April 29, 2024
Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G Review: A Strong Overall Package
The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G comes with a bunch of upgrades over the Note 11 Pro+ 5G. The headlining features include a 200-megapixel Samsung HPX sensor, 120W fast charging support out-of-the-box, a 120Hz AMOLED display, etc. However, the upgrades have also attracted a steep price tag.

Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G primary camera samples (Top to bottom: Photo mode, Night Mode, Portrait Mode)

The ultra-wide shooter has a 120-degree field of view. While it provides a wider perspective, there is distortion around the edges and despite the software fixes, it is noticeable. The colour temperature is slightly different, with the ultra-wide photos looking slightly warmer. I also noticed that almost all ultra-wide photos shot on the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G had a light pink cast.

Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G ultra-wide camera samples

There is a noticeable delay when you are switching between the main and ultra-wide cameras. The macro sensor captures okay-ish photos but I would recommend using it in well-lit conditions as there is a lot of noise in photos taken in low light. The front camera is a hit or miss when it comes to capturing the right skin tone. While selfies were detailed and there was fairly less smoothening effect of the skin, there were times where my skin looked a bit too red.

Front camera sample shot on the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G

The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G’s rear camera can record 4K videos at 30fps with good details and dynamic range. The front camera’s video resolution is capped at 1080p 60fps. While all cameras expose the subject well, the dynamic range performance is average.

What complements the hardware is a bunch of camera features that the Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G offers. There is Vlog Mode, Ultra HD mode for capturing 50-megapixel and 200-megapixel images, Long exposure, Pro mode, etc. There is also this one forgotten feature in MIUI called AI SkyScaping, which offers multiple filters that changes the colour of just the sky, without affecting the overall colour scheme of the photo.

Verdict

The Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G has received many upgrades over its predecessor, or should we say predecessors. I leave it to you to decide which phone it actually succeeds. It scores high points for its superior build quality, excellent display, top-notch camera performance, and very fast charging. The phone offers decent battery life as well, while packing a capable performance unit.

The fact that it doesn’t come with Android 13 out-of-the-box, even in 2023, is the most disappointing aspect. Hopefully, the phone is expected to get the Android 13 update very soon.

While the Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G was not an easy or obvious recommendation for its segment, the Note 12 Pro+ 5G makes up for it by offering a solid package and a well-rounded experience. Yes, the phone is the most expensive Redmi Note in the series’ history, but if you put aside the name and simply look at what it offers, then this one checks almost all the boxes.


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