The iPhone 12 and 13 represent two important stages in Apple’s iPhone evolution, demonstrating the similarities yet incremental upgrades and distinctions from generation to generation. From improved chips for enhancing performance to slight modifications in design and functionality, each model brings its unique strengths to the table.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast eager to leverage the latest improvements or someone looking for a reliable and cost-effective smartphone, understanding what the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 can do for you as a user is crucial. Here, we delve into the specifics, from their processing capabilities to camera enhancements, to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your needs and preferences.
iPhone 12 vs. iPhone 13: Main Differences
- The iPhone 12 comes equipped with the A14 Bionic Chip, while the iPhone 13 has the A15 Bionic Chip.
- The iPhone 13 has a higher max brightness level, allowing for better viewing in various lighting conditions.
- The iPhone 13 allows for two active eSIMs.
iPhone 12: Key Highlights
- The iPhone 12 has a more cost-effective 64 GB model available.
- A dual camera system with portrait mode and depth control allows for better photos.
- Fast charging capabilities ensure you can get the most out of your phone’s battery life.
iPhone 13 Pro: Key Highlights
- Larger storage capacity, with a 512 GB offering for those with high storage needs.
- The A15 Bionic Chip provides increased performance and processing power.
- Focus, depth, and cinematic camera modes to ensure you get the best photos and videos.
iPhone 12 vs. iPhone 13 Overview
| Feature | iPhone 12 | iPhone 13 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | October 23, 2020 | September 24, 2021 |
| Dimensions | 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.29 in | 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 in |
| Weight | 5.78 oz | 6.10 oz |
| Storage Capacity | 64 GB 128 GB 256 GB |
128 GB 256 GB 512 GB |
| Finish Colours | Purple Blue Green White Black |
Green Pink Blue Midnight Starlight Red |
| Screen Size | 6.1 in (diagonal) | 6.1 in (diagonal) |
| Display | Super Retina XDR display All-Screen OLED display True Tone display Wide colour display (P3) Haptic Touch 625 nits max brightness |
Super Retina XDR display All-Screen OLED display True Tone display Wide colour display (P3) Haptic Touch 800 nits max brightness |
| Resolution | 2532-by-1170-pixel resolution at 460 ppi | 2532-by-1170-pixel resolution at 460 ppi |
| Chip | A14 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 | Dual Camera System Main: 12MP, ƒ/1.6 aperture Ultra Wide: 12MP, ƒ/2.4 aperture Optical zoom: Up to 1x Smart HDR 3 for photos Portrait Mode with Depth Control |
Dual Camera System Main: 12MP, ƒ/1.6 aperture Ultra Wide: 12MP, ƒ/2.4 aperture Optical zoom: Up to 1x Smart HDR 4 for photos Portrait Mode with Focus and Depth Control |
| 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 HDR video recording with Dolby Vision up to 4K at 60 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 | Video playback: Up to 17 hours Audio playback: Up to 65 hours |
Video playback: Up to 19 hours Audio playback: Up to 75 hours |
| Charging | Fast charging: Up to 50% charge in 30 minutes. Wireless charging (MagSafe and Qi) | Fast charging: Up to 50% charge in 30 minutes. Wireless charging (MagSafe and Qi) |
| Sensors | Barometer High dynamic range gyro High-g accelerometer Proximity sensor Dual ambient light sensors |
Barometer High dynamic range gyro High-g accelerometer Proximity sensor Dual ambient light sensors |
| Face ID | Yes | Yes |
| Apple Pay | Yes | Yes |
| SIM Card | Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM) | Dual SIM Two active eSIMs or nano-SIM and eSIM |
iPhone 12 vs. iPhone 13 Specs: Complete Comparison
While they represent the standard model for two generations of iPhones, there are a few key features to look out for when examining the differences between the iPhone 12 and the iPhone 13.
Design
The iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 have a very similar design, being nearly the same size and weight:
- iPhone 12: 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.29 in, weighing 5.78 oz
- iPhone 13: 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.30 in, weighing 6.10 oz
The button, port, and camera placement on both iPhones are also the same, retaining Apple’s classic, intuitive design and allowing for easy use for those familiar with other iPhone models.
As used in many newer iPhone models, each is manufactured with nearly identical materials. They have an aluminum shell with a glass back, making them durable and scratch-resistant, and Ceramic Shield Fronts, keeping the viewing area of your iPhone safe from accidental drops.
Display
Both iPhones offer the same high-quality display experience, with the Super Retina XDR, an all-screen OLED display with True Tone technology. This gives you an unparalleled, immersive experience whether you’re an avid gamer or just browsing the internet.
You’ll also notice that the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 have the same screen size (6.1 in diagonal) and resolution (2532-by-1170-pixel resolution at 460 pixels-per-inch [ppi]), ensuring that you get the best and highest-quality graphics no matter which iPhone you choose.
The main difference between these two iPhone models is in the max brightness, with the iPhone 13 able to produce 800 nits of light, giving you a better viewing experience in low light conditions over the iPhone 12’s 625 nits max brightness.
Performance
The iPhone 12 features the A14 Bionic Chip, an impressive processor in its own right. At the same time, the iPhone 13 is equipped with the upgraded A15 Bionic Chip, representing the next step in Apple’s chip development. This newer A15 brings several key improvements that significantly enhance the overall user experience, especially for those who push their devices to the limits of performance.
For users who often engage in video editing, gaming, or use multiple intensive apps simultaneously, the A15’s advanced architecture means that these activities will be smoother and less draining on the battery. This means the iPhone 13 handles complex computational tasks more effectively than its predecessor.
The A15 Bionic Chip also includes improvements in machine learning and artificial intelligence capabilities, which translate into better photo processing, more responsive voice recognition, and a more personalized user experience across various apps and services. These enhancements make the iPhone 13 particularly appealing to tech enthusiasts who seek the latest advancements for a more connected and dynamic mobile experience.
Camera
The iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 are equipped with a Dual Camera System that features a main and an ultra-wide lens, but the true value of these tools goes far beyond basic specifications. This powerful combination allows you to capture life’s moments with stunning clarity and a breadth of perspective that closely mirrors human sight.
The main lens excels in precision and detail, making it perfect for capturing sharp, vivid images in a variety of lighting conditions. Whether a spontaneous portrait or a fast-moving scene, the main lens provides the reliability and quality you need to freeze those moments in striking detail.
On the other hand, the ultra-wide lens opens up a new realm of possibilities, allowing you to capture expansive landscapes and architectural marvels with a 120-degree field of view. This lens changes the game for creative photography, enabling you to include much more of the scene without physically moving.
Operating System
The iPhone 12 was introduced with iOS 14, and the iPhone 13 with iOS 15—each version of iOS bringing its own set of enhancements and new features to improve user experience.
iOS 14 introduced widgets on the home screen for more dynamic access to apps and improved privacy features that gave users more control over their data. It also brought picture-in-picture video, which allows users to watch a video while using other apps, enhancing multitasking on the device.
iOS 15 is built on these foundations with additional features, like Focus modes, which help reduce distractions by filtering notifications based on a user’s current activity. It also enhanced FaceTime with spatial audio and introduced new privacy controls in Siri, along with a redesigned Safari browser.
Fortunately, both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 can be updated to the latest operating system at the time of writing, iOS 17. This compatibility ensures that users of these models can enjoy the latest features, security updates, and performance enhancements that Apple offers.
Keep in mind that updating to iOS 17 means your device will run the most advanced operating system available, providing you with new innovations and security measures. This ongoing support extends the life of your device and enhances its functionality, ensuring a smoother and more secure user experience.
Storage
Storage isn’t necessarily a flashy feature, but that doesn’t make it any less important. When looking at the iPhone 12 vs. the iPhone 13, you have flexibility in your storage options to really drill down and select the one that will best suit your needs.
- 64 GB: This storage option is only available on the iPhone 12 and gives consumers the most cost-effective entry point for their new iPhone. Due to the size, this option may not be suitable for people with high storage needs, such as gamers or photographers. But if you’re willing to take the time to transfer your data off the device, this can still be a great option.
- 128 GB: This option is available on the iPhone 12 and is the smallest storage option for the iPhone 13, making it the most cost-effective choice for that model.
- 256 GB: A robust storage option available on both devices, this is a great mid-range size that will suit most users’ needs for photo, music, and app storage.
- 512 GB: Available only on the iPhone 13, this larger storage option gives users a lot of space for photos, videos, and app data. 512 GB gives you greater freedom when it comes to downloading and storing content on your phone.
Battery and Charging
The iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 both offer fast charging, allowing you to charge your device up to 50% in just 30 minutes. They’re also compatible with MagSafe and Qi Wireless charging systems, providing more charging options to suit your lifestyle.
Their video and audio playback capabilities are similar, with the iPhone 12 offering up to 17 hours of video playback and the iPhone 13 offering up to 19 hours. For audio playback, the iPhone 12 offers up to 65 hours, and the iPhone 13 offers up to 75 hours. Whatever option you choose, you can rest assured that you can watch videos or listen to music for a long time before you need to charge.
It’s worth noting that the difference between their bionic chips doesn’t greatly affect their battery life, as both chips—the A14 Bionic Chip in the iPhone 12 and the A15 Bionic Chip in the iPhone 13—are highly efficient and help maintain battery percentage and health.
Audio
Both iPhones offer the same great audio experience. They come equipped with spatial audio playback to enhance your music, movie, or gaming experience and Dolby Atmos to further elevate the sound quality. Whether you’re listening through headphones or the iPhone’s built-in speaker, these features ensure that you get a crisp, clear audio experience.
When it comes to audio format, both iPhones also support the same wide range of high-quality audio files, ensuring that you can listen to your favourite music in the way that works best for you. These include AAC, MP3, Apple Lossless, FLAC, and Dolby’s Digital, Digital Plus, and Atmos formats.
Features
Safety: Both iPhones offer Emergency SOS, allowing you to quickly contact help. You can also select emergency contacts to be alerted after you finish an emergency call.
Security: Both are protected by Face ID, meaning only you or another authorized user can access your iPhone when locked.
Apple Pay: Both iPhones offer Apple Pay, which is enabled by your Face ID in-store and online.
Splash, Water, and Dust Resistance: Both are rated IP86, and they can be submerged for up to 30 minutes at a maximum depth of 6 meters.
Price Comparison
The iPhone 12 can’t be purchased new, but it’s available for as low as $359 through the Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) market. By contrast, the iPhone 13 is available for sale at $849 for the 128 GB model, but it can be purchased for around $549 through the CPO market.
* Price updated as of November 2024
Availability
The iPhone 13 can still be purchased new from various retailers, while the iPhone 12 is only available for purchase from verified resellers.
Mobile Klinik is proud to offer both iPhone models in Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) condition. We rigorously test and inspect our devices to meet users’ needs, ensuring you get the best experience and life from your like-new phone.
What’s The Verdict?
Whether you’re interested in the more cost-efficient iPhone 12 or the increased performance of the iPhone 13, there are a few questions you should ask yourself before you purchase your new iPhone.
- What’s your budget?
- How much storage do you need?
- How important are the latest features and performance improvements to you?
- How do you use your camera?
- How long do you plan to keep your phone?
If you need a hand deciding, our experts at Mobile Klinik are happy to help walk you through both models, subject to availability, to determine the best option for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are The iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 The Same Size?
No. While the two iPhone models are very close in size, they are not identical.
- iPhone 12: 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.29 in, weighing 5.78 oz
- iPhone 13: 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.30 in, weighing 6.10 oz
When Were The iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 Released?
The iPhone 12 was released on October 23, 2020, while the iPhone 13 was released just under a year later, on September 24, 2021.
Can You Use The Same Case For The iPhone 12 and iPhone 13?
No, you can’t use the same case for these iPhones due to the small difference in size.
Is The iPhone 13 More Expensive Than The iPhone 12?
If you’re purchasing new, the iPhone 13 will be more expensive than the iPhone 12, with a starting price of $849. The iPhone 12 is only available through the CPO market, making it possible to find more affordable options.