iPhone 12 Vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G

iPhone 12
iPhone 12
Starting at

Refurbished price:174.00

Versus €829.00 new

See options
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G
Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:112.00

Versus €349.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 12, released in October 2020, and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, launched in January 2022, are both smartphones designed to cater to different user preferences. While the iPhone 12 operates on Apple's iOS ecosystem, the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G runs on Android with Xiaomi's MIUI overlay. Key differentiators between these two devices include their display technologies, processing power, and camera systems, influencing their overall user experience.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, including software support, physical durability, and component longevity.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 12, running on iOS, typically receives software updates for an extended period, often 5-6 years or more from its release. This means it is expected to continue receiving major iOS updates for several more years, extending its functional life. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, an Android device, generally receives fewer major OS updates compared to iOS devices, though security updates may continue for a reasonable duration.
  • Physical Durability: The iPhone 12 features a Ceramic Shield front cover, which Apple states offers enhanced drop performance compared to previous models. It also boasts an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, allowing submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for its display and has an IP53 rating, indicating splash and dust resistance, but not full submersion.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Both devices are built to last, but the iPhone 12's longer software support and higher water resistance rating may contribute to a slightly longer practical lifespan for users who prioritize the latest software features and robust environmental protection. Refurbished options for both models offer an eco-friendly alternative, extending their useful life cycle.

Year of Release

2020

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is largely determined by its internal processing unit, memory, and how efficiently its software utilizes these resources for daily tasks and demanding applications.

  • Processing Capabilities: The iPhone 12 is equipped with a powerful processor that handles demanding applications, multitasking, and graphic-intensive games smoothly. This processor was designed to offer significant performance improvements over its predecessors, ensuring a responsive user experience. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G features a processor that provides capable performance for everyday tasks, web browsing, and moderate gaming. While it offers a smooth experience for general use, it may not match the sustained high-end performance of the iPhone 12's chip in very demanding scenarios.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPhone 12 comes with 4GB of RAM, which, combined with iOS's efficient memory management, allows for smooth app switching and background processes. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G offers configurations with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, providing ample capacity for multitasking within the Android environment. Both devices are designed to feel responsive in daily interactions, with apps launching quickly and navigation remaining fluid.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone 12 is available with internal storage options of 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, without expandable storage. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G offers 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, with the added flexibility of expandable storage up to 1TB via a microSD card, which can be beneficial for users with large media libraries or extensive app collections.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer distinct visual experiences tailored to their respective ecosystems.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone 12 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, providing deep blacks, vibrant colors, and a high pixel density of 460 pixels per inch (ppi) for sharp text and images. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G sports a larger 6.67-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080x2400 pixels and a pixel density of 395 ppi, also delivering rich colors and good contrast.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone 12 offers a typical brightness of 625 nits and a peak brightness of 1200 nits for HDR content, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. Its display has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G matches the iPhone 12's peak brightness of 1200 nits and offers a higher 120Hz refresh rate, which results in smoother scrolling and more fluid animations, enhancing the visual experience for content consumption and gaming.
  • Viewing Experience: Users prioritizing a compact form factor with a high-resolution, color-accurate OLED screen will appreciate the iPhone 12. Those who prefer a larger display with noticeably smoother motion due to the higher refresh rate might find the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G more appealing for media consumption and general navigation.

Resolution

1170 x 2532

1080 x 2400

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super AMOLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many users, and both smartphones offer different approaches to photography and videography.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The iPhone 12 features a dual 12MP camera system, including a wide lens with a wide aperture and optical image stabilization, and an ultra-wide lens. It excels in low-light performance, offers Night mode across all cameras, and includes features like Deep Fusion and Smart HDR 3 for detailed and well-exposed photos. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G comes with a triple camera setup, highlighted by a 108MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. The high-resolution main sensor can capture detailed images in good lighting.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: The iPhone 12 supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second and can record HDR video with Dolby Vision. Its 12MP front camera also supports Night mode and 4K video recording. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G records video up to 1080p at 30 frames per second. Its front camera is a 16MP sensor, suitable for selfies and video calls.
  • Photography Experience: Users prioritizing advanced computational photography, strong low-light performance, and high-quality video recording, especially with HDR capabilities, will find the iPhone 12's camera system robust. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G offers a versatile camera setup with a high-megapixel main sensor, which can be appealing for capturing detailed stills in well-lit conditions.

Main camera

12 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, various practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity, enabling faster mobile data speeds where available. The iPhone 12 features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, along with a Lightning port for charging and data transfer. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G includes Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) and Bluetooth 5.1, and utilizes a USB-C port, which is a widely adopted standard. It also retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature absent on the iPhone 12.
  • Biometric Security and Design: The iPhone 12 relies on Face ID for secure facial recognition. Its design features flat edges and an aluminum frame, contributing to its distinct aesthetic and feel. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G incorporates a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication. It has a matte-finish glass backplate and a slightly larger, flatter design.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The iPhone 12 is more compact and lighter, measuring 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 mm and weighing around 162-164g, making it easier for one-handed use. The Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G is larger and slightly heavier at 164.19 x 76.1 x 8.12 mm and 202g, offering a more expansive screen but potentially requiring two hands for comfortable operation.

Weight

164 g

202 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.67

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the iPhone 12 often highlights its premium design, the speed and efficiency of its processor, and the quality of its OLED display. Many users appreciate its camera system, particularly its low-light performance and video capabilities. Common criticisms sometimes point to the standard 60Hz refresh rate of the display, especially when compared to devices offering higher refresh rates. The battery life, while improved over its predecessor, is generally considered sufficient for a day of moderate use.

For the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, users frequently praise its large, smooth 120Hz AMOLED display and its long-lasting 5000mAh battery, complemented by very fast 67W charging. The stereo speakers are also often noted for their robust sound. Some users, however, mention that while the camera system is versatile, its overall performance, particularly in challenging lighting, may not compete with higher-end devices. The processor, while capable for daily tasks, might be seen as a limitation for intensive gaming or very heavy usage.

Users prioritizing a compact device with a highly capable camera for photos and videos, long-term software support, and a robust, water-resistant build may find the iPhone 12 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, individuals who value a larger, smoother display with a high refresh rate, exceptional battery life with rapid charging, and expandable storage might lean towards the Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G. Both devices offer distinct advantages, and choosing between them depends on aligning these features with individual usage patterns. Exploring quality-assured refurbished options for either model can provide a sustainable choice for consumers.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons