iPhone 12 Pro Vs iPhone 14

iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:214.00

Versus €1,039.00 new

See options
iPhone 14
iPhone 14
Starting at

Refurbished price:287.25

Versus €759.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 12 Pro, released in October 2020, and the iPhone 14, launched in September 2022, represent different generations of Apple's smartphone lineup. While both devices offer a premium user experience, the iPhone 14 introduces advancements in camera technology and internal design, building upon the foundation set by the 12 Pro. Both models operate on Apple's iOS platform, ensuring a consistent software experience.

Scores

Durability

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

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 12 Pro was released in October 2020, making it two years older than the iPhone 14, which launched in September 2022. This age difference directly impacts the expected duration of software support.
  • Software Longevity: Both devices are compatible with the latest iOS updates. However, the iPhone 14, being newer, is expected to receive major iOS updates for a longer period than the iPhone 12 Pro, offering extended access to new features and security enhancements.
  • Repairability: The iPhone 12 Pro received an initial repairability score of 6 out of 10 from iFixit, noting that many components are modular but proprietary screws and increased waterproofing can complicate repairs. The iPhone 14 initially received a higher score of 7 due to a redesigned internal structure that made back glass repair more accessible. However, this score was later downgraded to 4 due to software limitations and 'parts pairing' procedures that restrict functionality with unauthorized or unpaired components.

Year of Release

2020

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key differentiator, with the newer iPhone 14 offering improvements in processing power and battery efficiency.

  • Processor Capabilities: The iPhone 12 Pro is powered by a capable processor that handles everyday tasks, demanding applications, and gaming smoothly. The iPhone 14 features a more advanced processor, providing enhanced speed and efficiency for a more responsive user experience, particularly with newer applications and intensive multitasking.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 12 Pro has a battery capacity of 2,815 mAh, offering up to 17 hours of video playback. The iPhone 14 comes with a larger 3,279 mAh battery, which translates to an improved battery life of up to 20 hours of video playback, meaning more extended usage between charges for most users.
  • Storage Options: Both models offer similar storage configurations, typically starting at 128GB and extending to 256GB and 512GB, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

Both devices feature high-quality displays, but the iPhone 14 offers some subtle enhancements in brightness and overall viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Size: Both the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 14 feature a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels at 460 pixels per inch. This technology delivers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast.
  • Brightness Levels: While both displays offer excellent brightness, the iPhone 14 has a slightly higher typical maximum brightness of 800 nits, with a peak HDR brightness of 1200 nits. The iPhone 12 Pro also reaches 800 nits typical and 1200 nits peak HDR brightness.
  • Refresh Rate: Both models feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth visual experience for most content.

Resolution

1170 x 2532

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both iPhones are highly capable, though the iPhone 14 introduces notable advancements, particularly in low-light performance and video features.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 12 Pro features a triple 12-megapixel camera system (Wide, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto) with a LiDAR scanner for improved autofocus in low light and Night mode portraits. The iPhone 14 has a dual 12-megapixel camera system (Wide and Ultra Wide) but benefits from a larger main sensor, a faster aperture, and the Photonic Engine for enhanced low-light performance and improved image processing.
  • Video Recording: Both phones offer high-quality video recording. The iPhone 12 Pro supports Dolby Vision HDR video recording up to 60 frames per second. The iPhone 14 also offers excellent video quality, including Cinematic mode for shallow depth of field and Action mode for smoother handheld footage.
  • Front Camera: Both devices are equipped with a 12-megapixel TrueDepth front-facing camera, capable of capturing detailed selfies and supporting Face ID.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical aspects differentiate these two iPhone models.

  • Connectivity: Both the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 14 support 5G connectivity, offering faster cellular speeds where available. They also feature modern Wi-Fi standards and Bluetooth for wireless connections.
  • Physical Design and Materials: The iPhone 12 Pro features a stainless steel frame, while the iPhone 14 uses an aerospace-grade aluminum frame. Both have Ceramic Shield front covers for enhanced durability and are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance. The iPhone 14 is slightly lighter than the iPhone 12 Pro.
  • Additional Features: The iPhone 12 Pro introduced MagSafe for wireless charging and accessories, a feature also present in the iPhone 14. The iPhone 14 includes new safety features like Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via Satellite, which are not available on the 12 Pro.

Weight

187 g

172 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

Users often praise the iPhone 12 Pro for its robust build quality, versatile triple camera system with a telephoto lens, and consistent performance, even several years after its release. Some common feedback includes its excellent display and the overall premium feel. Criticisms sometimes point to its battery life compared to newer models and the lack of some of the latest computational photography features.

The iPhone 14 is frequently lauded for its improved battery life, enhanced low-light camera performance, and the introduction of significant safety features. Users appreciate the brighter display and the overall refinement of the user experience. Some discussions note that while it's a solid upgrade, the core design and some features are similar to its immediate predecessors, and the repairability has become more complex due to software restrictions on parts.

Users prioritizing a more advanced camera system with a dedicated telephoto lens and LiDAR for AR applications might find the iPhone 12 Pro well-suited to their needs. Those who value extended battery life, enhanced low-light photography, and the latest safety features will likely lean towards the iPhone 14. Both devices offer a reliable and high-quality smartphone experience, and choosing between them often comes down to these specific priorities. For those looking for an eco-friendly alternative, both models are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing a sustainable choice without compromising on performance.

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