iPhone 12 Vs iPhone 13

iPhone 12
iPhone 12
Starting at

£140.00

£649.00 new

See options
iPhone 13
iPhone 13
Starting at

£182.00

£599.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 12, released in late 2020, and the iPhone 13, launched in late 2021, are both core models in Apple's smartphone lineup. While they share a similar design aesthetic and operate on the same iOS ecosystem, the iPhone 13 introduces notable enhancements in processing power, camera capabilities, and battery endurance. Both devices offer a consistent user experience with regular software updates.

Scores

Durability

When considering longevity, the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 offer robust software support and build quality, though their release timelines differ by a year.

  • Software Updates: The iPhone 13, being a year newer, is expected to receive major iOS updates for approximately one year longer than the iPhone 12, extending its functional lifespan.
  • Build Durability: Both models feature a Ceramic Shield front cover, offering enhanced drop performance compared to older generations. They also share an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, contributing to their overall resilience in daily use.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users can expect both devices to remain fully functional and receive security updates for several years. The iPhone 13 simply offers a slightly longer runway for the latest software features.

Year of Release

2020

2021

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance differences between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 are noticeable, particularly in demanding tasks and overall efficiency.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 13 features a newer generation processor, which translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and more efficient handling of graphically intensive games compared to the iPhone 12.
  • Battery Endurance: The iPhone 13 offers significantly improved battery life, with users often reporting an additional 1.5 to 2.5 hours of usage on a single charge compared to the iPhone 12, making it more suitable for heavy, all-day use.
  • Storage Options: Both models offer various storage configurations, but the iPhone 13 starts with a higher base storage capacity, providing more room for apps, photos, and videos without needing to upgrade.

Memory

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

Both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 feature high-quality displays, though the newer model brings a subtle but impactful improvement.

  • Display Technology: Both devices utilize a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, delivering deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast for an immersive viewing experience.
  • Brightness Levels: The iPhone 13's display offers a higher typical maximum brightness, making content more visible and readable in bright outdoor conditions compared to the iPhone 12.
  • Visual Experience: While both screens offer a 60Hz refresh rate, the iPhone 13 features a slightly smaller notch at the top of the display, providing a marginally larger usable screen area for content.

Resolution

1170 x 2532

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 are both capable, but the iPhone 13 introduces several enhancements for improved photography and videography.

  • Main Camera Improvements: The iPhone 13 features a larger sensor for its wide camera, allowing it to capture more light. It also includes sensor-shift optical image stabilization, which was previously exclusive to the Pro models, resulting in sharper photos and more stable videos, especially in low-light conditions, compared to the iPhone 12.
  • New Features: The iPhone 13 introduces 'Cinematic mode' for video, which automatically shifts focus between subjects, creating a professional-looking depth effect. It also offers 'Photographic Styles' for more personalized image processing.
  • Overall Performance: Both phones excel in everyday photography, but the iPhone 13 generally produces clearer, brighter images in challenging lighting and offers more advanced video capabilities.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance, several practical features differentiate the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, impacting daily usability.

  • Connectivity: Both models support 5G cellular connectivity and Wi-Fi 6, ensuring fast internet speeds where available. They also feature MagSafe for magnetic accessory attachment and wireless charging.
  • Physical Design: Both devices share a flat-edged design and use Apple's Lightning port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone 13 is slightly thicker and heavier due to its larger battery, which some users might notice in hand.
  • Biometric Security: Both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 rely on Face ID for secure authentication and Apple Pay, offering a consistent and reliable unlocking experience.

Weight

164 g

173 g

Width

7.15 cm

7,15 cm

Height

14.67 cm

13,676 cm

Depth

0.74 cm

0,75 cm

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

The iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 both offer a premium smartphone experience within the Apple ecosystem. User feedback often praises the iPhone 12 for its strong performance and camera capabilities, especially considering its age, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable device without the absolute latest features. Some users, however, noted its battery life could be improved for heavy usage.

The iPhone 13, on the other hand, is frequently lauded for its significantly improved battery life, enhanced low-light camera performance with sensor-shift stabilization, and the addition of Cinematic Mode. Common praise points include its robust performance for all tasks and its slightly brighter display. Criticisms are minimal, often revolving around the incremental nature of its upgrades over its predecessor.

Users prioritizing extended battery life, more advanced camera features, and a slightly longer software support window will find the iPhone 13 to be a more suitable choice. Conversely, those looking for a capable and reliable iPhone at a potentially lower entry point, who don't require the absolute latest camera tech or maximum battery endurance, may find the iPhone 12 perfectly meets their needs. Both models are excellent candidates for a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for informed purchasing decisions.

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