iPhone 13 vs 13 Plus: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Choosing a new iPhone can be overwhelming, especially with so many great options available. Are you trying to decide between the iPhone 13 and the iPhone 13 Plus? This comparison will break down the key differences to help you make the perfect choice for your needs and budget.
Both the iPhone 13 and the 13 Plus offer impressive performance and features, but they cater to slightly different audiences. We’ll delve into the details, covering everything from screen size and battery life to camera capabilities and overall value. This will allow you to understand the strengths of each model.
Whether you prioritize portability or a larger display, this comparison of the iPhone 13 vs 13 Plus will provide the insights you need. Get ready to explore the nuances of these two popular iPhones and discover which one reigns supreme for your daily usage.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 13 | 13 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.7-inch |
| Chip | A15 Bionic | A15 Bionic |
| Main Camera | 12MP Dual-camera | 12MP Dual-camera |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Video Recording | 4K Dolby Vision HDR | 4K Dolby Vision HDR |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 19 hours | Up to 26 hours |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 174 grams | 204 grams |
| Dimensions | 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65 mm | 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.65 mm |
| Display Technology | Super Retina XDR | Super Retina XDR |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 13: Features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display. It offers excellent color accuracy and brightness, making it great for everyday use and media consumption. However, the smaller size might not be ideal for those who prefer a larger viewing experience.
- 13 Plus: Boasts a larger 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display, providing a more immersive viewing experience. This is ideal for watching videos, playing games, and multitasking. The larger size can be less convenient for one-handed use.
- Winner: 13 Plus
Battery Life
- iPhone 13: Offers impressive battery life, lasting a full day for most users with moderate usage. It’s an improvement over previous models, but heavy users might still need a mid-day charge.
- 13 Plus: Provides significantly longer battery life due to its larger size and battery capacity. It can easily last a full day, and often extends to a second day of light usage.
- Winner: 13 Plus
Size and Weight
- iPhone 13: Is more compact and lighter, making it easier to handle and carry around. Its smaller footprint is advantageous for one-handed operation.
- 13 Plus: Is larger and heavier, which can make it feel bulky. However, the larger size contributes to the larger display and battery.
- Winner: 13
Camera System
- iPhone 13: Features a dual 12MP camera system with advanced features like Cinematic mode and Photographic Styles. It delivers excellent image quality in various lighting conditions.
- 13 Plus: The camera system is identical to the iPhone 13, offering the same impressive performance and features.
- Winner: Tie
Performance
- iPhone 13: Both phones are equipped with the A15 Bionic chip, providing exceptional performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- 13 Plus: Both phones are equipped with the A15 Bionic chip, providing exceptional performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- iPhone 13: Typically has a lower starting price point compared to the 13 Plus, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers.
- 13 Plus: The 13 Plus is generally more expensive due to its larger size, display, and battery capacity.
- Winner: 13
Storage Options
- iPhone 13: Available in various storage configurations to suit different user needs, typically starting with a lower base storage than the Plus.
- 13 Plus: Offers similar storage options to the 13, but the higher starting price might encourage users to opt for more storage.
- Winner: Tie
Video Recording
- iPhone 13: Records high-quality videos with features like Cinematic mode and Dolby Vision HDR, offering excellent results for both casual and professional use.
- 13 Plus: Offers identical video recording capabilities to the iPhone 13, providing the same features and high-quality results.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | iPhone 13 Plus |
| Battery Life | iPhone 13 Plus |
| Portability | iPhone 13 |
| Performance | Tie |
| Camera Quality | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Chipset: Both phones utilize the powerful A15 Bionic chip, ensuring smooth performance for all tasks, from gaming to video editing. This shared processor provides a consistent level of speed and efficiency across both models.
- Camera System: Both devices share the same dual 12MP camera system, offering identical photo and video quality. Features like Cinematic mode and Photographic Styles are available on both.
- 5g Connectivity: Both the iPhone 13 and 13 Plus support 5G, enabling fast download and upload speeds, along with low latency for streaming and online gaming.
- Display Technology: Both phones feature Super Retina XDR displays, providing vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent brightness levels for an immersive viewing experience.
- Water Resistance: Both models boast an IP68 water resistance rating, offering protection against spills, splashes, and submersion in water up to a certain depth.
Iphone 13 Vs 13 Plus Buying Guide
Design and Display
The iPhone 13 and 13 Plus share a similar design language, featuring flat edges and a ceramic shield front cover. However, the most significant difference lies in the display size. The iPhone 13 boasts a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, while the 13 Plus offers a larger 6.7-inch screen. This size difference impacts the overall feel in hand and the viewing experience. The larger display on the 13 Plus is ideal for media consumption and gaming. Both phones offer excellent brightness and color accuracy, making them great for everyday use.
Performance and Battery Life
Both phones are powered by the A15 Bionic chip, ensuring smooth and responsive performance for all tasks, from gaming to multitasking. The key differentiator is battery life. The iPhone 13 Plus, due to its larger physical size, houses a larger battery, resulting in significantly longer battery life compared to the iPhone 13. This makes the 13 Plus a better choice for users who prioritize extended usage without frequent charging. Both phones handle demanding tasks effortlessly.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 13 and 13 Plus share the same dual-camera system, which includes a 12MP Wide and 12MP Ultra Wide lens. Both phones capture stunning photos and videos, with improvements to low-light performance and cinematic mode. While the camera hardware is identical, the larger size of the 13 Plus might provide a slightly more comfortable grip for photography. Ultimately, the image quality is virtually indistinguishable between the two models in most scenarios. The software processing is identical.
Price and Value
The iPhone 13 is generally more affordable than the 13 Plus. The price difference reflects the larger display and battery of the Plus model. When considering value, it comes down to individual needs. If you prioritize a larger screen and longer battery life and are willing to pay more, the 13 Plus offers a better value. If portability and a slightly lower price are more important, the iPhone 13 provides excellent value. Both are excellent phones for their respective prices.
Portability and Ergonomics
The iPhone 13 is smaller and lighter than the 13 Plus, making it more comfortable to hold and easier to carry in a pocket or use one-handed. The 13 Plus, with its larger screen, offers a more immersive experience but requires a larger hand or two-handed operation. Consider how you typically use your phone and your preferred hand size. The 13 is more portable, while the 13 Plus provides a more expansive viewing area. Weight and dimensions are crucial considerations.
Which iPhone is Right for You?
Choosing between the iPhone 13 and 13 Plus depends on your priorities. If you value portability, a lower price, and are satisfied with a slightly smaller screen, the iPhone 13 is an excellent choice. If you prioritize a larger display for media consumption, gaming, and longer battery life, and are comfortable with a larger device, the iPhone 13 Plus is the better option. Consider your daily usage habits and needs to make the right decision.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 13 If…
- You prefer a more compact and pocketable phone.
- You want a slightly lighter device.
- You are comfortable with a smaller screen size.
- You want a more affordable option.
Buy 13 Plus If…
- You want the largest screen for media consumption and gaming.
- You prioritize longer battery life.
- You prefer a larger display for reading and typing.
- You value a more immersive viewing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the iPhone 13 and 13 Plus?
The primary difference is the display size and battery capacity. The iPhone 13 has a 6.1-inch display, while the 13 Plus features a larger 6.7-inch display. The 13 Plus also has a larger battery, providing significantly longer battery life. The core components, like the A15 Bionic chip, are the same.
Does the iPhone 13 Plus have a better camera?
No, both phones share the same dual-camera system, including the 12MP Wide and 12MP Ultra Wide lenses. The image quality is virtually identical. The 13 Plus might offer a slightly more comfortable grip for photography due to its size, but the actual photo and video capabilities are the same.
Which phone has longer battery life?
The iPhone 13 Plus has significantly longer battery life than the iPhone 13. This is due to the larger battery capacity housed within the 13 Plus’s larger frame. Users can expect noticeably more usage time on a single charge with the 13 Plus. This makes the 13 Plus ideal for heavy users.
Is the iPhone 13 Plus worth the extra cost?
Whether the 13 Plus is worth the extra cost depends on your needs. If you value a larger screen and longer battery life, and the price difference is within your budget, then the 13 Plus is a worthwhile investment. If portability and cost are more important, the iPhone 13 offers excellent value.
Does the iPhone 13 Plus support 5G?
Yes, both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Plus support 5G connectivity. This allows for faster download and upload speeds, as well as improved network performance in areas with 5G coverage. Both phones are compatible with various 5G bands, ensuring broad compatibility.
Are the iPhone 13 and 13 Plus waterproof?
Both phones are rated IP68 for water resistance. This means they can withstand submersion in up to 6 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. While they offer protection against water damage, it is best to avoid prolonged exposure to water and to dry the phone if it gets wet.
What colors are available for the iPhone 13 and 13 Plus?
Both the iPhone 13 and 13 Plus are available in a variety of colors, including (but not limited to) Midnight, Starlight, (PRODUCT)RED, Blue, and Pink. The specific color options may vary depending on the region and the availability at the time of purchase. Check the Apple website for the most up-to-date color selection.
Final Verdict
The iPhone 13 and 13 Plus offer compelling choices for users. The iPhone 13 delivers a compact design and excellent performance at a more accessible price. The iPhone 13 Plus, however, excels with its expansive display and significantly improved battery life, making it ideal for media consumption and extended usage. The decision hinges on prioritizing portability or a larger, more immersive experience.
Winner: iPhone 13 Plus