iPhone 13 Vs Xiaomi 12T

iPhone 13
iPhone 13
Starting at

Refurbished price:232.00

Versus €769.00 new

See options
Xiaomi 12T
Xiaomi 12T
Starting at

Refurbished price:140.00

Versus €649.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 13, released in September 2021, and the Xiaomi 12T, launched in October 2022, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. While both devices offer robust performance for daily use, they differ significantly in their operating systems, display technologies, and camera philosophies. The iPhone 13 operates on Apple's iOS, known for its long-term software support and integrated ecosystem, whereas the Xiaomi 12T runs on Android with Xiaomi's MIUI overlay, offering a more customizable experience.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of a smartphone, factors like software support, physical resilience, and repairability play a crucial role.

  • Release Timeline and OS Support: The iPhone 13, released in September 2021, typically receives major iOS updates for approximately 5 to 6 years from its launch, with expectations for support extending until around 2027 or 2028. The Xiaomi 12T, launched in October 2022, generally receives about three years of Android OS updates. This difference means the iPhone 13 is likely to maintain software currency for a longer period.
  • Durability Features: The iPhone 13 features a Ceramic Shield front cover and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, allowing it to withstand submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The Xiaomi 12T comes with Gorilla Glass 5 on the front and an IP53 rating, indicating protection against dust and light splashes.
  • Repairability: The iPhone 13 initially received an iFixit repairability score of 5 out of 10, which was later adjusted to 6 out of 10 after a software update addressed issues with Face ID functionality post-screen replacement. Information regarding the specific repairability score for the Xiaomi 12T is less widely available, but its construction typically involves standard smartphone assembly practices.

Year of Release

2021

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the iPhone 13 and Xiaomi 12T are designed to handle a variety of tasks, from everyday browsing to more demanding applications, though they achieve this with different underlying architectures.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 13 is equipped with a highly efficient processor that delivers strong performance for both general use and intensive tasks like gaming and video editing. Users often report smooth operation and quick app loading, with the device maintaining responsiveness even under heavy loads. The Xiaomi 12T features a processor optimized for a balanced experience, providing smooth performance for daily applications and capable handling of graphically demanding games.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPhone 13, with its integrated hardware and software, offers fluid transitions and efficient multitasking, allowing users to switch between applications without noticeable delays. The Xiaomi 12T also provides a responsive user interface and handles multiple applications concurrently, contributing to a smooth overall experience.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 13 offers improved battery life compared to its predecessors, often lasting a full day for many users with typical usage. The Xiaomi 12T is known for its large battery capacity, which translates to extended usage times, with some reports indicating up to 13.5 hours of screen-on time.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone 13 is available with internal storage options of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The Xiaomi 12T typically comes with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, paired with 8GB of RAM.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both devices is a key differentiator, with each offering distinct display technologies and characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The iPhone 13 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2532x1170 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 460 pixels per inch (ppi). This OLED technology provides deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Xiaomi 12T boasts a larger 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED DotDisplay with a resolution of 2712x1220 pixels, offering a pixel density of 446 ppi.
  • Brightness and Clarity: The iPhone 13's display reaches a typical maximum brightness of 800 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 1200 nits, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. The Xiaomi 12T offers a typical brightness of 500 nits and a peak brightness of 900 nits, providing clear visuals even outdoors.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The iPhone 13 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which provides a smooth experience for most everyday interactions. In contrast, the Xiaomi 12T features an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to a more fluid scrolling experience and smoother animations, particularly noticeable in compatible content and games.

Resolution

1170 x 2532

1220 x 2712

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems, but they approach photography and videography with different strengths and sensor configurations.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 13 features a dual 12MP camera system, comprising a main wide-angle lens with an f/1.6 aperture and sensor-shift optical image stabilization (OIS), and an ultra-wide lens with an f/2.4 aperture and a 120-degree field of view. The Xiaomi 12T is equipped with a triple rear camera setup, including a high-resolution 108MP main sensor with OIS and an f/1.7 aperture, an 8MP ultra-wide lens with a 120-degree field of view, and a 2MP macro lens.
  • Photography Performance: The iPhone 13 excels in capturing detailed images with natural color reproduction, especially in challenging lighting conditions, thanks to features like Smart HDR 4 and Night mode. The Xiaomi 12T's high-megapixel main sensor is designed to capture a significant amount of detail, and it also includes a dedicated Night mode for improved low-light performance.
  • Video Recording Capabilities: The iPhone 13 supports 4K HDR video recording with Dolby Vision at up to 60 frames per second (fps) and introduces Cinematic mode, which allows for shallow depth-of-field effects in 1080p at 30fps. The Xiaomi 12T can record 4K video at 30fps and offers various video features, including Ultra Night Video and one-click AI Cinema modes.
  • Front Camera and Audio: For selfies and video calls, the iPhone 13 has a 12MP TrueDepth front camera. The Xiaomi 12T features a 20MP front camera. Both devices offer capable microphone quality for calls and recording. The Xiaomi 12T includes dual speakers with Dolby Atmos support, enhancing the media consumption experience.

Main camera

12 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

20 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several other features contribute to the overall user experience and practical utility of these devices.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both the iPhone 13 and Xiaomi 12T support 5G connectivity for faster mobile data speeds. The iPhone 13 uses a Lightning port for charging and data transfer, while the Xiaomi 12T features a USB-C port, a more universal standard.
  • Biometric Security: The iPhone 13 relies on Face ID for secure facial recognition. The Xiaomi 12T offers both an in-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock for biometric authentication.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone 13 has dimensions of 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65 mm and weighs 174g, offering a compact and manageable form factor. It features a flat-edge design with an aluminum frame and a Ceramic Shield front. The Xiaomi 12T is larger and heavier at 163.1 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm and 202g, with a glass back and a plastic frame.
  • Additional Features: The iPhone 13 includes MagSafe for magnetic accessories and wireless charging. The Xiaomi 12T supports fast wired charging, with a 120W charger often included, capable of fully charging the device in a short period.

Weight

173 g

220 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.67

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C

The iPhone 13 and Xiaomi 12T cater to different user preferences, each excelling in specific areas based on their design and ecosystem. Users frequently praise the iPhone 13 for its consistent performance, robust software support, and high-quality camera system, particularly its video capabilities and color accuracy. Common criticisms sometimes point to its 60Hz display refresh rate, which is lower than many contemporary Android devices. The Xiaomi 12T is often lauded for its vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display, long battery life, and rapid charging speeds, making it a strong contender for media consumption and users who prioritize quick power-ups. Some users might find its plastic frame less premium than other devices, and its software update longevity is typically shorter than Apple's.

Users prioritizing a device with extended software longevity, a highly integrated ecosystem, and strong video recording capabilities may find the iPhone 13 well-suited to their needs. Its compact size and Ceramic Shield front also appeal to those seeking a durable and easily manageable phone. Conversely, individuals who value a larger, high-refresh-rate display for a smoother visual experience, exceptional battery endurance, and very fast charging will likely lean towards the Xiaomi 12T. Its customizable Android interface also offers more flexibility for users who prefer to personalize their device extensively.

For those considering either of these models, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, offering access to these devices while contributing to a more sustainable consumption model.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons