iPhone 11 vs iPhone 12: The Key Differences
You're faced with a choice. The iPhone 11 or the new iPhone 12 ? The price difference is significant, and smartphone accessories are no longer included as standard with the 12. Both devices have the same screen size and a dual camera. Yet, there are significant differences that could influence your decision. The 12's new OLED screen displays colors more vibrantly than ever, and with the magnetic MagSafe connector, you can even charge your AirPods wirelessly . But the most surprising thing? Apple is returning to the iconic look of the iPhone 4 with its angular design—and combining it with cutting-edge technology.
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Display: OLED vs LCD
Both the iPhone 11 and 12 have a 6.1-inch screen, but there's one key difference. The iPhone 12 features an edge-to-edge OLED display, while the iPhone 11 has an LCD Liquid Retina display.
The iPhone 12's OLED screen offers greater contrast, more vibrant colors, and a higher pixel density. This makes it the best display Apple has ever created for its iPhones. It's a noticeable leap forward for those who enjoy watching movies and TV shows or playing games on their phone.
A14 Bionic: the fastest chip
Under the hood, the iPhone 12 boasts the most powerful processor ever built into a smartphone. The new A14 Bionic chip can perform trillions of operations thanks to the Neural Engine. It even allows for Dolby Vision filming, something even professional cameras can't do.
The iPhone 11, with its A13 Bionic chip, is certainly no powerhouse, but the A14 is slightly faster and more power-efficient. This means better performance and longer battery life for the iPhone 12.
Dual camera, now with night mode
Like the iPhone 11, the 12 has a 12MP dual camera system, featuring a wide-angle and ultra-wide camera. Ideal for landscape photos during your vacation. New is the improved Night Mode on the iPhone 12. The wide-angle camera captures 27% more light, resulting in sharper and more colorful photos in low light.
Other improvements include a more beautiful bokeh effect in Portrait mode and improved HDR functionality for optimal balance between dark and light areas of the image. Both models support 4K and slow-motion filming, and the iPhone 12 also captures Dolby Vision with up to 700 million colors per frame.
Retro design with thinner edges
In terms of design, the iPhone 12 harks back to the iconic angular design of the iPhone 4. The screen is the same size as that of the iPhone 11, but the bezels are even thinner. Moreover, the new model is up to four times more impact-resistant thanks to Ceramic Shield technology.
Do you prefer more compact phones? The iPhone 12 also comes in a mini version with a 5.4-inch screen. You get the same powerful specs as the standard model, except for the slightly shorter battery life.
Other benefits of the iPhone 12
Besides the upgrades mentioned, the iPhone 12 has a few extras in store:
- Support for super-fast 5G internet, a first for iPhones
- Magnetic MagSafe technology for easy wireless charging and connecting of accessories
- No included charger and earbuds, which Apple says is more sustainable because most people already have them
The iPhone 12 will cost you at least €909 for the 64GB model. A significant investment, especially compared to the refurbished iPhone 11, which you can get starting at €539. Still, it's worth the extra cost if you truly want the very best from Apple.
Which iPhone is Right for You?
The choice between the iPhone 11 and 12 depends on your needs and budget. With its OLED screen, faster A14 chip, and improved camera, the iPhone 12 offers clear advantages for those looking for the best of Apple. The new angular design and 5G support also make it more future-proof. But with its excellent performance and attractive price, the iPhone 11 remains a sensible choice. Both devices are suitable for everyday use, with the 12 being particularly appealing to photography enthusiasts and those who like to stay ahead of the curve with new technology.