Looking for a budget smartphone in Pakistan that doesn’t skimp on features? The Samsung Galaxy M14 and Infinix Note 12 are two solid contenders in the under PKR 40,000 range, perfect for students, gamers, or anyone in Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad. This guide compares their specs, performance, and value to help you pick the best one in 2025. We’ve checked prices and details from trusted platforms like Daraz.pk and PriceOye.pk, with insights inspired by local tech reviews. Let’s dive in with simple, Pakistani-style English to see which phone’s the real deal!
Why Budget Phones Matter in Pakistan
With inflation hitting hard (prices up 23% in 2024!), Pakistani buyers need phones that deliver max value. Whether you’re snapping pics for Insta, gaming on PUBG, or surviving load-shedding, a good budget phone needs a big battery, decent camera, and smooth performance. Both the Galaxy M14 and Note 12 are popular in markets like Hafeez Centre (Lahore) and Saddar (Karachi), but which one’s better for your wallet and vibe?
Head-to-Head Comparison
1. Price & Availability
Samsung Galaxy M14: ~PKR 32,999 (4GB RAM + 128GB storage)
Infinix Note 12: ~PKR 32,999 (4GB RAM + 128GB) or PKR 39,999 (6GB RAM + 128GB)
Verdict: Prices are neck-and-neck for the base models, but Infinix offers a higher RAM option for a bit more. Check Daraz.pk for discounts or PriceOye.pk for local shop deals. Samsung’s brand trust might edge out for some.
2. Display
Samsung Galaxy M14: 6.6-inch PLS LCD, FHD+ (1080×2408), 90Hz refresh rate
Infinix Note 12: 6.7-inch AMOLED, FHD+ (1080×2400), 60Hz refresh rate
Verdict: Infinix’s AMOLED screen pops with vibrant colors, perfect for movies or TikTok. Samsung’s 90Hz makes scrolling smoother, but PLS LCD isn’t as vivid. If you love rich visuals, Note 12 wins; for fluid browsing, M14’s got the edge.
3. Performance
Samsung Galaxy M14: Exynos 1330 (5nm), Octa-core, Mali-G68 MP2 GPU
Infinix Note 12: MediaTek Helio G88, Octa-core, Mali-G52 MC2 GPU
Verdict: Samsung’s Exynos 1330 (newer 5nm tech) is slightly faster and more power-efficient, handling PUBG or multitasking better. Infinix’s Helio G88 is solid but older. Both have 4GB/6GB RAM options, but Samsung feels snappier for heavy apps. Go M14 for performance.
4. Camera
Samsung Galaxy M14: Triple camera (50MP main + 2MP macro + 2MP depth), 13MP selfie
Infinix Note 12: Triple camera (50MP main + 2MP depth + QVGA), 16MP selfie
Verdict: Both have 50MP main cameras that take decent shots in daylight, but low-light performance is average. Infinix’s 16MP selfie camera is sharper for video calls or Insta stories. Samsung’s macro lens adds versatility. It’s a tie—pick based on selfie vs. macro needs.
5. Battery & Charging
Samsung Galaxy M14: 6000mAh battery, 15W fast charging
Infinix Note 12: 5000mAh battery, 33W fast charging
Verdict: Samsung’s massive 6000mAh battery lasts 1.5–2 days, ideal for Pakistan’s load-shedding. Infinix’s 5000mAh is good but charges faster (full in ~1 hour vs. M14’s 2 hours). If battery life’s your thing, M14 wins; for quick top-ups, Note 12’s better.
6. Software & Updates
Samsung Galaxy M14: Android 13 (upgradable to 14), One UI Core 5.1, 2 years OS updates
Infinix Note 12: Android 12, XOS 10.6, 1 year OS updates
Verdict: Samsung offers better software support with 2 years of updates, keeping your phone secure longer. Infinix’s XOS is feature-packed but gets fewer updates. For longevity, M14’s the safer bet.
Which Phone Should You Buy?
Choose Samsung Galaxy M14 if: You want a long-lasting battery (6000mAh), smoother performance (Exynos 1330), and better software updates. It’s great for students or gamers who need a reliable phone for heavy use.
Choose Infinix Note 12 if: You love vibrant AMOLED displays and faster charging (33W). It’s ideal for media buffs or selfie lovers who want a stylish phone on a budget.
Pro Tip: Both are PTA-approved, so no SIM issues. Visit local shops in Saddar (Karachi) or check Daraz.pk for deals. Samsung’s service centers in Lahore and Islamabad are a plus for repairs.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy M14 and Infinix Note 12 are awesome budget phones in Pakistan for 2025, each with its own strengths. The M14 shines with its huge battery, snappy performance, and longer software support, making it a safe pick for most. The Note 12 fights back with a gorgeous AMOLED screen and faster charging, perfect for media lovers. At ~PKR 32,999, you can’t go wrong, but your choice depends on what you value—battery and updates (M14) or display and speed (Note 12). Grab yours on Daraz.pk or PriceOye.pk, and check propakistani.pk for the latest price drops. Which one’s your vibe?
