With the pace of smartphone evolution moving as fast as it is, there is always something new to look forward to. In 2020 alone, we’ve had about numerous smartphones released by different manufacturers, with Apple releasing four models. It doesn’t seem like much, but cumulatively, it can be really taxing to decide which phone is the right fit for you. Luckily, we’re here to help. If you are thinking of making a shift to the latest Apple Flagship lineup, then this article is for you. We will review Apple’s iPhone 12 series, focusing on the most impressive specs as well as the downsides and alternatives if you’re on a budget to make your smartphone shopping a little bit easier. Here’s how the four recently released models compare.
Release Dates
The iPhone 12 was released in two phases. The first stage involved the iPhone 12 and the 12 Pro on October 23, 2020. The 12 Mini and Pro Max were not unveiled until November 6, 2020, for pre-order.
Pricing
A phone’s pricing is usually one of the first aspects we consider, so let’s get this out of our way. As expected, the 12 series comes with a hefty price tag being the newest models by the tech giant. The iPhone 12 Mini is the most affordable of the new iPhones, with a starting price of about $1,199 AUD. The base model, the iPhone 12 comes in second in terms of being the most affordable iPhone in the 12 series with the starting price of $1,349 AUD. The Pro and Pro Max are the flagship models of the series, which starts at $1,699 AUD and $1,849 AUD respectively. However, you can buy a refurbished one if you’re on a budget, the refurbished iPhone 12 price in Australia starts at $1,049 AUD. The refurbished ones offer greater value for money and you should definitely consider them if you’re thinking about buying the iPhone 12.
Screen and Display
The 12 mini has the smallest display size at 5.4-inches, but it isn’t as small as you think. In fact, this is the best smartphone in this lineup for those who crave compact phones, the phone can easily be navigated using one hand. This device has a screen resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels with a 476 pixel per inch density. The iPhone 12 and 12 Pro are bigger, featuring a 6.1-inch display with a 2532 x 1170 pixels with 460 pixels per inch density. The Pro Max has the largest display and screen resolution standing at 6.7-inches and 2778 x 1284 pixels with 458ppi density. While each model has distinct screen resolutions, every other thing about the display is more or less the same. They all utilize True Tone display technology, Haptic touch, and wide color display. Viewing angles are great and it’s one of the best displays available on a smartphone. You can check more about the display on YouTube.
Camera
The four new models have the same front-facing camera, a 12 megapixel with f/2.2 aperture. It’s the rear camera that you will find the biggest differences between them. But before noting these variations, let’s outline the aspects they share. The iPhone 12 through to the Pro Max all benefit from a new wide camera with a faster f/1.6 aperture as well as Night Vision and Deep Fusion. These features guarantee you brighter images, with better contrast. But that’s as far as the similarities go. The 12 mini and 12 have a dual rear camera with the main and ultra-wide-angle camera both being 12 megapixels. On the other hand, the 12 Pro and Pro Max come with a triple rear camera setup, the specs of the main camera, and ultra-wide angle camera being 12 megapixels as well. The major difference between these and the base model is that they feature a 12-megapixel telephoto camera as well. However, while the Pro variant offers a 4x optical zoom telephoto lens and an aperture of f/2.0, the Pro Max extends this delivering 5x optical zoom and an aperture of f/2.2. To summarize, all variants capture stunning images and are equipped to handle any situation.
Design and Colours
Each model is available in different colors to appeal to different styles and tastes. The iPhone 12 and 12 mini can be found in five colors: Blue, Green, Product Red, White, and Black. The Pro and Pro Max come in four classic colors: Pacific Blue, Graphite, Gold, and Silver. When it comes to design, they all have a sleeker flat-edge design with a Ceramic Shield display. According to Apple, this display offers four times better drop protection compared to previous models.
Wrapping Up
Despite having different camera specifications, three different sizes, and four different prices, the 12 series have plenty of similarities between them, including an ultra-fast bionic processor, 5G capability, water-resistance of up to 30 minutes in 6 meters(depth), a 12MP front-facing camera, and OLED displays. The iPhone 12 and 12 Mini are a lot more similar compared to their Pro siblings and understandably are available at a lower price. All in all, the right iPhone 12 model for you will depend on your personal preference and budget. If you are a photography fanatic, the Pro models are better suited for you. The same holds if you value bigger display sizes. In this case, you might even have to go for the Pro Max, which, as seen, has the biggest display. But remember, you are going to have to pay a premium price for these extra features. Nevertheless, if you are just looking for the thrill of the latest iPhone model but on a budget then we recommend going for a refurbished iPhone 12 as they offer top-notch performance at a fraction of a price of the new one.
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