Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 4 XL
Starting at
£149.99
iPhone 12
Starting at
£170.00£649.00 newWhat's the difference between the Google Pixel 4 XL and iPhone 12?
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 4 XL starts at £149.99, £20.01 less than the iPhone 12. The iPhone 12 is the newer model, released in 2020.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 4 XL, Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12.
- The Google Pixel 4 XL has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Google Pixel 4 XL has a bigger battery: 3700 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 specs
The Google Pixel 4 XL and iPhone 12 differ in several key areas that suit different types of users. The Pixel 4 XL offers a larger, higher resolution screen with a faster refresh rate and more RAM, making it well suited for those who prioritise visual smoothness and multitasking on Android. Its larger battery capacity also appeals to users looking for longer battery life. The iPhone 12 is lighter and offers more storage options, appealing to those who want a more compact device with flexible storage. Both phones have unlocked carrier compatibility and dual SIM support.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 price
Colour
Storage
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software support, and operating system. These factors affect how long the phone lasts during use and how long it stays current with updates.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a 3700 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone 12's 2815 mAh. This means the Pixel 4 XL is likely to offer longer usage between charges, useful for heavy users or those away from charging points for extended periods.
Operating System
The Google Pixel 4 XL runs Android, suitable if you prefer a more open app environment and customisation. The iPhone 12 uses iOS, known for a consistent and optimised user experience.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and available storage. These influence speed, multitasking, and how much data you can keep on your device.
Chipset Efficiency
The iPhone 12 uses the Apple A14 Bionic chip built on a 5 nm process, which is newer than the Google Pixel 4 XL's Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 built on 7 nm. This suggests the iPhone 12 has a more advanced chipset, which supports smooth operation and efficient power use for demanding tasks.
RAM Capacity
The Google Pixel 4 XL has 6 GB of RAM, compared to the iPhone 12's 4 GB. More RAM helps keep multiple apps open and running smoothly, which benefits users who multitask frequently on Android.
Storage Options
The Google Pixel 4 XL is stocked with 64GB of storage. The iPhone 12 offers more variety with 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options, catering to users who want additional space for apps, media, and files.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 screen
Screen quality affects how content looks and feels when you use your phone for browsing, gaming, or watching videos. Size, resolution, refresh rate, and screen type all play a role.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a larger 6.3 inch screen with a higher resolution of 1440 x 3040, providing more space and sharper detail for video and reading. The iPhone 12 has a 6.1 inch screen with 1170 x 2532 resolution, offering a slightly smaller but still high-quality display.
Refresh Rate
The Pixel 4 XL features a 90 Hz refresh rate, which makes animations and scrolling appear smoother. The iPhone 12 has a 60 Hz refresh rate, which is standard and suits everyday use but is less fluid during fast motion.
Screen Technology
The Pixel 4 XL uses a P-OLED screen, while the iPhone 12 has a Super Retina XDR OLED display. Both provide vibrant colours and deep blacks, but the iPhone 12's screen technology is known for high brightness and contrast.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 camera
Audiovisual specs focus on camera capabilities, which matter for selfies, video calls, and photography.
Front Camera Resolution
The iPhone 12 has a 12 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail in selfies and video calls compared to the Google Pixel 4 XL's 8 megapixel front camera. This suits users who prioritise high-quality self-portraits.
Main Camera Details
Both phones have similar main camera resolutions, with the Pixel 4 XL at 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone 12 at 12 megapixels. This means both can take detailed photos, making them suitable for everyday photography.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 size and design
Other differences include connectivity, size, weight, and storage expandability. These affect convenience, network speed, and handling.
Mobile Network Support
The iPhone 12 supports 5G, which offers faster mobile data speeds where available. The Google Pixel 4 XL supports 4G, suitable for regular mobile internet use but without 5G capability.
Weight and Dimensions
The iPhone 12 is lighter at 164 g compared to the Pixel 4 XL's 193 g, making it easier to carry and hold for long periods. The Pixel 4 XL is slightly larger in height and width, providing a bigger screen but a larger overall footprint.
Connector Type
The Google Pixel 4 XL uses a USB-C connector, common for modern Android devices and many accessories. The iPhone 12 uses Apple's Lightning connector, which is compatible with specific Apple accessories.
SIM Card Support
Both phones support a physical SIM and an eSIM, allowing flexibility with carriers and dual SIM use.
Storage Expansion
Neither device supports an SD card slot, so storage is fixed to internal capacity.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 4 XL or iPhone 12: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 4 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £149.99, £20.01 less than the iPhone 12
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3700 mAh vs 2815 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 12 if
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (12 megapixels vs 8 megapixels)
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Oct 2022, last Android 13)
- you want 5G
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Google Pixel 4 XL appreciate its high-resolution screen and value for money. Many say the phone looks nearly new and works well, with some noting the Android experience feels more open and less limiting. The Pixel 4 XL's larger battery and screen are appreciated for extended use and media consumption, and its weight and size suit those wanting a substantial device. Some users note battery issues and repairs, but many find the device performs well for their needs.
Buyers of the iPhone 12 praise its condition, with many saying it looks brand new and performs smoothly thanks to the A14 Bionic chip. They highlight good battery condition when a new battery is requested and the device's smooth operation with the latest iOS updates. The iPhone 12's lighter weight and 5G support are seen as benefits, and its range of storage options meets different needs. The front camera's higher resolution is appreciated for selfies.
Both devices have strong appeal depending on whether you prefer Android with a larger screen and RAM or iOS with newer chipset, 5G connectivity, and more storage options. Each suits different user preferences and priorities.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 FAQs
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 4 XL, Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12. The Google Pixel 4 XL has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Google Pixel 4 XL is cheaper refurbished, from £149.99 compared with £170 for the iPhone 12.
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a bigger battery: 3700 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
The Google Pixel 4 XL has 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone 12 has 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 4 XL ended in Oct 2022. Its last version is Android 13. The iPhone 12 is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 4 XL comes in 64GB, and the iPhone 12 in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
