Deciding between Apple‘s iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 can be challenging. While both deliver a premium iOS experience, important distinctions set them apart. This expert guide examines every facet of these iconic devices to reveal the right model for you.
Design and Construction
The iPhone 12 ushers in a fresh aesthetic reminiscent of old iPhone 5 models with its flat-edge industrial design. Slim beveled edges replace the iPhone 11‘s curved frame, bringing improved ergonomics. At 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4mm and 164g, the 12 fits better in hand and pockets than the 11‘s 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3mm, 194g form.
| iPhone 11 | iPhone 12 | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3 mm | 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 mm |
| Weight | 194 g | 164 g |
| Build | Glass front, back, aluminum frame | Ceramic Shield front, glass back, aluminum frame |
| Durability | IP68 dust/water resistance | IP68 dust/water resistance, 4x better drop performance |
The iPhone 12 also introduces a Ceramic Shield front cover. Made by crystallizing the glass with high heat, it offers 4x better drop protection, keeping cracks and scratches at bay. The iPhone 11 lacks this fortified shielding.
Display Technology
The iPhone 12 display demonstrates significant improvements from its predecessor…
Design and Construction
The iPhone 12 ushers in a fresh aesthetic reminiscent of old iPhone 5 models with its flat-edge industrial design. Slim beveled edges replace the iPhone 11‘s curved frame, bringing improved ergonomics. At 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4mm and 164g, the 12 fits better in hand and pockets than the 11‘s 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3mm, 194g form.
The iPhone 12 also introduces a Ceramic Shield front cover. Made by crystallizing the glass with high heat, it offers 4x better drop protection, keeping cracks and scratches at bay. The iPhone 11 lacks this fortified shielding.
The Winner: iPhone 12
With a lighter, thinner, and easier to grip design alongside enhanced durability from Ceramic Shield, the iPhone 12 proves the better built device.
Display Technology
The iPhone 12 display demonstrates significant improvements from its predecessor…
The Winner: iPhone 12
Boasting a vibrant OLED panel with nearly double the pixels and pixels-per-inch of the iPhone 11‘s LCD, the iPhone 12 offers far superior color, contrast, clarity and immersion.
Performance
Powered by the industry-leading A14 Bionic CPU, the iPhone 12 packs more performance muscle than the already swift iPhone 11. Benchmark tests demonstrate a clear advantage…
The Winner: iPhone 12
With a faster, more efficient processor built on cutting-edge 5nm architecture, the iPhone 12 breezes through demanding apps and games more smoothly than the iPhone 11.
Connectivity
The arrival of 5G connectivity marks a major mobility milestone for the iPhone 12 over the aging 4G LTE of the iPhone 11. By allowing…
The Winner: iPhone 12
With next-gen 5G speeds up to 100x faster than 4G LTE in optimal conditions, the iPhone 12 offers radically quicker downloads, streaming, gaming and cloud access.
Cameras
Despite retaining similar 12MP dual lens rear cameras, Apple enhanced the iPhone 12‘s shooting prowess in key areas. Upgrades like a wider f/1.6 aperture and sensor-shift optical stabilization yield real photographic improvements…
The Winner: iPhone 12
Major strides in low-light photography and stabilized shooting gives iPhone 12 cameras a clear advantage. Dolby Vision HDR recording options push its video chops even further ahead.
Unique Features
With the addition of Apple‘s unique MagSafe system which magnetically attaches compatible wireless chargers and accessories, the iPhone 12 again differentiates itself. The iPhone 11 lacks this special feature.
The Winner: iPhone 12
MagSafe introduces effortless charging and accessory connections that the iPhone 11 simply does not offer.
Final Verdict: Which Phone is Better?
While both phones deliver smooth iOS experiences, the iPhone 12‘s cutting-edge display, refreshed design, camera upgrades, MagSafe, and 5G support make it the unambiguous winner here. Unless budget limited, the iPhone 12 proves the superior choice that feels most modern and built for the future. With double the storage for just $100 more than base iPhone 11 models, it remains a prudent investment too.
For those operating on strict budgets though, the iPhone 11 still packs plenty of power at a more accessible price point. Ultimately it comes down to value vs budget. The iPhone 12 brings greater technological advancements to the table, while the iPhone 11 offers financial savings. Choose whichever meets your needs best.
Recommended iPhone 12 Deal:
Apple iPhone 12 64GB (Verified Refurbished)
Recommended iPhone 11 Deal:
Apple iPhone 11 64GB (Renewed)
FAQ
Does the iPhone 11 support 5G?
No. Only the iPhone 12 lineup and newer models include 5G connectivity. The iPhone 11 is limited to 4G LTE speeds.
How much better are the iPhone 12 cameras?
The iPhone 12 offers important low-light and optical stabilization gains from its newer sensor and lenses. Combined with advanced video recording options, it outperforms the iPhone 11 cameras noticeably.
Do all iPhone 12 models have OLED displays?
Yes. All iPhone 12 variants from the Mini to Pro Max utilize OLED panel technology for optimal color, contrast and clarity.
Should I upgrade from an iPhone 11 to iPhone 12?
If you can afford it and value the latest features like 5G, OLED displays, and enhanced cameras, upgrading brings meaningful improvements. However, iPhone 11 users on tight budgets likely don‘t need to rush updating.
