iPhone 12 vs 11 Pro Max: Which iPhone Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new iPhone can feel like navigating a tech minefield. With so many models and features, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head battle between two titans: the iPhone 12 and the iPhone 11 Pro Max.
Both phones boast impressive specs and premium designs, but they cater to slightly different audiences. The iPhone 11 Pro Max, a powerhouse from the previous generation, still holds its own in many areas. Meanwhile, the iPhone 12 brings some notable upgrades to the table.
This comparison will break down everything from performance and camera capabilities to battery life and price. We’ll explore which iPhone offers the best value and which one truly deserves a spot in your pocket. Get ready to discover which phone comes out on top in the ultimate iPhone 12 vs 11 Pro Max showdown.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 12 | 11 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.5-inch |
| Display Type | Super Retina XDR | Super Retina XDR |
| Processor | A14 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB |
| Main Camera | Dual 12MP | Triple 12MP |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Video Recording | 4K Dolby Vision HDR | 4K up to 60fps |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | No |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| MagSafe | Yes | No |
| Weight | 162 grams | 226 grams |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Build
- iPhone 12: Features a flat-edge design with Ceramic Shield front cover for increased drop resistance. It’s lighter and slightly more compact than the 11 Pro Max. However, the flat edges might feel less comfortable for some users.
- 11 Pro Max: Boasts a stainless steel frame and a curved-edge design, giving it a premium feel. The curved edges can be more comfortable to hold for extended periods. It is heavier and thicker than the iPhone 12.
- Winner: Tie
Display
- iPhone 12: Equipped with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display offering vibrant colors and excellent contrast. It has a higher pixel density than the 11 Pro Max. However, the notch is still present.
- 11 Pro Max: Features a larger 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR display, also providing great image quality. Its screen size is more immersive for media consumption. The notch is present.
- Winner: Tie
Processor
- iPhone 12: Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, offering significant performance improvements over the A13. It excels in multitasking and handles demanding games with ease.
- 11 Pro Max: Runs on the A13 Bionic chip, which is still a powerful processor and handles most tasks smoothly. It’s slightly less efficient than the A14 Bionic.
- Winner: iphone 12
Camera System
- iPhone 12: Features a dual 12MP camera system with improvements in low-light performance due to Smart HDR 3 and Night mode on all cameras. Video recording is excellent.
- 11 Pro Max: Boasts a triple 12MP camera system with telephoto lens, offering more versatility in zoom capabilities. Its video quality is still outstanding.
- Winner: Tie
5G Connectivity
- iPhone 12: Supports 5G connectivity for faster download and streaming speeds, where available. This is a significant advantage for future-proofing.
- 11 Pro Max: Does not support 5G, limiting its connectivity to 4G LTE.
- Winner: iphone 12
Battery Life
- iPhone 12: Offers decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. Battery life is slightly less than the 11 Pro Max.
- 11 Pro Max: Provides excellent battery life, often lasting well over a day with regular usage. This is a key strength for power users.
- Winner: 11 pro max
Storage Options
- iPhone 12: Available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options.
- 11 Pro Max: Available in 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options.
- Winner: 11 pro max
Price and Availability
- iPhone 12: Typically has a lower price point than the 11 Pro Max at launch, and is more readily available.
- 11 Pro Max: Can be found at a lower price point when purchased second hand.
- Winner: iphone 12
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 12 |
| Display Quality | Tie |
| Camera Versatility | 11 Pro Max |
| Design | iPhone 12 |
| Battery Life | 11 Pro Max |
| Connectivity | iPhone 12 |
| Value | Tie (depends on price) |
What They Have in Common
- Display Technology: Both phones utilize Super Retina XDR displays, providing vibrant colors and excellent contrast for an immersive viewing experience.
- Water Resistance: Both the iPhone 12 and 11 Pro Max share an IP68 rating, offering protection against water submersion and dust.
- Operating System: Both devices run on iOS, ensuring a consistent user experience with regular software updates and access to the App Store.
- Face Id: Both phones utilize Face ID for secure authentication and unlocking.
- Connectivity: Both support Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular connectivity for communication and data transfer.
iPhone 12 vs. 11 Pro Max Buying Guide
Performance and Speed
The iPhone 12 boasts the A14 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance leap over the A13 Bionic in the 11 Pro Max. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming experiences. While both phones handle everyday tasks with ease, the 12’s newer chip provides a noticeable advantage for demanding applications and future-proofing. The 12 also features improved machine learning capabilities.
Display and Design
The iPhone 12 features a flat-edged design with a Super Retina XDR display, offering vibrant colors and improved contrast compared to the 11 Pro Max. While the 11 Pro Max also has a superb display, the 12’s screen is slightly brighter and offers a more modern aesthetic. Both phones feature durable glass, but the 12 incorporates Ceramic Shield for enhanced drop protection. The 12 is also slightly lighter and smaller.
Camera Capabilities
Both phones offer excellent camera systems, but the iPhone 12 has some key advantages. The 12’s camera benefits from the A14 Bionic’s image processing, resulting in improved low-light performance and better dynamic range. The 12 also includes Smart HDR 3, enhancing detail in photos. Both phones offer excellent video recording, but the 12 supports Dolby Vision HDR video recording. The 11 Pro Max still holds its own with its triple-lens setup.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPhone 11 Pro Max generally offers slightly better battery life than the iPhone 12. This is primarily due to the 11 Pro Max’s larger battery capacity. While the iPhone 12 still provides all-day battery life for most users, heavy users might find themselves needing to charge it more frequently. Both phones support fast charging, but neither includes a charging brick in the box. The 12 also supports MagSafe wireless charging.
5G Connectivity
The iPhone 12 is equipped with 5G connectivity, offering faster download and upload speeds in areas with 5G coverage. The iPhone 11 Pro Max does not support 5G. While 5G availability is still expanding, the iPhone 12 provides a future-proof advantage in terms of network speeds. The 5G experience does come with a small hit on the battery life when compared to the 11 Pro Max.
Price and Value
The price of both phones varies depending on the storage capacity and whether you are buying new or used. The iPhone 12 is typically more readily available brand new. Considering the performance, features, and future-proofing offered by the iPhone 12, it represents a good value for its price. The 11 Pro Max can be a good option if you are looking for a slightly larger screen and are comfortable with a phone that does not support 5G.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 12 If…
- You want the latest processor for improved performance.
- You desire 5G connectivity for faster data speeds.
- You prefer a lighter and more compact phone.
- You value the convenience of MagSafe accessories.
Buy 11 Pro Max If…
- You prioritize a larger display for media consumption and gaming.
- You want a triple-lens camera system for versatile photography options.
- You need longer battery life.
- You can find it at a significantly reduced price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has a better processor?
The iPhone 12 has the A14 Bionic chip, which is significantly faster and more efficient than the A13 Bionic in the iPhone 11 Pro Max. The A14 Bionic offers improved performance in tasks such as gaming, video editing, and machine learning. This difference is noticeable when running demanding apps or multitasking.
Does the iPhone 12 have a better display?
The iPhone 12 features a Super Retina XDR display that is slightly brighter and offers improved contrast compared to the display on the 11 Pro Max. While both displays are excellent, the 12’s screen provides a more modern and vibrant viewing experience, with better color accuracy and HDR support, making it slightly superior for media consumption.
Which phone takes better photos?
Both phones take excellent photos, but the iPhone 12 has a slight edge due to the A14 Bionic chip’s image processing capabilities. The 12 offers improved low-light performance and Smart HDR 3, enhancing detail and dynamic range. The 11 Pro Max still provides great photos, especially with its triple-lens system, but the 12’s camera system is slightly more advanced.
How does the battery life compare?
The iPhone 11 Pro Max generally offers slightly better battery life due to its larger battery capacity. The iPhone 12 still provides all-day battery life for most users, but the 11 Pro Max can often last a bit longer, especially with heavy usage. The 12’s 5G connectivity can also impact battery life.
Does the iPhone 12 support 5G?
Yes, the iPhone 12 supports 5G connectivity, while the iPhone 11 Pro Max does not. This means the iPhone 12 can access faster download and upload speeds in areas with 5G coverage. This feature provides a significant advantage for streaming, gaming, and general web browsing.
Which phone is more durable?
The iPhone 12 features a Ceramic Shield front cover, which provides enhanced drop protection compared to the 11 Pro Max. Both phones are well-built and use durable materials, but the Ceramic Shield on the 12 offers an extra layer of protection against accidental drops and damage. Both phones are water resistant.
Which phone should I buy?
The iPhone 12 is the better overall phone due to its superior performance, 5G support, and camera enhancements. However, the iPhone 11 Pro Max remains a great choice, especially if battery life is a top priority or you’re looking for a larger screen at a potentially lower price. Consider your priorities when making your decision.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 12 offers a compelling upgrade with its faster processor, improved camera, and 5G support. While the 11 Pro Max boasts a slightly better battery life and a larger screen, the iPhone 12 provides a more modern and future-proof experience. The enhanced performance and features make the 12 the superior choice for most users.
Winner: iPhone 12