The Redmi 12 (MZB0FCOEN / 23053RN02A) arrived on my desk promising a compelling blend of features and affordability. This detailed review, based on extensive hands-on testing, delves into its performance, camera capabilities, battery life, and overall user experience to determine whether it lives up to the hype.

The Redmi 12 boasts a striking 6.79-inch FHD+ display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate. The vibrant colors and sharp resolution make scrolling through menus and watching videos a pleasure. The 50MP triple rear camera system, featuring a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens, offers versatile photographic capabilities. The large 5000mAh battery promises all-day use, a claim I put to the test. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor provides quick and reliable unlocking.

The phone also features an octa-core processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via microSD. Running Android 13, the Redmi 12 provides a smooth and responsive user experience.

In everyday use, the Redmi 12 performed admirably. Apps launched quickly, multitasking was smooth, and the 90Hz display contributed to a fluid user experience. The processor handled demanding tasks without significant lag. Gaming performance was acceptable for casual gamers but may not satisfy hardcore mobile gamers. The battery easily lasted a full day, even with heavy use. Fast charging is a welcome addition, although not the fastest on the market.

The camera system impressed me with its clarity and detail in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance was decent but not exceptional. Video recording at 1080p produced satisfactory results.

Pros

• Large, vibrant 90Hz display
• Excellent battery life
• Good camera performance in daylight
• Smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks
• Affordable price

Cons

• Average low-light camera performance
• Not the most powerful processor for demanding games
• Fast charging speed could be faster

The Redmi 12 (MZB0FCOEN / 23053RN02A) offers exceptional value for its price. The combination of a stunning display, long battery life, and competent performance makes it a strong contender in the budget smartphone market. While it has some minor drawbacks, they are easily outweighed by its numerous strengths. I would confidently recommend this phone to anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich device without breaking the bank.