Highlights

• Xiaomi India launched two new Redmi smartphones this week: Redmi 12 5G and Redmi 12 4G, targeting the entry-level phone segment.
• The Redmi 12 4G starts at ₹9,999 for the 4GB RAM with 128GB storage variant, while the 5G model begins at ₹11,999 with the same configuration.
• Both phones feature a 6.79-inch FHD+ 90Hz LCD display, a 50MP AI primary rear camera, an 8MP front-facing camera, and a 5,000 mAh battery with 18W fast charging.
• In this article, we discuss the difference between Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G, how are the two Redmi phones different?

Xiaomi India has introduced two brand-new Redmi smartphones in the country’s smartphone market this week. The tech giant has officially released the Redmi 12 5G and Redmi 12 4G models, both catering to the entry-level phone segment.

While the Redmi 12 4G comes with a starting price of ₹9,999 for the base variant of 4GB RAM with 128GB internal storage, the 5G model price starts at ₹11,999 for a similar configuration.

Both the handsets come with almost similar specifications. The smartphones are equipped with a 6.79-inch FHD+ 90Hz LCD display with a refresh rate of 90Hz.
For photography, both Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G sport a 50MP AI primary camera on the back with only modification in terms of supporting sensors.

There is the same 8MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls in both. And as for battery, both devices are backed by a 5,000 mAh battery with support for 18W fast charging.

So, the question arises, between Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G, how are the two Redmi phones different?

While both handsets come with almost similar specifications and design philosophies, the difference lies in their processors. Redmi 12 5G comes powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC and the Redmi 12 4G is powered by MediaTek Helio G88 12nm  SoC.

In this article, we are delving into how the different processors change things for both devices.

However, before we get to that, let’s compare the key features.

Side by Side: Decoding Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G Differences

Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G – Key Features Comparison

As mentioned above, both handsets come with almost similar specifications, except for the processor.

Redmi 12 5G comes powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC and the Redmi 12 4G is powered by MediaTek Helio G88 12nm  SoC.

Let’s delve into how the different processors change things for both devices.

Redmi 12 Series: A Comparison of 4G and 5G Models

Redmi 12 4G Vs Redmi 12 5G – How Are the Two Redmi Phones Different?

Redmi 12 4G

• Processor: MediaTek Helio G88
• CPU Architecture: 2x Cortex-A75 @ 2.0GHz, 6x Cortex-A55 @ 1.8GHz
• GPU: ARM Mali-G52 MC2

Redmi 12 5G

• Processor: Snapdragon® 4 Gen 2 Mobile Platform
• CPU Architecture: 2X Cortex A78 @ 2.2GHz, 6X Cortex A55 @ 2.0GHz
• GPU: Adreno GPU

Comparison

CPU Performance

• Redmi 12 4G: The MediaTek Helio G88 features 2x Cortex-A75 cores running at 2.0GHz and 6x Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 1.8GHz. It offers decent performance for day-to-day tasks and light multitasking.
• Redmi 12 5G: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 Mobile Platform boasts 2X Cortex A78 cores with a higher clock speed of 2.2GHz and 6X Cortex A55 cores running at 2.0GHz. This configuration promises better overall performance, especially for demanding applications and multitasking.

GPU Performance

• Redmi 12 4G: The MediaTek Helio G88 comes with the ARM Mali-G52 MC2 GPU, which offers satisfactory graphics performance for casual gaming and media consumption.
• Redmi 12 5G: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 Mobile Platform includes an Adreno GPU, which typically delivers superior graphics performance compared to the Mali-G52 MC2. This GPU is more suitable for gamers and graphics-intensive applications.

5G Connectivity

• Redmi 12 4G: The MediaTek Helio G88 chipset does not support 5G connectivity, limiting the phone to 4G networks only.
• Redmi 12 5G: As the name suggests, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 Mobile Platform is equipped with a 5G modem, enabling the Redmi 12 5G model to access faster and more advanced 5G networks.

Overall Performance

• Redmi 12 4G: With its CPU and GPU combination, the Redmi 12 4G delivers satisfactory performance for everyday use but might struggle with more demanding tasks and gaming.
• Redmi 12 5G: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 Mobile Platform in the Redmi 12 5G offers a performance boost, making it more suitable for power users, gamers, and those who want faster 5G connectivity.

In conclusion, the Redmi 12 5G outperforms the Redmi 12 4G in terms of CPU and GPU performance, and it also supports 5G connectivity.

However, the Redmi 12 4G might still be a reasonable choice for those seeking a more budget-friendly option with basic smartphone capabilities.

Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G: Availability and Price in India

The Redmi 12 4G is available in two storage variants – 4GB RAM with 128GB storage and 6GB RAM with 128GB storage.

On the other hand, Redmi 12 5G has three storage variants – 4GB RAM with 128GB storage, 6GB RAM with 128GB storage, and 8GB RAM with 256GB storage.

As for colour options, both handsets are available in three colour options which include – Moonstone Silver, Jade Black, and Pastel Blue colour variants.

Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G – Specification Compared at a Glance

FAQs

Q1. What are the rear camera features of Redmi 12 5G?

Answer. Redmi 12 5G comes in a dual rear camera setup. It includes a 50MP Camera f/1.8 1.28 um (4-in-1 superpixel) and a 2MP Depth Camera. Photography modes and features include Portrait, Night, Video, 50MP mode, Google Lens, HDR, Google Lens, Voice shutter, Tilt-shift Timed burst, and Time Lapse. Other features include –

• Timer Video Resolution: 1080@30fps, 720p@30fps
• Classic Film Filters: KC64, V-250, H-400, KP-160, FC400, C-50D, KG200 | Film Frame

Q2. Does Redmi 12 5G have expandable memory support?

Answer. Yes, Redmi 12 5G comes with Hybrid Sim Slot and supports up to 1TB memory expansion using a micro SD card.

Q3. What is included in Redmi 12 4G packaging box?

Answer. The in-the-box contents of the Redmi 12 4G include Redmi 12 smartphone, a power adapter, USB Cable, SIM Eject Tool, a Quick Start Guide and the Warranty Card.

Q4. How is the design of Redmi 12 phones?

Answer. The Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G smartphones have a similar design with a glass back and flat edges featuring a metallic paint finish. They have three individual rings for the camera setup, giving them a clean and minimalistic appearance. At the bottom of the phones, you can find the USB Type-C port and the speaker grille. And there is also a 3.5mm headphone jack and an IR blaster on the top side of the frame. As for colour options, both handsets are available in three colour options which include – Moonstone Silver, Jade Black, and Pastel Blue colour variants.

Q5. How is the display of Redmi 12 phones?

Answer. In terms of display, the Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G feature a 6.79-inch FHD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, a Corning Gorilla Glass layer for protection, and a punch-hole cutout for the selfie camera.

Q6. How good is the battery of Redmi 12 4G and 5G models?

Answer. There is no difference in the battery department of both phones. Both Redmi 12 4G and Redmi 12 5G house a similar 5,000mAh battery supported with 18W fast charging technology.

Also Read: Redmi 12 Series Launched In India: Price, Specs, Sale, and Our First Impressions

Also Read: Redmi to Ignite “5G Revolution” with Redmi 12 Series: Rumour roundup before official launch

Also Read: Redmi 12 4G & 5G Price in India, RAM and storage variants Leaked ahead of August 1st Launch