Just like every year, in 2023, Xiaomi has released a multitude of cheap smartphones that potential buyers can choose between. The Xiaomi Redmi 12 is particularly stylish with its glass back and plastic frame that looks like aluminum. We have tested the phone, which you can now get for under US$200 (such as on Amazon). In doing so, we came to the conclusion that although the phone comes with its highlights, you definitely have to make a few compromises which are simply necessary within this low price range.
Highlights include precise location services which we confirmed with the help of a practical test on a bike trip. Here, the phone generally managed to track the route we took really accurately. In terms of audio, the device offers a good total package including a decent speaker which can playback video sound and music clearly. A variety of Bluetooth codecs add to this, which allow you to use high-quality audio devices to their full potential. Furthermore, the phone also has a 3.5 mm jack for traditional headphones.
Its infrared blaster and FM radio both prove to be real unique features on the Redmi 12. It has quite a good battery life and a charging power of up to 18 watts truly isn’t bad for this price range, either.
It’s just a bit annoying that the phone doesn’t come with a charger. At least the phone was compatible with most chargers in our test, meaning you have plenty of options to choose from. If you like pure Android, then be prepared to manage your expectations with the Xiaomi phone. All the third-party apps whose installation brings in money for Xiaomi are annoying, too. It doesn’t look the prettiest that the system itself sometimes shows ads which are difficult to switch off.
On the other hand, the phone is set out to receive at least 2 Android updates and for now a safety patch every 3 months.
On the Xiaomi Redmi 12, you unfortunately have to forgo 5G and fast memory: The smartphone may have lots of room for data, but the installed flash is just an eMMC which slows down apps and only allows for comparatively slow data transmission.
You can read more about the Xiaomi Redmi 12 including further findings and benchmark tables in our big review of the Xiaomi Redmi 12.
I initially wrote about gaming laptops when I joined Notebookcheck in 2009. I was then involved with the setup of the comparison portal Notebookinfo and worked with social media concepts for large companies like BMW and Adidas, while also returning to work for Notebookcheck in 2012. Nowadays, I focus on smartphones, tablets, and future technologies. Since 2018 I have been Managing Editor for mobile device reviews, working alongside my colleague Daniel Schmidt.
Originally from Scotland, I grew up and lived in Germany until I completed my high school qualifications before moving back to Scotland to complete my university studies. Growing up bilingual led me to form a close relationship with the English and German languages, often working in the fields of teaching and translation. Most of my childhood was shaped by playing around on new consoles, computers and gadgets and getting to grips with the new craze of the internet and smartphones. This interest has stayed with me well into adulthood. Nowadays, I live in Glasgow and work as a freelance translator and digital media coordinator. I have been translating for Notebookcheck since early 2023.
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