Realme 12+

Realme 12+: A Mid-Range Marvel with a Standout Screen

I've spent the better part of the last few weeks putting the Realme 12+ through its paces, and it's become clear that this phone is aiming for a sweet spot in the mid-range market. At a price point that won't break the bank, it promises a compelling blend of features. My testing involved typical daily usage – browsing, social media, media consumption, and some casual gaming – along with dedicated camera tests in various lighting conditions. My initial impression is that Realme has focused on delivering a premium-feeling experience where it matters most, even if it means making a few expected compromises.

Navigating the Mid-Range Maze

The Realme 12+ arrives at a crucial time, as consumers increasingly demand value without sacrificing essential features. Realme's strategy seems to be about hitting that sweet spot, offering specifications that punch above their weight class. In a market saturated with options, the 12+ carves out a niche for itself by prioritizing display quality and camera performance, two areas where mid-range phones often fall short. The price point positions it squarely against competitors from Xiaomi and Samsung, making its feature set all the more critical. Personally, I think they've priced it competitively, especially considering some of the standout features.

Design and Hardware: A Touch of Elegance

Picking up the Realme 12+ for the first time, I was immediately struck by how refined it feels. The 7.9mm thin profile and the subtly curved back make it comfortable to hold, even for extended periods. My unit is the "Navigator Beige," and the subtle shimmer it possesses adds a touch of class that elevates it beyond the typical mid-ranger. The build quality feels solid, though the materials are primarily plastic, which is expected at this price. While it doesn't scream premium like some higher-end devices, it feels well-constructed and durable enough for everyday use.

Display: A Visual Treat

The 6.67-inch AMOLED display is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the Realme 12+. Firing it up, the colours are vibrant and punchy, thanks to HDR10+ support. Scrolling through feeds and webpages is buttery smooth thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate – a feature that genuinely enhances the user experience. I spent a good amount of time watching videos and the visual fidelity is impressive for this segment. The peak brightness of 2000 nits is a real boon when using the phone outdoors; I had no issues with visibility even under direct sunlight. For daily use, media consumption, and even some casual gaming, this display is a genuine pleasure.

Performance: Capable and Consistent

Under the hood, the Mediatek Dimensity 7050 chip handles daily tasks with ease. My experience with multitasking – switching between email, social media, and web browsing – was fluid and responsive. When it comes to gaming, I put it through its paces with some graphically intensive titles. While it's not a dedicated gaming phone, it managed to deliver a playable experience at medium settings. As expected, prolonged gaming sessions did cause some noticeable warmth on the back of the device, but it wasn't excessive. Overall, the Realme 12+ offers reliable and consistent performance for its target user.

Camera System: Capturing the Everyday

The camera system on the Realme 12+ is a strong contender in its class. The 50MP main sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is the star of the show. In my testing, I was consistently impressed with the clarity and detail it captured, especially in good lighting conditions. I took some sunset shots, and the phone managed to reproduce the vibrant colours accurately. The OIS definitely helps in reducing blur and producing sharper images, even in slightly shaky conditions. The inclusion of an 8MP ultrawide and a 2MP macro lens adds some versatility, although the main sensor is what I found myself relying on most. Video recording capabilities up to 4K at 30fps with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) are decent for everyday video capture, providing stable footage. While it might not rival flagship camera systems, the Realme 12+ delivers commendable results for the price.

Battery & Charging: Powering Through the Day

Battery life is always a key consideration, and the 5000mAh battery in the Realme 12+ proves to be reliable. On a typical day with moderate usage, I consistently found it lasting a full day without needing a top-up. What really stands out is the 67W SUPERVOOC charging. In my tests, it lived up to its promise, taking the phone from near empty to 50% in around 20 minutes – a lifesaver when you're in a rush. The power management seems well-optimized, ensuring you get the most out of the battery.

Software: Familiar and Functional

The Realme 12+ runs on Android 14, and the user interface is clean and intuitive. Navigating the OS is smooth, and the pre-installed apps are kept to a minimum, which I appreciate. Realme's commitment to future updates, with a promise of upgrading to Android 16, is a positive sign for long-term usability. The inclusion of NFC is a welcome feature for contactless payments, something that has become essential for many users.

Value Analysis: Where Does the Money Go?

The Realme 12+ strikes a compelling balance between price and features. You get a vibrant AMOLED display with a smooth refresh rate, a capable main camera with OIS, and fast charging – all features that significantly enhance the daily user experience. This phone is ideal for someone who prioritizes a good-looking screen and a reliable camera for everyday photography without breaking the bank. However, those seeking top-tier gaming performance or wireless charging might want to look elsewhere. Compared to competitors in this price range, the Realme 12+ holds its own, especially excelling in display quality.

Conclusion: A Solid Mid-Range Contender

Overall, the Realme 12+ is a well-rounded mid-range smartphone that gets the important things right. The standout AMOLED display, coupled with a capable camera and fast charging, makes it a compelling option in its segment. While it might not have every bell and whistle, the Realme 12+ delivers a smooth and enjoyable user experience. If you're looking for a phone with a fantastic screen, reliable performance, and a good camera without spending a fortune, the Realme 12+ is definitely worth considering. It's a phone that understands its target audience and delivers on its core promises.