iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro Max
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iPhone 12 mini
Starting at
£161.35£579.00 new
iPhone 12 Pro Max
Starting at
£332.70£1,079.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 Pro Max?
iPhone 12 mini vs Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone 12 mini starts at £161.35, £171.35 less than the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Weight
- Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12 mini, Apple A14 Bionic on the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
- The iPhone 12 Pro Max has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a bigger battery: 3687 mAh vs 2227 mAh.
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro Max specs
The iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 12 Pro Max both run iOS and were released in 2020, but they serve different needs. The iPhone 12 mini is compact and lightweight, ideal if you want a smaller phone that fits easily in your hand or bag. Its battery is smaller, so it suits lighter daily use. The iPhone 12 Pro Max offers a much larger screen and bigger battery, making it better for watching videos or multitasking. It also has more RAM and higher maximum storage, which helps with running multiple apps and storing more files. Both have excellent cameras and support 5G, so they are strong choices depending on your size preference and storage needs.
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro Max price
Colour
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software updates, and physical design.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 12 mini has a 2227 mAh battery, which suits everyday use with lighter screen time or less demanding apps. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a larger 3687 mAh battery, which means it can last longer during extended use like streaming or gaming. If you need a phone to last through a busy day without charging, the Pro Max is more suited to that.
Physical Size And Weight
Both phones are the same depth at 7.4 mm, but the iPhone 12 mini is smaller and lighter, measuring 131.5 mm tall and 64.2 mm wide at 135 g. The 12 Pro Max is noticeably bigger at 160.8 mm tall, 78.1 mm wide, and weighs 226 g. The mini suits those who want a phone that fits easily in pockets or small bags, while the Pro Max suits those who prefer a larger device.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro Max performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage options. Both phones use the Apple A14 Bionic chip, but the iPhone 12 Pro Max has more RAM and higher maximum storage, which impacts multitasking and file management.
RAM Capacity
The iPhone 12 mini has 4 GB of RAM, enough for everyday tasks and most apps. The 12 Pro Max includes 6 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps open and running smoothly when multitasking or using demanding applications. If you often switch between apps or run intensive software, the Pro Max offers an advantage.
Storage Options
The iPhone 12 mini is available with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of storage. The 12 Pro Max starts at 128GB and goes up to 512GB. If you store many photos, videos, or large apps, the Pro Max's higher storage capacities provide more room for your files.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro Max screen
Screen quality is important for viewing comfort and media enjoyment. Both phones use Super Retina XDR OLED displays but differ notably in size and resolution, affecting how you experience content.
Screen Size
The iPhone 12 mini has a 5.4 inch screen, making it compact and easy to hold or use with one hand. The 12 Pro Max has a much larger 6.7 inch screen, which offers more space for watching videos, reading, or gaming. If you prefer a larger display for media or work, the Pro Max is built for that.
Screen Resolution
The iPhone 12 mini's resolution is 1080 x 2340, while the 12 Pro Max has a higher 1284 x 2778 resolution. The higher resolution on the Pro Max means sharper images and finer detail, which is noticeable when viewing high-definition photos or videos.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro Max camera
Both phones have identical camera specifications, so audiovisual capabilities focus on the same quality of photos and video calls.
Camera Quality
Both the iPhone 12 mini and 12 Pro Max feature 12 megapixel front and main cameras. This means either phone can capture detailed photos and selfies. The camera experience will be similar regardless of which model you choose.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro Max size and design
Miscellaneous specs cover connectivity, physical design, and compatibility. Both phones share several features but differ in size and weight, which influences portability and feel.
Network And SIM
Both phones are unlocked, support 5G, and accept a physical SIM plus eSIM. This means you have flexibility in network choice and can use dual SIMs for work and personal numbers.
Physical Dimensions And Weight
The iPhone 12 mini is compact at 131.5 mm tall, 64.2 mm wide, and weighs 135 g. The 12 Pro Max is larger at 160.8 mm tall, 78.1 mm wide, and significantly heavier at 226 g. Choose the mini for easier one-handed use or the Pro Max if you prefer a bigger device that feels substantial in hand.
Connector Type
Both phones use Apple's Lightning connector for charging and accessories, so you can use the same chargers and cables with either device.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 12 mini or iPhone 12 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 12 mini if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £161.35, £171.35 less than the iPhone 12 Pro Max
- you want a lighter build (135 g vs 228 g)
Buy the iPhone 12 Pro Max if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3687 mAh vs 2227 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.7 inch vs 5.4 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the iPhone 12 mini often mention its compact size as a key advantage, making it easy to carry in a handbag or pocket. Many say the phone looks like new or has only minor marks that are barely noticeable, and battery health is commonly reported at 100%, which adds to the appeal. Some users highlight the phone's speed and reliability for everyday tasks, while others appreciate extras like a case and screen protector included with their purchase. There are a few reports of issues such as overheating or screen problems, but most users are satisfied with the phone's condition and performance.
Those who bought the iPhone 12 Pro Max praise its battery life lasting all day and the device's pristine condition. The larger screen and extra storage capacity are liked by users who want more space for photos and apps. Many customers describe the phone as working perfectly and looking almost new despite minor cosmetic marks. Some users bought it to replace older models and are happy with the upgrade in storage and size. A few negative reviews mention condition issues, but the majority find the Pro Max reliable and well suited to their needs.
In summary, the iPhone 12 mini suits buyers who want a smaller, lighter phone that performs well for everyday use. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is preferred by those who want a larger screen, longer battery life, and more storage for demanding use.
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 12 Pro Max FAQs
iPhone 12 mini vs Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12 mini, Apple A14 Bionic on the iPhone 12 Pro Max. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The iPhone 12 mini is cheaper refurbished, from £161.35 compared with £332.70 for the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a bigger battery: 3687 mAh vs 2227 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 12 mini is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone 12 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the iPhone 12 mini comes in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone 12 Pro Max in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
