iPhone 11 Pro Vs iPhone 12 mini

iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:184.00

Versus €809.00 new

See options
iPhone 12 mini
iPhone 12 mini
Starting at

Refurbished price:161.00

Versus €689.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 11 Pro, released in September 2019, and the iPhone 12 Mini, launched in November 2020, represent distinct approaches within Apple's smartphone lineup. While both devices offer a premium experience, they cater to different user preferences, primarily distinguished by their physical size, camera capabilities, and cellular connectivity. Both operate on Apple's iOS platform, ensuring a consistent software ecosystem.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical resilience.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 11 Pro was introduced in September 2019, while the iPhone 12 Mini followed in November 2020. This difference means the iPhone 12 Mini will likely receive major iOS software updates for approximately one year longer than the iPhone 11 Pro, extending its functional lifespan in terms of new features and security patches.
  • Physical Durability: Both models feature an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The iPhone 11 Pro is rated for a maximum depth of 4 meters for up to 30 minutes, whereas the iPhone 12 Mini improves upon this with a rating for up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The iPhone 12 Mini also introduced Ceramic Shield on its front cover, which offers enhanced drop performance compared to the glass used on the iPhone 11 Pro.
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Users can expect both devices to remain functional for several years. However, the iPhone 12 Mini's newer processor and extended software support timeline suggest it may offer a slightly longer period of optimal performance and compatibility with the latest applications.

Year of Release

2019

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating applications to engaging with demanding content. Both the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 12 Mini deliver capable performance, though with generational differences.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 11 Pro is equipped with a capable processor that handles everyday applications and multitasking smoothly. The iPhone 12 Mini features a newer generation processor, which provides a noticeable boost in speed and efficiency, particularly for more intensive tasks like advanced gaming or complex video editing.
  • System Responsiveness: For general use, both phones offer a highly responsive experience. However, the iPhone 12 Mini's more advanced processor contributes to faster app loading times and a smoother overall user interface, especially when managing multiple applications simultaneously.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone 11 Pro was available with 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage configurations. The iPhone 12 Mini offers 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options. Users who require extensive local storage for large media libraries or numerous applications might find the 512GB option on the 11 Pro beneficial, while the 128GB option on the 12 Mini provides a balanced choice for many users.

Memory

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

Both the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 12 Mini feature high-quality OLED displays, offering vibrant visuals and deep blacks, but they differ significantly in size and pixel density.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: Both devices utilize Super Retina XDR OLED displays, providing excellent contrast and color accuracy. The iPhone 11 Pro has a 5.8-inch display with a resolution of 2436x1125 pixels at 458 pixels per inch (ppi). The iPhone 12 Mini features a more compact 5.4-inch display with a resolution of 2340x1080 pixels, resulting in a slightly higher pixel density of 476 ppi, which can lead to marginally sharper text and images.
  • Brightness and Viewing Experience: Both models offer a typical maximum brightness of 800 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 1200 nits, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions, including bright outdoor environments. The iPhone 11 Pro's larger screen provides a more expansive viewing area for media consumption and productivity, while the iPhone 12 Mini's smaller size makes it easier for one-handed use.
  • Refresh Rate: Both the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 12 Mini feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which provides a smooth experience for most everyday interactions.

Resolution

1125 x 2436

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 12 Mini offer distinct capabilities, catering to different photographic needs and preferences.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 11 Pro boasts a versatile triple-lens setup, including a 12MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, and a 12MP Telephoto lens. This telephoto lens provides 2x optical zoom in, allowing for clearer zoomed-in shots. The iPhone 12 Mini features a dual-lens system with a 12MP Wide and a 12MP Ultra Wide lens, offering 2x optical zoom out. Both support Night mode for improved low-light photography and Portrait mode with advanced bokeh effects.
  • Video Recording and Features: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The iPhone 12 Mini introduces HDR video recording with Dolby Vision at up to 4K at 30fps, offering enhanced dynamic range in video content. The iPhone 12 Mini also extends Night mode capabilities to its front-facing camera, a feature not present on the iPhone 11 Pro.
  • Audio Quality: Both phones provide clear audio recording for videos and calls. The speaker output on both models is suitable for media consumption, offering a balanced sound profile.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements differentiate the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 12 Mini, impacting daily usability and connectivity.

  • Connectivity and Ports: A significant difference lies in cellular connectivity; the iPhone 12 Mini supports 5G networks, offering faster download and upload speeds in supported areas, while the iPhone 11 Pro is limited to Gigabit-class LTE. Both devices feature Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connections and utilize a Lightning port for charging and data transfer.
  • Physical Design and Handling: The iPhone 12 Mini is considerably smaller and lighter, measuring 131.5 mm in height, 64.2 mm in width, and 7.4 mm in depth, weighing 135 grams. This makes it highly pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use. The iPhone 11 Pro is larger and heavier at 144 mm in height, 71.4 mm in width, 8.1 mm in depth, and 188 grams. The 12 Mini also features flat edges, a design departure from the 11 Pro's rounded sides.
  • Biometric Security: Both models rely on Face ID for secure facial recognition, enabling convenient unlocking and authentication for payments and apps.

Weight

188 g

135 g

Screen size (in)

5.8

5.4

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

User feedback often highlights the iPhone 11 Pro's robust battery life and its versatile triple-camera system, particularly the dedicated telephoto lens, as strong points. Some users appreciate its slightly larger display for media consumption. Criticisms sometimes point to its lack of 5G connectivity and its design, which some found less modern compared to newer models.

Conversely, the iPhone 12 Mini is frequently praised for its incredibly compact size and lightweight design, making it ideal for one-handed use and easy portability. Its inclusion of 5G and the newer, more efficient processor are also commonly cited advantages. However, its primary criticism revolves around its significantly shorter battery life, which can be a concern for heavy users.

Users prioritizing a more expansive screen, a dedicated telephoto camera, and longer battery endurance for extended use may find the iPhone 11 Pro better suited to their needs. Conversely, individuals who value a highly compact form factor, the latest cellular connectivity (5G), and a slightly more modern processor for general responsiveness will likely lean towards the iPhone 12 Mini. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for those seeking a reliable smartphone experience.

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