Xiaomi Redmi 12 – This stylish phone can navigate well

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.