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Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) Review | 197 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£250
RAM capacity: 8 GB
Internal storage: 128 GB
Screen size: 6.7 inches
Main camera megapixels: 108 MP & 2 MP

Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) review. Compare 197 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among smartphones and if it's worth buying.

6.7

Good

6.6

Good

7.0

Very good

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Available versions:

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Technical Specifications of smartphone Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB)

Overall score

6.7

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartphone.

When it matters: When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.

Performance & Hardware

7.2

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand under which the smartphone is marketed and sold.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Huawei

Processor model

What it is: The central System-on-Chip (SoC) that houses the CPU, GPU, modem, and other core processing components.

When it matters: When you want to know the specific engine powering your device's speed and features.

Importance: HIGH

RAM capacity

What it is: The amount of volatile memory available for running apps and multitasking.

When it matters: When you use multiple apps at once or want smoother multitasking without reloads.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >12 GB

Internal storage

What it is: The total built-in space available for apps, media, and files.

When it matters: When you keep large libraries of photos, videos, and apps directly on your device.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >256 GB

CPU boost clock speed

What it is: The maximum speed the processor can achieve temporarily under heavy load.

When it matters: When you run demanding apps or games that require short bursts of peak performance.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >3.2 GHz

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Software

7.7

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Operating system

What it is: The primary system software that manages the smartphone's hardware and software resources.

When it matters: When you have a preference for the user interface and app ecosystem.

Importance: HIGH

Android version

What it is: The specific generation number of the Android operating system installed on the device.

When it matters: When you want to ensure app compatibility and access to the latest software features.

Importance: LOW

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Direct OS updates

What it is: Indicates whether the device receives operating system updates directly from the manufacturer or Google, ensuring timely security and feature updates.

When it matters: When you want the fastest access to new features and security patches.

Importance: HIGH

Open-source OS

What it is: Shows whether the device’s operating system is based on open-source code, allowing community contributions and greater transparency.

When it matters: When you value transparency and potential community-driven modifications.

Importance: LOW

Dark mode

What it is: A display option that uses dark backgrounds to reduce eye strain and save battery on OLED screens.

When it matters: When you want to reduce eye strain at night or save battery on OLED screens.

Importance: LOW

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Camera

6.1

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Multi-lens main camera

What it is: Indicates that the rear camera system includes multiple lenses (e.g., wide, ultra-wide, telephoto) for versatile shooting options.

When it matters: When you want versatility to shoot wide landscapes, standard shots, and zoomed details.

Importance: MEDIUM

Main camera megapixels

What it is: The resolution of the primary rear camera sensor, measured in millions of pixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.

When it matters: When you want to capture high-resolution images that can be cropped or printed large.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >50 MP

Main camera aperture

What it is: The size of the lens opening (f-stop) that controls light entry. A lower f-number indicates a wider aperture, allowing better low-light shots.

When it matters: When you want better low-light performance or a natural background blur effect.

Importance: HIGH

Main camera sensor area

What it is: The total physical surface area of the camera sensor (calculated by multiplying the number of megapixels by the square of the individual pixel size). A larger area captures more light, resulting in better night photos and less digital noise.

When it matters: When you want to capture clear, detailed photos in low-light conditions with minimal grain and achieve a natural, professional-looking background blur for portraits.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >60

Main camera pixel size

What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.

When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: ≥1.2 µm

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Connectivity

6.3

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Number of SIM slots

What it is: The number of physical SIM cards or eSIM profiles the device can support simultaneously.

When it matters: When you need to manage two different phone numbers or travel internationally with a local SIM.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: ≥2

Cellular module

What it is: The hardware component capable of connecting to mobile cellular networks for voice and data.

When it matters: When you need to stay connected to calls and internet away from Wi-Fi.

Importance: LOW

5G connectivity

What it is: Support for the fifth generation of mobile network technology, offering significantly faster data speeds and lower latency.

When it matters: When you need the fastest possible mobile data speeds for streaming and downloading on the go.

Importance: MEDIUM

LTE support

What it is: Support for Long-Term Evolution (4G) networks, providing high-speed mobile data.

When it matters: When you need reliable mobile internet coverage in areas where 5G isn't available.

Importance: HIGH

Wi-Fi connectivity

What it is: The ability to connect to wireless local area networks for internet access and local networking.

When it matters: When you want to save mobile data and connect to home or public networks.

Importance: HIGH

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Display

6.4

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Screen size

What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.

When it matters: When you choose between a compact phone for one-handed use or a large screen for media.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: ≥6.6 inches

Screen resolution

What it is: The total number of pixels displayed on the screen, expressed as width x height, determining sharpness.

When it matters: When you want crisp text and sharp details in photos and videos.

Importance: HIGH

Pixel density

What it is: The concentration of pixels on the display, measured in pixels per inch (PPI), affecting image clarity.

When it matters: When you want the image to look perfectly smooth with no visible pixels.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >400 ppi

Display type

What it is: The specific technology used for the screen panel (e.g., OLED, IPS LCD), influencing contrast, color, and efficiency.

When it matters: When you care about vibrant colors, deep blacks, and battery efficiency.

Importance: HIGH

Refresh rate

What it is: The number of times per second the display updates the image, measured in Hertz (Hz); higher rates offer smoother motion.

When it matters: When you want scrolling to feel fluid and games to look smoother.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: ≥120 Hz

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Battery

7.2

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Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >5000 mAh

Charging speed

What it is: The maximum power input supported for wired charging, measured in Watts (W).

When it matters: When you are in a rush and need to top up your battery quickly.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >60 W

Fast charging

What it is: In the context of modern electronics, "Fast Charging" refers to any technology that delivers power significantly higher than the traditional USB baseline. While the industry standard for a basic charger is 5W (5V at 1A), a charger is generally classified as a fast charger if it provides at least 18W of power.

When it matters: When you want to minimize the time your phone spends tethered to a wall outlet.

Importance: MEDIUM

GSMArena full wired charge time

What it is: The time taken to charge the battery from 0% to 100% using the bundled or recommended charger, as measured by GSMArena.

When it matters: When you want to know exactly how long it takes to charge from 0 to 100% in real-world tests.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <45 min

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Wireless charging

What it is: The ability to charge the battery without cables by placing the device on a compatible charging pad.

When it matters: When you prefer the convenience of dropping your phone on a pad without fumbling with cables.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Audio

1.8

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Stereo speakers

What it is: A setup involving two or more speakers to create a left-right audio separation for immersive sound.

When it matters: When you watch videos or play games without headphones and want immersive sound.

Importance: MEDIUM

3.5 mm headphone jack

What it is: A standard analog audio port for connecting wired headphones or auxiliary cables.

When it matters: When you prefer using traditional wired headphones without dongles or adapters.

Importance: LOW

Number of microphones

What it is: The total count of microphones on the device, used for audio recording, noise cancellation, and voice isolation.

When it matters: When you want clear audio recording and better noise cancellation during calls.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: ≥3

FM radio

What it is: A built-in receiver allowing users to listen to local FM radio stations using wired headphones as an antenna.

When it matters: When you want to listen to local radio stations without using mobile data.

Importance: LOW

aptX Lossless

What it is: A Bluetooth technology designed to deliver CD-quality audio without data loss during transmission.

When it matters: When you demand CD-quality audio over Bluetooth with no loss of detail.

Importance: LOW

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Design

8.0

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Height

What it is: The vertical dimension of the device.

When it matters: When you are concerned about whether the phone will fit in your pocket or purse.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <162 mm

Width

What it is: The horizontal dimension of the device when held in portrait orientation.

When it matters: When you care about how easy the phone is to grip and use with one hand.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <75 mm

Thickness

What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.

When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <8 mm

Weight

What it is: The total mass of the smartphone, affecting how heavy it feels in the hand.

When it matters: When you want a phone that feels light in your pocket or substantial in your hand.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <190 g

Device volume

What it is: The calculated total volume of the device's physical body.

When it matters: When you want to understand the overall physical bulk of the device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <98cm³

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Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) vs the average smartphone

Why is Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) better than the average smartphone?

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Higher-resolution main camera
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a higher main camera resolution than the average smartphone (108 MP & 2 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP ). The average smartphone main camera has 50 MP & 8 MP megapixels.
What it is: The resolution of the primary rear camera sensor, measured in millions of pixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want to capture high-resolution images that can be cropped or printed large.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >50 MP
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a higher main camera resolution than the average smartphone (108 MP & 2 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP ). The average smartphone main camera has 50 MP & 8 MP megapixels.108 MP & 2 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
Allows app offloading
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) allows app offloading, the average smartphone does not. 47.9% of smartphones support this feature.
What it is: The ability to remove unused apps from the device while preserving their data for later reinstallation.
When it matters: When you are low on space but want to keep app data for the future.
Importance: LOW
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) allows app offloading, the average smartphone does not. 47.9% of smartphones support this feature.
Wider front camera aperture
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a wider front camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/2.0 vs f/2.2 ). The average aperture is f/2.2 .
What it is: The f-stop value of the front camera lens, affecting light intake and background blur in selfies.
When it matters: When you take selfies in low light and want them to appear brighter.
Importance: MEDIUM
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a wider front camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/2.0 vs f/2.2 ). The average aperture is f/2.2 .f/2.0 vs f/2.2
38.1% larger main camera sensor area
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (44.2 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
What it is: The total physical surface area of the camera sensor (calculated by multiplying the number of megapixels by the square of the individual pixel size). A larger area captures more light, resulting in better night photos and less digital noise.
When it matters: When you want to capture clear, detailed photos in low-light conditions with minimal grain and achieve a natural, professional-looking background blur for portraits.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >60
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (44.2 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².44.2 mm² vs 32.0 mm²
1.3 mm narrower
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) is narrower than the average smartphone (74.7 mm vs 76 mm). The average smartphone width is 76 mm.
What it is: The horizontal dimension of the device when held in portrait orientation.
When it matters: When you care about how easy the phone is to grip and use with one hand.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <75 mm
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) is narrower than the average smartphone (74.7 mm vs 76 mm). The average smartphone width is 76 mm.74.7 mm vs 76.0 mm
12.5% higher touch sampling rate
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a higher touch sampling rate than the average smartphone (270 Hz vs 240 Hz). The average touch sampling rate is 240 Hz.
What it is: The frequency at which the screen scans for touch input, with higher rates reducing input lag in games.
When it matters: When you play competitive games and need your inputs to register instantly.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >300 Hz
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a higher touch sampling rate than the average smartphone (270 Hz vs 240 Hz). The average touch sampling rate is 240 Hz.270 Hz vs 240 Hz
0.03 inches larger screen size
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a larger screen size than the average smartphone (6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone screen is 6.67 inches.
What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
When it matters: When you choose between a compact phone for one-handed use or a large screen for media.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: ≥6.6 inches
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a larger screen size than the average smartphone (6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone screen is 6.67 inches.6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches
Higher CPU base clock speed
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a higher CPU base clock speed than the average smartphone (4x 2.4 GHz & 4x 1.9 GHz vs 2x 2.2 GHz & 6x 2 GHz ). The average smartphone has a base clock speed of 2x 2.2 GHz & 6x 2 GHz .
What it is: The processor’s standard operating frequency under normal conditions, measured in GHz.
When it matters: When you want consistent, reliable performance for standard daily tasks like browsing or messaging.
Importance: MEDIUM
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a higher CPU base clock speed than the average smartphone (4x 2.4 GHz & 4x 1.9 GHz vs 2x 2.2 GHz & 6x 2 GHz ). The average smartphone has a base clock speed of 2x 2.2 GHz & 6x 2 GHz .4.0x 2.4 GHz & 4.0x 1.9 GHz vs 2.0x 2.2 GHz & 6.0x 2.0 GHz
Higher CPU base clock speed
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a higher CPU base clock speed than the average smartphone (4x 2.4 GHz & 4x 1.9 GHz vs 2x 2.2 GHz & 6x 2 GHz ). The average smartphone has a base clock speed of 2x 2.2 GHz & 6x 2 GHz .
Allows app offloading
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) allows app offloading, the average smartphone does not. 47.9% of smartphones support this feature.
Higher-resolution main camera
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a higher main camera resolution than the average smartphone (108 MP & 2 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP ). The average smartphone main camera has 50 MP & 8 MP megapixels.
38.1% larger main camera sensor area
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (44.2 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
Wider front camera aperture
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a wider front camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/2.0 vs f/2.2 ). The average aperture is f/2.2 .
12.5% higher touch sampling rate
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a higher touch sampling rate than the average smartphone (270 Hz vs 240 Hz). The average touch sampling rate is 240 Hz.
0.03 inches larger screen size
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a larger screen size than the average smartphone (6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone screen is 6.67 inches.
21.2% faster charging speed
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) supports a faster charging speed than the average smartphone (40 W vs 33 W). The average charging speed is 33 W.
1.3 mm narrower
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) is narrower than the average smartphone (74.7 mm vs 76 mm). The average smartphone width is 76 mm.

Performance & Hardware

Why is Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) worse than the average smartphone?

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39% lower PCMark Work 3.0 Performance benchmark
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) performs worse in PCMark Work 3.0 than the average smartphone (6,582 vs 10,783). The average smartphone scores 10,783 in PCMark Work 3.0.
50% less storage
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) offers less internal storage than the average smartphone (128 GB vs 256 GB). The average smartphone includes 256 GB of internal storage.
42.9% lower maximum RAM capacity
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) supports less maximum RAM than the average smartphone (8 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB of RAM.
Worse processor
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) uses a worse processor than the average smartphone (Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 ).
22.4% slower memory speed
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a lower memory speed than the average smartphone (2133 MHz vs 2750 MHz). The average smartphone has a memory speed of 2750 MHz.
41.8% lower memory bandwidth
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has lower memory bandwidth than the average smartphone (14.9 GB/s vs 25.6 GB/s). The average smartphone has a bandwidth of 25.6 GB/s.
11.1% slower GPU clock
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a lower GPU frequency than the average smartphone (845 MHz vs 950 MHz). The average smartphone has a GPU frequency of 950 MHz.
No live text recognition
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not support live text recognition, the average smartphone does. 51.1% of smartphones offer real-time text recognition.
Worse main camera video quality
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) records worse main camera video than the average smartphone. 11.80x of smartphones support 4K video recording.
Lower front camera megapixels
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has lower front camera megapixels than the average smartphone (8 MP vs 16 MP ). The average smartphone has a 16 MP front camera.
Narrower main camera aperture
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a narrower main camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/2.4 & f/1.9 vs f/1.8 & f/2.4 & f/2.4 ). The average smartphone aperture is f/1.8 & f/2.4 & f/2.4 .
0.16 µm smaller main camera pixel size
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a smaller main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (0.6 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average smartphone has a pixel size of 0.8 µm.
1.92 binned
No 5G connectivity
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not support 5G connectivity, the average smartphone does. 66.9% of smartphones are 5G compatible.
No memory card slot
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.6% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
No gyroscope
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not have a gyroscope, the average smartphone does. 84.3% of smartphones feature a gyroscope.
Older Bluetooth version
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) uses an older Bluetooth version than the average smartphone (5.0 vs 5.2). The average smartphone uses Bluetooth 5.2.
Inferior display type
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has an inferior display type compared to the average smartphone (IPS LCD vs OLED/AMOLED ). 0.00% of smartphones use the superior display type.
25% lower refresh rate
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a lower refresh rate than the average smartphone (90 Hz vs 120 Hz). The average smartphone has a refresh rate of 120 Hz.
1% lower pixel density
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a lower pixel density than the average smartphone (391 ppi vs 395 ppi). The average smartphone has a pixel density of 395 ppi.
Lower screen resolution
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a lower screen resolution than the average smartphone (1080x 2388 px vs 1080x 2400 px ). The average smartphone has a resolution of 1080x 2400 px .
No stereo speakers
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not have stereo speakers, the average smartphone does. 64.5% of smartphones feature stereo speakers.
No aptX HD
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not support aptX HD, the average smartphone does. 50.4% of smartphones support aptX HD.
No LDAC support
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not support LDAC, the average smartphone does. 60.3% of smartphones support LDAC.
No aptX support
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not support aptX, the average smartphone does. 50.2% of smartphones support aptX.
1.4% heavier
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) is heavier than the average smartphone (199 g vs 196.2 g). The average smartphone weighs 196.2 g.
Inferior display type
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has an inferior display type compared to the average smartphone (IPS LCD vs OLED/AMOLED ). 0.00% of smartphones use the superior display type.
What it is: The specific technology used for the screen panel (e.g., OLED, IPS LCD), influencing contrast, color, and efficiency.
When it matters: When you care about vibrant colors, deep blacks, and battery efficiency.
Importance: HIGH
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has an inferior display type compared to the average smartphone (IPS LCD vs OLED/AMOLED ). 0.00% of smartphones use the superior display type.IPS LCD vs OLED/AMOLED
No 5G connectivity
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not support 5G connectivity, the average smartphone does. 66.9% of smartphones are 5G compatible.
What it is: Support for the fifth generation of mobile network technology, offering significantly faster data speeds and lower latency.
When it matters: When you need the fastest possible mobile data speeds for streaming and downloading on the go.
Importance: MEDIUM
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not support 5G connectivity, the average smartphone does. 66.9% of smartphones are 5G compatible.
No stereo speakers
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not have stereo speakers, the average smartphone does. 64.5% of smartphones feature stereo speakers.
What it is: A setup involving two or more speakers to create a left-right audio separation for immersive sound.
When it matters: When you watch videos or play games without headphones and want immersive sound.
Importance: MEDIUM
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) does not have stereo speakers, the average smartphone does. 64.5% of smartphones feature stereo speakers.
39% lower PCMark Work 3.0 Performance benchmark
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) performs worse in PCMark Work 3.0 than the average smartphone (6,582 vs 10,783). The average smartphone scores 10,783 in PCMark Work 3.0.
What it is: A performance benchmark for Android developed by UL Solutions. It simulates everyday tasks such as web browsing, photo editing, and document writing to measure how well a device handles common productivity workloads.
When it matters: When you use your phone for productivity tasks like document editing and data manipulation.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >12000
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) performs worse in PCMark Work 3.0 than the average smartphone (6,582 vs 10,783). The average smartphone scores 10,783 in PCMark Work 3.0.6582 vs 10783
50% less storage
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) offers less internal storage than the average smartphone (128 GB vs 256 GB). The average smartphone includes 256 GB of internal storage.
What it is: The total built-in space available for apps, media, and files.
When it matters: When you keep large libraries of photos, videos, and apps directly on your device.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >256 GB
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) offers less internal storage than the average smartphone (128 GB vs 256 GB). The average smartphone includes 256 GB of internal storage.128 GB vs 256 GB
42.9% lower maximum RAM capacity
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) supports less maximum RAM than the average smartphone (8 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB of RAM.
What it is: The highest amount of RAM that the device’s chipset or architecture can support, regardless of how much is actually installed.
When it matters: When you are considering the long-term potential of the hardware platform.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >16 GB
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) supports less maximum RAM than the average smartphone (8 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB of RAM.8 GB vs 14 GB
25% lower refresh rate
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a lower refresh rate than the average smartphone (90 Hz vs 120 Hz). The average smartphone has a refresh rate of 120 Hz.
What it is: The number of times per second the display updates the image, measured in Hertz (Hz); higher rates offer smoother motion.
When it matters: When you want scrolling to feel fluid and games to look smoother.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: ≥120 Hz
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) has a lower refresh rate than the average smartphone (90 Hz vs 120 Hz). The average smartphone has a refresh rate of 120 Hz.90 Hz vs 120 Hz
Worse main camera video quality
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) records worse main camera video than the average smartphone. 11.80x of smartphones support 4K video recording.
What it is: The maximum resolution and frame rate at which the main rear camera can record video.
When it matters: When you want to record memories or content in high definition or 4K.
Importance: MEDIUM
Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) records worse main camera video than the average smartphone. 11.80x of smartphones support 4K video recording.1080x 30 fps vs 2160x 30 fps

Performance & Hardware

Graphic comparison of Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB) and other smartphones

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Third-party reviews

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What customers like about Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB)?

Large and vibrant 6.7-inch FHD+ LCD display with thin bezels
Strong 5,000mAh battery life, capable of lasting over a full day
Fast 40W charging that reaches over 60% in about 30 minutes
Sleek and eye-catching design, particularly the 'Star Orbit Ring' and green colorway
Generous 256GB internal storage as a standard option
Fast and reliable side-mounted fingerprint sensor

What customers dislike about Huawei nova 12i (8GB + 128GB)?

No native Google Play Services, requiring workarounds like GBox or AppGallery
Dated Snapdragon 680 chipset which can feel sluggish during intensive tasks
Lacks 5G connectivity, limited to 4G LTE networks
Media limitations including Widevine L3 (SD-only streaming) and a single mono speaker
No official IP rating for water or dust resistance
No 3.5mm headphone jack and no expandable storage via microSD

Expert reviews

yugatech.com

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22/04/2024

HUAWEI nova 12i Review - YugaTech

The YugaTech review of the PHP 12,999 Huawei Nova 12i highlights its aesthetic design, featuring a "Star Orbit Ring" and a smudge-resistant matte finish. Pros include a 6.7-inch 90Hz display and comfortable ergonomics, though it lacks an IP rating and is limited to Widevine L3 for streaming. Performance is driven by the aging Snapdragon 680, which causes limitations in intensive...Read more

htxt.co.za

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08/04/2024

Huawei nova 12i Review: Up Against It - Hypertext

The Huawei nova 12i is a mid-range smartphone with a striking "Emerald Green" design and a large camera module, but its plastic feel and lack of 5G connectivity with the Snapdragon 680 processor are drawbacks. Pros include a strong 108MP primary camera and a 5,000mAh battery with 40W fast charging, while the absence of native Google services remains a challenge. The review rates the...Read more

memeburn.com

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04/04/2024

Huawei Nova 12i review, tradition followed, the Nova lives on - Memeburn

The Huawei Nova 12i is a mid-range smartphone praised for its design, 5,000mAh battery with 40W fast charging, 256GB storage, and a 108MP main camera that performs well in good lighting. However, it uses a dated Snapdragon 680 chipset, an LCD screen instead of OLED, lacks an IP rating and stereo speakers, and requires workarounds for Google services.

gadgetpilipinas.net

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29/04/2024

Huawei nova 12i Review - Gadget Pilipinas

The Huawei nova 12i is presented as an affordable mid-range smartphone featuring a premium design and practical daily features. It includes a 108 MP main camera with good detail and color in bright conditions and a long-lasting 5,000 mAh battery supported by 40W SuperCharge. However, the device is held back by its older Snapdragon 680 chipset, which can feel slow, and a 6.7-inch...Read more

smetechguru.co.za

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28/05/2024

Quick review of Huawei’s nova 12i - SME Tech Guru

The Huawei Nova 12i is described as a stylish mid-range phone with a premium "Star Orbit Ring" design and a 6.7-inch display, offering a smooth experience powered by the EMUI 14 operating system and 256GB storage. Its photography is a major highlight, featuring a 108MP main camera with a RAW Domain Algorithm for detailed shots even in challenging light, complemented by a 5000mAh...Read more

yugatech.com

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22/04/2024

HUAWEI nova 12i Review - YugaTech

The YugaTech review of the PHP 12,999 Huawei Nova 12i highlights its aesthetic design, featuring a "Star Orbit Ring" and a smudge-resistant matte finish. Pros include a 6.7-inch 90Hz display and comfortable ergonomics, though it lacks an IP rating and is limited to Widevine L3 for streaming. Performance is driven by the aging Snapdragon 680, which causes limitations in intensive...Read more

htxt.co.za

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08/04/2024

Huawei nova 12i Review: Up Against It - Hypertext

The Huawei nova 12i is a mid-range smartphone with a striking "Emerald Green" design and a large camera module, but its plastic feel and lack of 5G connectivity with the Snapdragon 680 processor are drawbacks. Pros include a strong 108MP primary camera and a 5,000mAh battery with 40W fast charging, while the absence of native Google services remains a challenge. The review rates the...Read more

lesmobiles.com

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18/04/2024

New entry-level and mid-range smartphones: Huawei nova 12i, nova 12 SE and nova 12s

The Huawei Nova 12 series—comprising the 12i, 12 SE, and 12s—targets the mid-range market with a focus on distinct design, including a "Star Orbit Ring" on the 12i, while running EMUI 14 on 4G-only chipsets. The 12s acts as the premium, slim 6.88mm option with a 120Hz OLED screen and 60MP selfie camera, whereas the 12i offers a 108MP camera and 5,000mAh battery but uses an IPS LCD...Read more

gadgetpilipinas.net.en2nl.search.translate.goog

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29/04/2024

Huawei nova 12i Review - Gadget Pilipinas

The Gadget Pilipinas review describes the Huawei nova 12i as a mid-range smartphone prioritizing design and reliability, featuring a "Star Orbit Ring" camera module and a glittery, fingerprint-resistant plastic back. While the 6.7-inch 90Hz LCD screen is decent, the device lacks an official IP rating and uses an dated Snapdragon 680 chipset, which limits intensive gaming...Read more

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