iPhone 12 Pro vs iPhone 13 Comparison: Which Should You Buy?
Struggling to decide between Apple’s powerhouses? You’re not alone. The iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 both boast impressive features, but which one truly reigns supreme? This in-depth comparison will break down everything you need to know to make the best decision for your needs and budget.
We’ll delve into the core differences, from camera capabilities to processing power and battery life. The iPhone 13 offers several upgrades over its predecessor, the iPhone 12 Pro, but is it worth the extra cost? We’ll explore the nuances of each device to help you find the perfect fit.
Get ready to discover the key distinctions between these two popular iPhones. We’ll examine the design, performance, and overall user experience to provide a comprehensive understanding of each phone’s strengths and weaknesses. By the end of this comparison, you’ll be equipped to choose the iPhone that best suits your lifestyle.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 13 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.1-inch |
| Processor | A14 Bionic | A15 Bionic |
| Main Camera | 12MP Triple-lens | 12MP Dual-lens |
| Ultra Wide Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Telephoto Camera | 12MP | N/A |
| Video Recording | 4K Dolby Vision HDR | 4K Dolby Vision HDR |
| RAM | 6GB | 4GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| MagSafe | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 228 grams | 174 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design
- iPhone 12 Pro: Features a stainless steel frame and a flat-edge design, offering a premium feel. It has a Ceramic Shield front cover for increased durability. However, the design is now a generation old.
- iPhone 13: Maintains the flat-edge design but offers a slightly refined aesthetic with a repositioned camera layout. It retains the Ceramic Shield front cover. While similar, it’s the newer design.
- Winner: iPhone 13
Display
- iPhone 12 Pro: Equipped with a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion (adaptive refresh rate). It delivers excellent color accuracy and brightness. The absence of ProMotion is a drawback.
- iPhone 13: Features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, with ProMotion technology (adaptive refresh rate). This results in smoother scrolling and improved responsiveness.
- Winner: iPhone 13
Processor
- iPhone 12 Pro: Powered by the A14 Bionic chip, providing fast performance for everyday tasks and gaming. While still capable, it’s now a generation older.
- iPhone 13: Runs on the A15 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance boost in CPU and GPU compared to the A14. This results in faster app loading and improved graphics.
- Winner: iPhone 13
Camera System
- iPhone 12 Pro: Features a triple 12MP camera system with advanced features like ProRAW. Offers excellent image quality, especially in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance is good, but not as advanced as the 13.
- iPhone 13: Boasts an updated dual 12MP camera system with sensor-shift optical image stabilization and improved low-light performance. Offers Cinematic mode for video recording.
- Winner: iPhone 13
Battery Life
- iPhone 12 Pro: Offers decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. Battery life is a common area for improvement with newer models.
- iPhone 13: Provides significantly improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Pro, lasting longer.
- Winner: iPhone 13
Storage Options
- iPhone 12 Pro: Available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options. Offers plenty of space for apps, photos, and videos.
- iPhone 13: Available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options. Offers the same storage tiers as the 12 Pro.
- Winner: Tie
5G Connectivity
- iPhone 12 Pro: Supports 5G connectivity, enabling faster download and upload speeds in supported areas. 5G performance is dependent on network availability.
- iPhone 13: Also supports 5G connectivity, offering similar speeds and coverage. This is a standard feature on both models.
- Winner: Tie
Price & Value
- iPhone 12 Pro: Available at a lower price point now, as it’s a previous generation model. Offers good value depending on the price.
- iPhone 13: Generally, at a higher price due to being the newer model. Offers more advanced features for the premium price.
- Winner: iPhone 13 (considering features)
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 13 |
| Camera (Main) | iPhone 13 |
| Camera (Telephoto) | iPhone 12 Pro |
| Battery Life | iPhone 13 |
| Design | Tie |
| Value | iPhone 13 |
What They Have in Common
- 5g Connectivity: Both phones support 5G, providing faster download and upload speeds in areas with 5G coverage.
- Magsafe: Both the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 are compatible with MagSafe accessories, allowing for easy attachment of chargers and other accessories.
- Display: Both phones have a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, offering vibrant colors and sharp details.
- Water Resistance: Both phones are rated IP68 for water resistance, offering protection against splashes and submersion in water.
- iOS: Both devices run on iOS, ensuring access to the latest software updates and features.
iPhone 12 Pro Vs iPhone 13 Comparison Buying Guide
Performance and Speed
The iPhone 13 boasts a significant performance upgrade thanks to the A15 Bionic chip, offering improved speed and efficiency compared to the A14 Bionic in the iPhone 12 Pro. While the iPhone 12 Pro remains a capable device for everyday tasks and gaming, the iPhone 13 provides smoother multitasking and faster app loading times. The difference is most noticeable during intensive tasks like video editing or graphically demanding games. Consider your usage habits; if you’re a heavy user, the iPhone 13 provides a clear advantage.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 13’s camera system incorporates larger sensors and sensor-shift stabilization, providing improvements in low-light performance and image stabilization compared to the iPhone 12 Pro. The Cinematic mode in the iPhone 13 is a notable addition, allowing for shallow depth-of-field video recording. Both phones capture excellent photos and videos, but the iPhone 13 offers enhanced capabilities, especially in challenging lighting conditions. If photography is a priority, the iPhone 13 is the better choice.
Battery Life Comparison
The iPhone 13 features a larger battery and more efficient processing, resulting in noticeably improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Pro. You can expect to get significantly more screen time with the iPhone 13. This is particularly beneficial for users who are constantly on the go or who use their phones for extended periods throughout the day. The iPhone 13 can easily handle a full day of moderate to heavy usage, whereas the iPhone 12 Pro might require a mid-day charge.
Display Quality and Features
Both phones feature stunning Super Retina XDR displays, but the iPhone 13’s display offers a slight increase in brightness. The iPhone 13 also boasts a smaller notch. Although the display quality is largely similar, the iPhone 13’s display is marginally better for outdoor visibility. However, both phones provide vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. Therefore, screen quality is not a deciding factor for most users.
Design and Build Quality
Both the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 feature premium designs, with Ceramic Shield front covers for added durability and a sleek aesthetic. The iPhone 13 has a slightly updated design with a diagonal camera array on the back. Both phones are water and dust resistant. Design preference is subjective; the build quality is excellent on both devices. The key difference is the camera layout.
Storage Options and Pricing
The iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 were initially offered in various storage configurations. Pricing can vary depending on the condition and retailer. The iPhone 13 is the newer device and may command a slightly higher price, especially for the base models. Consider your storage needs and budget. Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro models offer a more affordable option if you prioritize value over the latest features. Shop around for the best deal.
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 pre-owned or refurbished model.
Buy iPhone 13 If…
- You prioritize a more powerful processor for improved performance.
- You want improved battery life.
- You want a lighter phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13?
The iPhone 13 offers improvements in performance (A15 Bionic chip), camera (larger sensors, Cinematic mode), and battery life. It also features a slightly updated design. The iPhone 12 Pro is still a great phone, but the iPhone 13 has noticeable upgrades.
Is the iPhone 13 camera significantly better than the iPhone 12 Pro’s camera?
Yes, the iPhone 13 camera has larger sensors and sensor-shift stabilization, leading to better low-light performance, improved image stabilization and the introduction of Cinematic mode. These features provide a more versatile and enhanced photography experience compared to the iPhone 12 Pro.
Does the iPhone 13 have better battery life than the iPhone 12 Pro?
Yes, the iPhone 13 has significantly better battery life due to a larger battery and a more efficient processor. You can expect considerably more screen time and longer usage periods with the iPhone 13 before needing to recharge.
Which phone is faster, the iPhone 12 Pro or the iPhone 13?
The iPhone 13 is faster due to its A15 Bionic chip, which provides improved processing power compared to the A14 Bionic in the iPhone 12 Pro. This results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better performance in demanding applications.
Are the displays different between the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13?
Both phones feature Super Retina XDR displays, but the iPhone 13’s display is slightly brighter. The notch is also smaller on the iPhone 13. Overall, the display quality is very similar, with both providing excellent color accuracy and viewing angles.
Is the iPhone 13 worth the upgrade from the iPhone 12 Pro?
That depends on your needs. If you value improved camera performance, significantly better battery life, and faster processing, then the upgrade is worthwhile. If you’re happy with your iPhone 12 Pro, the improvements may not be significant enough to justify the cost.
What are the storage options available for each phone?
Both phones were available in various storage configurations. The iPhone 12 Pro offered options like 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The iPhone 13 had similar options, but the specific configurations and availability might vary depending on the retailer and market. Always check before buying.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 13 emerges as the superior device, boasting a faster processor, enhanced camera capabilities, and significantly improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Pro. While the iPhone 12 Pro remains a capable phone, the iPhone 13 offers a more refined user experience. The enhancements in performance and battery life make the iPhone 13 a worthy upgrade for those seeking the latest technology.
Winner: iPhone 13