Comparing the Redmi 12 5G and Redmi 13C 5G: which is the better budget 5G smartphone?

Xiaomi has just released the Redmi 13C 5G in India, catering to users in search of an affordable 5G device. The Redmi 12 5G, also from Xiaomi, targets the same audience. Let’s compare these two smartphones to explore their differences and find out which is the better budget 5G smartphone.

Redmi 13C 5G vs Redmi 12 5G: price in India

The Redmi 13C 5G 4GB+128GB model is available for Rs 10,999, the 6GB+128GB variant for Rs 12,499 and the 8GB+256GB version retails at Rs 14,999. Meanwhile, the Redmi 12 5G 4GB+128GB variant is available at Rs 11,999, the 6GB+128GB variant for Rs 13,499 and the 8GB+256GB variant for Rs 15,499.

Redmi 13C 5G vs Redmi 12 5G: specs at a glance

SPECS

Redmi 13C 5G

REDMI 12 5G

Display

6.74-inch HD+ 90Hz LCD display with 600 nits brightness

6.79-inch FHD+ 90Hz LCD display with 550 nits brightness

Processor

MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ SoC

Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC

Primary camera

50MP AI main camera

50MP primary sensor + 2MP depth sensor

Front camera

5MP front camera

8MP front camera

Battery

5,000mAh battery

5,000mAh battery

Charging

18W fast charging

18W fast charging

Design and display

Both smartphones showcase a sleek design, featuring flat edges and a glass-like finish on the rear panel. However, they diverge in their colour gradient choices: the Redmi 12 adopts a minimalist aesthetic with the Jade Black and a subtle Pastel Blue colour (except for Moonstone silver variant), while the Redmi 13C grabs attention with its flashy, glittery colour options.

Notably, the Redmi 13C sports a water-notch for the selfie camera, whereas the Redmi 12 5G opts for a punch-hole front camera. The Redmi 13C also lacks the beloved infrared transmitter present in the Redmi 12 5G.

In terms of display, the Redmi 12 5G boasts a taller screen, measuring 6.79 inches, compared to the Redmi 13C’s 6.74 inches. Not only that, but the Redmi 12 5G takes the lead with a Full HD+ resolution, while the Redmi 13C features only an HD+ display. This distinction results in a more visually immersive experience on the Redmi 12 5G, thanks to its higher-resolution panel.

Performance

The Redmi 12 5G is powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, whereas the Redmi 13C 5G operates on the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ SoC. When it comes to performance, the Redmi 12 5G outshines the Redmi 13C 5G, as confirmed by both Geekbench scores and real-life tests. This superiority is thanks to the more potent Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC.

Camera

The Redmi 12 5G features a 50MP primary camera paired with a 2MP depth sensor, while the Redmi 13C 5G sports a 50MP AI main camera. In terms of camera performance, both phones deliver average results. They face challenges in low-light conditions, necessitating the use of the dedicated Night mode for acceptable results. However, the daylight images captured by both devices are satisfactory, showcasing sufficient details albeit with oversaturated colors.

Battery and charging

Both smartphones are equipped with a 5,000mAh battery and support 18W charging. The Redmi 12 5G includes a bundled 22.5W charger, whereas the Redmi 13C 5G provides a 10W charger. There isn’t a major difference in charging times as both devices take over 2 hours to charge from 0 to 100 percent.

Redmi 13C 5G vs Redmi 12 5G: which one should you buy?

In the comparison so far, one smartphone clearly takes the lead. For just an additional Rs 1,000, the Redmi 12 5G outshines the Redmi 13C 5G with superior performance and a more impressive display, making it a better value for money option. For a more detailed outlook on either of the phones, check out out Redmi 12 5G and Redmi 13C 5G reviews.