Google Pixel 9 Pro Vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro

Google Pixel 9 Pro
Google Pixel 9 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:475.00

Versus €1,299.00 new

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

Refurbished price:114.00

Versus €399.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Google Pixel 9 Pro, released in late 2024, and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro, launched in early 2023, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. While both devices operate on the Android platform, the Pixel 9 Pro emphasizes advanced computational photography and AI integration, alongside a more compact flagship experience. The Redmi Note 12 Pro, conversely, focuses on delivering a balanced feature set with a large display and robust battery performance.

Scores

Durability

The expected lifespan and software support differ significantly between these two devices, largely due to their release timelines and manufacturer policies.

  • Release Timeline: The Google Pixel 9 Pro was released in late 2024, making it a more recent device compared to the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro, which launched in early 2023.
  • OS Support Duration: Google commits to an extensive seven years of software updates for the Pixel 9 Pro, ensuring it will receive major Android versions and security patches for a prolonged period. The Redmi Note 12 Pro, running Android 12 with MIUI 13 at launch, has a shorter expected update cycle, and as of 2026, may not be compatible with the very latest Android versions.
  • Durability Features: The Pixel 9 Pro features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for display protection and boasts an IP68 rating for superior dust and water resistance. The Redmi Note 12 Pro utilizes Corning Gorilla Glass 5 and carries an IP53 rating, offering protection against splashes and dust.

Year of Release

2024

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance capabilities vary between the two models, reflecting their different hardware philosophies and target user experiences.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Google Pixel 9 Pro is powered by a current-generation processor specifically tuned for machine learning and AI applications, enabling smooth handling of demanding apps, quick response times, and seamless multitasking. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro features a mid-range processor that provides smooth performance for everyday tasks and general usage.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: With 16GB of RAM as a standard offering, the Pixel 9 Pro is designed for extensive multitasking and maintaining responsiveness even with numerous applications open simultaneously. The Redmi Note 12 Pro offers various RAM configurations, up to 12GB, which supports efficient multitasking for typical smartphone use.
  • Battery Behavior: The Pixel 9 Pro, equipped with a 4700 mAh battery, is reported by users to offer long battery life, often lasting through a full day of heavy use with significant screen-on time. The Redmi Note 12 Pro houses a larger 5000 mAh battery, which also contributes to excellent battery longevity for most users.

Memory (GB)

16 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

Both devices offer vibrant displays, but there are distinctions in their underlying technology and visual output.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Google Pixel 9 Pro features a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 2856 x 1280 pixels, resulting in a high pixel density that delivers crisp and sharp visuals. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro comes with a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, offering a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, which provides clear and vibrant visuals with good contrast.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: The Pixel 9 Pro's display can reach a peak brightness of 3000 nits, ensuring excellent visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. The Redmi Note 12 Pro has a peak brightness of around 900 nits, which is adequate for most indoor and outdoor scenarios, though it may be less visible under direct sunlight compared to the Pixel.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The Pixel 9 Pro features a variable refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, which dynamically adjusts to optimize power efficiency and provide smooth scrolling and animations. The Redmi Note 12 Pro also offers a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, adjusting between 30Hz, 60Hz, 90Hz, and 120Hz for a smooth user experience.

Resolution

1280 x 2856

1080 x 2400

Screen type

LTPO OLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on these smartphones offer different strengths, catering to varied photography preferences.

  • Rear Camera System: The Google Pixel 9 Pro features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. This system is known for producing excellent photos with natural colors, crisp details, and strong low-light performance, further enhanced by advanced AI processing. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro includes a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens. Its main camera performs well in daylight with good dynamic range, and OIS aids in low-light conditions.
  • Front Camera and Video Quality: The Pixel 9 Pro is equipped with a 42MP front camera that delivers high-quality selfies and supports 4K60 video recording. Its rear cameras also record 4K60 video with OIS providing stable footage. The Redmi Note 12 Pro has a 16MP front camera and can record video at 4K30fps with its main rear camera, and 1080p60fps for both front and rear.
  • Specialized Features: The Pixel 9 Pro incorporates advanced AI photography tools, including a cloud-based Video Boost feature for upscaling footage. The Redmi Note 12 Pro's ultrawide and macro lenses are functional, though user reviews suggest the ultrawide can show distortion and the macro lens offers limited utility.

Main camera

50 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

42 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance, several practical elements differentiate the user experience of these two devices.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity. The Pixel 9 Pro features a USB-C port and supports eSIM alongside a physical SIM. The Redmi Note 12 Pro also has a USB-C port, but notably includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is absent on the Pixel 9 Pro. It supports dual physical SIM cards.
  • Physical Attributes: The Pixel 9 Pro has dimensions of 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm and weighs 199g, offering a more compact form factor. The Redmi Note 12 Pro is slightly larger and lighter at 162.9 x 76 x 7.9 mm and 187g. The Pixel 9 Pro features a recycled aluminum frame, contributing to a premium feel.
  • Biometric Security: The Pixel 9 Pro uses an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, which is generally fast and reliable, though some users report issues with screen protectors. It also includes face unlock. The Redmi Note 12 Pro features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button.

Weight

280 g

187 g

Screen size (in)

6.8

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 9 Pro and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro cater to different user priorities, reflecting their distinct market positions and design philosophies. User feedback for the Pixel 9 Pro frequently praises its exceptional display quality, top-tier camera system with advanced AI features, and robust software support extending for seven years. Some common observations include its performance, while strong for daily use, may not match the highest benchmark scores of some competitors, and initial AI features might feel somewhat unpolished.

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro is often lauded for its vibrant AMOLED display, impressive battery life, and smooth performance for its category. Its main camera is generally well-regarded for daylight photography, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a practical benefit for many. However, its ultrawide and macro cameras receive less enthusiastic reviews, and its software update longevity is shorter compared to the Pixel.

Users prioritizing a compact device with a cutting-edge camera, long-term software support, and advanced AI capabilities will find the Google Pixel 9 Pro well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value a larger, vibrant display, extended battery life, and the convenience of a headphone jack, without requiring the absolute latest in processing power or camera versatility across all lenses, may lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro. Both devices offer compelling experiences, and choosing between them depends on which set of features aligns best with individual usage patterns. For those considering a quality-assured refurbished option, both models can be found, providing an eco-friendly alternative.

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