The Redmi Note 12 is one of the latest offerings in Xiaomi's Note series, known for offering high-end features at an affordable price. But can this mid-range device handle the heavy lifting required by demanding games? To find out, we put the Redmi Note 12 through a rigorous performance test, focusing on its processing power, graphics capability, and gaming performance.
Key Specifications of the Redmi Note 12
Before jumping into the performance benchmarks, here is a quick look at the device's specifications:
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6nm)
- GPU: Adreno 619
- RAM: 4GB/6GB LPDDR4X
- Display: 6.67-inch AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate
- Battery: 5000mAh with 33W fast charging
- Storage: 128GB UFS 2.2 (expandable via microSD)
- Operating System: MIUI 14 based on Android 13
With a 120Hz AMOLED display and a 6nm processor, the Redmi Note 12 seems like a decent device for gaming, at least on paper.
Benchmarking the Processor and GPU
We fired up some popular benchmarking tools to assess the processing performance of the Redmi Note 12:
1. Geekbench 6
- Single-Core Score: 724
- Multi-Core Score: 2005
These scores give an indication of the good performance of Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 for regular work and light game playing. It may be a bit weak for very heavy-duty work.
2. 3DMark Wild Life
- Score: 1280
- Stability: 97%
This is a good result that testifies to how well this GPU can handle resource-intensive work, though still far from premium devices by the leading flagships' standards.
3. AnTuTu
- Overall Score: 395,000
This places the Redmi Note 12 comfortably within the mid-range category, where it is good enough to handle casual gaming and moderate multitasking.
Gaming Performance Test
To test real-world gaming performance, we played three popular, resource-intensive games: Genshin Impact, Call of Duty: Mobile, and PUBG Mobile. Below are the results:
1. Genshin Impact
- Graphics Settings: Low-Medium
- Frame Rate: 30 FPS (Stable)
We managed to run the game at low to medium graphics and frame rates with only some minor frame drops. It is, however, extremely laggy and overheats after 30 minutes of gaming with the graphics settings increased.
2. Call of Duty: Mobile
- Graphics Settings: Medium
- Frame Rate: 50-60 FPS
The Redmi Note 12 handles Call of Duty: Mobile rather easily with smooth gameplay even during the most intense multiplayer matches.
3. PUBG Mobile
- Graphics Settings: Balanced
- Frame Rate: 40 FPS
PUBG Mobile delivered a consistent experience with no major stutters. However, enabling higher frame rates or HD graphics caused minor throttling during prolonged sessions.
Thermal Management
The Redmi Note 12 did a very good job regarding heat dissipation: after an hour of gaming, the temperature of the device increased by up to 8°C, which is quite reasonable for a mid-range phone. An improved thermal design by Xiaomi prevents overheating; hence, it is very reliable for extended use.
Battery Performance
The 5000mAh battery showed excellent endurance during gaming. Here's how the battery performed during our tests:
- Genshin Impact (1 hour): Battery dropped by 16%
- Call of Duty: Mobile (1 hour): Battery dropped by 12%
- PUBG Mobile (1 hour): Battery dropped by 14%
With 33W fast charging, the device can recharge from 0 to 50% in about 25 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime between sessions.
Conclusion: Can It Handle Demanding Games?
The Redmi Note 12 does seem like a capable gaming device on a budget. Not as powerful as flagships, of course, but smooth gameplay for popular titles like Call of Duty and PUBG Mobile at medium settings, while Genshin Impact, being more resource-intensive, is playable but only on lower settings.
Pros:
- Smooth performance for mid-range gaming
- Excellent battery life
- 120Hz AMOLED display enhances visuals
- Good thermal management
Cons:
- Chokes on high settings in demanding games
- Limited RAM options for heavy multitasking
- UFS 2.2 storage is slower than newer standards
Casual and mid-level gamers will find great value in the Redmi Note 12. Hardcore gamers should probably look elsewhere for more powerful processors and GPUs.
Who Should Buy the Redmi Note 12?
If you are a budget gamer seeking a reliable phone that can run most games decently, the Redmi Note 12 should be a great choice. However, if you are looking to get ultra-smooth performance at high settings, you may want to look elsewhere for better options.
What are your thoughts on the Redmi Note 12 in terms of performance? Let us know in the comments!