iPhone 11 Vs iPhone 12 mini

iPhone 11
iPhone 11
Starting at

Refurbished price:155.99

Versus €589.00 new

See options
iPhone 12 mini
iPhone 12 mini
Starting at

Refurbished price:167.00

Versus €689.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 11, released in September 2019, and the iPhone 12 Mini, launched in November 2020, represent different approaches within Apple's smartphone lineup. While the iPhone 11 offers a larger display and a focus on core performance, the iPhone 12 Mini introduces a more compact form factor, an enhanced screen, and 5G connectivity. Both devices operate on Apple's iOS platform, providing a consistent user experience.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release dates and subsequent software support are key factors. The iPhone 12 Mini, being a year newer, generally benefits from an extended period of software updates and potentially a longer practical lifespan.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 11 was released in September 2019, while the iPhone 12 Mini followed in November 2020. This means the iPhone 12 Mini will likely receive iOS updates for approximately one year longer than the iPhone 11.
  • Software Longevity: Both devices are compatible with the latest iOS updates, ensuring access to new features and security patches. The iPhone 11 is compatible with iOS 18 as of September 2024 and is expected to support iOS 26 in September 2025.
  • Durability Features: The iPhone 12 Mini features a Ceramic Shield front cover, which Apple claims offers four times better drop performance compared to previous iPhone models, including the iPhone 11. Both models have an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.
  • Repairability: Both the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 Mini received a repairability score of 6 out of 10 from iFixit, indicating that common repairs like display and battery replacements are prioritized in their design.

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 launching applications to handling demanding games. Both the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 Mini offer capable performance, though the newer model benefits from a more advanced internal architecture.

  • Processor Capabilities: The iPhone 12 Mini is equipped with a newer generation processor, which provides improved speed and efficiency compared to the iPhone 11's processor. This translates to smoother operation for demanding applications and multitasking.
  • System Responsiveness: Users of the iPhone 12 Mini generally experience slightly faster app loading times and a more fluid overall interface due to its enhanced processing power. The iPhone 11 still offers a responsive experience for most everyday usage.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 11 has a larger battery capacity (3,110 mAh) compared to the iPhone 12 Mini (2,227 mAh). This difference typically results in the iPhone 11 offering longer battery life, particularly for video playback and audio streaming. The iPhone 12 Mini's smaller battery may require more frequent charging for heavy users.
  • Storage Options: Both models are available with 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage capacities.

Memory

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and there are notable differences in the screen technology and viewing experience offered by the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 Mini.

  • Display Technology: The iPhone 11 features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD (LCD) display. In contrast, the iPhone 12 Mini boasts a 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR (OLED) display. The OLED technology in the 12 Mini provides deeper blacks and more vibrant colors compared to the LCD panel of the iPhone 11.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The iPhone 12 Mini has a higher resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels and a higher pixel density of 476 ppi, resulting in a sharper and more detailed image on its smaller screen. The iPhone 11 has a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels with 326 ppi.
  • Brightness Levels: Both displays offer a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions.
  • Screen Size and Viewing: The iPhone 11's larger 6.1-inch screen provides a more expansive viewing area, which can be beneficial for media consumption and browsing. The iPhone 12 Mini's 5.4-inch display offers a more compact and easily manageable form factor, ideal for one-handed use.

Resolution

828 x 1792

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Liquid Retina IPS LCD

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 Mini are equipped with capable camera systems, designed to capture high-quality photos and videos in various scenarios.

  • Camera System: Both phones feature a dual 12-megapixel rear camera system, including a wide and an ultra-wide lens, and a 12-megapixel front-facing camera.
  • Low-Light Performance: The iPhone 12 Mini benefits from a wider aperture on its main camera (f/1.6 compared to iPhone 11's f/1.8), which allows it to gather more light, leading to improved low-light performance and Night mode capabilities across all cameras. The iPhone 11 also features a Night mode, which significantly enhances low-light photography compared to older models.
  • Video Recording Quality: Both devices can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The iPhone 12 Mini adds support for Dolby Vision HDR video recording at up to 30fps, offering enhanced dynamic range and color in videos.
  • Selfie Camera: Both models feature a 12-megapixel TrueDepth front camera. The iPhone 11's front camera can record 4K video.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and differentiate these two iPhone models.

  • Connectivity Options: A significant difference is the iPhone 12 Mini's support for 5G cellular connectivity, offering faster download and upload speeds in areas with 5G coverage. The iPhone 11 is limited to 4G LTE. Both support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • Port Types: Both devices utilize the Lightning connector for charging and data transfer.
  • Build Materials and Durability: The iPhone 12 Mini features flat edges and an aluminum frame, similar to the iPhone 12, and incorporates a Ceramic Shield front cover for enhanced drop protection. The iPhone 11 has a more rounded aluminum frame and a glass back.
  • Weight and Dimensions: The iPhone 12 Mini is considerably smaller and lighter, weighing 133g and measuring 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.4mm. The iPhone 11 is larger and heavier at 194g and 150.9 x 75.7 x 8.3mm. This makes the 12 Mini more comfortable for one-handed use and easier to carry.
  • Other Features: The iPhone 12 Mini introduces MagSafe, a magnetic system for attaching accessories and wireless charging. Both devices support Face ID for secure authentication.

Weight

194 g

135 g

Width

7,57 cm

6,42 cm

Height

15,09 cm

13,15 cm

Depth

0,83 cm

0,74 cm

Screen size (in)

6.1

5.4

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

User feedback for the iPhone 11 often praises its reliable performance, good camera system, and solid battery life for its time. Many users found it to be a well-rounded device that offered a strong balance of features for everyday use. Criticisms sometimes pointed to its LCD display technology when compared to newer OLED screens.

The iPhone 12 Mini, on the other hand, is frequently lauded for its compact size and premium OLED display, making it a favorite among those who prefer smaller phones. Its advanced processor and improved camera capabilities, including better low-light performance, also received positive remarks. However, a common concern among users is its significantly shorter battery life, which can be a limiting factor for heavy usage throughout the day.

Users prioritizing a larger screen and longer battery life for extended use may find the iPhone 11 more suitable. Its robust performance remains adequate for most daily tasks. Conversely, users who value a highly compact form factor, a more vibrant OLED display, and enhanced camera features, particularly in low light, might prefer the iPhone 12 Mini, provided its shorter battery life aligns with their usage patterns. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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