visibility.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1080 x 2400

Screen type

OLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems and audio capabilities are crucial for capturing memories and enjoying multimedia content.

  • Rear Camera System: The Pixel 6A features a dual-camera setup with a 12.2MP main sensor (with optical image stabilization) and a 12MP ultrawide sensor. Its strength lies in Google's computational photography, which enhances image quality, especially in challenging conditions. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G sports a triple-camera array, including a 50MP main sensor (Sony IMX766 with OIS), an 8MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens. The higher megapixel count on the main sensor can capture more detail.
  • Photography Performance: The Pixel 6A is praised for its consistent and high-quality still photos, particularly in everyday and low-light scenarios, due to its software processing. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G's 50MP main sensor, combined with OIS, also delivers detailed images, and its ultrawide lens offers a broad field of view.
  • Video Recording: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video at 30 frames per second with their main rear cameras. The Pixel 6A can also record 4K at 60fps. The front camera on the Pixel 6A is 8MP and records 1080p video at 30fps, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G has a 16MP front camera capable of 1080p video at 30/60fps.
  • Audio Experience: The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G includes dual stereo speakers and supports Dolby Atmos, providing an immersive audio experience for media consumption. The Pixel 6A also features stereo speakers.

Main camera

12.2 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

8 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity Standards: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity, enabling faster mobile data speeds. They also feature modern Wi-Fi standards (Wi-Fi 6 for Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, Wi-Fi 6/6E for Pixel 6A) and Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless accessories.
  • Physical Ports: The Pixel 6A includes a USB-C port for charging and data transfer but omits a 3.5mm headphone jack. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, however, retains the 3.5mm headphone jack alongside its USB-C port, offering more audio connectivity options.
  • Biometric Security and Other Features: Both devices offer secure unlocking methods. The Pixel 6A uses an under-display fingerprint sensor. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor and AI face unlock. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G also includes an IR blaster, which can be used to control compatible home appliances.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The Pixel 6A is more compact and lighter, measuring 152.2 x 71.8 x 8.7 mm and weighing 178g. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is larger and slightly heavier at 162.9 x 76 x 7.9 mm and 187g. The Pixel 6A's smaller size may appeal to users preferring one-handed use, while the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G offers a larger screen in a slightly bigger form factor.

Weight

250 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

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

The Google Pixel 6A and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G cater to slightly different user priorities, each excelling in distinct areas. Users often praise the Pixel 6A for its exceptional camera performance, driven by Google's advanced computational photography, and its clean, bloatware-free Android experience with timely software updates. Some common criticisms of the Pixel 6A include its 60Hz display and slower charging speed. Conversely, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is frequently lauded for its vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display, fast 67W charging, and larger battery capacity, which contribute to a smooth and enduring user experience.

Users prioritizing a compact device with a focus on photography and a pure Android software experience, along with a longer period of guaranteed software updates, may find the Google Pixel 6A well-suited to their needs. Its robust IP67 water resistance also adds a layer of practical durability. For those who value a larger, smoother display for media consumption and gaming, faster battery charging, and a more versatile camera system with a higher megapixel count, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G presents a compelling option. Its inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack and IR blaster also offers additional utility for some users. Both devices represent solid choices in their segment, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either can be an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.