iPhone 12 Pro vs iPhone 13 Pro: Which Should You Buy?
Choosing a new iPhone can be tough, especially when comparing two powerhouses like the iPhone 12 Pro and the iPhone 13 Pro. Both phones boast impressive features and performance, but there are key differences that might sway your decision. Understanding these distinctions is crucial to making the right choice for your needs and budget.
The iPhone 12 Pro set a high bar with its stunning design, powerful A14 Bionic chip, and exceptional camera system. It was a flagship device that delivered a premium experience. However, the iPhone 13 Pro builds upon this foundation, introducing significant upgrades that enhance nearly every aspect of the user experience.
In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the specifications, performance, and features of the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro. We will explore the strengths and weaknesses of each device to help you determine which one reigns supreme. Get ready to discover which iPhone is the perfect fit for you.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 13 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.1-inch |
| Display Technology | Super Retina XDR | Super Retina XDR with ProMotion |
| Processor | A14 Bionic | A15 Bionic |
| RAM | 6GB | 6GB |
| Base Storage | 128GB | 128GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Telephoto Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Ultrawide Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps, ProRes |
| Battery Life | Up to 17 hours video playback | Up to 22 hours video playback |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 228 grams | 204 grams |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 12 Pro: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. Offers vibrant colors and good brightness, but lacks the ProMotion technology. A capable display for everyday use.
- iPhone 13 Pro: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion (adaptive 120Hz refresh rate). Provides smoother scrolling and animations, leading to a more responsive feel.
- Winner: iPhone 13 Pro
Processor
- iPhone 12 Pro: A14 Bionic chip. Fast and efficient for its time, handling most tasks with ease, but may show its age with demanding tasks.
- iPhone 13 Pro: A15 Bionic chip. Significantly faster than the A14, offering improved performance in gaming and video editing, and better power efficiency.
- Winner: iPhone 13 Pro
Camera System
- iPhone 12 Pro: Triple 12MP camera system with features like Night mode and Smart HDR 3. Produces excellent photos and videos in various conditions.
- iPhone 13 Pro: Triple 12MP camera system with larger sensors, improved low-light performance, Cinematic mode for video, and ProRes video recording. Offers more advanced features and better image quality.
- Winner: iPhone 13 Pro
Battery Life
- iPhone 12 Pro: Offers decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. Can struggle with heavier usage.
- iPhone 13 Pro: Significantly improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Pro, often lasting a full day or longer with regular use.
- Winner: iPhone 13 Pro
Design
- iPhone 12 Pro: Flat-edged design with surgical-grade stainless steel frame and Ceramic Shield front cover. A premium and modern design.
- iPhone 13 Pro: Very similar design to the iPhone 12 Pro, with a slightly thicker build. Maintains the premium feel with upgrades to durability.
- Winner: Tie
Storage Options
- iPhone 12 Pro: Available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options.
- iPhone 13 Pro: Available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage options.
- Winner: iPhone 13 Pro
Video Recording
- iPhone 12 Pro: Capable of recording 4K video at up to 60fps, with Dolby Vision HDR.
- iPhone 13 Pro: Offers 4K video recording at up to 60fps, Dolby Vision HDR, Cinematic mode, and ProRes video recording for professional-level video editing.
- Winner: iPhone 13 Pro
Price (at launch)
- iPhone 12 Pro: Launched at a starting price of $999.
- iPhone 13 Pro: Launched at a starting price of $999.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone 13 Pro |
| Display | iPhone 13 Pro |
| Camera | iPhone 13 Pro |
| Battery Life | iPhone 13 Pro |
| Value | iPhone 12 Pro |
What They Have in Common
- Display Size: Both phones feature a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, offering a vibrant and detailed viewing experience.
- 5g Connectivity: Both the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro support 5G, providing fast download and streaming speeds where available.
- Camera System: Both phones have a 12MP triple-camera system, including a main, ultrawide, and telephoto lens. They are capable of capturing stunning photos and videos.
- Design: Both phones share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a flat-edged design with a premium build.
- Water Resistance: Both models boast an IP68 water resistance rating, providing protection against spills and splashes.
iPhone 12 Pro Vs iPhone 13 Pro Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
Both the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro boast premium designs, featuring surgical-grade stainless steel frames and Ceramic Shield front covers for enhanced durability. The iPhone 13 Pro refines the design with a slightly thicker build and a smaller notch compared to the iPhone 12 Pro. While both offer IP68 water resistance, the iPhone 13 Pro’s refined aesthetic and improved build contribute to a more modern and premium feel. The choice often comes down to personal preference, with both phones offering exceptional build quality.
Display and Visual Experience
The iPhone 13 Pro introduces ProMotion technology, featuring an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, resulting in smoother scrolling, animations, and a more responsive user experience. The iPhone 12 Pro, on the other hand, has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Both phones feature Super Retina XDR displays with excellent color accuracy and brightness. The iPhone 13 Pro’s display is notably brighter, making it easier to view in direct sunlight. The 120Hz refresh rate of the iPhone 13 Pro provides a superior visual experience.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 13 Pro features a significantly upgraded camera system, including larger sensors and a wider aperture, resulting in improved low-light performance and detail capture. The iPhone 13 Pro also introduces features like Cinematic mode for video recording and Photographic Styles. The iPhone 12 Pro’s camera is still excellent, offering great photos and video, but the iPhone 13 Pro delivers noticeable improvements in image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The iPhone 13 Pro’s photographic advancements are a key differentiator.
Performance and Processing Power
The iPhone 13 Pro is powered by the A15 Bionic chip, offering a performance boost over the A14 Bionic chip in the iPhone 12 Pro. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming performance. Both phones handle demanding tasks with ease, but the iPhone 13 Pro provides a marginal advantage in speed and efficiency. The A15 Bionic chip delivers a noticeable performance enhancement, making the iPhone 13 Pro a more future-proof choice for performance-intensive applications.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPhone 13 Pro boasts significantly improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Pro, allowing for longer usage times on a single charge. This is a crucial upgrade for users who rely on their phones throughout the day. Both phones support fast charging and MagSafe wireless charging. The iPhone 13 Pro’s battery life is a significant improvement, offering a more convenient and reliable user experience. The enhanced battery performance can make a big difference for everyday use.
Price and Value for Money
Considering the advancements in camera, performance, and battery life, the iPhone 13 Pro typically comes at a higher price point than a used or discounted iPhone 12 Pro. The value proposition depends on your budget and priorities. If you prioritize the latest features and performance, the iPhone 13 Pro offers more value. However, the iPhone 12 Pro remains a capable phone at a potentially more affordable price, especially if you can find it on sale. Evaluate your needs and budget carefully.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 12 Pro If…
- You’re on a tighter budget and want a premium iPhone experience.
- You don’t need the latest processor or camera upgrades.
- You prioritize value for money.
Buy iPhone 13 Pro If…
- You want the best possible performance and features.
- You want the improved battery life and ProMotion display.
- You’re a professional content creator and need ProRes video recording.
- You want the most advanced camera system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key design differences?
The iPhone 13 Pro features a slightly thicker build and a smaller notch compared to the iPhone 12 Pro. Both phones have stainless steel frames and Ceramic Shield front covers. The iPhone 13 Pro refines the aesthetic with a more modern feel, and the camera bump is also more prominent. Both are available in similar colors, with minor variations.
How does the display compare?
The iPhone 13 Pro introduces ProMotion technology with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, providing a smoother and more responsive experience compared to the iPhone 12 Pro’s 60Hz display. The iPhone 13 Pro’s display is also brighter. Both offer excellent color accuracy and HDR support, but the ProMotion makes a significant difference in everyday use, especially when scrolling and playing games.
What are the camera improvements in the iPhone 13 Pro?
The iPhone 13 Pro features larger sensors, a wider aperture, and improved image processing, resulting in better low-light performance, and more detailed images. It also introduces features like Cinematic mode and Photographic Styles. The camera system is significantly improved, offering superior image quality and more creative options. The iPhone 13 Pro offers significant camera advancements.
Which phone has better performance?
The iPhone 13 Pro, powered by the A15 Bionic chip, offers a performance boost over the iPhone 12 Pro’s A14 Bionic chip. This translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming performance. While the iPhone 12 Pro is still powerful, the iPhone 13 Pro provides a noticeable advantage in speed and efficiency, especially for demanding tasks.
How does battery life compare?
The iPhone 13 Pro offers significantly improved battery life compared to the iPhone 12 Pro, allowing for longer usage times on a single charge. This is a crucial upgrade for users who need their phone to last throughout the day. Both phones support fast charging and MagSafe wireless charging, but the iPhone 13 Pro’s battery will last longer.
Are there any differences in storage options?
Both phones offer various storage options, but the iPhone 13 Pro may offer a higher maximum storage capacity in some configurations. The available storage tiers may vary slightly depending on the specific model and region. Always check the available storage options before making your purchase, as storage capacity affects how many apps, photos, and videos you can store.
Which phone is a better value?
The iPhone 13 Pro, with its upgraded features, typically comes at a higher price point. The iPhone 12 Pro remains a capable phone and may be available at a more affordable price. The best value depends on your budget and priorities. If you want the latest features, the 13 Pro is better, but the 12 Pro can be a good value if you prioritize price.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 13 Pro offers significant upgrades over the iPhone 12 Pro, including a smoother display with ProMotion, enhanced camera capabilities, improved performance, and longer battery life. While the iPhone 12 Pro remains a capable device, the iPhone 13 Pro provides a more refined user experience and superior performance across the board.
Winner: iPhone 13 Pro