Google Pixel Fold Vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro

Google Pixel Fold
Google Pixel Fold
Starting at

Refurbished price:454.00

Versus €1,750.29 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 Google Pixel Fold, released in June 2023, represents Google's entry into the foldable smartphone market, offering a unique form factor that transforms from a traditional smartphone into a larger tablet-like display. In contrast, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, launched in November 2022, is a conventional slab-style smartphone designed for a balanced everyday experience. While both devices operate on the Android platform, they cater to different user preferences through their distinct designs and feature sets.

Scores

Durability

The expected lifespan and software support differ significantly between these two devices, influencing their long-term usability.

  • Software Updates: The Google Pixel Fold is committed to receiving five years of operating system and security updates from its release date, extending its software longevity until at least June 2028. This ensures access to new features and security patches for an extended period. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G typically receives fewer major Android updates, often around two to three years, with security updates continuing for a similar duration, meaning its software support cycle is shorter.
  • Physical Durability: The Pixel Fold features a robust construction with Gorilla Glass Victus protecting its cover display and back, and an Ultra Thin Glass for its inner foldable screen. It also boasts an IPX8 water resistance rating, offering protection against submersion. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G utilizes Corning Gorilla Glass 5 on its front display and has an IP53 rating, indicating resistance to dust and splashes. The foldable nature of the Pixel Fold introduces additional considerations regarding the hinge and inner screen's long-term resilience, though Google states its hinge is designed for 200,000 folds.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software support and advanced water resistance may find the Pixel Fold offers a longer practical lifespan, especially for those who value the latest Android features. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, while durable for a traditional smartphone, has a more limited software update window and less comprehensive water protection.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

Yes

No

Performance

Performance capabilities vary between the Pixel Fold and the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, impacting how they handle demanding tasks and daily usage.

  • Processing Power: The Google Pixel Fold is equipped with Google's Tensor G2 processor, which is designed to handle demanding applications, facilitate smooth multitasking, and excel in machine learning tasks such as advanced photo processing and voice recognition. Users report that apps load quickly and the system remains responsive even with multiple applications open. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G features the MediaTek Dimensity 1080 processor, which provides smooth performance for everyday tasks, general app usage, and moderate gaming.
  • Multitasking and RAM: The Pixel Fold comes with 12GB of RAM, contributing to its ability to manage numerous applications simultaneously and transition between them without significant slowdowns, particularly beneficial when utilizing its larger inner display for split-screen activities. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G offers configurations with 6GB, 8GB, or 12GB of RAM, allowing for efficient multitasking in typical smartphone use, though the experience with very heavy workloads might differ compared to the Pixel Fold.
  • Battery Behavior: The Pixel Fold houses a 4821mAh battery. User experiences regarding battery life are mixed, with some reporting it lasts a full day of moderate use, while others note it can get warm during intensive tasks, potentially affecting battery longevity in those scenarios. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is equipped with a 5000mAh battery, generally offering good battery life that can comfortably last through a full day for most users.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display experience is a primary differentiator, with the Pixel Fold offering a unique dual-screen setup compared to the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G's single, expansive display.

  • 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 Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G comes with a single 6.67-inch AMOLED display, also known for its rich colors and contrast.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Pixel Fold's cover display has a resolution of 2092 x 1080 pixels (408 ppi), while its inner display offers 2208 x 1840 pixels (380 ppi), providing sharp visuals. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G's display has a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 394 ppi, ensuring clear and detailed images.
  • Brightness and Smoothness: Both devices feature a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The Pixel Fold's cover screen can reach a peak brightness of 1550 nits, and its inner screen 1450 nits, making them highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G offers a peak brightness of 900 nits in high brightness mode, which is sufficient for most viewing environments. The Pixel Fold's wider cover screen aspect ratio is often praised for feeling more like a traditional smartphone when folded.

Resolution

1840 x 2208

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Foldable OLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer multi-camera systems, but their approaches to photography and video capabilities differ.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Google Pixel Fold features a triple rear camera setup, including a 48-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization, a 10.8-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 10.8-megapixel telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom. This system benefits from Google's advanced computational photography, known for producing natural colors and strong detail. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G also has a triple rear camera array, consisting of a 50-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization, an 8-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro lens. Its main sensor performs well in various lighting conditions.
  • Front Cameras and Video: The Pixel Fold includes a 9.5-megapixel camera on its cover screen and an 8-megapixel camera within the inner bezel, with the added flexibility of using the high-quality rear cameras for selfies when unfolded. It supports video recording up to 4K at 60 frames per second. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G has a 16-megapixel front-facing camera and records video up to 4K at 30 frames per second.
  • Audio and Media: The Pixel Fold provides dual stereo speakers that deliver immersive sound for media consumption. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G also features stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support, enhancing the audio experience for videos and music.

Main camera

48 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

8 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these devices.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity, enabling fast mobile data speeds. The Google Pixel Fold includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Both devices utilize a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G additionally features a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is absent on the Pixel Fold.
  • Biometric Security and Sensors: Both phones incorporate a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The Pixel Fold also offers face recognition for convenient access.
  • Physical Design and Handling: The Pixel Fold, when folded, measures 139.7 x 79.5 x 12.1 mm and weighs 283 grams, making it a substantial device. When unfolded, it expands to 139.7 x 158.7 x 5.8 mm. Its wider cover screen is often noted for providing a more comfortable and usable experience than some other foldables. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is a lighter and slimmer device, measuring 162.9 x 76 x 7.9 mm and weighing 187 grams, offering a more traditional smartphone feel in hand.

Weight

283 g

187 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

The Google Pixel Fold and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G cater to distinct user needs, each excelling in different areas. The Pixel Fold is often praised for its innovative foldable design, offering the versatility of a compact smartphone and a larger tablet-like display. Users frequently highlight its excellent camera system, benefiting from Google's advanced image processing, and its vibrant, bright OLED screens. However, some common concerns include its considerable weight, the learning curve for app optimization on the foldable screen, and reports of the device getting warm during intensive use.

Conversely, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G receives positive feedback for its clear and smooth AMOLED display, reliable performance for daily tasks, and generally good battery life. Its main camera is considered capable for most situations. Criticisms sometimes point to Xiaomi's MIUI software overlay and the less impressive performance of its secondary cameras compared to the main sensor.

Users prioritizing a cutting-edge, versatile form factor with a strong emphasis on camera performance and long-term software support may find the Google Pixel Fold well-suited to their needs. Its ability to transform into a larger screen is ideal for media consumption, productivity, and specific applications that benefit from more screen real estate. For individuals seeking a dependable, traditional smartphone experience with a focus on a high-quality display, solid everyday performance, and extended battery life, the Xiaomi Redmi 12 Pro 5G presents a compelling option.

Both devices are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers looking to make informed and sustainable choices.

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