iPhone 12 vs Pro: Which iPhone Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new iPhone can be tough, especially when you’re caught between two tempting options. The iPhone 12 and the iPhone 12 Pro both offer cutting-edge features and the sleek design Apple is known for, but which one is the right fit for you?
This in-depth comparison will break down the key differences between the iPhone 12 and its Pro counterpart, helping you make an informed decision. We’ll delve into the nuances of their displays, cameras, performance, and battery life.
Whether you’re a casual user or a mobile photography enthusiast, understanding these distinctions is crucial. Get ready to explore the exciting world of the iPhone 12 series and discover which model deserves a place in your pocket!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPhone 12 | Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.1-inch |
| Display Technology | Super Retina XDR | Super Retina XDR |
| Processor | A14 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| Main Camera | Dual 12MP | Triple 12MP |
| Telephoto Lens | No | Yes |
| Video Recording | 4K Dolby Vision HDR | 4K Dolby Vision HDR |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB |
| Storage Options | 64/128/256GB | 128/256/512GB |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Material | Aluminum & Glass | Stainless Steel & Glass |
| ProRes Video Recording | No | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 12: Features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. It offers vibrant colors and excellent brightness, making it great for everyday use. However, it lacks some of the advanced features of the Pro model’s display.
- Pro: Boasts a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion. This means a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations. Also offers higher peak brightness and more advanced color accuracy.
- Winner: Pro
Processor
- iPhone 12: Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, which provides fast and efficient performance for most tasks. It handles gaming and multitasking well.
- Pro: Also uses the A14 Bionic chip, offering identical core performance to the iPhone 12. However, the Pro models often have slightly better thermal management due to their design.
- Winner: Tie
Camera System
- iPhone 12: Includes a dual-camera system with wide and ultrawide lenses. Delivers excellent photos and videos in various lighting conditions. Lacks the telephoto lens and some advanced features of the Pro.
- Pro: Features a triple-camera system with wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses. Offers greater versatility with optical zoom and improved low-light performance. Includes features like ProRAW for more editing flexibility.
- Winner: Pro
Design and Build Quality
- iPhone 12: Features a sleek aluminum frame and a durable Ceramic Shield front cover. Offers a premium feel and comes in various colors.
- Pro: Has a stainless steel frame and a Ceramic Shield front cover. Provides a more premium and robust feel compared to the aluminum iPhone 12.
- Winner: Pro
Storage Options
- iPhone 12: Offers storage options up to 256GB. Suitable for most users, but might be limiting for those who store lots of photos and videos.
- Pro: Available with storage options up to 512GB or even 1TB. Provides more space for storing large files and media.
- Winner: Pro
Battery Life
- iPhone 12: Provides good battery life, lasting a full day with moderate usage. However, the Pro models often have slightly better optimization.
- Pro: Offers slightly improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12, especially during video playback and other intensive tasks.
- Winner: Pro
Video Recording Capabilities
- iPhone 12: Can record 4K video at up to 60fps, offering excellent quality. Lacks some of the Pro’s advanced video features.
- Pro: Records 4K video at up to 60fps with additional features such as ProRes video recording (available on higher storage models), offering more professional-level video capabilities.
- Winner: Pro
Price
- iPhone 12: Generally more affordable than the Pro model, making it a good value for its features.
- Pro: Comes with a higher price tag due to its more advanced features and build materials.
- Winner: iphone 12
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Value | iPhone 12 |
| Camera Versatility | Pro |
| Performance | Tie |
| Design & Build | Pro |
| Storage Options | Pro |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Technology: Both phones feature Super Retina XDR displays, providing vibrant colors and excellent contrast for an immersive viewing experience.
- Processor: The A14 Bionic chip powers both the iPhone 12 and Pro models, delivering exceptional performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and demanding applications.
- 5g Connectivity: Both phones are 5G enabled, offering faster download and upload speeds, along with lower latency for a seamless online experience.
- Water Resistance: Both models boast an IP68 rating for water resistance, offering protection against splashes and submersion in water up to a certain depth.
- Display Size: Both phones have the same 6.1-inch display size which provides a balance of usability and screen real estate.
iPhone 12 vs Pro Buying Guide
Performance Showdown
The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro both boast Apple’s A14 Bionic chip, ensuring swift performance across the board. However, the iPhone 12 Pro features 6GB of RAM, offering a slight edge in multitasking compared to the iPhone 12’s 4GB. This translates to smoother operation when switching between apps or handling demanding tasks like video editing. While both phones are exceptionally fast, the Pro’s RAM can provide a more responsive experience, particularly for power users who frequently engage in heavy-duty applications or intensive gaming sessions. The difference is subtle in everyday use but noticeable during intense workloads.
Camera Capabilities
Camera is a significant differentiator. The iPhone 12 offers a dual-camera system with wide and ultrawide lenses. The iPhone 12 Pro steps up with a triple-camera system, adding a telephoto lens for optical zoom and improved portrait mode capabilities. The Pro also incorporates a LiDAR scanner, enhancing autofocus in low-light conditions and enabling advanced augmented reality experiences. Furthermore, the Pro captures ProRAW photos, offering more editing flexibility. The Pro’s camera system provides superior versatility and image quality for photography enthusiasts.
Display and Design
Both phones share the same stunning Super Retina XDR display, delivering vibrant colors and excellent clarity. The design language is nearly identical, featuring a flat-edge design and durable Ceramic Shield front cover. However, the iPhone 12 Pro uses premium stainless steel for its frame, giving it a more luxurious feel compared to the iPhone 12’s aluminum frame. The Pro also boasts a slightly higher weight. Both are aesthetically pleasing, but the Pro’s materials contribute to a more premium feel and increased durability.
Battery Life Comparison
In terms of battery life, the differences between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro are marginal in real-world usage. Both devices provide all-day battery performance for typical usage scenarios, including web browsing, social media, and video streaming. The A14 Bionic chip’s efficiency contributes to this. However, the exact battery life can vary based on individual usage patterns and settings. Heavy users may find themselves reaching for a charger by the end of the day, regardless of which model they choose. Overall, both offer a good battery experience.
Storage Options
The iPhone 12 offers storage options starting at 64GB, with upgrades to 128GB and 256GB. The iPhone 12 Pro begins at 128GB, with options for 256GB and 512GB. This means the Pro provides more base storage, catering to users who require ample space for photos, videos, and large files. The availability of a 512GB option on the Pro is particularly advantageous for professionals or users who store a vast amount of content directly on their devices. Consider your storage needs when deciding between the two models.
Price and Value
The iPhone 12 is the more affordable option, making it an excellent value for users who prioritize performance and features without needing the Pro’s advanced capabilities. The iPhone 12 Pro commands a higher price, reflecting its superior camera system, premium build, and additional features. The decision depends on your budget and what you value most. If you’re a casual user, the iPhone 12 provides an outstanding experience at a more accessible price point. For professional photographers or those who demand the best, the Pro justifies its premium cost.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 12 If…
- You want a powerful iPhone without spending the extra money for Pro features.
- You prefer a lighter and more colorful design.
- You are satisfied with dual-camera system and don’t need a telephoto lens.
- You want a great overall iPhone experience at a more accessible price point.
Buy Pro If…
- You are a photography enthusiast and want the versatility of a triple-camera system, including a telephoto lens.
- You need the extra RAM for more demanding tasks and multitasking.
- You want the premium build quality of stainless steel.
- You want the added features like ProRes video recording.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in camera quality?
The iPhone 12 Pro excels with its triple-camera system, adding a telephoto lens and LiDAR scanner. This allows for optical zoom, improved portrait mode, and enhanced low-light performance. The Pro also captures ProRAW photos for advanced editing. The iPhone 12 offers a great dual-camera system, but the Pro provides greater versatility and image quality, especially for professional-grade photography and videography. The difference is most notable in zoom capabilities and low-light environments.
Does the Pro’s LiDAR scanner make a big difference?
Yes, the LiDAR scanner significantly improves autofocus speed, particularly in low-light situations. It also enhances augmented reality experiences, allowing for more accurate and immersive interactions. The LiDAR scanner helps create more realistic depth maps, which benefits features like Portrait mode and AR applications. While not essential for all users, it is a valuable addition for those interested in photography, videography, and AR applications, improving their overall experience.
Is the Pro’s stainless steel frame worth the upgrade?
The stainless steel frame on the iPhone 12 Pro offers a more premium feel and enhanced durability compared to the iPhone 12’s aluminum frame. It’s more resistant to scratches and dents, contributing to a more luxurious aesthetic. While both phones are well-built, the Pro’s build quality makes it feel more substantial. It’s a matter of personal preference, but the stainless steel contributes to a more high-end experience, particularly for those who appreciate premium materials.
How much better is the Pro’s display?
The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro share the same Super Retina XDR display, meaning the visual experience is identical in terms of color accuracy, brightness, and sharpness. Both offer excellent display quality. The Pro’s advantage lies in its camera capabilities, build materials and extra features like LiDAR, not the display itself. The display quality is outstanding on both models, providing a vibrant and immersive viewing experience.
Which phone has better battery life?
Battery life is comparable between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro. Both phones are designed to offer all-day battery life for typical usage scenarios. Individual battery performance can vary based on usage habits, such as the amount of video streaming or gaming. There isn’t a significant difference in battery endurance between the two. Both offer similar battery experiences, allowing you to use your phone throughout the day.
What storage options are available?
The iPhone 12 starts with 64GB, and also offers 128GB and 256GB options. The iPhone 12 Pro starts with 128GB, and also offers 256GB and 512GB options. The Pro offers more base storage and a larger maximum storage capacity. Consider your storage needs carefully, as photos, videos, and large files can quickly fill up your device. Choose the storage capacity that best suits your requirements.
Which phone should I choose?
The iPhone 12 is ideal for users seeking excellent performance, a great camera, and a more affordable price. The iPhone 12 Pro is best for those who prioritize a superior camera system, premium build materials, and advanced features like the LiDAR scanner, and who don’t mind spending more for these capabilities. Consider your budget and priorities to make the right choice.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro both offer exceptional performance and features. The iPhone 12 Pro stands out with its superior camera system, telephoto lens, and LiDAR scanner, providing enhanced photography capabilities and a more premium build. While the iPhone 12 offers excellent value, the Pro delivers a more refined experience for photography enthusiasts and power users. Both are great, but the Pro offers more.
Winner: iPhone 12 Pro