With the recent launch of the realme 13 Pro+ 5G, reactions have been somewhat mixed, especially among users of its predecessor, the realme 12 Pro+ 5G.
If you’re considering whether to upgrade, it’s important to look at the key differences between these two devices.
Design Upgrades
The first noticeable change is in the design. While both phones maintain a similar aesthetic with the centered, rounded camera module and gold accents, the realme 13 Pro+ 5G takes a simpler approach by eliminating the vertical strap that ran down the back of the 12 Pro+ 5G.
Both models feature vegan leather backs, which offer good grip and a premium feel. One standout improvement is the weight reduction, with the 13 Pro+ 5G weighing 185.5g compared to its predecessor’s 196g, giving it a lighter, more comfortable feel in hand.
Despite these changes, the 13 Pro+ 5G still holds the same IP65 water and dust resistance rating, ensuring it remains durable under daily use.
Display Enhancements
Both the 12 Pro+ 5G and 13 Pro+ 5G are equipped with a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and responsive interaction.
However, one of the biggest improvements in the 13 Pro+ 5G is its upgraded peak brightness of 2000 nits, a significant jump from the 950 nits offered by the 12 Pro+ 5G.
This means the newer model is much easier to use outdoors, even under direct sunlight. Additionally, the 13 Pro+ 5G benefits from HDR support and tougher protection with Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, enhancing the phone’s durability.
If you frequently use your phone outdoors or want a more robust display, the upgrade to the 13 Pro+ 5G may be worth considering.
Camera Performance
Both models come with a triple camera setup, featuring the same 50MP main sensor and 8MP ultrawide lens.
However, the telephoto lens differs between the two, with the 12 Pro+ 5G having a higher 64MP periscope telephoto, while the 13 Pro+ 5G scales down to a 50MP telephoto.
Both phones include a 32MP front-facing camera for selfies.
Though there is a slight reduction in telephoto megapixels, the 13 Pro+ 5G makes up for it with improved AI capabilities, offering better photo quality overall, especially in tricky lighting conditions.
Performance and Software
When it comes to processing power, the 13 Pro+ 5G retains the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset from its predecessor, coupled with Android 14 and realme UI 5.0.
This means both phones deliver comparable performance, especially for gaming and multitasking. However, the 13 Pro+ 5G introduces some additional AI features, which enhance camera processing and power efficiency.
Benchmark results show minimal differences in performance between the two, so if you’re upgrading purely for speed, this may not be the most compelling reason to switch.
Battery and Charging
In terms of battery life, the 13 Pro+ 5G offers a slight increase with its 5200mAh battery, compared to the 5000mAh capacity of the 12 Pro+ 5G.
The newer model also supports faster charging at 80W, compared to the 67W charging speed of its predecessor. This makes the 13 Pro+ 5G more convenient for users who prioritize quick top-ups throughout the day.
Price
One area where opinions differ is the price. The realme 13 Pro+ 5G comes in at PHP31,999, a notable jump from the realme 12 Pro+ 5G’s PHP25,999 price tag.
While the upgraded brightness, AI camera improvements, and faster charging are appealing, the changes might not justify the additional cost for some users.
For those looking for a more feature-packed device, the realme GT 6 may be a better alternative, offering a superior chipset and enhanced capabilities for a similar price.
realme 12 Pro+ 5G Specs
- OS: Android 14, realme UI 5.0
- Network: Dual SIM | 5G
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Resolution: FHD+ 2412 x 1080 pixels
- Screen Size & Display: 6.7 inches OLED
- Chipset: Snapdragon 7s Gen 2
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage: 256GB | 512GB
- Triple Main Camera: 64MP f/2.8 (main) | 50MP f/1.8 | 8MP f/2.2 (wide)
- Front Camera: 32MP f/2.4
- Battery & Charging: 5000mAh | 67W SUPERVOOC wired | Type-C
- Colors: Submarine Blue, Navigator Beige
realme 13 Pro+ 5G Specs
- OS: Android 14, realme UI 5.0
- Network: Dual SIM | 5G
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz
- Resolution: FHD+ 2412 x 1080 pixels
- Screen Size & Display: 6.7 inches OLED
- Chipset: Snapdragon 7s Gen 2
- RAM: 12GB
- Storage: 256GB | 512GB
- Triple Main Camera: 50MP f/2.65 (main) | 50MP f/1.88 | 8MP f/2.2 (ultrawide)
- Front Camera: 32MP f/2.45
- Battery & Charging: 5200mAh | 80W SUPERVOOC wired | Type-C
- Colors: Monet Gold, Emerald Green
Conclusion
In summary, the realme 13 Pro+ 5G brings several key improvements, particularly in design, display brightness, and AI features. However, if you’re already using the realme 12 Pro+ 5G, the differences might not be significant enough to warrant the higher price tag.
Depending on your priorities, such as outdoor screen visibility or charging speed, the upgrade could be worthwhile. Otherwise, exploring other options like the realme GT 6 might offer better value.
What do you think about the changes? Would you upgrade to the realme 13 Pro+ 5G, or are you holding out for something else? For a more detailed exploration of these two devices from realme, don’t forget to check out our video review on our YouTube Channel.