Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 became one of the most popular mid-range devices in 2023-2026. When choosing a phone, users often pay attention to the heart of the gadget – a processor that determines speed, energy efficiency and gaming capabilities. In this article, we will analyze in detail what chip is used in the Redmi Note 12, its technical characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, and compare with competitors.
It's important to understand that the processor is not just a stone, but a complex system that includes a CPU, a GPU, a neural processor and other components. Its architecture determines how fast apps open, how long the phone lasts on a single charge, and even the quality of photos. If you're planning to buy or already own a Redmi Note 12, this information will help you assess the potential of the device.
We will also look at how the processor affects the gaming experience of the smartphone, compatibility with future updates and give recommendations for optimizing the work. Whether you need the phone for everyday tasks or for demanding games, knowing the “stuffing” will help you make the right choice.
What processor is installed in Xiaomi Redmi Note 12: official data
In the line of Redmi Note 12 Xiaomi used two main processors depending on the modification of the device:
- 🔹 Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 – in the base version of the Redmi Note 12 4G (The model for markets is supported only 4G)
- 🔹 Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 in the version of the Redmi Note 12 5G (The model with support for fifth generation networks)
This is an important distinction, as the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 is the first 5G-enabled Snapdragon 4 chip, making it a more modern solution. Both processors are built on TSMC's 6nm process technology, which ensures a good balance between performance and power consumption.
In Russia and CIS countries officially supplied version with Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, as operators have not yet deployed full-fledged networks 5G. However, in some regions (such as China or India) it is available. 5G-Version: Make sure you make the modification when you buy it, which is critical for future network compatibility.
Technical characteristics of the Redmi Note 12 processors: a comparative table
To better understand the differences between chips, let’s look at their key parameters in comparison:
| Parameter | Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | 6 nm (TSMC) | 6 nm (TSMC) |
| Central Processor (CPU) | 2× Cortex-A78 (2.0 GHz) + 6× Cortex-A55 (1.8 GHz) | 2× Cortex-A78 (2.2 GHz) + 6× Cortex-A55 (2.0 GHz) |
| Graphics Processor (GPU) | Adreno 619 | Adreno 613 |
| Support for 5G support | No. | Yes (Sub-6 GHz) |
| Max, display frequency | 120 Hz | 120 Hz |
| Support for cameras | Up to 108 MP | Up to 108 MP |
At first glance, it may seem that the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 is weaker because of the Adreno 613 GPU instead of the Adreno 619. However, in practice, the difference in graphics is minimal - both chips are budget segment and are not designed for heavy games at maximum settings. The main advantage of Gen 2 is support for 5G and slightly higher clock speed of the Cortex-A78 cores.
Both processors support LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 2.2 drives, which allows for fast application loading. It is important to note that the Redmi Note 12 uses virtual RAM (up to 8 GB), which uses some of the internal memory to increase multitasking, which partially offsets the limitations of the budget chip.
Performance in games and everyday tasks
For most users, the key question is how the processor handles games and heavy applications.
- 🎮 Easy games (PUBG Mobile on medium settings, Call of Duty: Mobile, Genshin Impact on low: both chips provide stable 30-40 FPS. There is no overheating even during long sessions.
- 🎮 Midgames (PUBG on HDR/Ultra, Genshin Impact on medium: possible drawdowns to 20-25 FPS in intense scenes. Adreno. 619 (Gen 1) handles slightly better.
- 📱 Everyday Tasks: Multitasking (10)+ And then there's the apps in the background, social media, instant messengers, no delays. ~1 second.
- 📹 Video editing and rendering: for simple tasks (clip video clipping in CapCut) is enough, but rendering 4K-The video will take a long time.
In the AnTuTu Benchmark test (version) 10) Redmi Note 12 Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 round-up 380-400 thousands of points, which corresponds to the level of Helio G99 This is a good result for the budget segment, but do not expect the performance of flagships.
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To improve game performance, activate Game Turbo mode in the MIUI settings (Settings → Special Opportunities → Game Mode) this will turn off background processes and increase the clock speed of the processor.
It is important to consider that thermothrottle (decreased performance during overheating) in the Redmi Note 12 begins at ~42 ° C. In hot weather or during long games, FPS drawdowns are possible.
Comparison with competitors: who is better?
The main competitors of the Redmi Note 12 in the price segment are smartphones on the chips MediaTek Helio G99, Snapdragon 680 and Dimensity 700.
| Processor | Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 | Helio G99 | Snapdragon 680 | Dimensity 700 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technique | 6 nm | 6 nm | 6 nm | 7nm |
| 5G | No. | No. | Yes. | Yes. |
| AnTuTu (thousand points) | ~390 | ~370 | ~350 | ~330 |
| Energy efficiency | Tall. | Medium | Tall. | Low. |
The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 beats the Helio G99 in energy efficiency and support for advanced instructions (e.g. AV1 video decoding), but the Dimensity 700 loses out on all things except price – devices on it are usually cheaper.
If it matters 5G, Consider the Redmi Note 12. 5G (Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 or Snapdragon 680 smartphones (e.g. Poco) M5s). Helio is better for games. G99 — It's more powerful. GPU, It is less optimized for everyday tasks.
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Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 is the best choice for balancing performance and energy efficiency in the budget segment. If you want 5G, take the version with Gen 2, but don't expect revolutionary improvements in games.
The effect of the processor on the battery life
One of the key advantages of the 6-nanometer process technology is low power consumption. In the Redmi Note 12 with Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 with mixed use (social networks, messengers, calls), the battery for 5000 mAh is held:
- 🔋 60 Hz screen: 1.5-2 days (30-36 hours)
- 🔋 90 Hz screen: 1–1.5 days (24–30 hours)
- 🔋 120 Hz screen + games: 8-12 hours
In comparison, the Helio G99’s smartphones run 15-20 percent faster in the same environment, which is due to the less efficient architecture of the Cortex-A76 cores in MediaTek chips.
To maximize the time of work, follow these recommendations:
Turn off 120Hz in screen settings (Settings → Display → Update Frequency)
Activate the charge saving mode with 20% battery
Turn off background activity for unnecessary apps (Settings → Apps → Permissions → Auto Run)
Use dark themes (AMOLED-The screen consumes less energy)
Turn it off. 5G, If not, then you will be using the Gen 2 version)-->
Important: The fast 33W charge in the Redmi Note 12 can fill up to 50% of the battery in 30 minutes. However, frequent fast charging cycles can shorten battery life. Try to use standard charging (10-18W) overnight.
What to do if the battery is quickly discharged?
The future of the processor: support for updates and compatibility
Xiaomi guarantees 3 years of security updates and 2 major Android updates for the Redmi Note 12. At the time of writing (2026), the device comes with Android 13 and the MIUI 14 shell.
- 📱 Android 14 (MIUI 15) — already available in some regions
- 📱 Android 15 (MIUI 16) — scheduled for 2026
Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 fully supports all features of new Android versions, including:
- 🔒 Hardware virtualization (for improved security)
- 🎨 AV1 Decoding (Saving Traffic When Watching Video)
- 📡 Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2
But there are nuances:
⚠️ Note: Some Android 14 features, such as Predictive Back Gesture, may work with delays on budget chips. If you have lags after the update, try turning off animations in the developer settings (Settings) → The phone. → Version. MIUI (7 times press) → Windows animations = 0.5x).
For owners of the version with Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, it is important to consider that 5G support depends on the operator. In Russia, 5G networks are still being tested, and full coverage will not appear until 2026-2026. If you buy a phone “for growth”, check with the seller whether the model supports the desired 5G bands for your region.
Frequent Processor Problems and How to Solve Them
Despite the reliability of the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1/2, Redmi Note 12 users sometimes face the following problems:
- Overheating during charging or playing if the temperature exceeds 45°C, the processor starts trottling (artificial performance decline). This is normal for budget smartphones, but you can reduce the heating: 🛡️ Remove the case while charging or playing ❄️ Do not use your phone in the direct sun. 🔌 Charge with the original adapter (33 watts)
- Hanging and lag in MIUI Most often, it's not about the processor, it's about the shell: 🔄 Restart your phone (hold the power button for 10 seconds) 🧹 Clear the cache through Settings → Memory. → Clear the cache 📉 Turn off animations in the developer settings
Weak performance in games
If the FPS is below the expected:
- 🎮 Install. GFX Tool and lower the render resolution
- 🔧 Enable Performance Mode in Settings → Battery → Regimes
- 🗑️ Close all background applications before playing
⚠️ Warning: If the processor is constantly running at 100% even without load, this may indicate a virus or corrupted software. Check the phone with antivirus (for example, Malwarebytes) and if necessary, reset to factory settings (Settings). → The phone. → Resetting settings).
If the problems persist after all the manipulations, the chip itself may be defective, in which case contact the Xiaomi service center - within the warranty period (12 months), repair or replacement will be performed free of charge.