iPhone 15 Pro Max Vs Xiaomi 12T

iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:609.99

Versus €1,489.00 new

See options
Xiaomi 12T
Xiaomi 12T
Starting at

Refurbished price:131.00

Versus €649.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 15 Pro Max (2023) and the Xiaomi 12T (2022) are both smartphones designed to offer distinct user experiences. While the iPhone 15 Pro Max operates on Apple's iOS, the Xiaomi 12T runs on Android, providing different ecosystems and interface approaches. Key differences lie in their core processing power, camera systems, and overall build, catering to varying user priorities.

Scores

Durability

The expected lifespan and software support differ between these two devices due to their respective release timelines and manufacturer policies.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 15 Pro Max was released in September 2023, making it a more recent device compared to the Xiaomi 12T, which launched in October 2022. This difference in release year impacts their potential software support windows.
  • Software Longevity: Apple typically provides iOS updates for 5-6 years or more for its devices, suggesting the iPhone 15 Pro Max will receive software support well into the future. The Xiaomi 12T launched with Android 12 and Xiaomi has previously promised 4 years of security patches and major OS updates up to Android 15.
  • Durability Features: The iPhone 15 Pro Max features a titanium frame, contributing to a lighter and potentially more durable build, along with Ceramic Shield front cover and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The Xiaomi 12T uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection and an all-glass build, though specific IP ratings are less emphasized.

Year of Release

2023

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a significant differentiator, with both devices offering capabilities suited for various tasks, though at different levels of intensity.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 15 Pro Max is equipped with a current-generation processor designed for demanding applications and console-level gaming, offering smooth multitasking and rapid app loading. The Xiaomi 12T features a processor capable of handling everyday tasks and gaming, though it may not match the peak performance of the iPhone for the most intensive applications.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers storage capacities starting from 256GB, with options up to 1TB. The Xiaomi 12T is available with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, which is not expandable.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 15 Pro Max is noted for its extended battery life, often lasting through a full day of heavy use and sometimes longer. The Xiaomi 12T, with its 5000mAh battery, generally provides a full day of use, though some users report varied experiences depending on usage patterns and refresh rate settings.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

Both smartphones offer vibrant displays, but they differ in technology and specific characteristics that impact the visual experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone 15 Pro Max features a Super Retina XDR OLED display with ProMotion technology, offering a resolution of 2796 by 1290 pixels at 460 ppi, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Xiaomi 12T uses an AMOLED panel with a resolution of 1220x2712 pixels at 446 ppi, providing a rich and detailed viewing experience with vibrant colors and deep blacks.
  • Brightness Levels: The iPhone 15 Pro Max can reach up to 2000 nits peak brightness outdoors, ensuring excellent visibility in bright conditions. The Xiaomi 12T has a typical brightness of 500 nits and a peak brightness of 900 nits, which is generally sufficient for outdoor use.
  • Refresh Rate: The iPhone 15 Pro Max features an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz with ProMotion technology, allowing for smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The Xiaomi 12T also offers a 120Hz refresh rate, with an adaptive setting that can drop to 60Hz to conserve battery life.

Resolution

1290 x 2796

1220 x 2712

Screen type

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

AMOLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both devices are designed for different photographic strengths, catering to diverse user needs.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts a versatile Pro camera system, including a 48MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, and a 12MP 5x telephoto lens with advanced optical image stabilization, excelling in detailed and vibrant photos, especially in low light. The Xiaomi 12T features a 108MP wide-angle main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 2MP macro camera, offering high-resolution main shots and a broader field of view.
  • Video Recording: The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers high-quality video recording with advanced stabilization and features. The Xiaomi 12T supports 4K video recording at 30fps.
  • Audio Experience: The iPhone 15 Pro Max provides a clear audio experience. The Xiaomi 12T features dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support, delivering crisp and punchy audio, which users find immersive for media consumption.

Main camera

48 megapixels

108 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

20 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and daily usability of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity: Both devices support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth, ensuring modern wireless communication capabilities. The iPhone 15 Pro Max also supports Wi-Fi 6E.
  • Ports and Sensors: The iPhone 15 Pro Max has transitioned to a USB-C port, supporting faster data transfer speeds on the Pro models, and features Face ID for secure authentication. It also includes a customizable Action Button. The Xiaomi 12T uses a USB-C port and includes an under-display optical fingerprint sensor for unlocking.
  • Physical Design: The iPhone 15 Pro Max has dimensions of 159.9 x 76.7 x 8.25 mm and weighs 221g, featuring a titanium frame that makes it noticeably lighter than previous Pro Max models. The Xiaomi 12T measures 163.1 x 75.9 x 8.6 mm and weighs 202g, offering a comfortable feel with an all-glass build.

Weight

221 g

220 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.67

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback indicates that the iPhone 15 Pro Max is widely praised for its exceptional performance, advanced camera system, and impressive battery life, with many users appreciating the lighter titanium design and the switch to USB-C. Some criticisms include its size and charging speed. The Xiaomi 12T receives positive remarks for its vibrant AMOLED display, capable performance for its segment, and strong audio output from its dual stereo speakers. User concerns sometimes point to varied battery life experiences and the lack of expandable storage.

Users prioritizing a cutting-edge camera system, top-tier processing power for demanding applications, and a longer software support window may find the iPhone 15 Pro Max well-suited to their needs. Conversely, individuals seeking a device with a high-resolution display, robust audio for media consumption, and a generally smooth Android experience might lean towards the Xiaomi 12T. Both devices offer compelling features for different user profiles, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option can be a sustainable choice for either model.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons