Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G- If there’s one smartphone series that has truly become a household name in India over the years, it has to be Redmi’s Note lineup. Year after year, Xiaomi has tried to find that perfect balance between affordability, features, and performance. The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G continues that legacy, and this time it comes with a price tag starting at ₹15,880, making it one of the most accessible 5G smartphones with premium features. But is it just another mid-range phone, or does it carry enough substance to become the go-to choice for buyers looking for a reliable device under ₹20,000? Let’s dive deep and find out.
First Impressions: Premium Vibes at a Budget Price
At first glance, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G does not look like a phone priced under ₹16,000. The sleek glass back, polished edges, and a modern flat frame design give it a premium feel. It feels like Xiaomi has borrowed cues from some high-end flagships and infused them into this budget-friendly device. The phone sits comfortably in the hand, not too heavy, and the matte finish ensures it doesn’t become a fingerprint magnet too easily.
The front is dominated by a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, and we’ll talk more about its quality in the display section. What really grabs attention is the camera module at the back. The large 50MP primary sensor sits prominently, signaling Xiaomi’s intention of focusing heavily on photography in this model.
Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G: Specifications At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price in India | ₹15,880 (base variant) |
| Display | 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 1080 |
| RAM & Storage | Up to 8GB RAM, 128GB storage |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP (OIS) + 8MP ultra-wide + 2MP macro |
| Front Camera | 16MP |
| Battery | 5000mAh |
| Charging | 67W fast charging |
| Software | MIUI 13 based on Android 12 |
| 5G Bands | Multiple 5G band support |
Display: Smooth, Vibrant, and a True Delight
One of the highlights of the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is undoubtedly its 6.67-inch AMOLED display. For a phone priced at under ₹16,000, you’re getting a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support, which is not something you usually see in this price bracket.
The colors pop, blacks look deep, and watching videos or scrolling through social media feels smooth and immersive. Brightness levels are impressive as well, and even under harsh sunlight, readability doesn’t take a hit. Gamers will also appreciate the high refresh rate which adds fluidity to gameplay.
This is where Xiaomi has nailed it because in today’s age, the display is where most users spend their time—whether it’s streaming, reading, or gaming.
Performance: Powered by MediaTek Dimensity 1080
The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 1080 chipset, which is built on a 6nm process. This means it’s power-efficient while also being quite capable of handling day-to-day tasks without breaking a sweat.
Apps open quickly, multitasking feels seamless, and even casual gaming like PUBG, Call of Duty Mobile, or Asphalt runs well on medium to high settings. If you’re someone who occasionally pushes the phone with heavy games, you might notice minor heating after extended sessions, but that’s expected in this price range.
The 5G connectivity also ensures you’re future-ready. With support for multiple 5G bands, users in India will be able to enjoy high-speed internet as networks expand.
Software Experience: MIUI Polished Yet Familiar
The phone comes with MIUI 13 based on Android 12 out of the box. The interface is smooth, animations are fluid, and Xiaomi has done a good job in minimizing unnecessary bloatware. Although you’ll still find a few pre-installed apps, most of them can be uninstalled.
Features like floating windows, dual apps, and a customizable always-on display are present, giving users more control over their experience. Regular updates have been promised, and Xiaomi usually does a fair job in keeping the Note series updated.
Camera: 50MP OIS Brings Serious Firepower
Now let’s talk about the real showstopper—the camera system. The 50MP Sony IMX766 primary sensor with OIS (optical image stabilization) makes a world of difference. Photos come out sharp, detailed, and with good dynamic range, especially in daylight. The OIS also helps in stabilizing low-light shots, giving you clearer and less shaky images.
The 8MP ultra-wide lens adds versatility, though it isn’t as sharp as the main camera. It works well in bright conditions but struggles slightly in low light. The 2MP macro sensor, while present, doesn’t add much value and feels more like a checkbox feature.
The 16MP front camera does a great job with selfies, producing natural skin tones and balanced exposure. For video calls or Instagram stories, it’s more than capable.
Night mode is where the primary sensor truly shines. The images retain color accuracy without overexposure, and the noise levels are kept in check. This is a big leap for a phone in this segment.
Battery and Charging: All Day Power with Speed
The 5000mAh battery inside the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is more than enough to get you through a day of heavy usage. Whether it’s binge-watching, gaming, or using multiple apps, the phone consistently delivers a full day’s backup.
The cherry on top is the 67W fast charging, which can top up the phone from 0 to 50% in around 15 minutes and a full charge in under 45 minutes. In a world where we’re constantly on the go, this charging speed is a blessing.
Audio, Connectivity, and Extras
The phone comes with dual stereo speakers that are loud and clear, enhancing the multimedia experience. There’s also support for Hi-Res audio and Dolby Atmos, making music playback more immersive with compatible headphones.
For connectivity, you get 5G support, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and an IR blaster (a Redmi classic that still remains handy for controlling appliances).
The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is quick and reliable, though some users might have preferred an in-display option given the AMOLED panel.
Design: Sleek and Modern
The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G comes in a range of attractive colors that appeal to both young and professional buyers. The back panel design with the prominent camera module ensures the phone stands out without looking over-the-top. At 7.9mm thickness and weighing around 187 grams, it strikes a good balance between being slim and sturdy.
Gaming and Multimedia: Built for Entertainment
Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G Gamers on a budget will find the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G more than sufficient. The Dimensity 1080 coupled with the 120Hz display makes games feel smooth. Add stereo speakers and you’ve got an immersive setup without spending a fortune.
Streaming Netflix, YouTube, or Amazon Prime feels like an absolute treat thanks to HDR10+ support. The colors, contrasts, and overall video quality give this phone an edge over many competitors in this segment.
Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The mid-range segment is crowded, with phones from Realme, iQOO, Samsung, and Vivo vying for attention. However, at ₹15,880, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G manages to hold its own.
Compared to rivals, it brings a better combination of AMOLED 120Hz display, 50MP OIS camera, and 67W fast charging—features that are not easily found together at this price point.
Verdict: Should You Buy the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G?
The Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G is not just another addition to Xiaomi’s Note lineup. It represents a well-balanced device that focuses on essentials while also adding some premium touches. For ₹15,880, you’re getting a great display, capable processor, reliable cameras, fast charging, and 5G connectivity—a package that’s hard to beat.
Yes, there are some areas where compromises exist, like the average ultra-wide camera and MIUI’s learning curve for new users, but these are minor compared to the overall value this phone brings.
If you’re someone looking for a reliable 5G phone under ₹20,000, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G should definitely be on your shortlist. It’s a device that brings the future of connectivity while still being light on the pocket.