Galaxy S23+ Vs iPhone 12 mini

Galaxy S23+
Galaxy S23+
Starting at

Refurbished price:£257.00

Versus £1,199.99 new

See options
iPhone 12 mini
iPhone 12 mini
Starting at

Refurbished price:£126.00

Versus £579.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus (2023) and the iPhone 12 Mini (2020) represent two distinct eras and design philosophies in the smartphone market. While the Galaxy S23 Plus is a modern, large-format device running the Android operating system, the iPhone 12 Mini is a compact, pocket-friendly model using Apple's iOS. The primary differences between these two smartphones lie in their physical dimensions, battery endurance, and the technological advancements that occurred in the three years separating their respective release dates.

Scores

Durability

The Galaxy S23 Plus and the iPhone 12 Mini offer different expectations for long-term use based on their release timelines and manufacturer support policies.

  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S23 Plus, launched in 2023, is positioned to receive official software updates and security patches for several more years, whereas the iPhone 12 Mini, released in 2020, is naturally closer to the end of its supported lifecycle.
  • Physical Resilience: Both devices feature high-grade water and dust resistance, but the Galaxy S23 Plus incorporates more recent glass technology designed to provide better protection against scratches and minor impacts during daily handling.
  • Maintenance and Repair: Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either model ensures that essential components like the battery have been tested, which is a practical way to extend the functional life of these devices.

Year of Release

2023

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance profiles of these two devices are shaped by their internal hardware and the physical constraints of their different sizes.

  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S23 Plus features a large battery that comfortably supports a full day of heavy use, including navigation and media streaming, while the iPhone 12 Mini's compact frame houses a smaller battery that may require more frequent charging for active users.
  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S23 Plus handles demanding applications and multitasking with high fluidity, whereas the iPhone 12 Mini remains responsive for everyday tasks but may show its age when running the most resource-intensive modern apps.
  • Storage and Multitasking: With higher memory capacity, the Galaxy S23 Plus allows for more apps to remain open in the background without reloading, providing a smoother experience for users who switch between tasks frequently.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience differs significantly between these models due to their display technologies and physical dimensions.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S23 Plus offers an expansive 6.6-inch screen that is well-suited for watching videos and reading, while the iPhone 12 Mini features a 5.4-inch display that prioritizes portability and easy one-handed operation.
  • Motion Smoothness: The Galaxy S23 Plus includes a high refresh rate that makes scrolling through content and system animations appear fluid, a feature that is not present on the standard display of the iPhone 12 Mini.
  • Outdoor Visibility: The Galaxy S23 Plus is designed to reach higher brightness levels, which improves screen legibility when used in direct sunlight compared to the iPhone 12 Mini, which may be harder to see in bright environments.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems and media capabilities of these smartphones reflect the different priorities of their respective generations.

  • Camera Versatility: The Galaxy S23 Plus features a triple-lens system with a dedicated telephoto lens for clear zoomed-in photography, while the iPhone 12 Mini uses a dual-lens setup that lacks a separate zoom lens.
  • Low-Light Performance: Newer sensor technology in the Galaxy S23 Plus allows it to capture more detail with less noise in dark settings, though the iPhone 12 Mini still produces natural and clear images in well-lit conditions.
  • Audio and Video Quality: The iPhone 12 Mini is noted for its consistent video stabilization and clear microphone quality, while the Galaxy S23 Plus offers more advanced recording options and a louder speaker output due to its larger internal resonance chamber.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical features such as connectivity and physical handling play a major role in how these devices feel in everyday use.

  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S23 Plus utilizes an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor integrated into the display for quick unlocking, while the iPhone 12 Mini relies on facial recognition technology that requires a direct line of sight to the user's face.
  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S23 Plus uses the universal USB-C port for charging and data, whereas the iPhone 12 Mini uses the proprietary Lightning port, which may require specific cables for those not already in the Apple ecosystem.
  • Handling and Weight: The iPhone 12 Mini is exceptionally light and small, making it ideal for users who prefer a phone that disappears in a pocket, while the Galaxy S23 Plus is a larger device that typically requires two hands for secure operation.

Weight

196 g

135 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

5.4

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

User feedback from online communities and forums highlights a clear divide in how these two devices are perceived. The iPhone 12 Mini is frequently praised for its unique, compact form factor, with many users appreciating how easily it fits in small pockets and hands. However, a common point of criticism is its battery life, which some users find insufficient for a full day of moderate use. On the other hand, the Galaxy S23 Plus receives consistent praise for its reliable battery endurance and the vibrancy of its large display, though some users find its physical size a bit cumbersome for one-handed use.

Users who prioritize a lightweight, compact device and prefer the iOS ecosystem will find the iPhone 12 Mini to be a suitable choice for their needs. Conversely, those who value a large screen for media consumption, advanced camera zoom capabilities, and a battery that lasts through a long day will likely find the Galaxy S23 Plus more aligned with their priorities. Choosing a sustainable choice like a refurbished model is an effective way to acquire either of these devices while supporting environmental goals.

Ultimately, the decision depends on whether you value the portability of a small phone or the expansive features of a modern, large-format device. Both smartphones remain capable options for different user profiles, offering distinct trade-offs between size and performance.

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