Faisal Ghaffar 
The Redmi Note 12 series by Xiaomi has a total of four phones that have been launched in Europe and a number of others in China. Most of the attention is diverted towards 12 Pro+, considering that it has a 200Mp camera, but this does not mean that the cheaper models are not worth checking out. The regular Note 12 Pro is actually more affordable, as it makes a few compromises in camera and charging speed. However, it is a good mid-range contender because of what it has to offer.
Design and build
The design of the Redmi Note 12 Pro is similar to that of the Note 12 Pro+, which is the most expensive phone in the series. This actually works in favor of the former because the Note 12 Pro feels as well as looks like a flagship device. As compared to high-end devices, the only compromise is that it does not Gorilla Glass on the back, which means it is more vulnerable to damage.
Rather than aluminum, plastic has been used on the sides, which makes the phone easy to grip. You do not have to use a case with the phone because of it. The Note 12 Pro is available in three colors, but the most reflective is ‘Midnight Black’, as the back could double as a mirror. This means there will be plenty of fingerprint smudges. The other two colors, ‘Sky Blue’ and ‘Polar White’ do not have these issues.
The defining feature is the camera module, which is not exactly attractive, but takes up the back of the phone. The Note 12 Pro weighs 187g, which makes it significantly lighter and less premium. There is a physical fingerprint sensor, rather than an in-built one, which can be found in the power button. It comes with a USB-C port for charging and it is good to see that it has a 3.5mm audio jack too.
Screen and speakers
The 6.67in display of the Note 12 Pro is a 1080×2400 OLED panel, which makes it similar to a high-end device. It is flat, which is able to maintain a good symmetry and looks great as well. The bezels around the screen are equally slim and the display appears excellent in every way. There is a small hole-punch camera, used for face unlock and taking selfies. You will also get a 120Hz refresh rate and it has dual stereo speakers that deliver some impressive audio.
Specs and performance
The Dimensity1080 is a 2022 chip introduced by MediaTek, which powers the Note 12 Pro, given that it has been especially designed for mid-range phones. It is great for everyday tasks and can offer a smooth experience, particularly when used with the 120Hz refresh rate.
Camera
The Note 12 Pro has a 50Mp main camera, unlike the 200Mp on the 12 Pro+. The rear two cameras are 2Mp macro and 8Mp ultrawide, same on both models. The main lens is not that spectacular, but it is quite acceptable, considering the price. The 16Mp front camera is also capable of giving some solid selfies. Video is also good, considering that the main lens comes with optical image stabilization (OIS).
The Verdict
While it may not have the wow factor of the 12 Pro+, the Note 12 Pro is certainly able to offer value for money, thanks to its gorgeous screen, solid battery, a great selfie camera and the powerful chipset.
