Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini
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Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
Starting at
£341.28
iPhone 12 mini
Starting at
£161.35£579.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and iPhone 12 mini?
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone 12 mini starts at £161.35, £179.93 less than the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G. The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12 mini.
- The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G has more RAM: 12 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G has a bigger battery: 4400 mAh vs 2227 mAh.
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini specs
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and iPhone 12 mini differ significantly in size, screen, and memory. The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G offers a much larger foldable screen and more RAM, which suits users who want more space for multitasking or media. Meanwhile, the iPhone 12 mini is smaller and lighter, making it easier to carry and use with one hand. Battery capacity is notably higher in the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, which may benefit heavier users. Both support 5G and unlocked use, but they run different operating systems and use different connectors. Storage options also vary, with the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G stocking higher capacities compared to the iPhone 12 mini. Overall, the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G suits those seeking a spacious, powerful device, while the iPhone 12 mini fits those after a compact, everyday smartphone.
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini price
Colour
- BlackSold out
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Storage
- 256GBSold out
- 512GBSold out
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini battery life and software updates
Battery life and operating system shape daily reliability and use. The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and iPhone 12 mini differ notably in battery size and OS, which affects how long they last and what software experience you get.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G has a 4400 mAh battery, which is almost double the 2227 mAh battery of the iPhone 12 mini. This higher capacity means the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G can potentially support longer use between charges, suiting users who use their phone heavily or want more screen time without recharging.
Operating System
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G runs Android 11, offering a wide range of customisation and app choices. The iPhone 12 mini uses iOS, which provides a distinct interface and app ecosystem. Your preference between Android and iOS will influence which device feels more natural and convenient to use.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini performance
Performance depends on chipset, RAM, and storage capacity. The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and iPhone 12 mini each bring strengths suited to different user needs.
Chipset and RAM
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G features the Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G chipset paired with 12 GB RAM, supporting smooth multitasking and demanding apps. The iPhone 12 mini has the Apple A14 Bionic chipset with 4 GB RAM, which suits everyday use and efficient app performance.
Storage Choices
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is stocked in higher storage capacities of 256GB and 512GB, ideal for users who store many apps, photos, or videos. The iPhone 12 mini offers 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options, covering needs from basic to moderate storage requirements.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini screen
Screen size, resolution, and type affect how you view content and interact with your phone. The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and iPhone 12 mini offer very different screen experiences suited to different priorities.
Screen Size
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G has a 7.6 inch screen, providing extensive space for watching videos, reading, or multitasking. The iPhone 12 mini has a 5.4 inch screen, making it more compact and easier to handle with one hand or fit in smaller pockets.
Resolution
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G's screen resolution is 1768 x 2208, delivering sharp and detailed images on its large display. The iPhone 12 mini has a 1080 x 2340 resolution, which suits its smaller screen size for clear text and images.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G uses a Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, combining foldable design with vibrant colours and contrast. The iPhone 12 mini features a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, known for bright colours and sharp details. Both offer high-quality displays but with different form factors.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini camera
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini size and design
Other features like connectors, network compatibility, and weight influence daily handling and device setup. The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and iPhone 12 mini offer distinct choices that suit different preferences.
Connector Type
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G uses a USB Type-C connector, common across many Android devices and accessories. The iPhone 12 mini uses Apple's Lightning connector, which fits with other Apple accessories you may have.
Weight
Weighing 271 g, the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is noticeably heavier, reflecting its larger size and foldable design. The iPhone 12 mini is lighter at 135 g, making it more comfortable for long one-handed use or carrying in smaller bags.
Network and SIM Options
Both phones support 5G and come unlocked. Each uses a combination of physical SIM and eSIM, giving flexibility in managing phone numbers and carriers.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
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Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
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Galaxy Z Fold3 5G or iPhone 12 mini: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4400 mAh vs 2227 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (7.6 inch vs 5.4 inch)
Buy the iPhone 12 mini if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £161.35, £179.93 less than the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Sep 2026)
- you want a lighter build (135 g vs 271 g)
What our customers say
Customers of the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G appreciate its condition and performance. Many mention the phone looks like new and runs well, with several praising its ease of use and setup. The larger screen and good service are valued, and the device is described as good quality and brilliant by users. Some note the battery lasts well, though one pointed out a shorter battery life compared to a previous model.
Reviews of the iPhone 12 mini highlight its compact size and good condition. Customers like the phone's look and feel, with many saying it runs well and fits nicely in a handbag. Battery health is often mentioned as a positive, with some users appreciating extras like cases and screen protectors. A few report issues with battery life or overheating, but others describe the phone as great for everyday use and a bargain, especially with higher storage versions.
Overall, the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G suits users wanting a spacious screen and strong multitasking, while the iPhone 12 mini appeals to those preferring a smaller, lighter phone for everyday tasks.
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini FAQs
Galaxy Z Fold3 5G vs iPhone 12 mini comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) on the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12 mini. The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G has more RAM: 12 GB vs 4 GB.
The iPhone 12 mini is cheaper refurbished, from £161.35 compared with £341.28 for the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G.
The Galaxy Z Fold3 5G has a bigger battery: 4400 mAh vs 2227 mAh.
Updates for the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G ended in Sep 2026. The iPhone 12 mini is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy Z Fold3 5G comes in 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone 12 mini in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
