Honor X9C 5G Vs. OnePlus 12R in Kenya
Here’s a detailed comparison between the Honor X9c 5G and the OnePlus 12R:
| Feature | Honor X9c 5G | OnePlus 12R | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.78-inch AMOLED, 1220 x 2652 pixels (~430 ppi), 120Hz, 1200 nits (HBM), 1600 nits (peak) | 6.78-inch AMOLED, 1264 x 2780 pixels (~450 ppi), 120Hz, 1600 nits (HBM), 4500 nits (peak) | Both have excellent AMOLED displays with 120Hz, but the OnePlus 12R boasts significantly higher peak brightness for better outdoor visibility and HDR content. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits (HBM), 1600 nits (peak) | 1600 nits (HBM), 4500 nits (peak) | OnePlus 12R has a much higher peak brightness, making it superior for HDR and bright environments. |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | The OnePlus 12R has a flagship-grade processor from the previous generation, offering significantly higher performance than the Honor X9c 5G’s mid-range Snapdragon 6 Gen 1. |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 8GB / 16GB | Both offer good RAM options, with OnePlus 12R having a higher maximum. |
| Storage | 256GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | OnePlus 12R offers more storage options, including a 512GB variant, and its 256GB variant typically uses faster UFS 3.1 or 4.0 storage. |
| Battery Life | 5800 mAh | 5500 mAh | Honor X9c 5G has a slightly larger battery capacity. |
| Rear Camera | 108MP (wide, OIS) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro) | 50MP (wide, OIS, Sony IMX890) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 2MP (macro) | While the Honor X9c 5G has a higher megapixel count, the OnePlus 12R uses a larger, more capable sensor (Sony IMX890) with OIS, which generally translates to better image quality, especially in low light. |
| Front Camera | 16MP | 16MP | Both have comparable 16MP front cameras. |
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back. IP53 dust/splash resistant. | Glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus 2), aluminum frame, glass back. IP64 dust/splash resistant. | OnePlus 12R uses premium materials (glass front/back, aluminum frame) and has a slightly better IP64 rating compared to Honor X9c 5G’s plastic build and IP53 rating. |
| Water Resistance | IP53 (dust and splash resistant) | IP64 (dust and splash resistant) | OnePlus 12R offers a higher degree of dust and splash resistance. |
| Software | Android 13, MagicOS 7.2 | Android 14, OxygenOS 14 | OnePlus 12R launches with a newer Android version and typically offers faster updates. |
| Charging | 35W wired | 100W wired (SuperVOOC) | OnePlus 12R offers significantly faster charging speed. |
| Special Features | Curved AMOLED display, OIS on main camera, large battery, IP53 | Premium build, powerful processor, faster charging, higher peak display brightness, OIS, IP64 | OnePlus 12R offers a more premium experience with a top-tier processor, faster charging, and better build/water resistance. |
| Price | KES 46,500 (approx.) | KES 55,000 (approx.) | The OnePlus 12R is generally in a higher price bracket compared to the Honor X9c 5G. |
My Choice and Why:
Considering your interest in mid-range phones, both devices are good options, but they cater to slightly different segments within the mid-range category.
The Honor X9c 5G is an excellent choice for users who prioritize a very large battery, a high-resolution main camera (though megapixel count doesn’t tell the whole story), and a stylish curved display, all at a more budget-friendly mid-range price. It offers a solid overall experience for everyday use and media consumption.
However, the OnePlus 12R stands out as the stronger contender if you’re looking for a “premium mid-range” or “flagship killer” experience. Its significantly more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor provides superior performance for gaming and demanding applications. The faster 100W charging, higher quality display with extreme peak brightness, and premium build materials with better IP rating contribute to a much more refined user experience. The main camera, while 50MP, utilizes a better sensor (Sony IMX890) which often results in superior photos compared to higher megapixel but smaller sensors.
I’d say: If your budget is tighter and you want a reliable phone with great battery life and a good screen for general use, the Honor X9c 5G is a fantastic value. But, if you’re willing to spend more for significantly better performance, a more premium feel, faster charging, and an overall more polished experience, the OnePlus 12R is undeniably the superior choice and offers a better “mid-range” experience that borders on flagship performance.
