iPhone 11 Pro vs iPhone 12: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Stuck between two amazing iPhones? You’re not alone! The iPhone 11 Pro and the iPhone 12 both offer premium features and performance, but they cater to different needs and budgets. Choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, so let’s dive in and find out which phone is the perfect fit for you.
Released just a year apart, these two phones share some similarities but also boast significant differences. The iPhone 12 brought some exciting new features to the table, while the iPhone 11 Pro still holds its own as a powerful and capable device. We’ll explore everything from design and display to camera and performance.
This in-depth comparison of the iPhone 11 Pro vs iPhone 12 will break down the key aspects of each phone. We’ll examine their strengths and weaknesses, helping you make an informed decision. Whether you’re upgrading or buying your first iPhone, this guide will provide the insights you need.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 11 Pro | iPhone 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5.8-inch | 6.1-inch |
| Display Technology | Super Retina XDR | Super Retina XDR |
| Processor | A13 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB |
| Base Storage | 64GB | 64GB |
| Main Camera | Triple 12MP | Dual 12MP |
| Video Recording | 4K up to 60 fps | 4K up to 60 fps |
| 5G Connectivity | No | Yes |
| Design | Stainless Steel Frame | Aluminum Frame |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| MagSafe | No | Yes |
| Night Mode | Yes | Yes (Improved) |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design
- iPhone 11 Pro: Features a stainless steel frame and a matte glass back. It has a rounded design and a prominent camera bump. Pros include a premium feel; cons include a slightly dated design compared to newer models.
- iPhone 12: Boasts a flat-edge design with an aerospace-grade aluminum frame and a Ceramic Shield front cover. It’s more squared-off and modern-looking. Pros include a more contemporary aesthetic and improved durability; cons include potential comfort differences for some users.
- Winner: iphone 12
Display
- iPhone 11 Pro: Equipped with a 5.8-inch Super Retina XDR display (OLED). Offers excellent color accuracy and brightness. Pros include a vibrant and sharp display; cons include the lack of ProMotion (high refresh rate).
- iPhone 12: Features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display (OLED). Offers similar quality to the 11 Pro but with a larger screen. Pros include a larger viewing area; cons include no ProMotion.
- Winner: iphone 12
Processor
- iPhone 11 Pro: Powered by the A13 Bionic chip. It is still a very capable processor for everyday tasks and gaming. Pros include fast performance; cons include being one generation older.
- iPhone 12: Runs on the A14 Bionic chip. Offers a noticeable performance boost over the A13. Pros include faster performance for demanding tasks; cons include a marginal difference in everyday usage.
- Winner: iphone 12
Camera System
- iPhone 11 Pro: Features a triple 12MP camera system with ultra-wide, wide, and telephoto lenses. Offers excellent image quality, especially in low light. Pros include versatile photography options; cons include slightly older camera technology.
- iPhone 12: Has a dual 12MP camera system with ultra-wide and wide lenses. Improves low-light performance with Night mode on all cameras. Pros include improved low-light performance; cons include the lack of a telephoto lens.
- Winner: iphone 12
5G Connectivity
- iPhone 11 Pro: Does not support 5G connectivity. Relies on 4G LTE. Pros include a reliable connection; cons include the lack of access to the faster speeds of 5G.
- iPhone 12: Supports 5G connectivity. Offers faster download and upload speeds where available. Pros include future-proofing and faster data transfer; cons include the availability of 5G networks.
- Winner: iphone 12
Battery Life
- iPhone 11 Pro: Offers good battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. Pros include reliable battery performance; cons include not being the longest-lasting iPhone.
- iPhone 12: Battery life is similar to the 11 Pro. Performance depends on 5G usage, which can drain the battery faster. Pros include decent battery life; cons include potential battery drain with 5G enabled.
- Winner: iphone 11 pro
MagSafe
- iPhone 11 Pro: Does not feature MagSafe technology. Relies on wireless charging through Qi-compatible chargers. Pros include standard wireless charging; cons include no magnetic attachment.
- iPhone 12: Includes MagSafe, a magnetic system for attaching accessories like chargers and wallets. Pros include convenient accessory attachment and faster wireless charging; cons include limited accessory availability.
- Winner: iphone 12
Price
- iPhone 11 Pro: Generally available at a lower price point, especially used or refurbished. Pros include a more budget-friendly option; cons include the age of the device.
- iPhone 12: Typically more expensive than the iPhone 11 Pro. The price will vary depending on the condition. Pros include a newer device with more features; cons include a higher initial cost.
- Winner: iphone 11 pro
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 12 |
| Display | iPhone 12 |
| Camera | iPhone 11 Pro |
| 5G Connectivity | iPhone 12 |
| Design | Tie |
| Value | iPhone 11 Pro |
What They Have in Common
- Display Technology: Both phones feature Super Retina XDR displays, providing vibrant colors and excellent clarity.
- Water Resistance: Both the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 12 are rated IP68 for water resistance, offering protection against splashes and submersion.
- Night Mode: Both phones include Night Mode for improved low-light photography, allowing you to capture better images in dark environments.
- iOS: Both phones run on the iOS operating system, providing a consistent and user-friendly experience.
- Fast Charging: Both devices support fast charging, allowing you to quickly replenish the battery with a compatible charger.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones are compatible with wireless charging, offering a convenient way to power up your device.
iPhone 11 Pro Vs iPhone 12 Buying Guide
Design and Display
The iPhone 11 Pro features a stainless steel frame and a matte glass back, conveying a premium feel. It has a smaller notch compared to some newer models. The iPhone 12 boasts a flat-edge design with aerospace-grade aluminum and a Ceramic Shield front cover, offering increased durability. The display on the iPhone 12 also features a slightly larger screen. Both phones offer excellent displays, but the iPhone 12’s design is more modern and the screen is more durable.
Performance
The iPhone 11 Pro uses the A13 Bionic chip, which is still a powerful processor capable of handling demanding tasks and games. The iPhone 12, however, is equipped with the A14 Bionic chip, providing a significant performance boost. This results in faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved efficiency. The A14 Bionic also supports faster 5G connectivity. The iPhone 12 excels in overall performance.
Camera Capabilities
Both phones have excellent camera systems. The iPhone 11 Pro features a triple-camera system with impressive photo and video quality, including Night mode. The iPhone 12 also has a triple-camera system with improved low-light performance, thanks to its larger sensor. The iPhone 12 also incorporates Smart HDR 3. The iPhone 12’s camera system offers some enhancements, but both phones deliver outstanding photographic results.
Battery Life
The iPhone 11 Pro has good battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate to heavy use. The iPhone 12, due to its more efficient A14 Bionic chip, also offers excellent battery life. However, the exact battery performance can vary based on usage patterns. Both phones offer respectable battery life, but the iPhone 12 might provide slightly better efficiency due to its advanced chip. Consider your typical usage when choosing.
5G Connectivity
The iPhone 11 Pro does not support 5G connectivity. This limits its ability to take advantage of the faster download and upload speeds offered by 5G networks. The iPhone 12, on the other hand, is 5G-enabled. This allows users to experience significantly faster data speeds where 5G networks are available. If 5G connectivity is a priority, the iPhone 12 is the clear choice.
Pricing and Value
The iPhone 11 Pro is generally available at a lower price point than the iPhone 12, especially when considering pre-owned or refurbished options. The iPhone 12 is newer and offers more advanced features, so its higher price is justified. The best value depends on individual needs. If you prioritize the latest features and 5G, the iPhone 12 is worth the investment. If you are on a budget and don’t need 5G, the iPhone 11 Pro offers great value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 11 Pro If…
- You prefer a smaller form factor.
- You want a triple-camera system.
- You find the iPhone 12’s design less appealing.
- You are looking for a slightly more affordable option.
Buy iPhone 12 If…
- You want the latest processor for improved performance.
- You desire 5G connectivity for faster data speeds.
- You prefer a larger display.
- You want the convenience of MagSafe accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in design?
The iPhone 11 Pro features a stainless steel frame with a matte glass back and a more rounded design. The iPhone 12, with its flat edges, utilizes aerospace-grade aluminum and a Ceramic Shield front cover. The iPhone 12 also offers a slightly larger display and a more modern aesthetic. These design choices contribute to both phones’ unique feel.
Which phone has a better processor?
The iPhone 12 boasts the A14 Bionic chip, which offers a performance advantage over the A13 Bionic chip in the iPhone 11 Pro. This results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved overall efficiency. The A14 Bionic also enables enhanced features and improved battery management.
Does the iPhone 11 Pro support 5G?
No, the iPhone 11 Pro does not support 5G connectivity. It is limited to 4G LTE. The iPhone 12, however, is 5G-enabled, allowing for significantly faster data speeds where 5G networks are available. This is a critical factor for users prioritizing high-speed mobile internet.
How do the cameras compare?
Both phones have excellent triple-camera systems. The iPhone 12 features enhancements like improved low-light performance and Smart HDR 3, which offer some improvements over the iPhone 11 Pro. Both phones deliver outstanding photo and video quality, but the iPhone 12 has a slight edge in certain areas.
What about battery life?
Both phones offer good battery life. The iPhone 11 Pro provides a full day of use for many users. The iPhone 12’s A14 Bionic chip contributes to improved power efficiency, potentially providing slightly better battery life in some scenarios. Actual battery life varies based on usage patterns.
Which phone is more expensive?
The iPhone 12 is generally more expensive than the iPhone 11 Pro, especially when considering the initial retail price. However, the price difference might be smaller when considering pre-owned or refurbished options. The price reflects the iPhone 12’s newer features and 5G capabilities.
Which phone is better overall?
The iPhone 12 is generally considered the better phone due to its superior performance, design, and 5G connectivity. However, the iPhone 11 Pro remains a capable device, especially if budget is a major concern. The iPhone 12 offers a more future-proof experience.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 12 edges out the iPhone 11 Pro in key areas, including performance, 5G connectivity, and design. While the iPhone 11 Pro remains a strong contender, the iPhone 12’s enhancements make it the superior choice for most users, particularly those seeking the latest technology and features. Both phones offer excellent camera systems and overall performance.
Winner: iPhone 12