Realme 12 Pro+

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The Realme 12 Pro+ launched in India in January 2024 at Rs 29,999 for 8 GB and 128 GB. Its main attraction was a 64 MP periscope telephoto with 3x optical zoom, a feature that had previously been limited to far more expensive phones. It shares the luxury watch-inspired design of the 12 Pro, with an extra red colour option.

The 6.7-inch curved AMOLED at 120 Hz looks premium and is bright enough outdoors. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 is a step up from the 12 Pro's chip and handles everyday use and moderate gaming well. The 50 MP Sony IMX890 main camera with OIS is excellent, and the periscope delivers sharp zoom shots up to about 6x. The 5,000 mAh battery charges at 67 W.

Rivals included the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, the OnePlus Nord 3, the Poco X6 Pro and the Motorola Edge 40. The Redmi offered IP68 and faster charging, and the Poco more speed, but the 12 Pro+ was the clear choice for zoom photography in its class. It is an easy recommendation for travel photographers.

Key specifications

Launch price (India)Rs 29,999 (base variant)
India launchJanuary 2024
SegmentUpper mid-range
Display6.7-inch, Curved AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2412
ProcessorSnapdragon 7s Gen 2
RAM8 GB / 12 GB
Storage128 GB / 256 GB
Expandable storageNo
Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 64 MP 3x periscope telephoto
Front camera32 MP
Battery5000 mAh
Charging67W wired
Software at launchAndroid 14, Realme UI 5.0
5GYes
Water/dust ratingIP65
Headphone jackNo
ColoursSubmarine Blue, Navigator Beige, Explorer Red

What we like

  • 3x periscope telephoto at a mid-range price
  • Excellent Sony IMX890 main camera
  • Premium design
  • 32 MP selfie camera

What could be better

  • 67 W charging trails some rivals
  • Performance is only moderate
  • Ultrawide is basic

Who should buy it

Photography fans who want genuine optical zoom without paying flagship prices.

Specifications and price are as at the India launch (January 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.