iPhone 12 Pro vs 14: Which iPhone Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new iPhone can be a tough decision, especially when comparing models from different generations. Are you wondering if upgrading from an iPhone 12 Pro to the newer iPhone 14 is worth it? This comparison dives deep into the key differences and similarities to help you make the best choice for your needs and budget.
The iPhone 12 Pro, a powerhouse from its time, still holds its own against the latest iterations. The iPhone 14, on the other hand, boasts several upgrades and improvements. We’ll explore everything from camera capabilities and performance to battery life and design.
This in-depth analysis of the iPhone 12 Pro vs 14 will cover all the crucial aspects. We’ll examine the strengths and weaknesses of each device, providing a clear picture of which iPhone offers the best value and features for you. Get ready to discover which phone comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.1-inch |
| Processor | A14 Bionic | A15 Bionic |
| Main Camera | 12MP Triple-lens | 12MP Dual-lens |
| RAM | 6GB | 6GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Video Recording | 4K Dolby Vision HDR | 4K Dolby Vision HDR |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| MagSafe | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Weight | 228 grams | 172 grams |
| Display Technology | Super Retina XDR | Super Retina XDR |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 12 Pro: Features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels. Offers excellent color accuracy and brightness. However, it lacks the ProMotion technology for adaptive refresh rates.
- 14: Boasts a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with the same resolution as the 12 Pro. Offers improved peak brightness for better visibility in sunlight. Still lacks ProMotion, which is a key differentiator in the Pro models.
- Winner: 14
Processor
- iPhone 12 Pro: Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, offering impressive performance for its time. Handles everyday tasks and demanding apps efficiently. However, it’s now two generations behind the latest chips.
- 14: Equipped with the A15 Bionic chip, providing a noticeable performance boost over the 12 Pro, especially in graphics-intensive tasks. Offers improved efficiency and faster processing speeds.
- Winner: 14
Camera System
- iPhone 12 Pro: Features a triple 12MP camera system with wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses. Delivers excellent image quality with good low-light performance and supports ProRes video recording.
- 14: Maintains a dual 12MP camera system with improved image processing thanks to the A15 Bionic chip. Offers enhanced low-light performance and cinematic mode for video recording, though it lacks a telephoto lens.
- Winner: 12 Pro
Battery Life
- iPhone 12 Pro: Provides decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. Can struggle with heavy usage, especially with 5G enabled.
- 14: Offers improved battery life compared to the 12 Pro, allowing for longer usage times. Optimized for efficiency with the A15 Bionic chip.
- Winner: 14
Design
- iPhone 12 Pro: Features a premium design with a stainless steel frame and Ceramic Shield front cover. Offers a sleek and durable build.
- 14: Maintains a similar design aesthetic with a flat-edged aluminum frame and Ceramic Shield front cover. Offers a robust and modern look.
- Winner: Tie
5G Connectivity
- iPhone 12 Pro: Supports 5G connectivity, enabling faster download and upload speeds in areas with 5G coverage. Performance is dependent on network availability.
- 14: Also supports 5G connectivity, providing a similar experience to the 12 Pro. Offers slightly improved 5G performance due to modem updates.
- Winner: Tie
Storage Options
- iPhone 12 Pro: Available in storage options up to 512GB. Offers ample space for storing photos, videos, and other files.
- 14: Available with storage options up to 512GB. Offers the same storage capacity, ensuring users have sufficient space for their needs.
- Winner: Tie
Price & Availability
- iPhone 12 Pro: No longer available from Apple directly, but can be found used or refurbished. Pricing varies.
- 14: Readily available from Apple and other retailers. Prices vary depending on storage and promotions.
- Winner: 14
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | 14 |
| Camera (Overall) | 14 |
| Design | iPhone 12 Pro |
| Value | iPhone 12 Pro |
| Battery Life | 14 |
What They Have in Common
- Display Size: Both phones share the same 6.1-inch display size, providing a consistent viewing experience for users. This makes transitioning between the two devices familiar.
- 5g Connectivity: Both the iPhone 12 Pro and the iPhone 14 support 5G, ensuring fast data speeds and improved connectivity in areas with 5G coverage. This allows for quicker downloads and smoother streaming.
- Magsafe: Both models are compatible with MagSafe accessories, allowing for convenient charging and the attachment of various accessories like wallets and cases. This enhances the user experience.
- Water Resistance: Both phones boast an IP68 water resistance rating, which means they can withstand splashes, rain, and even submersion in water for a certain period. This adds durability.
- Super Retina Xdr Display: Both phones utilize Apple’s Super Retina XDR display technology, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast for an immersive visual experience.
iPhone 12 Pro vs iPhone 14 Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The iPhone 14 features the A15 Bionic chip, an upgrade from the A14 Bionic found in the iPhone 12 Pro. While both chips are incredibly powerful, the A15 in the iPhone 14 boasts a slightly improved GPU for enhanced graphics performance and better efficiency. This translates to smoother gameplay, faster app loading times, and improved overall responsiveness. The difference may not be immediately noticeable in everyday tasks, but it’s present during intensive operations like video editing or gaming. Consider your usage habits when evaluating the importance of this performance bump.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 14’s camera system, although retaining the same megapixel count in the main camera, sees significant advancements through software and image processing. The Photonic Engine enhances low-light performance, leading to brighter and more detailed photos in challenging conditions. The video recording capabilities are also improved. The iPhone 12 Pro still offers a versatile triple-camera system, including a telephoto lens, which can capture stunning images. Consider what type of photography you most enjoy as the determining factor.
Display and Design
Both phones share a similar design language, featuring flat edges and a durable build. The iPhone 14 maintains the familiar 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. The display quality on both devices is excellent, with vibrant colors and sharp details. The iPhone 12 Pro offers a stainless steel frame compared to the aluminum frame of the iPhone 14. The notch design is present in both, with the iPhone 14 retaining the same design. Ultimately, the visual experience is great across both generations.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPhone 14 generally offers improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Pro, allowing for longer usage between charges. Apple has optimized the internal components, and the A15 Bionic chip is more efficient. Both support fast charging, allowing for quick replenishment of the battery. Wireless charging is also supported. Heavy users will appreciate the extended battery life of the iPhone 14, while the 12 Pro still provides a decent day’s worth of use for moderate users.
Storage and Price Considerations
Both phones are available in various storage configurations. When purchasing, consider your storage needs. Prices vary depending on the storage and the specific retailer. The iPhone 14, being the newer model, typically comes with a higher price tag. However, the iPhone 12 Pro can often be found at a reduced price, making it a more budget-friendly option. Consider your budget and how much storage you require when making your decision.
Connectivity and Features
Both phones support 5G connectivity for fast data speeds. The iPhone 14 introduces some new safety features, such as Emergency SOS via satellite, a feature not available on the iPhone 12 Pro. The iPhone 14 also offers updated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. Both phones have Face ID for secure authentication. Consider what features are important to you.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 12 Pro If…
- You want a phone with a telephoto lens for optical zoom capabilities.
- You prefer a more premium design with stainless steel edges.
- You can find a good deal on a used or refurbished model.
- You prioritize having a slightly heavier and more robust build.
Buy 14 If…
- You want a newer processor for improved performance and efficiency.
- You value a slightly lighter phone.
- You prioritize enhanced camera features like the Photonic Engine.
- You prefer the latest iOS features and software support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in performance?
The iPhone 14 features the A15 Bionic chip, offering a slight performance advantage over the A14 Bionic in the 12 Pro. The A15 has an improved GPU for better graphics. The difference is most noticeable during intensive tasks like gaming or video editing, although both phones are quick for everyday use. The iPhone 14 is generally a bit more responsive overall, but it will not drastically change your experience.
How does the camera compare between the two phones?
The iPhone 14’s camera benefits from software and image processing improvements, including the Photonic Engine for better low-light performance. The iPhone 12 Pro has a versatile triple-camera system, including a telephoto lens. The iPhone 14 takes slightly better photos in low light, and has improved video capabilities, but both take excellent photos. Consider what you need from the camera.
Is the display significantly different?
No, the display quality is very similar. Both phones have a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with vibrant colors and sharp details. Both phones have the notch at the top of the screen. The viewing experience is excellent on both devices, with no significant differences in brightness or overall quality. There are few differences here to impact the user experience.
What about battery life?
The iPhone 14 generally offers improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Pro. Apple has optimized the internal components, and the A15 Bionic chip is more efficient. The iPhone 14 can last longer on a single charge. However, both phones support fast charging and wireless charging. Heavy users will appreciate the extended battery life of the iPhone 14.
Which phone is more expensive?
The iPhone 14, being the newer model, typically has a higher price tag. However, the iPhone 12 Pro can often be found at a reduced price, making it a more budget-friendly option. Prices vary depending on the storage configuration and retailer. Consider your budget when making your purchase decision, as price can be a key factor for many buyers.
What new features does the iPhone 14 have?
The iPhone 14 introduces Emergency SOS via satellite, offering a crucial safety feature for off-the-grid situations. The iPhone 14 also has updated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. While both phones support 5G, the iPhone 14 has some of the newest features. These features are not available on the iPhone 12 Pro. Consider your usage needs when evaluating the new features.
Which phone is better for everyday use?
Both phones are excellent for everyday use. The iPhone 14 has slightly better performance and battery life. The iPhone 12 Pro still provides a great user experience with a very similar display. The choice depends on your priorities, such as camera performance, battery life, and budget. Both phones are capable of handling daily tasks with ease.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 14 provides enhanced performance, improved camera capabilities, and a longer battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Pro. While both phones offer excellent user experiences, the iPhone 14’s advancements, particularly in low-light photography and battery efficiency, make it the superior choice. The 12 Pro remains a strong contender, offering great features at a potentially lower price.
Winner: iPhone 14