Xiaomi launched the Redmi 12 5G in August 2023 as an affordable route into 5G, starting at Rs 11,999 for 4 GB and 128 GB. It was one of the first phones globally to use Qualcomm's Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, and its glass back gave it a more premium look than most phones under Rs 12,000.
The 6.79-inch LCD runs at 90 Hz with full HD+ resolution, large and sharp enough for video, though it lacks the contrast of AMOLED. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 handles everyday apps smoothly and supports UFS 2.2 storage, but gaming is limited to lighter titles. The 50 MP main camera is serviceable in daylight; the 2 MP depth sensor adds little. A 5,000 mAh battery delivers long runtime, while 18 W charging is slow.
It competed with the Samsung Galaxy M14 5G, the Realme Narzo 60x and the Lava Blaze 5G. The Galaxy M14 offered a bigger 6,000 mAh battery, but the Redmi 12 5G felt nicer in hand and had a faster chip. The Poco M6 Pro 5G, launched alongside, offered essentially the same hardware at a lower price.
Key specifications
| Launch price (India) | Rs 11,999 (base variant) |
|---|---|
| India launch | August 2023 |
| Segment | Budget |
| Display | 6.79-inch, IPS LCD, 90Hz, 1080 x 2460 |
| Processor | Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 |
| RAM | 4 GB / 6 GB / 8 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB / 256 GB |
| Expandable storage | Yes |
| Rear cameras | 50 MP main + 2 MP depth |
| Front camera | 8 MP |
| Battery | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 18W wired |
| Software at launch | Android 13, MIUI 14 |
| 5G | Yes |
| Water/dust rating | IP53 |
| Headphone jack | Yes |
| Weight | 199 g |
| Colours | Jade Black, Moonstone Silver, Pastel Blue |
What we like
- Affordable 5G with a modern Snapdragon chip
- Large 90 Hz full HD+ display
- Premium-looking glass back
- Expandable storage and headphone jack
What could be better
- Slow 18 W charging
- LCD lacks AMOLED contrast
- Secondary camera is filler
Who should buy it
First-time 5G buyers on a tight budget who want a big screen and dependable battery life.
Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.