Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 6
Starting at
£120.00
iPhone 12
Starting at
£170.00£649.00 newWhat's the difference between the Google Pixel 6 and iPhone 12?
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 6 starts at £120, £50 less than the iPhone 12. The Google Pixel 6 is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Google Tensor on the Google Pixel 6, Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12.
- The Google Pixel 6 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Google Pixel 6 has a bigger battery: 4614 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 specs
The Google Pixel 6 and iPhone 12 each offer distinct strengths suited to different users. The Pixel 6 has a larger battery, more RAM, and a 90 Hz AMOLED screen that can make everyday use feel smoother and last longer between charges. It also has a bigger main camera sensor for high detail photos. The iPhone 12 features a slightly higher screen resolution, a sharper front camera, and the familiar iOS system. It is lighter and more compact, which suits users looking for a smaller device. Storage options vary, with the Pixel 6 starting at 128GB and the iPhone 12 offering a lower 64GB option for those wanting less storage.
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 price
Colour
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Storage
- 128GBSold out
- 256GBSold out
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software support, and physical design. These affect how long you can use the phone on a charge, whether it continues receiving updates, and how it feels in the hand.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 6 has a 4614 mAh battery, which is notably larger than the iPhone 12's 2815 mAh. This suits users who want longer battery life between charges, useful for heavy daily use or long days without easy access to charging.
Latest Software Updates
This means you can keep either device up to date with new features and security improvements.
Operating System
The Pixel 6 runs on Android, which offers wide customisation and flexible app choices. The iPhone 12 runs on iOS, known for its smooth integration with Apple services and apps. Your choice depends on which system you prefer.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage options. These determine how smoothly the phone runs apps, switches between tasks, and stores files.
Chipset
The Google Pixel 6 uses the Google Tensor chipset built on a 5 nm process, while the iPhone 12 has the Apple A14 Bionic chipset also on 5 nm. Both provide strong performance for everyday tasks and more demanding apps.
RAM
With 8 GB of RAM, the Pixel 6 keeps more apps active in the background, which helps with multitasking and switching between apps smoothly. The iPhone 12 has 4 GB RAM, which still supports fluid performance within iOS.
Storage Options
The Pixel 6 is available with 128GB or 256GB of storage, suitable for users who want ample space for apps, photos, and media. The iPhone 12 offers 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options, giving more choice for those with smaller storage needs.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 screen
Screen quality affects how you view photos, videos, and apps. Differences include size, refresh rate, resolution, and screen type.
Screen Size
The Pixel 6 has a 6.4 inch screen, providing a larger display area that suits watching videos or browsing. The iPhone 12 has a 6.1 inch screen, which may be easier to hold for those wanting a more compact device.
Refresh Rate
Pixel 6's 90 Hz refresh rate means the screen refreshes more often than the iPhone 12's 60 Hz. This results in smoother scrolling and animations, noticeable when navigating apps or playing games.
Resolution and Screen Type
The iPhone 12 has a higher resolution at 1170 by 2532 pixels, which can give slightly sharper detail on its 6.1 inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen. The Pixel 6's AMOLED screen has a resolution of 1080 by 2400 pixels, offering vibrant colours and good contrast.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 camera
Camera quality is key for those who take photos or video calls. Front and main cameras differ in megapixels, affecting detail capture.
Main Camera
The Pixel 6 has a 50 megapixel main camera, which captures more detail and suits users who prioritise photography. The iPhone 12 has a 12 megapixel main camera, which still performs well for everyday photos.
Front Camera
For selfies and video calls, the iPhone 12 offers a 12 megapixel front camera, delivering sharper images. The Pixel 6 has an 8 megapixel front camera, which is adequate for video chats and casual selfies.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 size and design
Other useful differences include physical dimensions, network compatibility, and connectors. These affect handling, accessory use, and connectivity.
Weight and Size
The Pixel 6 weighs 207 g and measures 158.6 mm tall by 74.8 mm wide. The iPhone 12 is lighter at 164 g and smaller at 146.7 mm tall by 71.5 mm wide. Those who prefer a lighter or more compact device may lean towards the iPhone 12.
Connector Type
The Pixel 6 uses a USB-C connector, which is common for many devices and accessories. The iPhone 12 uses Apple's Lightning connector, which suits users with existing Apple cables and accessories.
Network and SIM
Both phones support 5G networks and can use a physical SIM plus an eSIM. This provides flexibility for mobile plans and future network speeds.
Carrier Compatibility
Both devices come unlocked, allowing you to use them with any compatible network provider.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 6 or iPhone 12: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 6 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £120, £50 less than the iPhone 12
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4614 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 2026, last Android 17)
- you want a lighter build (162 g vs 207 g)
What our customers say
Customers say the Google Pixel 6 looks clean and runs smoothly, often described as feeling like a new phone even in fair condition. They appreciate the advanced technology and display quality, mentioning fast charging and good battery life. Several users highlight the camera and practical size, while others praise the variety of quality options available for different budgets. The Pixel 6 suits those who want a slick, capable phone with a strong camera and longer battery performance.
For the iPhone 12, customers report the device looks pristine and performs well with smooth multitasking and app use. Many mention receiving phones in excellent condition with new batteries, appreciating the sharp front camera and overall reliability. The iPhone 12 is popular with users who prefer a compact, lightweight phone with iOS, and who value a high-resolution screen and familiar Apple ecosystem.
Both phones suit buyers seeking reliable refurbished devices with up-to-date software and 5G. Pixel 6 appeals to those wanting a larger screen, more RAM, and higher resolution main camera. The iPhone 12 fits users wanting a smaller, lighter device with a sharper front camera and iOS experience.
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 FAQs
Google Pixel 6 vs iPhone 12 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Google Tensor on the Google Pixel 6, Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12. The Google Pixel 6 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
The Google Pixel 6 is cheaper refurbished, from £120 compared with £170 for the iPhone 12.
The Google Pixel 6 has a bigger battery: 4614 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
The Google Pixel 6 has a higher-resolution main camera: 50 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 6 ended in Oct 2026. Its last version is Android 17. The iPhone 12 is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 6 comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone 12 in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
