Infinix Note 12 Pro 5G: Infinix, the brand most famous for providing phones that offer unexpected features at cheap prices, has done it again with the Note 12 Pro 5G.
Perfect for value-seekers in need of the latest in mobile connectivity, it isn’t just 5G—the device offers a premium finish, powerful performance, and an ample AMOLED display, all in a price bracket that usually short-changes the user on at least one of those three aspects.
Though not without its shortcomings, the Note 12 Pro 5G certainly makes quite a name for itself among shoppers looking to look good while doing everything, and on a tight budget.
Design and Build: Thin, Minimal, and Comfortable
The Infinix Note 12 Pro 5G looks minimal with its neat matte-finish back and a slim body. It actually feels very light and very comfortable to hold in the hand, given that it houses a big battery.
Flat edges and a textured back aid in grip and give the phone a more expensive appearance than it is.
The camera module is quite big but sits more or less flush with the rear body, so it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb.
The phone comes in some very low-key color schemes, including Force Black and Snowfall White, and while its design is not particularly exciting, at least it’s free from the excesses that are typical of the category.
Display: AMOLED brilliance without breaking the bank
The highlight of this device is the its 6.7-inch Full HD+ AMOLED screen. AMOLED panels are uncommon at this price, and Infinix should be commended for bringing vivid colours, deeper blacks and excellent viewing angles to a budget phone.
The panel isn’t great by any stretch, but the display quality of the panel is decent—when you’re watching videos, playing casual games and scrolling through social media posts, that is.
They’re not class leading, but brightness levels are good enough for outdoor use.
Performance: Standard for Your Every Day User
The Note 12 Pro 5G is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 810 SoC residing under the hood, which is a reliable lower-mid range headliner.
Backed by 8GB RAM and 128GB of onboard storage, the phone easily manages to take care of all the basics including the browser, video watching and multitasking load.
The phone also has Extended RAM technology, which kicks in up to 13GB RAM using idle storage – good when you want to keep background apps running more smoothly.
Gaming is predictably solid on this device, with Call of Duty: Mobile and Asphalt 9 Run performing well with medium settings. There’s not much frame drop and the phone doesn’t get too warm during extended sessions.
Camera: Balanced but Basic
The Note 12 Pro 5G has a 108MP main rear camera, which is of course the showstopper spec on the sheet. In good light, it does reasonably well — images are sharp, colors are mostly accurate and it has a decent dynamic range.
In low light, however, performance drops a touch, with some visible noise and softness.
The other rear sensors are mostly decorative — a 2MP depth sensor and an AI lens that add little.
Up front, the 16MP selfie camera does a passable job in decent light, producing clear, shareable pics.
Software and User Experience
The smartphone is powered by XOS 10.6 based on Android 12, and with a customized UI that brings smart panel, theft alert, split screen and a whole lot more. There is some bloatware, although a lot of it can be deleted.
The interface might feel a bit heavy if you are used to stock Android, but it works and is customizable.
Battery Life and Charging
The 5000mAh battery generally offers a full day of usage and sometimes extends into the second.
It supports 33W fast charging, so it can reach a full top-up in about 75 minutes, which is very good at this price point.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Display AMOLED vibrant colors
Dimensity 810 makes everything run smoothly
Main camera produces solid 108MP images in good light
Long power life with – fast charging.
The extended RAM is up to 13GB with high performance, so you can play and do multiple tasks simultaneously.
Cons:
Refresh rate is limited to 60Hz with the display
Bloatware in XOS UI
Mediocre camera in low light conditions
The other cameras are lackluster
Infinix Note 12 Pro 5G Final Verdict
The Infinix Note 12 Pro 5G comes with a tempting cocktail of specs, including an AMOLED display, 5G, a 108MP camera and epic battery life, all at a low, low price.
It’s not without its trade-offs, particularly in the camera department and software polish, but it more than makes up for it in raw value.
But if you’re in the market for a sexy 5G-ready phone that won’t break the bank, this phone is definitely worth considering.