Apple unveiled the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 Pro models at an event in October 2020. The new models will replace the iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max, but the iPhone 11 will still be available.
What are the differences between the latest models? To help you choose the right model for you, we’ve compiled the specifications for the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 Pro.
Spec
- Similar squarer design
- OLED displays
- Front camera
- A14 chip
- iOS 14
- 5G
The iPhone 12 models share many similarities. All models have a flat edge design, even though they may have different finishes or camera lenses at the rear. While the Pro models look more expensive, the standard models have great finishes. They all run on the same A14 chip and next-generation Neural Engine, but they all use iOS 14 software. They are also all compatible with 5G.
All three panels feature OLED display panels that are punchy and vibrant with True Tone or Haptic Touch, though they have different resolutions. They all also come with the same front camera and are IP68 dust and water-resistant.
Face ID is available on all four models, differentiating them from the iPhone SE model, which uses Touch ID. Our review of the iPhone SE has more information.
What is the difference between the iPhone 12 models?
While the new iPhones share some similarities, there are many differences.
Weight
- 12 mini: 131.5×64.2×7.4mm, 135g
- 12: 146.7 x 71.5x 7.4mm, 164g
- 12 Pro: 146.7×71.5×7.4mm, 189g
- 12 Pro Max: 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.4mm, 228g
Each of the four new iPhones has a different physical dimension. The iPhone 12 Mini is the smallest and most lightweight (it’s amazing), while the iPhone 12 Pro Max, which is quite heavy and bulky but still great for big devices, is the largest.
The iPhone 12 Pro and the standard iPhone 12 are identical in size, although the Pro is slightly heavier. They are in the middle of the size range. They are all the same in thickness.
Size
- 12 mini: 5.4 inches
- 12: 6.1 inches
- 12 Pro: 6.1 Inches
- 12 Pro Max: 6.7-inches
Although the iPhone 12 mini’s display is the smallest at 5.4 inches, it’s still very usable. It has a resolution of 2340×1080 pixels, 476ppi, making it the sharpest of all four models.
The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro measure 6.1 inches and have resolutions of 2532×1170 pixels, 460ppi. The iPhone 12 Max measures 6.7 inches and has a resolution of 2778×1284 pixels, 458ppi. The resolutions may be different, but the same technology is used and the pixels densities all seem pretty similar, so the difference is only in size.
Camera
- iPhone 12 mini/iPhone 12 – Dual rear camera
- iPhone 12 Pro: Triple rear-facing camera
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: Triple rear cameras, larger main sensor and sensor-shift stabilisation.
The main difference between the iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 and Pro models is the rear camera setup.
The iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 both have a dual rear camera. It consists of a 12-megapixel main and 12-megapixel ultra wide-angle cameras. They offer the same performance. The telephoto lens was not included in the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12, but both offer great results, even in low light.
iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Pro Max both have a triple rear camera. Each model has a 12-megapixel main camera as well as a 12MP ultra wide-angle camera and telephoto camera.
The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a different main camera sensor and Telephoto lens than the iPhone 12 Pro.
The 12 Pro comes with a telephoto zoom lens with a 4x optical zoom and an aperture of 2.0, and the 12 Pro Max has a new telephoto zoom lens that offers 5x optical zoom and an aperture at f/2.2. Although the Max’s main sensor has 1.7um pixels, it still has the same resolution and aperture as the iPhone 12 Pro. This new lens makes the iPhone 12 Pro Max a slightly better choice for low-light photography.
LIDAR sensors are also available on the Pro models for enhanced understanding and augmented reality. The Pro Max and Pro Max models deliver great results. However, the Pro Max is only marginally better than the standard Pro. If you don’t need the large screen, the 12 Pro will suffice.
Storage options
- 12 mini/12: 64GB – 256GB
- 12 Pro/12 Pro Max 128GB to 500GB
The iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 are available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options.
iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Pro Max are available in 128GB,256GB and 512GB storage options.
Colours
- 12 mini/12 Six colours
- 12 Pro/12 Pro Max: Four colours
The iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 are available in Black, Blue and White, as well as Green, Purple, and Product(Red).
The iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Pro Max are available in Pacific Blue, Gold and Graphite options.
Conclusion
Only the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 are different in terms of their physical sizes, display sizes, and cost. The design, colours, storage options, and hardware are identical to both models. If you are looking for a smaller device, the 12 mini is a great choice.
The iPhone 12 is approximately the same size as that of the iPhone 12 Pro model. However, the Pro model features a more advanced rear camera setup (though it is still amazing) and a premium finish and different colour options. You will also find different storage options and an additional LiDAR sensor. It is also more expensive.
The iPhone 12 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Pro Max have different physical sizes, display sizes, and costs. However, the iPhone 12 Pro Max has a newer telephoto lens and main sensor with more pixels.
The iPhone 12 model that is right for you depends on how big you are and what certain features mean to your life. The Pro models are better if you care about the camera. The 12 Pro Max has a large display and camera. However, the 12 Pro Max is perfect for those who want a small display and camera.
We have had great results with the iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro, even though they don’t offer the same camera setup as the Pro models. The 12 mini is a beast and a bargain for anyone looking for a different device.
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