Infinix Note 12 vs Tecno Camon 18: Which Budget Smartphone Offers Better Value?
Budget smartphones have reshaped the market, providing impressive specs at prices accessible to everyone. Among the top contenders are the Infinix Note 12 and the Tecno Camon 18. Both devices cater to users seeking affordability without compromising functionality. But which of these phones truly delivers the best bang for your buck? This comprehensive review breaks down their design, display, performance, cameras, battery life, and more.
1. Design and Build Quality
Infinix Note 12 flaunts a sleek and lightweight design with flat edges, giving it a premium look. The device weighs around 185g, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods. The rear panel has a clean finish with subtle gradient effects, housing its triple camera setup.
Tecno Camon 18, on the other hand, leans towards a bolder look with curved edges and vibrant color options. At 200g, it feels slightly heavier but still manageable. Its glossy back can attract fingerprints but enhances its overall appeal.
Winner: Infinix Note 12 wins for its lightweight design and professional aesthetic.
2. Display
The Infinix Note 12 features a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a Full HD+ resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels. The AMOLED panel delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, perfect for media consumption.
The Tecno Camon 18, however, opts for a 6.8-inch IPS LCD with the same Full HD+ resolution. While the display is slightly larger, it lacks the vibrant color reproduction of AMOLED panels, making it less immersive for gaming or watching videos.
Winner: Infinix Note 12 takes the lead again with its superior AMOLED display.
3. Performance
Both devices are powered by the MediaTek Helio G85 processor, a solid choice for budget gaming and multitasking. They come with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD.
Gaming and Multitasking: Both phones handle light to moderate gaming smoothly. Titles like PUBG Mobile and Asphalt 9 run at medium settings without significant lag. However, Infinix’s optimized XOS UI feels snappier compared to Tecno’s HiOS.
Winner: A tie, though Infinix’s UI might edge out for smoother daily use.
4. Camera Performance
The Infinix Note 12 offers a 50MP primary sensor, a 2MP depth sensor, and a QVGA lens. The camera produces vibrant images under good lighting, but low-light performance could be better.
The Tecno Camon 18 shines in this department with its 48MP triple rear camera setup, featuring better low-light performance and advanced AI filters. For selfies, Tecno’s 16MP front camera slightly outshines the Infinix Note 12’s 16MP shooter, offering better skin tone adjustments and clarity.
Winner: Tecno Camon 18 for its superior low-light photography.
5. Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is a crucial factor for budget smartphone users. Both phones pack a 5000mAh battery that easily lasts a full day of usage. However, the Infinix Note 12 supports 33W fast charging, compared to Tecno Camon 18’s 18W charging speed, giving Infinix an edge in recharging time.
Winner: Infinix Note 12 wins with faster charging support.
6. Software and Features
The Infinix Note 12 runs on XOS 10.6 based on Android 11, offering a cleaner interface with minimal bloatware. It also includes useful features like dark mode, game mode, and gesture navigation.
Tecno Camon 18 operates on HiOS 8.0, also based on Android 11, but with a slightly heavier UI and more pre-installed apps. However, its camera app offers enhanced AI tools for creative photography.
Winner: Infinix Note 12 for a smoother software experience.
7. Pricing and Availability
The Infinix Note 12 is priced around ₦110,000, while the Tecno Camon 18 comes in at approximately ₦105,000, making both devices highly affordable. Availability may vary depending on your region, but both are widely stocked in retail and online stores.
Winner: A tie in terms of value for money.
Conclusion
Both the Infinix Note 12 and the Tecno Camon 18 bring exceptional value to the budget smartphone segment. The Infinix Note 12 excels in display quality, design, and charging speed, while the Tecno Camon 18 shines in camera performance. Ultimately, your choice depends on what features matter most to you. If you prioritize display and charging speed, go for the Infinix Note 12. If photography is your focus, the Tecno Camon 18 might be the better pick.
Which smartphone would you choose? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more comparisons and reviews.
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