The mid-range smartphone market is heating up in 2024, with new models boasting impressive features at competitive prices. These phones are sporting significantly upgraded cameras, including powerful chipsets from Qualcomm and stunning displays. While the realme 12 Pro+ 5G isn’t a revolutionary leap forward, it delivers a notable improvement in the area that matters most to many users: photography.
The realme 12 Pro+ 5G boasts a significantly upgraded camera system compared to its predecessor. While the reliable 8MP ultra-wide sensor is retained, the 11 Pro+’s limited macro camera is replaced with a game-changing 64MP OV64B periscope camera. This powerful addition boasts OIS and 3x optical zoom, making the phone significantly more versatile for capturing distant details and creating stunning videos.
The main camera also sees an improvement, switching to the well-regarded 50MP IMX890 sensor. While this may appear to be a step down in megapixels compared to the 11 Pro+ 5G’s 200MP ISOCELL HP3, the IMX890 boasts superior performance, especially when it comes to autofocusing thanks to its multidirectional PDAF system. This ensures sharper and more precise captures, even in challenging lighting conditions.
The realme 12 Pro+ 5G prioritizes functionality and performance over raw megapixel count, resulting in a camera system that delivers noticeably better results in both stills and videos, despite the slightly smaller number on paper.
A performance boost arrives with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, built on a modern 4nm process for increased efficiency. While the 120Hz OLED display remains unchanged from last year, it’s still competitive with good enough outdoor visibility, even if it might not be the absolute brightest on the market.
realme retains the stylish vegan leather design and the generous 5,000mAh battery, but charging speed takes a step back to 67W from the previous model’s impressive 100W. This trade-off likely accommodates the inclusion of the periscope telephoto camera. Well, enough chit-chat, for now, let’s deep dive into its aesthetics and hardware:
First off, the unboxing:
The realme 12 Pro+ 5G arrives in a standard retail box with essential accessories, including user manuals, a 67W charger, and a USB-A to USB-C cable for data and charging. Additionally, a clear silicone case is included, showcasing the phone’s unique design without sacrificing protection.
What a stylish design!
The realme 12 Pro+ 5G iterates on its predecessor’s design with subtle yet impactful changes. The camera island adopts a sophisticated, circular layout reminiscent of luxury watches and while the module protrudes slightly, it maintains a sleek overall aesthetic.
The back retains the luxurious, soft-touch vegan leather with a unique, zipper-like accent. This material enhances grip, while the curved edges provide a comfortable in-hand feel. The craftsmanship shines through, with flawless transitions between the edges and frame.
Available in Submarine Blue, and Navigator Beige (our unit’s color), the phone caters to diverse preferences. Notably, the realme 12 Pro+ 5G stands out in the mid-range with its rare curved display, boasting razor-thin bezels for an immersive experience.
The combination of build quality and feel makes the realme 12 Pro+ 5G a standout. It feels secure, lightweight, and surprisingly thin despite its size, ensuring easy handling. Additionally, the welcome inclusion of IP65 water and dust resistance surpasses its predecessor.
Our only minor critique lies in the fingerprint sensor placement. While fast and responsive, its position near the bottom edge makes it slightly awkward to reach with the thumb.
An immersive display
The realme 12 Pro+ 5G carries over its predecessor’s impressive 6.7-inch, 120Hz curved OLED panel. This display boasts 10-bit color depth for rich visuals, HDR10+ support for compatible content on platforms like YouTube, and even 2160Hz PWM dimming to reduce flicker for users with sensitive eyes.
While the display shines in many aspects, it falls short in specific areas. Notably, the phone lacks full HDR support across all platforms like Netflix, while some rivals offer even Dolby Vision. However, Widevine L1 certification ensures you can still enjoy Netflix content, albeit without HDR.
The realme 12 Pro+ 5G offers three refresh rate options: Auto, High, and Standard.
- High and Auto: These modes aim to maximize smoothness by prioritizing the 120Hz refresh rate for the user interface and compatible apps. They will automatically switch down to 60Hz for static images, video playback (excluding video UI), and incompatible apps like Google Maps and Camera.
- Auto: This mode takes a more conservative approach, analyzing each app to determine the optimal refresh rate. We found that many apps, including web browsers, most video apps (like Netflix), and office applications, are limited to 60Hz in Auto mode. Interestingly, the lock screen appears to be the only instance where we observed a 90Hz refresh rate.
- Standard: This mode prioritizes battery life and consistency by locking the refresh rate at 60Hz, ensuring all apps run at 60fps.
Conclusion:
Packing a punch in the mid-range, the realme 12 Pro+ 5G boasts a groundbreaking camera setup, rivaling features found in premium flagships. Its slick, comfortable, and IP65-certified design offers style and durability at an attractive price point. realme prioritizes camera and design in the 12 Pro+ 5G, further enhanced by considerably longer battery life than competitors. This stylish smartphone is a strong option for those prioritizing camera, design, and battery life.
