09/08/2023

iPhone 11 vs iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13

iPhone 11 vs iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13

Apple releases a new version of the iPhone almost every year. Sometimes the differences are clearly visible in the design, and in other cases, the upgrades are mainly internal. But how do you know if the latest model is worth the money? Or is the iPhone 11 still a good choice? To find out, you need to compare the different iPhones. We’ve listed the specifications of the last three standard models—the iPhone 11iPhone 12 and the iPhone 13 so you can decide which iPhone to choose.

Design

The iPhone 12 underwent a noticeable makeover compared to the iPhone 11. The rounded design that had been used since the iPhone 6 was replaced by a design with flat edges, similar to the iPhone 4(S), 5(S), and SE (2016). As a result, the device is slightly smaller than its predecessor, while the screen size has remained the same. The design of the iPhone 13 is almost identical to that of the iPhone 12, except for the camera lenses. While they were positioned vertically on the iPhone 11 and 12, the lenses on the iPhone 13 are placed diagonally. The iPhone 13 is also slightly thicker and, therefore, a bit heavier than the iPhone 12. All models come with an aluminum body.

Screen

Regarding the screen, there are many similarities between the iPhone 12 and 13. Both feature a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display and have Ceramic Shield on the front. In comparison, the iPhone 11 has a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display with a glass protective layer. The screen resolution of the iPhone 13 is higher than that of the iPhone 12.

Camera

As mentioned earlier, the lenses on the iPhone 13 are no longer vertically aligned as in previous models, but diagonally positioned. Initially, it was thought that this was purely an aesthetic change to differentiate the iPhone 12 from the iPhone 13, but that's not the case. There is a technical reason behind the lens shift. The iPhone 13 is equipped with technology that takes up more space. All iPhone 13 models come with sensor-shift technology, which ensures better stabilization for your photos. Additionally, the lens associated with this technology is larger. The lenses simply no longer fit in a vertical layout, prompting the design change.

All three iPhones come with a 12-megapixel wide-angle lens, optical image stabilization, a True Tone flash, and portrait mode. The iPhone 12 and 13 both have a night mode for both the front and rear cameras. If you're into professional video-making, the iPhone 13 is your best bet. This iPhone features a Cinematic mode, allowing you to shift focus between subjects while filming and even after the recording.

Processor

Of course, every new iPhone comes with a new chip. The iPhone 13 is powered by the A15 Bionic chip, which is faster and more efficient than its predecessors and competitors. The iPhone 12 has the A14 Bionic chip, and the iPhone 11 runs on the A13 Bionic chip. In daily use, you likely won't notice much difference between these chips. Naturally, battery life has also improved with each new model.

Extras

Apple's phones are becoming increasingly water-resistant. Since the iPhone 7, iPhones can withstand 30 minutes of submersion. The latest models, like the iPhone 12 and 13, can handle up to 6 meters of water, while the iPhone 11 can only withstand up to 2 meters.

The iPhone 12 and 13 also feature internal magnets, allowing for wireless charging. The iPhone 11 is not compatible with MagSafe.

Regarding storage, the iPhone 13 offers a step up. It is available in capacities ranging from 128GB to 512GB, while the iPhone 12 and iPhone 11 only offer storage from 64GB to 256GB.

If you're looking for a phone with 5G capability, the iPhone 11 is out of the running, as it only supports 4G. Both the iPhone 13 and iPhone 12 are, of course, 5G-compatible.

Conclusion

The main differences between the three iPhones are in the camera and design. If you're looking to take professional photos and replace a separate camera, the iPhone 13 is the phone for you. If you use your phone more for everyday tasks like browsing, emailing, and messaging, the iPhone 12 or iPhone 11 might be a better fit. There are still notable differences between these two phones, such as the iPhone 12's superior screen and more advanced camera features. Price will likely also play a role in your decision. Of course, you'll get the best deal if you opt for a refurbished iPhone 12 or refurbished iPhone 11.