iPhone 12 Pro Vs iPhone 15

iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:£205.00

Versus £879.00 new

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iPhone 15
iPhone 15
Starting at

Refurbished price:£326.00

Versus £699.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 12 Pro, released in late 2020, and the iPhone 15, launched in 2023, represent two distinct generations of smartphone technology. While the 12 Pro was originally positioned as a premium flagship with specialised photography tools, the iPhone 15 introduces modern standard features that often exceed the capabilities of older professional models. Both devices operate on the same iOS ecosystem, providing a consistent user interface and access to the same applications. The choice between them typically involves weighing the benefits of an older triple-lens camera system against the advancements in display brightness and connectivity found in the newer model.

Scores

Durability

Longevity and software support are primary considerations when comparing these two generations, as the three-year gap significantly impacts their future utility. Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option can be an effective way to extend the functional life of these devices while supporting a more circular economy.

  • Software Support: The iPhone 15 is expected to receive official operating system updates and security patches for several years longer than the iPhone 12 Pro, likely remaining current until the end of the decade.
  • Physical Construction: The iPhone 12 Pro features a stainless steel frame for high structural rigidity, whereas the iPhone 15 uses a lighter aluminium chassis with a redesigned internal structure that makes the back glass much easier to replace if damaged.
  • Repairability: Recent design improvements in the newer model have simplified access to internal components, which can lead to more straightforward maintenance and a longer practical lifespan for the device.

Year of Release

2020

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Daily responsiveness and the ability to handle demanding tasks vary between these devices due to the evolution of their internal hardware. While both remain capable for standard activities, the newer model is better equipped for the increasing requirements of modern software and intensive multitasking.

  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone 15 provides a smoother experience when navigating complex applications or processing high-resolution media, as its more recent internal hardware handles data more efficiently than the components in the iPhone 12 Pro.
  • Battery Efficiency: Users will generally notice that the iPhone 15 offers more consistent battery performance throughout the day, as its internal systems are optimised to consume less power during both active use and standby.
  • Multitasking Capabilities: Although both devices are equipped with sufficient memory for daily tasks, the more advanced data management in the newer model ensures that background applications remain ready for use without impacting the speed of the primary interface.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display technology in these smartphones has evolved to provide better visibility and a more interactive user experience. Both use OLED panels to deliver deep blacks and vibrant colours, but the iPhone 15 introduces several functional enhancements that improve daily use.

  • Outdoor Visibility: The iPhone 15 features a screen that can reach significantly higher brightness levels, making it much easier to read text or view images in direct sunlight compared to the iPhone 12 Pro.
  • Interface Design: The newer model replaces the traditional static notch with a dynamic area that changes shape to show notifications and background activity, offering a more integrated way to monitor apps.
  • Visual Clarity: While both screens provide high resolution, the refined display on the iPhone 15 offers more consistent colour reproduction across different lighting environments, enhancing the experience of viewing media or editing documents.

Resolution

1170 x 2532

1179 x 2556

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Photography and video capabilities are central to both devices, though they achieve their results through different hardware configurations. The older Pro model focuses on optical versatility, while the newer standard model relies on high-resolution sensor technology.

  • Camera Versatility: The iPhone 12 Pro includes a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zooming into distant subjects, whereas the iPhone 15 uses a 48-megapixel main sensor to provide a high-quality digital crop that serves as a functional zoom.
  • Low-Light Performance: The iPhone 15 benefits from updated image processing that improves detail and reduces visual noise in dimly lit settings, resulting in clearer photos during evening or indoor photography.
  • Video and Audio: Both devices record high-quality footage, but the iPhone 15 includes improved stabilisation and audio capture features that produce smoother video and more natural sound for personal recordings or video calls.

Main camera

12 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical elements such as connectivity and physical handling play a significant role in the user experience. The transition between these models marked a major shift in industry standards for charging and data transfer.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The iPhone 15 is equipped with a universal USB-C port, allowing for greater compatibility with modern charging cables and accessories, while the iPhone 12 Pro uses the proprietary Lightning connector.
  • Weight and Handling: Due to its aluminium construction, the iPhone 15 is noticeably lighter than the stainless steel iPhone 12 Pro, which may be a factor for users who prefer a device that is easier to hold for long periods.
  • Biometric Security: Both smartphones utilise secure facial recognition technology for unlocking the device and authenticating payments, providing a fast and hands-free method for maintaining security.

Weight

187 g

171 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.1

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C (USB 2)

Feedback from user communities and technology forums highlights the practical trade-offs between these two smartphones. Many users who continue to use the iPhone 12 Pro appreciate its substantial, premium feel and the specific utility of the telephoto lens for portrait shots. However, common observations regarding the older model often mention that its battery health may require more attention over time and that its screen can be difficult to see in very bright conditions. In contrast, users of the iPhone 15 frequently point to the convenience of the USB-C port and the high level of display clarity as significant daily benefits. While some note the absence of a dedicated zoom lens, the high-resolution main camera is generally seen as a capable alternative for most photography needs. Users who prioritise a heavy, premium build and require a dedicated optical zoom may find the iPhone 12 Pro aligns well with their preferences. Conversely, those who value long-term software support, modern charging standards, and a display that performs well in all lighting conditions will likely find the iPhone 15 more suitable. Opting for a sustainable choice through refurbishment allows users to access these features while reducing electronic waste and supporting environmental goals. Ultimately, the decision depends on whether the specialised tools of an older flagship or the modern refinements of a newer standard model better suit the user's daily requirements.

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