Since its launch in late 2022, Xiaomi 13 remains one of the top flagship models with its Leica camera cluster and significantly upgraded hardware system. So, what's new about Xiaomi 13 compared to its predecessor Xiaomi 12? Let's dive into the comparison of Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12 for a comprehensive overview!
Check out: Comparison between Xiaomi 13 Pro and Xiaomi 12 Pro: Worth Upgrading Every Penny
Comparison between Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12: Design
Both Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12 boast a sleek design with a glass back and a sturdy metal frame. However, they distinctly differ as Xiaomi 13 flaunts a glossy glass back, exuding a youthful vibe, whereas Xiaomi 12 opts for frosted glass to resist fingerprints better. Additionally, both devices feature familiar physical button placements and port layouts for user convenience, even during phone upgrades.
In Xiaomi 12, the device sports a metal frame with rounded edges on both the front and back, providing users with a comfortable, ergonomic grip. Conversely, the Xiaomi 13 model adopts a squared-off frame design complemented by a subtly curved back, not only ensuring comfort but also enhancing grip for added security against accidental drops.
Moreover, the rear camera setup of Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12 stands out uniquely. Specifically, Xiaomi 12 features a rectangular camera module with three lenses arranged alternately, divided into square compartments. While Xiaomi 13 adopts a similar design approach, its camera module's black border accentuates the 'Leica' logo, showcasing the successful collaboration between Xiaomi and the longstanding German camera manufacturer.
Turning to the front, both Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12 sport hole-punch displays, but the 13th generation's display area is larger (Xiaomi 13's screen is 6.36 inches wide, Xiaomi 12's is 6.28 inches wide), utilizing AMOLED panels, Full HD+ resolution (1,080 x 2,400 pixels), and a 120 Hz refresh rate. In terms of display quality, both devices are likely to satisfy users with sharp imagery, vibrant colors, and smooth motion thanks to the advantage of the high refresh rate.
Furthermore, Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12 differ in terms of color options. Xiaomi 12 offers four fresh color choices: Purple, Blue, Green, and Gray. In contrast, the 13th generation has three standard color variants: White, Black, Moss Green, and five limited edition colors: Red, Navy Blue, Gold, Green, and Ash Gray.
Comparison between Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12: Specifications
Summary of Xiaomi 13 specifications:
- Display: 6.36-inch size, AMOLED panel, Full HD+ resolution (1,080 x 2,400 pixels), 120 Hz refresh rate.
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
- RAM: 8 GB.
- Internal Storage: 256 GB.
- Rear Camera: 50 MP + 12 MP + 10 MP.
- Front Camera: 32 MP.
- Operating System: Android 13 (MIUI 14 interface).
- Battery Capacity: 4,500 mAh, supports wired fast charging at 67 W, wireless fast charging at 50 W.
Explore more: Roundup of Snapdragon 2023 Chips: Snap 8 Gen 2 Emerges as the Strongest Yet

As for the specific configuration of Xiaomi 12:
- Display: AMOLED panel, 6.28-inch size, Full HD+ resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate.
- CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1.
- RAM: 8 GB.
- Internal Storage: 256 GB.
- Rear Camera: 50 MP + 13 MP + 5 MP.
- Front Camera: 32 MP.
- Battery: 4,600 mAh, supports 67 W fast charging.

For Xiaomi 12, the device comes with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip, boasting powerful performance but receiving mediocre reviews due to temperature-related issues. This can cause your phone to heat up quickly, leading to performance degradation and impacting user experience during heavy tasks. Therefore, gamers considering purchasing Xiaomi 12 or devices using the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chip should take note and weigh their options carefully.

On the other hand, the Xiaomi 13 model is an impressive 'overhaul' as it's equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip - an 8-core processor manufactured on an advanced 4nm process with numerous improvements in performance and temperature. As a result, the performance of Xiaomi 13 can easily handle all user tasks without encountering overheating issues.

Additionally, both Xiaomi 12 and Xiaomi 13 are equipped with a maximum of 12 GB of RAM to efficiently handle users' multitasking needs. However, Xiaomi 13 surpasses its predecessor by offering a maximum internal storage capacity of 512 GB instead of stopping at 256 GB. Therefore, users can comfortably store their personal data with Xiaomi 13!
Comparison between Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12: Camera
In terms of photography capabilities, Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12 are both equipped with three cameras but differ in specifications. Specifically, the three lenses of Xiaomi 13 have resolutions of 50 MP (main camera) + 10 MP (telephoto camera) + 12 MP (ultra-wide-angle camera), whereas the camera system on the 12th generation features resolutions of 50 MP (main camera) + 5 MP (telephoto camera) + 13 MP (ultra-wide-angle camera).
Moreover, the camera system of Xiaomi 13 is enhanced by image processing algorithms fine-tuned by the renowned Leica camera company. Consequently, Xiaomi 13 offers more shooting features and produces high-detail, true-to-life results compared to its predecessor. Additionally, both Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12 are equipped with a 32 MP selfie camera. Therefore, regardless of which phone you choose, selfies taken with both products will be stunning!
Comparison between Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12: Battery
Both Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12 models are equipped with a 4,500 mAh battery. However, according to reviews from GSMArena, Xiaomi 13 offers longer battery life than its predecessor (Continuous video playback: Xiaomi 13 lasts for 17 hours and 35 minutes, Xiaomi 12 lasts for 16 hours and 3 minutes). This is likely due to the optimized power and thermal efficiency of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip on Xiaomi 13, allowing the device to operate for about a full day for everyday tasks under real-world usage conditions.

Moreover, both Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 12 are equipped with fast charging features, delivering 67 W for wired charging and 50 W for wireless charging. These provisions help users save a significant amount of time when charging their devices.
Summary
Based on the comparisons above, you may now decide whether to buy Xiaomi 13 or Xiaomi 12, right? In my opinion, if you're someone who seeks to experience new performance and feature upgrades with stable financial resources, Xiaomi 13 will be an excellent choice. Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12 will suit those who desire to experience a flagship smartphone at an affordable price.

So, will you choose Xiaomi 13 or Xiaomi 12? Leave your comments below for me and everyone else to know! Thank you for your interest and following my article.
In addition to Xiaomi 13, you can also purchase many attractive-priced Xiaomi phone models that are officially distributed by Mytour. Simply click on the orange button below to buy now!
BUY XIAOMI PHONE AT ATTRACTIVE PRICES
Explore more:
- Xiaomi 13 Pro receives major software update, camera mode enhancements
- Xiaomi 12 Pro review updates to MIUI 14: Better optimized performance