Infinix Hot 40 vs Xiaomi Redmi 12: Side-by-Side Breakdown from Pick The Better

Choosing your first smartphone—or upgrading on a budget—can feel overwhelming. That’s where Pick The Better comes in: we cut through the jargon so you can make a confident call. Today, we’re pitting two value-focused players against each other: the Infinix Hot 40 and Xiaomi Redmi 12. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly which one suits your needs—without any sales spin.

Global Launch & Price Comparison

Release Dates Worldwide

The Infinix Hot 40 dropped globally in mid-2025, debuting in markets like Pakistan and Southeast Asia before expanding to Europe and Latin America. The Xiaomi Redmi 12 also hit most markets in early to mid-2025, following a staggered launch that eventually reached North America and Europe. Both are fresh on the scene—great for snagging the latest deals.

Price in USD (and key markets)

• Infinix Hot 40: Roughly $150–$180 USD, depending on configuration and region. In Pakistan, expect equivalent pricing hovering around PKR 35,000–40,000.

• Xiaomi Redmi 12: Generally in the $160–$190 USD ballpark globally—sometimes slightly higher given Xiaomi’s broader distribution network.

Bottom line? The Infinix Hot 40 often lands a few dollars cheaper—but both aim squarely at the budget-conscious buyer.

Infinix Hot 40 Specifications Overview

Let’s break down what’s under the hood:

• Display: Big IPS panel (~6.6–6.8″), 90 Hz refresh rate—great for smooth scrolling.

• Processor & Memory: Typically MediaTek Helio G85 or similar, paired with 4–6 GB RAM and 64–128 GB storage.

• Other Highlights: Expandable microSD, 3.5 mm headphone jack, triple-card slot—that’s rare for this price.

Xiaomi Redmi 12 at a Glance

Here’s how the Redmi 12 stacks up:

• Display: Around 6.5–6.7″ IPS, 90 Hz refresh—so no lag when you’re scrolling feeds.

• Chip & Memory: Usually MediaTek Helio G88 or equivalent, again in the 4–6 GB RAM range, 64–128 GB storage.

• Extras: Dual SIM + microSD slot, often includes IR blaster and splash-resistant coating.

Camera Capabilities: Snap, Share, Compare

Infinix Hot 40 Camera Review

Expect a 50 MP main sensor plus a couple of support cams (think depth or macro). In daylight, you’ll get decent detail and color—not flagship level, but better than generic budget phones. Night shots? They’re usable with visible noise, but nothing mind-blowing.

Xiaomi Redmi 12 Camera Performance

Likely a 50 MP main shooter as well, sometimes with one extra sensor. The Redmi 12 tends to deliver slightly richer colors and punchier HDR, but some shots skew overly sharp. Low-light? Similar deal—usable but not stellar.

Battery Life & Charging: All-Day Power or Meh?

Infinix Hot 40 Battery Life

Comes with a typical 5,000 mAh cell. Given that efficient Helio chip and 90 Hz screen, you’re looking at solid all-day use—think 6–8 hours of screen-on time if you keep it reasonable. Charging speeds around 18W–33W depending on sub-model—topping up quickly is cool.

Xiaomi Redmi 12 Battery Overview

Also packs a 5,000 mAh battery. In the real world, performance drifts gently depending on background usage, but you'll still get full-day uptime. Redmi 12 sometimes edges ahead with slightly faster charging (up to 18–33W too)—so you’re not waiting around.

Gaming Performance: Does It Handle Your Favorite Titles?

Infinix Hot 40 Gaming Performance

The Helio G85 is a decent entry-level gaming chip. Expect Fortnite at low to medium settings hitting 30–40 fps, Call of Duty Mobile playable (though with frame dips), and lighter games (like PUBG Mobile Lite) running smoothly. Casual mobile gaming? No probs.

Xiaomi Redmi 12 Gaming Chops

Helio G88 gives similar benchmarks—only marginal differences. Maybe you’ll get a few more fps in optimized games, but real-world gamers won’t notice much. Game load times and temperatures are basically in the same ballpark.

Pick The Better Verdict: Who Stands Out?

Pros & Cons: Infinix Hot 40

Pros

• Slightly lower price overall

• Triple-card slot (dual SIM + microSD = memory bliss)

• Clean UI with fewer pre-loads in some markets

Cons

• Cameras decent, but not as punchy as Redmi

• Charging may be a touch slower in some variants

Pros & Cons: Xiaomi Redmi 12

Pros

• Stronger UI optimization and color-pop camera tuning

• Sometimes faster charging by a hair

• Better brand support in more regions

Cons

• Slightly higher price in many markets

• Often comes loaded with more pre-installed apps

Ideal match-ups

• Pick the Infinix Hot 40 if you’re all about getting the most value per dollar: flexible storage, solid specs, and painless price.

• Lean toward Redmi 12 if you want slightly sharper camera output, quicker charging, or better after-sales support (especially in regions with Xiaomi service centers).

Final Thoughts for Budget-Smart Buyers

Look—your phone should earn its keep. Both of these phones deliver honest value with no nonsense. If you want the cheapest ticket to a smooth everyday Android experience with expandable storage, the Infinix Hot 40 is a solid play. Want slightly crisper pics and perhaps faster juice from charger to 100 %, the Xiaomi Redmi 12 is still a champ.

Here’s what to do next:

• Check your nearest authorized retailers or trusted e-commerce stores.

• Compare local USD–PKR conversion rates (or your local currency).

• Look for launch-special deals or cashback offers.

• Grab whichever fits your habit best—either way, you’re picking wisely.

It’s your money and your time—make it count. On behalf of Pick The Better, happy hunting and enjoy your new smartphone journey.