Description
The REDMI 12 (4 GB RAM, 128 GB) in Moonstone Silver is a budget smartphone that combines stylish aesthetics with practical functionality. It offers a balanced mix of performance, design, and features, making it an excellent choice for users looking for value without compromising on essential capabilities.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Unboxing Experience
The unboxing of the REDMI 12 reveals:
- REDMI 12 smartphone in Moonstone Silver
- 10W charger
- USB Type-C cable
- SIM ejector tool
- Protective case
- Quick start guide
The packaging is minimalistic yet effective, ensuring that all necessary accessories are included.
Initial Setup
Setting up the REDMI 12 is straightforward. Power on the device, follow the on-screen instructions to connect to Wi-Fi, sign in with your Google account, and you’re ready to use your new smartphone. The process is user-friendly, even for those new to smartphones.
Design and Build Quality
Material and Finish
The REDMI 12 boasts a sleek plastic frame with a glossy Moonstone Silver finish. The design is modern, making the phone look more premium than its price suggests.
Ergonomics
With dimensions of 164.9 x 77.07 x 8.77 mm and a weight of 190 grams, the REDMI 12 is comfortable to hold and use. Its rounded edges and slim profile enhance its ergonomic appeal.
Durability
Despite its affordable price, the REDMI 12 feels sturdy and well-built. The plastic back is resistant to everyday wear and tear, though it might attract fingerprints.
Display Quality
Screen Size and Resolution
The REDMI 12 features a 6.53-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels. This HD+ display provides clear and sharp visuals, suitable for various tasks.
Brightness and Color Accuracy
The display offers a brightness of up to 400 nits, ensuring visibility in different lighting conditions. The color accuracy is decent, making it enjoyable for watching videos and viewing photos.
Performance and Hardware
Processor and RAM
Equipped with the MediaTek Helio G35 processor and 4 GB of RAM, the REDMI 12 handles daily tasks efficiently. This combination ensures smooth multitasking and reliable performance.
Storage Options
The 128 GB of internal storage is ample for apps, photos, and videos. Additionally, the storage can be expanded via a microSD card, offering flexibility for users who need more space.
Benchmark Tests
In benchmark tests, the REDMI 12 performs well within its price range, providing consistent performance for routine activities. It may struggle with more demanding applications but remains a solid performer for everyday use.
Software and User Interface
MIUI Overview
The REDMI 12 runs on MIUI, Xiaomi’s custom Android skin. MIUI offers numerous features and customization options, enhancing the overall user experience.
Key Software Features
- Dark Mode: Reduces eye strain in low-light conditions.
- Game Turbo: Optimizes performance for a better gaming experience.
- Second Space: Allows users to create a separate profile for privacy.
User Experience
MIUI is intuitive and user-friendly. Regular updates ensure the software remains current, providing new features and improvements over time.
Camera Capabilities
Rear Camera Setup
The REDMI 12 features a dual-camera setup on the rear, including:
- 13 MP main camera
- 2 MP depth sensor
This setup captures decent photos in good lighting conditions, with acceptable detail and color accuracy.
Front Camera Features
The 5 MP front camera is suitable for selfies and video calls. It includes beauty modes and filters to enhance your photos.
Sample Photos
The camera performs well in daylight, capturing clear and vibrant images. Low-light performance is average but acceptable for a phone in this price range.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery Capacity
With a 5000 mAh battery, the REDMI 12 offers impressive battery life. It easily lasts a full day of moderate use, including browsing, social media, and light gaming.
Charging Speed
The included 10W charger isn’t the fastest, but it gets the job done. It takes around 2-3 hours to fully charge the battery from zero.
Battery Life in Daily Use
In real-world usage, the battery life is one of the REDMI 12’s strengths. Users can enjoy extended usage without constantly worrying about recharging.
Connectivity and Network
SIM and Network Support
The REDMI 12 supports dual SIM cards, allowing users to manage two numbers simultaneously. It is compatible with 4G LTE networks, providing fast and reliable connectivity.
Connectivity Features
- Wi-Fi: Supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
- Bluetooth: Version 5.0
- GPS: Accurate and reliable for navigation
GPS and Navigation
GPS performance is solid, with quick and accurate location tracking. It’s suitable for navigation apps and services.
Audio and Multimedia
Speaker Quality
The REDMI 12’s speaker delivers clear and loud audio, making it suitable for media consumption and hands-free calls.
Audio Jack and Bluetooth Audio
It includes a 3.5mm audio jack for wired headphones. Bluetooth audio is also supported, offering flexibility for different audio preferences.
Multimedia Experience
The combination of a good display and decent audio quality makes the REDMI 12 a capable device for watching videos, listening to music, and casual gaming.
Gaming and Graphics
Gaming Performance
While the REDMI 12 isn’t a gaming powerhouse, it handles casual games well. More demanding titles may require lower graphics settings for smooth gameplay.
Graphics Quality
The integrated GPU offers adequate performance for basic graphics tasks. Casual games and light graphics applications run smoothly.
Game Compatibility
Most popular games are compatible with the REDMI 12, though high-end games may not run at the highest settings.
Additional Features
Sensors and Extras
- Fingerprint Sensor: Rear-mounted, quick and reliable.
- Face Unlock: Uses the front camera, convenient and effective.
- Other Sensors: Accelerometer, proximity sensor, and ambient light sensor.
Special Features
- IR Blaster: Allows the phone to function as a remote control for various appliances.
- FM Radio: Built-in radio tuner for on-the-go entertainment.
Pros and Cons
Key Advantages
- Affordable price
- Good battery life
- Ample storage with expandability
- Stylish design
Possible Drawbacks
- Average camera performance in low light
- Slower charging speed
- Display resolution could be higher
Comparison with Competitors
When compared to other phones in its price range, the REDMI 12 stands out for its battery life and storage options. While some competitors may offer better cameras or faster processors, the REDMI 12 provides a balanced experience at an attractive price point.
User Reviews and Feedback
Summary of User Reviews
Users generally praise the REDMI 12 for its affordability, battery life, and design. Common criticisms include the camera’s low-light performance and the slower charging speed.
Common Praise and Criticism
- Praise: Long-lasting battery, ample storage, user-friendly MIUI.
- Criticism: Average camera quality, slow charging.
Conclusion
The REDMI 12 (4 GB RAM, 128 GB) in Moonstone Silver is a solid choice for budget-conscious users seeking a reliable smartphone with decent performance and a stylish design. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prioritize battery life and storage capacity.
Who Should Buy This Phone?
- Students and casual users looking for an affordable smartphone.
- Users needing a reliable device for daily tasks without high-end performance requirements.
- Anyone seeking a secondary phone for travel or work purposes.
FAQs
Q1: Does the REDMI 12 support fast charging?
A: The REDMI 12 comes with a 10W charger, which is not considered fast charging by today’s standards.
Q2: Can I expand the storage on the REDMI 12?
A: Yes, the storage can be expanded via a microSD card up to 512 GB.
Q3: Is the REDMI 12 good for gaming?
A: The REDMI 12 can handle casual gaming well, but more demanding games may require lower graphics settings.
Q4: Does the REDMI 12 have a fingerprint sensor?
A: Yes, it has a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Q5: What colors are available for the REDMI 12?
A: The REDMI 12 is available in Moonstone Silver and other colors depending on the market.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.