With every release, Apple’s iPhone lineup brings forward new innovations and features, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in a smartphone. The iPhone 11, introduced in 2019, was highly anticipated by many Apple enthusiasts. This model boasted a range of advanced capabilities that set a new standard for smartphones. From its powerful A13 Bionic chip to its dual-camera system with Night Mode, the iPhone 11 captured users’ hearts worldwide.
Fast forward to 2021, Apple unveiled its latest flagship device—the iPhone 13. Building upon the success of its predecessors, the iPhone 13 introduced a host of new features and enhancements designed to elevate user experiences to new heights, like the A15 Bionic Chip and advanced camera system.
Since 2019 and 2021, Apple has released new generations of iPhones, but the iPhone 11 and 13 still hold value in today’s market. If you’re looking to upgrade your phone, this article will highlight the key differences between each model’s features to help you make an informed decision.
iPhone 11 vs. iPhone 13: Main Differences
- The iPhone 13 has a more vibrant display with its OLED screen.
- The iPhone 11 is slightly bulkier and heavier.
- The iPhone 13 camera supports Night Mode on both lenses of the dual camera, whereas the iPhone 11 only supports it on the main wide lens.
- The iPhone 13 offers better battery life.
- Users can find the iPhone 11 at a more affordable price point.
iPhone 11: Key Highlights
- Liquid Retina Display for vibrant colours and sharp visuals
- Dual Camera System (Wide-Angle and Telephoto Lens) for quality captures
- Enhanced water and dust resistance of an IP68 rating
- Affordable price point
- Wide range of colour options to choose from
iPhone 13: Key Highlights
- Powerful A15 Bionic chip for quick and efficient processing
- Ceramic shield front cover for enhanced durability
- 5G connectivity for faster download and upload speeds
- OLED Display for enhanced visuals
- Improved battery life for longer usage times between charges
iPhone 11 vs. iPhone 13 Overview
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone 13 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | September 20, 2019 | September 24, 2021 |
| Dimensions | 5.94 x 2.98 x 0.33 in | 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 in |
| Weight | 6.84 oz | 6.10 oz |
| Storage Capacity | 64 GB 128 GB 256 GB |
128 GB 256 GB 512 GB |
| Finish Colours | Black Green Red Green Purple Yellow White |
Green Pink Midnight Starlight Red |
| Screen Size | 6.1 in (diagonal) | 6.1 in (diagonal) |
| Display | Liquid Retina XDR display All-Screen LCD Multi-Touch with IPS technology True Tone Wide Colour Haptic Touch 625 nits brightness |
Super Retina XDR display All-Screen OLED display HDR display True Tone display Wide colour display (P3) Haptic Touch 800 nits brightness |
| Resolution | 1792-by-828-pixel resolution at 326 ppi | 2532-by-1170-pixel resolution at 460 ppi |
| Chip | A13 Bionic Chip | A15 Bionic Chip |
| Water and Dust Resistance | Rated IP68 | Rated IP68 |
| Front Camera | 12 MP True Depth f/2.2 aperture |
12 MP True Depth f/2.2 aperture |
| Rear Camera | 12 MP Ultra Wide and Wide Main: ƒ/1.8 aperture Ultra Wide: ƒ/2.4 aperture Optical zoom: Up to 2x Digital zoom: up to 5x |
12 MP Wide and Ultra Wide Main: ƒ/1.6 aperture Ultra Wide: ƒ/2.4 aperture Optical zoom: Up to 2x Digital zoom: up to 5x |
| Video Recording | 4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps 1080p HD video recording at 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps 720p HD video recording at 30 fps |
4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps 1080p HD video recording at 25 fps, 30 fps or 60 fps HDR video recording with Dolby Vision up to 4K at 60 fps Cinematic mode for recording videos with shallow depth of field (1080p at 30 fps) |
| Battery | 3,110 mAh Video playback: Up to 17 hours Audio playback: Up to 65 hours |
3,227 mAh Video playback: Up to 19 hours Audio playback: Up to 75 hours |
| Charging | Fast charging: Up to 50% charge in 30 minutes. Wireless charging (Qi) | Fast charging: Up to 50% charge in 30 minutes. Wireless charging (MagSafe and Qi) |
| Sensors | Face ID Barometer Three-axis gyro Accelerometer Proximity sensor Ambient light sensors |
Face ID Barometer Three-axis gyro Accelerometer Proximity sensor Ambient light sensors |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 4G LTE Bluetooth 5.0 Lightning |
Wi-Fi 6 5G LTE Bluetooth 5.0 Lightning |
| Face ID | Yes | Yes |
| Apple Pay | Yes | Yes |
| SIM Card | Nano- SIM eSIM Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM) |
Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM) Dual eSIMs |
iPhone 11 vs. iPhone 13 Specs: Complete Comparison
Let’s dive into the details by comparing the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13 features.
Design
In terms of design, the iPhone 11 and 13 offer subtle yet discernible looks. While both maintain Apple’s signature sleek aesthetic, the iPhone 13 offers some notable refinements.
The iPhone 11 features a familiar design with rounded edges and a glossy glass back. Its size and weight are slightly bulkier and heavier compared to the iPhone 13:
- iPhone 11: 5.94 x 2.98 x 0.33 in display and 6.84 oz
- iPhone 13: 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.30 in display and 6.14 oz
The iPhone 11 also possesses a notch at the top of the display for Face ID and houses a dual-camera system within a raised square module.
In contrast, the iPhone 13 has a slightly more refined design with more squared-off edges. The rear camera is diagonally aligned for a more streamlined look. Additionally, the notch size has been reduced, offering a slightly larger screen-to-body ratio.
Both models are made from durable aluminum; however, the iPhone 13 has a Ceramic Shield display cover for more protection.
In terms of colour, the iPhone 11 offers the following options:
- Black
- Yellow
- Red
- Green
- Purple
- White
The iPhone 13, on the other hand, is available in:
- Green
- Blue
- Red
- Starlight
- Midnight
- Pink
Overall, the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13 offer similar designs with edge-to-edge screens. The main differences between the two models are the colour options, slight size and weight differences, and the iPhone 13’s Ceramic Shield.
Display
While both the iPhone 11 and 13 feature an edge-to-edge screen, the iPhone 13 offers smaller bezels and a more compact design without compromising the same 6.1-inch screen size as the iPhone 11.
The iPhone 11 uses an LCD screen, providing less lively and vibrant colours than the iPhone 13 OLED display. The iPhone 13 also has a higher resolution, 2532 x 1170 pixels at 460 ppi, compared to the 11’s resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels at 326 ppi. The higher resolution creates a sharper viewing experience of images, video, and text. The difference in nits also impacts the user experience—the iPhone 13 reaches 800 nits, while the iPhone 11 has 625 nits of brightness.
Overall, while the iPhone 11’s graphics and viewing experience are satisfactory for many iPhone users, the iPhone 13’s OLED screen, higher resolution, and brightness capacity make for a more vibrant experience—a selling point for many smartphone enthusiasts.
Performance
The iPhone 11 offers an A13 Bionic chip with six cores: Two performance cores and four efficiency cores. It also features a 4-core GPU and an 8-core Neural Engine. Overall, this model’s processor is strong enough to handle any task—whether you’re a multitasker for work, a frequent video streamer, or a gamer.
On the other hand, the iPhone 13 offers an elevated experience with the A15 Bionic chip, featuring six cores: Two performance and four efficiency. It also has a 4-core GPU and 16-core Neural Engine. This more powerful and faster performance means that the iPhone 13 can handle even more demanding tasks than the iPhone 11. It also means it’s more efficient in the process, saving more battery and giving you more screen time.
While both models offer quality performance, the iPhone 13’s A15 Bionic is superior to the A13 Bionic, which may be a significant consideration for iPhone users who rely on their devices for everyday tasks.
Camera
There are notable similarities and enhancements when comparing the camera systems of the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13. Both models feature two cameras: a wide and an ultra-wide lens. However, the iPhone 13 has some hardware advancements:
- Its wide camera boasts a larger sensor, resulting in improved light capture and superior performance compared to the iPhone 11 in low-light conditions.
- Additionally, the iPhone 13 introduces sensor-shift stabilization for the main camera, offering enhanced stabilization over the lens-based optical image stabilization (OIS) found in the iPhone 11.
One significant enhancement of the iPhone 13’s camera system is its support for Night Mode on both the wide and ultra-wide cameras, a feature previously limited to the main camera on the iPhone 11. This expanded Night Mode functionality enhances low-light photography across various scenarios.
In terms of new features, the iPhone 13 introduces Photographic Styles, which allows users to apply customizable photo filters in real time, offering greater creative control over image aesthetics. Additionally, the introduction of Cinematic Mode in the iPhone 13 enhances video recording capabilities by automatically adjusting focus for cinematic effects.
Overall, while both cameras offer impeccable quality, the iPhone 13 provides an enhanced photography and videography experience for those who prioritize these capabilities.
Operating System
Like any iPhone, the iPhone 11 and 13 runs on Apple’s signature iOS operating system.
At the time of release, the iPhone 11 was equipped with iOS 13. This version introduced unique updates, like Dark Mode, a revamped Apple Maps experience, and new Memoji customizations. The iPhone 13 was released with the iOS 15 operating system, which provided new features like Focus Mode, Facetime SharePlay, Live Text, and the ability to keep ID cards in your Apple Wallet.
The newest iOS updates are compatible with the iPhone 11 and 13, providing users access to various updates, improvements, and features with each version release. This means that both models offer a similar experience in terms of operating systems as long as you update your device.
Storage
Like any iPhone, users must choose their ideal storage capacities depending on their needs. The iPhone 11 offers the following storage options:
- 64 GB
- 128 GB
- 256 GB
In contrast, the iPhone 13 offers more storage in its baseline model:
- 128 GB
- 256 GB
- 512 GB
When choosing between different capacities, it’s essential to consider your needs in a smartphone. Do you use it often throughout the day? Do you use lots of different apps? Do you take lots of photos and videos? If you rely heavily on your phone for app use, photography, and other data, consider larger storage options to meet those demands.
Battery and Charging
Battery life can make or break your iPhone experience, especially if you use your phone often throughout the day.
Overall, the iPhone 13 provides improved battery life compared to the iPhone 11, with up to 19 hours of video playback compared to 17 hours. The audio playback is also more impressive: The iPhone 13 boasts up to 75 hours, while the 11 offers up to 65 hours.
The iPhone 13 has a max charging rate of 20W compared to the 11’s 18W. In the grand scheme, users likely won’t notice a massive difference in charging speed. Both models are Qi charger-compatible. One noticeable difference is that the iPhone 13 also has MagSafe with magnets for faster wireless charging.
When bought new, the box comes with a USB-C to Lightning cable. For both phones, you must purchase separate wireless chargers and charging blocks. Keep in mind that if you buy Certified Pre-Owned, charging accessories may be sold separately.
Over time, your battery’s health will diminish. When it comes time to fix or replace it and get your usage time back to its prime, visit us at Mobile Klinik for a battery replacement.
Audio
iPhone audio features include headphone connectivity, speakers, and supported formats. Both the iPhone 11 supports the following audio formats:
- AAC-LC
- HE-AAC
- HE-AAC v2
- Protected AAC
- MP3
- Linear PCM
- Apple Lossless
- FLAC
- Dolby Digital (AC-3)
- Dolby Digital Plus (E-AC-3)
- Dolby Atmos
- Audible (formats 2, 3, 4, Audible Enhanced Audio, AAX, and AAX+).
The iPhone 13, on the other hand, supports the following audio formats:
- AAC
- MP3
- Apple Lossless
- FLAC
- Dolby Digital
- Dolby Digital Plus
- Dolby Atmos
The iPhone 13 offers improved speaker quality, resulting in clearer, more robust sound output than the iPhone 11. Both phones lack the headphone jack that was present in older models. However, users can opt for wireless earbuds or Lightning port-compatible headphones for their listening experiences.
Features
Splash, Water, and Dust Resistance: The iPhone 11 and iPhone 13 are rated IP68 in splash, water, and dust resistance. This means they can resist submersion of up to six metres for up to thirty minutes. The IP68 rating offers users of both models an extra layer of protection.
Connectivity: Building upon the foundation laid by the iPhone 12, the iPhone 13 further integrated 5G connectivity, offering faster download and upload speeds, improved streaming quality, and reduced latency. The iPhone 11 does not support 5G.
Apple Pay: Both the iPhone 11 and 13 support Apple Pay. Users can safely store their payment cards on either device and make purchases in-store with supported merchants using Face ID for an extra layer of authentication.
SIM Card: Both iPhones support the nano-SIM and eSIM. The iPhone 11 has dual SIM capabilities, offering the option for one nano-SIM and one eSIM. The iPhone 13 also offers this dual SIM option. One notable difference is that the newer model also supports dual eSIMs (two eSIMS instead of one nano-SIM and one eSIM). The dual SIM option in both phones offers more flexibility for those who travel often or use multiple phone numbers.
Accessibility
As part of Apple’s design philosophy, accessibility is paramount. To ensure everyone can comfortably use their iPhones, Apple has integrated features like VoiceOver, Magnifier, Zoom, Dictation, Switch Control, AssistiveTouch, Closed Captions, and more.
Price Comparison
Upon release in 2019, the MSRP for the 64GB iPhone 11 was $979 (CAD). The iPhone 13 started at $1,099 (CAD) in 2021.
In the Certified Pre-Owned market, the value of an iPhone 13 starts in the $600s, depending on the condition and storage option. A used iPhone 11 begins in the high $200s. It’s important to note that these used prices are subject to change at any time.
* Price updated as of December 2024
Availability
The iPhone 11 and 13 are available on the market today at Mobile Klinik in Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) condition. Our professionals take each device through rigorous inspection and testing to ensure they meet your expectations as a smartphone user.
What’s The Verdict?
The choice between an iPhone 11 or an iPhone 13 depends on your preferences and overall mobile needs:
Best Device Overall
The iPhone 13 is the best device overall due to its improvements in various features, including the display, battery, camera, and performance.
Best Device for Performance
The iPhone 13 is your pick if you’re looking for optimal performance. Its A15 Bionic chip is a powerhouse for all your multitasking needs compared to the iPhone 11.
Best Viewing Experience
The iPhone 13 also wins the category for best viewing experience. With an OLED display, higher resolution, and higher nits, your experience viewing images, videos, movies, and other on-screen visuals is more impressive than the iPhone 11.
Best for Photography
Again, the iPhone 13 is also a clear winner in the photography department. Its dual-camera system offers a larger sensor for more light capture, enhanced stabilization, and Night Mode on both the ultra-wide and wide cameras. The result? Crisper images and better image processing.
Best Battery Life
For those looking for more time listening to audio or watching videos, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life than the iPhone 11. Additionally, because the newer model has a faster processor, it’s more efficient, which helps save the battery for longer throughout the day.
Best Value
Upon release, the iPhone 11’s baseline model was more affordable than the iPhone 13. The same rings true in the used phone market. Keep in mind that iPhones depreciate over time, so if you’re looking for a Certified Pre-Owned option, the iPhone 11 may be even more affordable than a used iPhone 13 simply because of the time that has passed since the older model’s release.
It’s also important to note that prices vary depending on the used phone’s storage capacity, condition, and the time of year you purchase your device.
When choosing between the iPhone 11 and 13, consider your needs, values and requirements:
- Do you want the most affordable option?
- Do you require a phone that will sustain many demanding activities at a time?
- Do you use your phone for photography and videography?
- Do you watch a lot of videos or movies?
- Do you play a lot of games on your phone?
Overall, asking these questions can help you understand your own priorities. If you’re looking for a smartphone that has the basics and gets the job done, you’ll likely be happy choosing the iPhone 11. If you’re looking for a model with advanced features and an improved user experience, the iPhone 13 might be the choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13 the same size?
No, the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13 are not the same size. The iPhone 11 is slightly bigger and heavier at 5.94 x 2.98 x 0.33 inches and 6.84 oz. The iPhone 13 has a 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.30 display and weighs 6.14 oz.
While these sizes are not significantly different, it’s still important to consider your comfort while holding the device. The iPhone 13 has a more compact design and smaller bezels, making for a more comfortable holding experience and bigger on-screen visuals.
When were the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13 released?
The iPhone 11 was released on September 20, 2019, and the iPhone 13 was released two years later, on September 24, 2021.
Can you use the same case for the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13?
Since the iPhone 11 and 13 differ slightly in dimensions, you can’t use the same phone case if you upgrade from an 11 to 13, for example. However, if you like the style of your current phone case, you can often find the same one tailored to your required size.
Is the iPhone 11 more expensive than the iPhone 13?
The iPhone 11 is less expensive than the iPhone 13. Upon release, its MSRP started at $979 (CAD), while the iPhone 13 started at $1,099 (CAD). In the used market, you may find iPhone 11 models for an even more affordable price than a used iPhone 13 due to depreciation. Keep in mind that the value of the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13 can change at any time, depending on the market and overall demand for each model.