Introduction

The Redmi 12 (model numbers 23053RN02A and 23076RN8DY) promises a compelling blend of features and affordability in the budget 5G smartphone market. This review dives deep into my experience using the Midnight Black 8GB RAM/256GB variant, exploring its strengths and weaknesses based on extensive real-world testing. Over the past few weeks, I’ve used this device as my primary phone, putting it through its paces with various apps, games, and everyday tasks.

Key Features

The Redmi 12 boasts a large 6.79-inch IPS LCD FHD+ display, providing vibrant colors and sharp visuals for media consumption and gaming. Its Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor, coupled with 8GB of RAM, handles multitasking efficiently. The sizable 5000mAh battery offers impressive longevity, making it suitable for all-day use. The triple camera setup, including a 50MP primary lens, delivers decent photo quality in well-lit conditions, while the 5MP secondary camera caters to standard needs. The inclusion of 5G connectivity ensures fast download speeds where available. The build quality, with its Gorilla Glass protection, feels surprisingly sturdy for a budget device.

Performance and Battery Life

The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor, while not a flagship chip, performs admirably for daily tasks. Apps launch quickly, and multitasking is smooth for the most part. However, more demanding games might see some occasional frame drops. The 8GB RAM is generous for this price point, allowing for efficient background app management. Battery life exceeded expectations; I consistently got through a full day on a single charge, even with moderate to heavy usage, including streaming and gaming. Fast charging is a plus. The 5000mAh battery easily lasts a full day, even with heavy use. Charging time was relatively quick thanks to fast charging support.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Large and vibrant display, long battery life, decent camera performance for the price, smooth performance for everyday tasks, affordable price, 5G connectivity.
• Cons: Performance can lag under heavy load, gaming experience could be improved, camera struggles in low-light conditions.

Final Verdict

The Redmi 12 (23053RN02A , 23076RN8DY) offers excellent value for money. While it may not compete with flagship devices, its performance, battery life, and features make it a strong contender in the budget 5G smartphone market. The large display, long battery life, and decent camera are significant highlights. For users who prioritize these aspects and don’t need top-tier gaming performance, the Redmi 12 is a solid choice. I highly recommend this phone for everyday users, students, or anyone seeking an affordable 5G option.