Xiaomi Redmi 12 has become one of the most popular in the budget segment of 2023-2026, offering balanced specs at an affordable price: 4G or 5G, How much memory to take, which color is more practical, and is it worth overpaying for the top modification? This article will help you understand all the nuances so that you buy the Redmi 12 that is perfect for your tasks – whether it is games, photography, long autonomy or just a reliable phone for calls.
We will analyze all official versions of Redmi. 12, We'll compare them in terms of key parameters (processor, screen, cameras, battery) and also uncover pitfalls that the sellers are silent about. 5G Can it discharge faster because of the chipset? 8/256 GB in some regions sold with reduced support NFC? These and other details are further in the article.
If you’re already on a budget, but are hesitant to choose between the Redmi 12 and competitors (like the Samsung Galaxy). A14 Or Realme 10, at the end of the article, there's a comparison table, and for those who want to save money, we'll give you a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a little bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit.
1. Redmi 12 lineup review: What versions exist?
As of 2026, the Redmi 12 brand is producing 4 major modifications that differ in network support, memory capacity and some hardware features.
- 📶 Redmi 12 4G — base version with Helio chipset G88, support 4G-networking and memory options 4/128, 6/128, 8/128 GB.
- 🚀 Redmi 12 5G — Snapdragon model 4 Gen 2, support 5G and configurations 4/128, 6/128, 8/256 GB.
- 💎 Redmi 12 Pro - improved version with Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, AMOLED-screen, 108-MP camera and memory 8/256 GB (in some regions, a modification of the 12/256 GB).
- 🔋 Redmi 12C — simplified version with Helio G85, small screen (6.71) and a 5,000 mAh battery (released in limited batches).
In Russia and CIS countries, only Redmi 12 is officially supplied 4G Redmi 12 5G. Models Pro and 12C You can find them from unofficial vendors, but they may not support local frequencies. LTE or have problems with the guarantee.
The key difference 4G and 5G The versions are not just the speed of the internet, but also the processor. Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 in Redmi 12 5G 30% more productive in games than Helio G88, It's warmer, if you don't live in a covered area. 5G, There is no point in overpaying for this version - the difference in download speed in the 4G-nets are minimal.
2. Comparison of technical characteristics: what is more important to you?
To make an objective assessment of the differences between the models, we created a table with key parameters, and you can see the selected cells, which show the best values in each category.
| Parameter | Redmi 12 4G | Redmi 12 5G | Redmi 12 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Helio G88 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (6 nm) | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (6 nm) |
| Screen. | IPS, 6.79, 90 Hz. | IPS, 6.79, 90 Hz. | AMOLED, 6.67, 120 Hz |
| Main camera. | 50 MP (f/1.8) | 50 MP (f/1.8) | 108 MP (f/1.9) |
| Battery | 5000 mAh, 18Wh | 5000 mAh, 18Wh | 5000 mAh, 33 Wh |
| NFC | Yes (except for the version). 4/128 GB) | It's in all versions. | There is. |
And you can see from the table that the Redmi 12 Pro is winning on all fronts, but it's 30 to 40 percent higher than the base versions. Should you overpay? It depends on your goals.
- 🎮 For games: better than Redmi 12 5G — Its Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor will handle Genshin Impact on medium settings, while Helio will do so. G88 will slow down.
- 📸 For the photo: uniquely Redmi 12 Pro with 108-MP camera and AMOLED-screen-screen.
- 🔋 For autonomy: all versions are the same (5,000 mAh), but the Pro charges faster (33 W vs 18 W).
- 💳 For contactless payments: avoid Redmi 12 4G 4/128 GB - it is often absent NFC.
💡
If you need a smartphone “for everything” without overpaying – take Redmi 12 5G s 6/128 GB: This is the optimal balance of price and opportunity.
3. 4G vs 5G: Should we pay for the fifth generation?
The main question that plagues buyers: whether to 5G In 2026, the answer depends on three factors:
- Presence 5G-network in your area (check the operator's coverage map).
- Plans for the future – if in the next 2-3 years in your city will launch 5G, It makes sense to adopt a supportive model.
- Budget: Price difference between Redmi 12 4G and 5G form ~2000–3000 rubles.
The objective advantages of Redmi 12 5G:
- ⚡ Upload files faster on networks 5G (up to 2.5 Gbit/s versus 150 Mbit/s 4G).
- 🎯 Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor is 30% more powerful in benchmarks: ~390K against ~250K Helio G88).
- 🔄 Longer supported by updates (Xiaomi promises 3 years of updates to support the 5G-models versus 2 years 4G).
Cons of Redmi 12 5G:
- 🔥 Heats more strongly when loaded (processor temperature can reach 45).°C in games).
- 📉 It's discharged faster in mode. 5G (Autonomy falls by 15-20% compared to 4G-regime).
- 📡 In some regions 5G-Networks are unstable, which can lead to frequent switching between 4G/5G and additional battery consumption.
💡
If you live in Moscow, St. Petersburg or another large city with a developed 5G, Take the version that supports the fifth generation. 4G-model.
⚠️ Attention: Redmi 12 5G lack of range support n78 (3.5 GHz), which is used by some operators to 5G. Before buying, check with your provider what frequencies it uses.
4. How much memory to take? Configuration analysis
Redmi 12 comes with different combinations of RAM and internal memory, and here’s how to choose the best option:
RAM (RAM):
- 🐢 4 GB is the minimum amount of space for social networks, calls and light applications. When multitasking (for example, switching between Telegram, YouTube and the browser), you can hang out.
- ⚡ 6GB is the best choice for most users, allowing you to keep up to 10-12 apps in the background without rebooting.
- 🚀 8GB – only if you are actively playing heavy games (Call of Duty Mobile, PUBG) or work with multiple apps at the same time (for example, photographers editing pictures in Lightroom in parallel with instant messengers).
Built-in memory (ROM):
- 📁 128GB is enough for 10-15 heavy games, 5,000 photos and 500 songs. 4K, enough.
- 💾 256GB — you only need to if you store movies, a lot of videos on your phone or install more than 30 games. Redmi 12 does not have a memory card slot, so overpaying for 256GB is logical only if you know for sure that you will not be enough 128GB.
If you are in doubt, take Redmi. 12 s 6/128 GB: This is the most balanced configuration that covers 90% And if memory becomes scarce, you can always use cloud services (Google Photos, Mi Cloud) or external drives through the cloud. USB-C OTG.
Check the current amount of space occupied on your old phone
Add 20-30% to the "reserve"
Please note that the system is ~12 GB in 128 GB version
Consider whether you will be storing offline movies/series-->
5. Design and Colors: Which to Choose and What to Look for?
Redmi 12 is available in four main colors, but their name and shades may vary depending on the region.
- ⚫ Midnight Black is a classic version, not a stamp, but collects fingerprints.
- 🌊 Sky Blue (Blue) - light shade, looks stylish, but it shows scratches.
- 💜 Polar Silver – neutral color, less dirty, but looks simpler than others.
- 🍃 Mint Green - original shade, likes the young, but can quickly get bored.
Important nuances in design:
- 🔧 The body in all versions is plastic (even the Pro), but with a matte texture that does not slide in the hands.
- 📏 Same sizes: 168.6 × 76.3 × 8.2 mm, weight — 198 The phone is large, but conveniently lies in the hand due to rounded edges.
- 🔊 The speakers are located on the bottom end. In the Redmi 12 Pro, they are slightly louder (by 10%) due to better software configuration.
- 🔒 There is no memory card connector in all versions – only two slots for nano-SIM.
⚠️ Attention: In some Redmi 12 batches (especially blue and mint) there is a defect - over time, the paint on the ends wears off, exposing gray plastic. If you want a perfect appearance, choose a black or silver version.
If you're planning on using a case, the color of the phone isn't that important, but if you like to keep your smartphone naked, look for black or silver, which is less dirty and longer looking like new.
6 Cameras: What does Redmi 12 do and is it enough for high-quality photos?
The Redmi 12’s photography capabilities depend on the model.
- Redmi 12 4G/5G: main chamber 50 MP (Samsung) JN1) + 8 MP (width) + 2 It's good in daylight, but even snowballs make noise in the dark.
- Redmi 12 Pro: 108MP main camera (Samsung) HM6) + 8 MP (width) + 2 MP (macro) 2-3 times better detail, but software processing sometimes overdoses with the HDR.
Here are some examples of what you can do on Redmi 12:
- ☀️ During the day: clear shots with good detail (especially in the Pro version.
- 🌃 At night, with a tripod and night mode, without it, there's a lot of noise and blur.
- 👤 Portraits: artificial background blur (boke) works mediocrely, often "eating" hair or the edges of objects.
- 🎥 Video: All versions are filmed in 1080p@60fps or 4K@30fps. Stabilization weak - without a gimbal, trembling is noticeable.
Comparison with competitors:
| Model | Daytime (details) | At night (noise) | Video (stabilization) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi 12 4G | 7/10 | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Redmi 12 5G | 7/10 | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Redmi 12 Pro | 9/10 | 6/10 | 7/10 |
| Samsung Galaxy A14 | 6/10 | 4/10 | 5/10 |
⚠️ Redmi 12 (all versions) does not have optical stabilization (OIS). This means that the video will shake when moving, and the long exposure photos will become blurry. If you want to shoot with your hands, consider alternatives (for example, Poco). X5 Pro).
7. Battery and charging: how long does it last and how to extend the life of the battery?
All versions of the Redmi 12 have a 5,000mAh battery, but the actual autonomy depends on the model and the use case:
- 🌐 Internet: 10-12 hours of surfing Chrome or watching YouTube.
Charging speed:
- Redmi 12 4G/5G: 18 W (full charge per charge) ~2 hour).
- Redmi 12 Pro: 33W (full charge per unit) ~1 hour 10 minutes).
How to extend the life of the battery:
- Avoid discharging below 10% and charging above 90% (optimal range of 20–80%).
- Do not use your phone while charging (especially for gaming) – this will heat up the battery.
- Turn off the Constantly Active Display (Settings) → Screen. → Screen lock).
- Enable Adaptive Charging (Settings) → Battery - it slows down wear.
What to do if the battery is quickly discharged?
8. Redmi 12 Alternatives: Should Other Smartphones Be Considered?
If you are not sure about the choice, compare Redmi 12 with the main competitors in the same price segment (15-25,000 rubles):
| Model | Pluses | Cons | Price (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redmi 12 5G | ✅ 90Hz screen, NFC, good performance | ❌ Plastic case, mediocre cameras | ~18 000 ₽ |
| Samsung Galaxy A14 | ✅ AMOLED-screen, 4 years of updates | ❌ Weak processor, no 90Hz. | ~20 000 ₽ |
| Realme 10 | ✅ Stylish design, fast charging 33 watts | ❌ No. NFC, weak autonomy | ~19 000 ₽ |
| Poco M6 Pro | ✅ 120Hz screen, powerful processor | ❌ No official sale in Russia | ~22 000 ₽ |
When to choose an alternative:
- 📺 If it matters AMOLED-screen – take a Samsung Galaxy A14.
- 🔥 If you want maximum performance, Poco M6 Pro (but you will have to order from abroad).
- 💳 If critical. NFC For payments, avoid Realme 10.
- 🔄 If long updates are important, Samsung gives 4 years of support against 2–3 for Xiaomi.
💡
Redmi 12 5G — Best price/quality choice in the budget segment, if you do not need AMOLED or long-term support for updates.