iPhone 12 Pro Max vs 11: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Struggling to decide between the iPhone 12 Pro Max and the iPhone 11? You’re not alone! Apple’s iPhone lineup can be confusing, especially when comparing models from different generations. This comparison will break down the key differences to help you make the perfect choice.
The iPhone 12 Pro Max, with its cutting-edge features, offers a significant upgrade over the iPhone 11. However, the iPhone 11 remains a compelling option, especially considering its price point and still-impressive capabilities. We’ll delve into the specs, performance, and overall user experience.
We’ll explore the design, display, camera systems, performance, and battery life of both phones. Our goal is to provide you with a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each device. By the end, you’ll know exactly which iPhone is the best fit for your needs and budget.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro Max | iPhone 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.7 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Resolution | 2778 x 1284 pixels | 1792 x 828 pixels |
| Processor | A14 Bionic chip | A13 Bionic chip |
| RAM | 6GB | 4GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP (wide, ultrawide, telephoto) | 12MP (wide, ultrawide) |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Video Recording | 4K Dolby Vision HDR | 4K |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | No |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| MagSafe | Yes | No |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with Ceramic Shield front cover. Offers a higher resolution and improved brightness compared to the 11. The larger size is great for media consumption but can be less pocketable.
- 11: 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display. While still a good quality display, it has a lower resolution and doesn’t offer the same level of brightness or HDR performance as the 12 Pro Max. The smaller size is more manageable for one-handed use.
- Winner: 12 Pro Max
Processor
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: A14 Bionic chip. Significantly faster and more efficient than the A13, leading to improved performance in apps, games, and overall responsiveness. Supports 5G connectivity.
- 11: A13 Bionic chip. Still a powerful chip, but it’s older technology. Offers very good performance for most tasks, but may show its age in graphically intensive apps compared to the 12 Pro Max.
- Winner: 12 Pro Max
Camera System
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: Triple 12MP camera system with advanced features like ProRAW, LiDAR scanner for improved low-light performance and autofocus, and better video recording capabilities. Provides superior image quality and versatility.
- 11: Dual 12MP camera system. Excellent camera for everyday use, but lacks the telephoto lens and advanced features of the 12 Pro Max, especially in low light conditions and for portrait mode.
- Winner: 12 Pro Max
Design and Build
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: Stainless steel frame, Ceramic Shield front cover, and flat-edge design. Offers a premium feel and increased durability. More modern and sleek appearance.
- 11: Aluminum frame and glass back. A good-looking phone with a comfortable design, but feels less premium compared to the 12 Pro Max. More rounded edges.
- Winner: 12 Pro Max
Battery Life
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: Offers excellent battery life, typically lasting a full day with heavy use. The larger size allows for a bigger battery.
- 11: Provides good battery life, but typically less than the 12 Pro Max, especially with demanding tasks.
- Winner: 12 Pro Max
5G Connectivity
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: Supports 5G connectivity, enabling faster download and upload speeds where available. Offers the latest in mobile technology.
- 11: Does not support 5G.
- Winner: 12 Pro Max
Storage Options
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: Available in larger storage options (up to 512GB), catering to users who need to store a lot of photos, videos, and apps.
- 11: Maximum storage of 256GB. May be insufficient for some users.
- Winner: 12 Pro Max
Price
- iPhone 12 Pro Max: Higher initial price point due to its advanced features and premium build.
- 11: Significantly more affordable, making it a better value option for budget-conscious consumers.
- Winner: 11
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display | iPhone 12 Pro Max |
| Performance | iPhone 12 Pro Max |
| Camera | iPhone 12 Pro Max |
| Battery Life | iPhone 12 Pro Max |
| Connectivity | iPhone 12 Pro Max |
| Value | iPhone 11 |
What They Have in Common
- Water Resistance: Both phones share an IP68 rating, offering protection against water submersion and dust.
- Wireless Charging: Both the iPhone 12 Pro Max and the iPhone 11 support wireless charging, providing convenient charging options.
- Front Camera: Both phones feature a 12MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.
- User Interface: Both phones run on iOS, offering the same user-friendly interface and access to the App Store.
- Video Recording: Both devices can record videos in 4K resolution, ensuring high-quality video capture.
iPhone 12 Pro Max vs iPhone 11 Buying Guide
Performance and Speed
The iPhone 12 Pro Max boasts the A14 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance leap over the iPhone 11’s A13 Bionic. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming experiences. The 12 Pro Max handles demanding tasks with greater ease, providing a noticeably snappier user interface. The 11 remains a capable device, but its processor is a generation behind, resulting in slightly slower processing speeds and graphics rendering, especially in resource-intensive applications.
Display Quality
The iPhone 12 Pro Max features a Super Retina XDR display, offering exceptional brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. It has a larger screen, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming. The iPhone 11 has a Liquid Retina HD display that still delivers a vibrant picture. However, it lacks the superior contrast and HDR capabilities of the 12 Pro Max’s display. The 12 Pro Max offers a more immersive viewing experience due to the improved display technology.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 12 Pro Max excels in camera performance with its advanced triple-lens system, including a LiDAR scanner for improved low-light photography and augmented reality experiences. It captures stunning photos and videos, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The iPhone 11 also has a great camera system, offering excellent image quality in good lighting. However, it lacks the 12 Pro Max’s advanced features, such as Night mode on all lenses and the ability to record 4K Dolby Vision HDR video.
Design and Build
The iPhone 12 Pro Max features a more modern design with flat edges and a Ceramic Shield front cover for increased durability. It also has a stainless steel frame, giving it a premium feel. The iPhone 11 has a more rounded design with an aluminum frame. While the iPhone 11 is still well-built, the 12 Pro Max offers a more refined and robust design. Both phones are IP68 water-resistant but the 12 Pro Max has superior drop resistance.
Battery Life
The iPhone 12 Pro Max generally offers slightly improved battery life compared to the iPhone 11, particularly with heavier usage. The 12 Pro Max’s larger battery coupled with the more efficient A14 Bionic chip allows for extended use throughout the day. The iPhone 11 still provides solid battery performance, but the 12 Pro Max has a slight edge in terms of overall endurance. Actual battery life will vary based on usage patterns and settings.
Price and Value
The iPhone 12 Pro Max, being the newer model, typically comes with a higher price tag. Considering the advanced features, improved performance, and overall design upgrades, the 12 Pro Max offers excellent value for those seeking the latest technology. The iPhone 11, being a generation older, is often available at a more affordable price point. Its still a great device, offering a strong balance of performance and features at a lower cost, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 12 Pro Max If…
- You want the largest display and best battery life.
- You want the most advanced camera system with a telephoto lens and enhanced video capabilities.
- You want 5G connectivity for faster data speeds.
- You want the latest features like MagSafe.
Buy iPhone 11 If…
- You want a still-capable iPhone without spending as much money.
- You prioritize value for money and don’t need the absolute latest features.
- You don’t need 5G connectivity.
- You prefer a phone with a slightly smaller form factor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in performance?
The iPhone 12 Pro Max, powered by the A14 Bionic chip, delivers significantly faster performance compared to the iPhone 11’s A13 Bionic. This results in quicker app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming experiences. The A14 Bionic provides a noticeable boost in overall responsiveness and power efficiency. The 11 remains capable, but the 12 Pro Max handles demanding tasks with greater ease.
How does the camera compare between the two phones?
The iPhone 12 Pro Max boasts a more advanced camera system with a triple-lens setup, including a LiDAR scanner. This allows for superior low-light performance, improved image stabilization, and enhanced augmented reality capabilities. The iPhone 11 has a great camera but lacks the 12 Pro Max’s advanced features. The 12 Pro Max offers better quality in photos and videos, especially in low light conditions.
Which phone has a better display?
The iPhone 12 Pro Max features a Super Retina XDR display, providing exceptional brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. It offers a more immersive viewing experience, especially when watching HDR content. The iPhone 11 has a Liquid Retina HD display, which is good, but does not match the 12 Pro Max’s display quality. The 12 Pro Max’s screen is also larger.
What are the design differences?
The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a modern design with flat edges and a Ceramic Shield front cover for enhanced durability. It features a stainless steel frame, providing a more premium feel. The iPhone 11 has a more rounded design with an aluminum frame. The 12 Pro Max provides a more refined and robust design. Both devices have IP68 water resistance.
How does battery life compare?
The iPhone 12 Pro Max generally offers slightly better battery life, especially with heavier usage, due to its larger battery and more efficient A14 Bionic chip. The iPhone 11 still provides solid battery performance, but the 12 Pro Max provides extended usage throughout the day. Actual battery life depends on the individual’s usage habits.
Is the iPhone 12 Pro Max worth the price difference?
The iPhone 12 Pro Max, with its advanced features and improved performance, comes at a higher price. Whether it’s worth the difference depends on your budget and needs. If you prioritize the best camera, display, and performance, the 12 Pro Max is a good value. If you want a more affordable iPhone, the 11 is still a great option, offering a strong balance of features.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The iPhone 12 Pro Max is better for gaming. Its A14 Bionic chip provides significantly better graphics performance and faster processing speeds, making games run more smoothly and with higher frame rates. The display quality also enhances the gaming experience due to its superior brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. The iPhone 11 is still capable, but not as good.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 12 Pro Max offers superior performance, a more advanced camera system, and a more refined design compared to the iPhone 11. While the iPhone 11 remains a capable device at a lower price, the iPhone 12 Pro Max delivers a more premium experience overall, justifying its higher cost for those prioritizing the best features and performance. The 12 Pro Max’s display and camera are significant upgrades.
Winner: iPhone 12 Pro Max