Xiaomi released the Redmi 13C 5G and Redmi 12 5G smartphones a while back. Both cater to a similar audience seeking a budget-friendly entry into the 5G world. But which one offers the better value proposition? Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide.

Redmi 12 5G vs Redmi 13C 5G

1. Design and Display

Both phones boast a sleek design with flat edges and a glass-like rear panel. The Redmi 12 5G offers a minimalist aesthetic with Jade Black and Pastel Blue color options. The Redmi 13C, on the other hand, stands out with its flashy, glittery color choices.

Redmi 13C

The latter also features a waterdrop notch for the selfie camera, while the Redmi 12 opts for a contemporary punch-hole design. The 13C also lacks the infrared transmitter found in the Redmi 12 which some users may find useful. 

In terms of display, both of them feature an IPS LCD display but the Redmi 12 takes the lead with a larger 6.79-inch screen compared to the 6.74-inch display on the Redmi 13C. Additionally, the Redmi 12 5G has a Full HD+ resolution compared to the HD+ display on the other. This translates to a more visually immersive experience on the Redmi 12 5G due to its higher-resolution panel.

2. Performance

The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor powers the Redmi 12 5G, while the Redmi 13C 5G runs on the MediaTek Helio G85 SoC. 

The 4 Gen 3 has superior two Cortex-A78 performance cores clocked at 2.2GHz while the remaining six Cortex-A55 cores are clocked at 1.95 GHz. On the other hand, the Helio G85 has a core architecture of two Cortex-A75 cores (@ 2.0GHz) and six Cortex-A55 cores (@ 1.8GHz). 

So benchmark scores and real-world testing will reveal that the Redmi 12 5G will deliver superior performance thanks to the more powerful Snapdragon processor. Nonetheless, both the SoCs are paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. 

3. Camera and Others

In terms of cameras, the Redmi 12 5G sports a 50MP primary camera with a 2MP depth sensor, while the Redmi 13C 5G features a 50MP AI main camera. 

They both deliver average camera performance since these are not camera-oriented devices. Selfies and video calls are handled by an 8MP sensor.

Keeping all this powered is a 5,000mAh battery that supports 18W charging. The Redmi 12 5G includes a bundled 22.5W charger, while the Redmi 13C 5G provides a 10W charger. .

4. Price

In India, the Redmi 13C 5G starts at Rs 10,999 for the 4GB+128GB model, with the 6GB+128GB variant priced at Rs 12,499 and the top-end 8GB+256GB version at Rs 14,999. 

The Redmi 12 5G starts slightly higher at Rs 11,999 for the 4GB+128GB model, with the 6GB+128GB variant priced at Rs 13,499 and the 8GB+256GB version at Rs 15,499.

5. Verdict

The Redmi 12 5G emerges as the better choice for several reasons. It boasts a superior display with a higher resolution, delivers more powerful performance thanks to the Snapdragon processor and includes a faster bundled charger.  However, the Redmi 13C 5G might appeal to those who are looking for a slightly lower starting price for a 5G phone.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual priorities and budget. If you prioritize performance, display quality, and faster charging, the Redmi 12 5G is the clear winner. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and want a 5G phone for all the essentials, the Redmi 13C 5G is still a viable option.

FeatureRedmi 13C 5GRedmi 12 5G
Body168 x 78 x 8.1 mm, 192g168.6 x 76.3 x 8.2 mm, 199g
Display6.74″ IPS LCD, 90Hz, 720 x 16006.79″ IPS LCD, 90Hz, 1080 x 2460
ChipsetMediaTek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12nm)Qualcomm SM4450 Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (4nm)
RAM4GB, 6GB, 8GB4GB, 6GB, 8GB
Storage128GB, 256GB128GB, 256GB
Main Camera50MP (wide), 2MP (macro), 0.08MP (aux)50MP (wide), 2MP (depth)
Selfie Camera8MP8MP
Battery5000mAh, 18W wired5000mAh, 18W wired
Other Features3.5mm jack, NFC, Fingerprint sensor3.5mm jack, Hi-Res audio, Fingerprint sensor, Infrared portpen_spark
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Redmi 13C 5G (Startrail Silver, 4GB RAM, 128GB Storage) | MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ 5G | 90Hz Display
Redmi 12 5G Moonstone Silver 6GB RAM 128GB ROM
₹ 10,499
₹ 13,499
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
Redmi 13C 5G (Startrail Silver, 4GB RAM, 128GB Storage) | MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ 5G | 90Hz Display
₹ 10,499
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Redmi 12 5G Moonstone Silver 6GB RAM 128GB ROM
₹ 13,499

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