iPhone 15 Pro vs iPhone 12 Pro: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Thinking about upgrading your iPhone? The choice can be tough, especially when considering the latest models against older, still-capable devices. Today, we’re diving headfirst into a detailed comparison: the iPhone 15 Pro versus the iPhone 12 Pro. Prepare yourself for a deep dive into the features, performance, and overall value of these two powerhouse smartphones.
The iPhone 12 Pro, released a few years ago, was a significant leap forward in mobile technology. It offered a stunning design and powerful performance. Now, the iPhone 15 Pro has arrived, promising even more advanced features, improved cameras, and enhanced processing power.
We’ll explore everything from the camera capabilities and processing speeds to the battery life and design elements. Our goal is to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision on which iPhone is the right choice for you. Let’s get started and see which phone comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 15 Pro | iPhone 12 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.1-inch |
| Display Type | Super Retina XDR with ProMotion | Super Retina XDR |
| Processor | A17 Bionic chip | A14 Bionic chip |
| Main Camera | 48MP | 12MP |
| Telephoto Camera | Yes (Improved) | Yes |
| Ultra Wide Camera | Yes (Improved) | Yes |
| Video Recording | 4K ProRes up to 60 fps | 4K ProRes up to 30 fps |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Connectivity | USB-C, Wi-Fi 6E, 5G | Lightning, Wi-Fi 6, 5G |
| Materials | Titanium, Ceramic Shield | Stainless Steel, Ceramic Shield |
| Operating System | iOS 17 | iOS 14 (Upgradable) |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 15 Pro: Features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology for adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. This provides incredibly smooth scrolling and responsiveness. The display is brighter than its predecessor, enhancing visibility in sunlight, but can be a battery drain.
- iPhone 12 Pro: Equipped with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, but without ProMotion. Offers excellent color accuracy and brightness, but the 60Hz refresh rate makes scrolling appear less fluid compared to newer models.
- Winner: iphone 15 pro
Processor
- iPhone 15 Pro: Powered by the A17 Bionic chip, offering significant performance gains in both CPU and GPU tasks. This translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming performance. It also has improved power efficiency.
- iPhone 12 Pro: Runs on the A14 Bionic chip, which was a powerhouse at the time of release. It’s still a capable processor, handling most tasks with ease, though it is showing its age.
- Winner: iphone 15 pro
Camera System
- iPhone 15 Pro: Boasts a more advanced camera system, likely including a new main sensor, improvements to computational photography, and potentially enhanced telephoto capabilities. Expect superior low-light performance and image quality.
- iPhone 12 Pro: Features a triple-camera system with excellent image quality for its generation. Delivers great photos and videos, but it lacks the latest advancements in sensor technology and computational photography.
- Winner: iphone 15 pro
Design and Build
- iPhone 15 Pro: May incorporate design changes and/or updated materials, such as a titanium frame for increased durability and a lighter feel. May also feature updated button configurations.
- iPhone 12 Pro: Features a stainless steel frame and a flat-edge design. It’s a premium-feeling phone, but the stainless steel is prone to scratches and fingerprints.
- Winner: iphone 15 pro
Battery Life
- iPhone 15 Pro: Expected to offer improved battery life due to the more efficient A17 Bionic chip and potential battery capacity enhancements.
- iPhone 12 Pro: Offers decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate usage, but it may require charging more frequently with heavy use.
- Winner: iphone 15 pro
Connectivity
- iPhone 15 Pro: Likely to include the latest connectivity standards, such as Wi-Fi 6E and potentially faster 5G capabilities.
- iPhone 12 Pro: Supports 5G, but it may not include the latest Wi-Fi standards.
- Winner: iphone 15 pro
Storage Options
- iPhone 15 Pro: Will likely offer a range of storage options, potentially starting at a higher base storage capacity.
- iPhone 12 Pro: Comes in various storage configurations.
- Winner: iphone 15 pro
Charging and Ports
- iPhone 15 Pro: May feature USB-C, offering faster charging speeds and improved compatibility with other devices.
- iPhone 12 Pro: Uses a Lightning port, which is slower compared to USB-C.
- Winner: iphone 15 pro
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 15 Pro |
| Camera | iPhone 15 Pro |
| Display | iPhone 15 Pro |
| Battery Life | iPhone 15 Pro (Slightly) |
| Design | iPhone 15 Pro |
| Value | iPhone 12 Pro |
| Connectivity | iPhone 15 Pro |
What They Have in Common
- Display Size: Both phones feature a 6.1-inch display, providing a similar viewing experience for users who prefer a more compact size. This size is a sweet spot for many.
- 5g Connectivity: Both the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro support 5G, ensuring fast data speeds and improved network performance where available. This allows for faster downloads and streaming.
- Ceramic Shield Front Cover: Both phones incorporate Ceramic Shield, offering enhanced drop performance compared to previous iPhone models. This improves durability.
- Water Resistance: Both models are rated IP68 for water resistance, offering protection against splashes and submersion in water up to a certain depth for a limited time. This adds peace of mind.
- Pro Camera System: Both phones feature a pro camera system with multiple lenses, allowing for versatile photography and video recording capabilities. Both are capable of exceptional photos.
iPhone 15 Pro Buying Guide
Performance & Processor
The iPhone 15 Pro features the cutting-edge A17 Bionic chip, offering significant performance gains compared to the A14 Bionic in the iPhone 12 Pro. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved graphics performance for gaming and video editing. The A17 Bionic also benefits from enhanced power efficiency, leading to longer battery life. For users prioritizing raw power and responsiveness, the iPhone 15 Pro holds a clear advantage.
The iPhone 12 Pro, while still capable, lags behind in this respect. Its A14 Bionic chip is a solid performer, but it struggles to keep pace with the demands of modern applications and resource-intensive tasks. This is further made obvious by the difference in Neural Engine performance, which will be felt in AI related features.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 15 Pro boasts a more advanced camera system, including a new main sensor with improved low-light performance and enhanced image stabilization. It also introduces features like ProRes video recording directly to external storage and improved computational photography capabilities. The 15 Pro’s telephoto lens often offers greater zoom range than the 12 Pro. This allows for more dynamic shots.
The iPhone 12 Pro, with its triple-camera setup, still delivers excellent image quality, but it doesn’t match the advancements of the 15 Pro. While it takes great pictures in good lighting conditions, its low-light performance is not as good. The 12 Pro’s zoom capabilities are also less impressive than the 15 Pro’s, limiting its versatility in certain shooting scenarios.
Display Technology
The iPhone 15 Pro features a brighter and more vibrant display, often incorporating technologies like ProMotion (adaptive refresh rates) for smoother scrolling and animations. This results in a more immersive and visually appealing experience. The 15 Pro also often has smaller bezels, contributing to a more modern look.
The iPhone 12 Pro’s display is still excellent, but it lacks the advanced features of the 15 Pro. The 12 Pro’s display doesn’t have the adaptive refresh rate of the 15 Pro. While the iPhone 12 Pro’s display is sharp and vibrant, it doesn’t have the same level of fluidity. This is a noticeable difference for users who appreciate the latest display technology.
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone 15 Pro often introduces a refreshed design with potentially a titanium frame, offering increased durability and a premium feel. The materials used in its construction are often more resistant to scratches and wear. The 15 Pro’s design often incorporates refinements that provide a more ergonomic and modern aesthetic. The iPhone 15 Pro’s overall feel is often more refined.
The iPhone 12 Pro, while still a premium device, features a design that is a few generations older. The materials used might not be as scratch-resistant or durable as those in the 15 Pro. The 12 Pro’s design, although classic, might feel less modern compared to the latest iPhone models. The 12 Pro’s design has aged but still is a premium design.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPhone 15 Pro often boasts improved battery life, allowing for extended usage throughout the day. The A17 Bionic chip contributes to this efficiency. The 15 Pro may also support faster charging speeds, reducing the time required to recharge the device. This is a significant advantage for users who rely on their phones for extended periods.
The iPhone 12 Pro’s battery life is adequate, but it may not keep pace with the demands of heavy usage. While it provides a full day’s worth of power for moderate users, it might require more frequent charging for power users. The 12 Pro’s charging speeds are also slower compared to the latest models.
Connectivity and Features
The iPhone 15 Pro often includes the latest connectivity standards, such as Wi-Fi 6E and potentially faster 5G speeds. This leads to faster data transfer rates and improved network performance. The 15 Pro also incorporates new features, such as the Dynamic Island and improved emergency features. These features are designed to enhance the overall user experience.
The iPhone 12 Pro supports older connectivity standards and lacks the latest features. It may not offer the same level of speed and efficiency. The 12 Pro’s feature set is still comprehensive, but it doesn’t include the same innovative elements. The 12 Pro is a capable phone, but it lacks some of the newer features of the 15 Pro.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 15 Pro If…
- You want the latest and greatest performance with the A17 Bionic chip.
- You prioritize the best possible camera system with enhanced features like improved telephoto and video capabilities.
- You want a more durable phone with a titanium design and USB-C connectivity.
- You want the newest features and software, including iOS 17.
Buy iPhone 12 Pro If…
- You are looking for a great phone at a more affordable price point.
- You don’t need the absolute latest performance and camera upgrades.
- You are satisfied with the performance of the A14 Bionic chip.
- You prefer the Lightning port and don’t mind the older design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest performance difference?
The largest performance difference lies in the A17 Bionic chip in the iPhone 15 Pro compared to the A14 Bionic in the iPhone 12 Pro. The A17 Bionic delivers faster processing speeds, improved graphics performance, and enhanced power efficiency. This leads to a noticeably smoother experience, especially when running demanding apps and games. The Neural Engine in the A17 also provides improved AI capabilities.
How much better is the camera on the iPhone 15 Pro?
The iPhone 15 Pro’s camera system is significantly improved over the iPhone 12 Pro. The 15 Pro features a new main sensor with enhanced low-light performance. It also offers advanced features such as ProRes video recording and improved computational photography. The telephoto lens also offers a better zoom range. This allows for more versatile shooting capabilities.
Does the iPhone 15 Pro have a better display?
Yes, the iPhone 15 Pro typically has a brighter and more advanced display. The 15 Pro often incorporates ProMotion technology (adaptive refresh rates) for smoother scrolling and animations. This leads to a more immersive and visually pleasing experience. The 15 Pro’s display often has smaller bezels, leading to a more modern look.
What are the design differences?
The iPhone 15 Pro often features a more refined design, potentially with a titanium frame, offering increased durability and a premium feel. The iPhone 15 Pro’s design incorporates refinements that provide a more ergonomic and modern aesthetic. The iPhone 12 Pro’s design is still premium, but the materials might not be as scratch-resistant as those in the 15 Pro.
Is the battery life better on the iPhone 15 Pro?
Yes, the iPhone 15 Pro generally has improved battery life due to its more efficient A17 Bionic chip. This allows for extended usage throughout the day. The 15 Pro also may support faster charging speeds. This can reduce the time required to recharge the device. This is a key advantage for users who rely on their phones heavily.
What connectivity features does the iPhone 15 Pro have that the iPhone 12 Pro lacks?
The iPhone 15 Pro often includes newer connectivity standards such as Wi-Fi 6E and potentially faster 5G speeds. These features lead to faster data transfer rates and improved network performance. The 15 Pro also incorporates new features and capabilities. This is something the 12 Pro lacks.
Is the iPhone 15 Pro worth the upgrade?
The iPhone 15 Pro is definitely worth the upgrade for users who prioritize performance, camera quality, and the latest features. The A17 Bionic chip, improved camera system, and advanced display offer a significantly enhanced experience compared to the iPhone 12 Pro. The upgrade is highly recommended for those looking for the best possible iPhone experience.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 15 Pro offers substantial improvements over the iPhone 12 Pro, including a more powerful processor, enhanced camera capabilities, and a superior display. While the iPhone 12 Pro remains a capable device, the 15 Pro provides a more modern and feature-rich experience. The improved battery life and design refinements further solidify its advantage.
Winner: iPhone 15 Pro