Xiaomi surprises us with its mid-range smartphone: Review summary of the Redmi Note 12

Following the Pro model, we have just reviewed the Redmi Note 12 in the "normal" 4G version, the cheapest smartphone in the Note 12 series. One of the predecessor's great strengths remains the same in the Note 12, namely the very nice AMOLED display.

Xiaomi does not advertise official HDR10 certification for the 6.67-inch OLED panel of the Redmi Note 12, but according to the "DRM Info" app, the display, which has a resolution of 2400x1080, supports HDR content. In view of the measured brightness of 1045 cd/m² in APL18, users should also benefit from this. The color calibration of the AMOLED panel, which we examined using Calman analysis software, is also very successful. Our measured DeltaE values indicate a low deviation in the colors (1.55).

The Redmi Note 12 is a good choice in terms of software in the cheap middle class under US$200. Moreover, the product philosophy of the Chinese manufacturer in terms of software maintenance is rather astounding. While a Redmi Note 12 Pro or Redmi Note 12 Pro+ were launched with the old Android 12, the inexpensive Redmi Note 12 uses Android 13 and is set to be supplied with updates longer than its higher-priced sister models. According to the Xiaomi Security Center, the Note 12 will receive security updates, including Android 15, up to 2026. At the time of review, the Xiaomi smartphone also had the latest security patches from April 2023 installed, which is an encouraging sign.

Are you looking for a cheap, mid-range smartphone with a very good display? Then take a look at our detailed review of the Redmi Note 12 for further information, test values and benchmarks.