Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 4 XL
Starting at
£149.99
iPhone 12 mini
Starting at
£161.35£579.00 newWhat's the difference between the Google Pixel 4 XL and iPhone 12 mini?
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 4 XL starts at £149.99, £11.36 less than the iPhone 12 mini. The iPhone 12 mini 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 mini.
- 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 2227 mAh.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini specs
The Google Pixel 4 XL and the iPhone 12 mini cater to different preferences and needs. The Pixel 4 XL offers a larger screen with higher resolution and more RAM for multitasking, along with a bigger battery that suits heavier daily use. The iPhone 12 mini is more compact and supports 5G networks, making it suitable if you want a smaller device with faster connectivity. The Pixel runs on Android while the iPhone uses iOS, so your choice may also depend on which operating system you prefer. The iPhone 12 mini comes in multiple storage options, which can be important for varied storage needs.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini price
Colour
Storage
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system, and software updates.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a 3700 mAh battery, which is significantly larger than the iPhone 12 mini's 2227 mAh. This means the Pixel 4 XL can generally provide longer battery life, which benefits users who need their phone to last through extended use without frequent charging.
Operating System
The Pixel 4 XL runs on Android, offering flexibility and customisation, while the iPhone 12 mini uses iOS, known for its integration with other Apple devices and a consistent user experience. Your preference for Android or iOS will influence the choice.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini performance
Performance depends on chipset, RAM, and storage options, affecting speed, multitasking, and how much you can keep on your device.
Processor Efficiency
The iPhone 12 mini features the Apple A14 Bionic chipset built on a 5 nm process, which is typically more power-efficient compared to the Pixel 4 XL's Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 at 7 nm. This can translate to better performance and battery management during demanding tasks on the iPhone.
Memory Capacity
With 6 GB of RAM, the Pixel 4 XL supports keeping more apps open simultaneously, which is useful for multitasking. The iPhone 12 mini has 4 GB of RAM, suiting everyday use and smooth operation within iOS.
Storage Options
The iPhone 12 mini offers a range of storage sizes: 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB. This variety fits different user needs, from basic storage to more extensive libraries. The Pixel 4 XL is stocked with 64GB, which suits users with lighter storage demands.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini screen
Screen quality influences viewing experience for video, browsing, and reading. Both devices have OLED displays but differ in size and resolution.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Pixel 4 XL has a 6.3 inch screen with 1440 x 3040 resolution, offering a larger and sharper display that is beneficial for watching videos and multitasking. The iPhone 12 mini's 5.4 inch screen at 1080 x 2340 resolution is smaller but still offers clear visuals suited to one-handed use.
Screen Technology
The Pixel 4 XL uses a P-OLED screen, while the iPhone 12 mini features a Super Retina XDR OLED display. The iPhone's screen is designed for high brightness and contrast, which suits users who want vivid colours and sharp details in varied lighting.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini camera
Camera quality is important for photography and video calls. Both phones have rear and front cameras with different megapixel counts.
Front Camera Detail
The iPhone 12 mini has a 12 megapixel front camera, ideal if you prioritise selfies or video calling with more detail. The Pixel 4 XL's front camera is 8 megapixels, which still supports good quality but with fewer pixels.
Main Camera Performance
Both devices have main cameras close in capability: 12.2 megapixels on the Pixel 4 XL and 12 megapixels on the iPhone 12 mini. This means both phones capture similar levels of detail in photos, suitable for everyday photography.
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini size and design
Other differences include physical size, network capabilities, connectors, and weight, which all affect how the phone feels and fits your lifestyle.
Size and Weight
The Pixel 4 XL measures 160.4 mm in height, 75.1 mm in width, and 8.2 mm in depth, weighing 193 g. It is larger and heavier, fitting those who prefer bigger screens and don't mind extra weight. The iPhone 12 mini is 131.5 mm tall, 64.2 mm wide, and 7.4 mm deep, weighing 135 g, making it easier to hold and pocket.
Mobile Network
The iPhone 12 mini supports 5G networks, offering faster data speeds where 5G is available. The Pixel 4 XL supports 4G, which remains reliable for everyday browsing and streaming.
Connector Type
The Pixel 4 XL uses a USB-C connector, commonly used across many devices for charging and data transfer. The iPhone 12 mini uses a Lightning connector, which is typical for Apple devices and accessories.
SIM Card Support
Both phones support a physical SIM card plus an eSIM, allowing users flexibility in managing multiple phone numbers or carriers.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 4 XL or iPhone 12 mini: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 4 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £149.99, £11.36 less than the iPhone 12 mini
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3700 mAh vs 2227 mAh)
Buy the iPhone 12 mini 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 of the Google Pixel 4 XL appreciate its value and screen quality, especially the high-resolution display which can be costly to repair. Many mention the phone looks like new and runs smoothly, with some users enjoying the Android system for its flexibility. However, some customers have experienced battery issues and reported inconsistencies in device condition, which may affect long-term satisfaction. The Pixel suits those who want a larger screen and more RAM for multitasking.
The iPhone 12 mini receives praise for its compact size and overall condition, with many customers noting it looks like new and runs well. The range of storage options and compatibility with 5G networks are appreciated. Some customers mention minor signs of wear or battery concerns, but many are happy with the battery health and smooth performance. The iPhone 12 mini is ideal for users looking for a smaller phone with the latest software support and faster network connectivity.
Both phones suit different users: the Pixel 4 XL fits those preferring a larger Android device with more memory, while the iPhone 12 mini is better for those wanting a compact iOS phone with 5G capability and multiple storage options.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini FAQs
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone 12 mini 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 mini. 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 £161.35 for the iPhone 12 mini.
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a bigger battery: 3700 mAh vs 2227 mAh.
The Google Pixel 4 XL has 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone 12 mini has 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 4 XL ended in Oct 2022. Its last version is Android 13. The iPhone 12 mini is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 4 XL comes in 64GB, and the iPhone 12 mini in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
