Google Pixel Fold Vs Xiaomi 12T

Google Pixel Fold
Google Pixel Fold
Starting at

Refurbished price:454.00

Versus €1,750.29 new

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Xiaomi 12T
Xiaomi 12T
Starting at

Refurbished price:133.00

Versus €649.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Google Pixel Fold, released in June 2023, and the Xiaomi 12T, launched in October 2022, represent distinct approaches to modern smartphone design. The Pixel Fold introduces a foldable form factor, offering a large internal display alongside a conventional outer screen, while the Xiaomi 12T is a traditional slab-style smartphone. Both devices operate on the Android platform, but they cater to different user preferences through their unique designs and feature sets.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key differentiators.

  • Release and Updates: The Google Pixel Fold, released in June 2023, is set to receive five years of OS and security updates, extending its software support until at least June 2028. In contrast, the Xiaomi 12T, launched in October 2022, is promised three major Android OS updates, reaching Android 15, and four years of security updates, which would typically extend until late 2026.
  • Repairability: The Pixel Fold received a repairability score of 6.5 out of 10 from PBK Reviews, indicating that while self-repairs can be challenging, they are manageable. Key components like the USB-C port are attached to the motherboard, making replacement more complex, and the battery is not easily accessible. Google provides a comprehensive service manual and original replacement parts for the Pixel Fold. The Xiaomi 12T offers a free screen repair for six months and one free out-of-warranty repair within the first year of purchase.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software longevity will find the Pixel Fold's longer update commitment beneficial. The Xiaomi 12T offers a solid, though shorter, update cycle, which is typical for many devices in its category.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

Yes

No

Performance

The performance of both devices is influenced by their internal components, affecting how smoothly they handle daily tasks and demanding applications.

  • Processing Power: The Google Pixel Fold is equipped with Google's Tensor G2 processor, designed to optimize AI and machine learning tasks, contributing to smooth app loading and efficient multitasking. The Xiaomi 12T features a MediaTek Dimensity 8100-Ultra processor, which provides snappy performance for everyday use and can handle demanding applications effectively.
  • Memory and Storage: The Pixel Fold comes with 12GB of RAM and offers storage options of 256GB or 512GB, providing ample space for applications and files, and supporting robust multitasking. The Xiaomi 12T typically includes 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, which is sufficient for most users' needs.
  • Battery Behavior: The Pixel Fold has a 4821mAh battery, supporting 30W wired charging. The Xiaomi 12T features a larger 5000mAh battery and supports very fast 120W wired charging, allowing for rapid recharges. User experiences with the Xiaomi 12T's battery life have been mixed, with some finding it underwhelming for heavy use despite the large capacity.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display experience is a primary distinguishing factor, especially given the Pixel Fold's unique design.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Google Pixel Fold features two OLED displays: a 5.8-inch cover screen and a 7.6-inch foldable inner screen. Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks characteristic of OLED technology. The Xiaomi 12T has a single 6.67-inch AMOLED display, also known for its rich color reproduction.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Pixel Fold's cover display has a resolution of 1080 x 2092 pixels (408 PPI), while its inner display is 1840 x 2208 pixels (380 PPI). The Xiaomi 12T offers a resolution of 1220 x 2712 pixels (446 PPI), providing sharp and clear visuals.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both devices feature a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and responsiveness. The Pixel Fold's cover screen can reach a peak brightness of 1550 nits, and its inner screen up to 1450 nits. The Xiaomi 12T's display offers a peak brightness of 900 nits. The Pixel Fold's inner display also features a dynamic refresh rate, adjusting from 1Hz to 120Hz to conserve battery.

Resolution

1840 x 2208

1220 x 2712

Screen type

Foldable OLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems, though their configurations and strengths differ.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Google Pixel Fold features a triple rear camera setup: a 48MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 10.8MP ultrawide lens, and a 10.8MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom and OIS. The Xiaomi 12T also has a triple rear camera system, comprising a 108MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro lens.
  • Photography Performance: The Pixel Fold is praised for its strong camera system and Google's image processing, delivering good detail, dynamic range, and natural colors, especially in stills. The Xiaomi 12T's 108MP main camera also produces vibrant, detailed images with solid dynamic range, and performs well in low-light conditions.
  • Video Recording and Front Cameras: The Pixel Fold can record video at up to 4K 60fps, with good stabilization, though some users note color differences compared to other devices. It has a 9.5MP front camera on the cover screen and an 8MP camera on the inner screen. The Xiaomi 12T records video at 4K 30fps, and its main camera offers stable and smooth footage. It features a 20MP front-facing camera.

Main camera

48 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

8 megapixels

20 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of each device.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support modern connectivity standards, including 5G, Wi-Fi 6 (802.11 ax), GPS, and NFC. The Pixel Fold uses Bluetooth v5.2 and a USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 port. The Xiaomi 12T features Bluetooth 5.3 and a USB Type-C port, along with an infrared blaster.
  • Biometric Security and Sensors: The Pixel Fold includes face recognition and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. The Xiaomi 12T offers an in-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock.
  • Design and Handling: The Pixel Fold, when folded, measures 139.7 x 79.5 x 12.1 mm and weighs 283g, unfolding to 139.7 x 158.7 x 5.8 mm. It features Gorilla Glass Victus on the cover and back, and Ultra Thin Glass on the inner display, with IPX8 water resistance. The Xiaomi 12T measures 163.1 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm and weighs 202g. It has a Gorilla Glass 5 front, a glass back, and a plastic frame, with IP53 dust and splash resistance.

Weight

283 g

220 g

Screen size (in)

7.6

6.67

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback for the Google Pixel Fold highlights its innovative design and strong camera capabilities as significant advantages. Many appreciate the comfortable size of its cover screen and the smooth performance of its interface. However, some users have noted that the device can run warm during demanding tasks and that the inner display does not unfold completely flat. Concerns about the durability of the inner display have also been raised.

The Xiaomi 12T is often praised for its long battery life, responsive performance, and vibrant display. Its main camera is generally well-regarded for producing detailed and colorful photos, even in challenging lighting conditions. Criticisms sometimes point to the macro camera being less impressive and, for some heavy users, the battery life not always meeting expectations despite its large capacity.

Users prioritizing a compact, traditional smartphone experience with a focus on battery longevity and fast charging may find the Xiaomi 12T well-suited to their needs. Its robust main camera also makes it a strong contender for everyday photography. Conversely, those seeking a versatile device that transforms from a standard smartphone to a larger tablet-like screen for enhanced productivity and media consumption, coupled with Google's advanced camera processing, might lean towards the Google Pixel Fold. Both devices offer compelling features, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option can provide an eco-friendly alternative for either choice.

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