iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 14
Shop iPhone
iPhone 12 mini
Starting at
£161.35£579.00 new
iPhone 14
Starting at
£289.69£599.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 14?
iPhone 12 mini vs 14 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone 12 mini starts at £161.35, £128.34 less than the iPhone 14. The iPhone 14 is the newer model, released in 2022.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Weight
- Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12 mini, Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone 14.
- The iPhone 14 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The iPhone 14 has a bigger battery: 3279 mAh vs 2227 mAh.
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 14 specs
The iPhone 12 mini is smaller and lighter, ideal if you want a compact phone that fits easily in a pocket or handbag. The iPhone 14 offers a larger screen and more memory, making it better for multitasking and media viewing. Battery capacity is higher on the iPhone 14, so it suits users who need longer daily use without charging. Storage options on the iPhone 14 extend up to 512GB, while the iPhone 12 mini starts at 64GB, so the 14 is better for storing more files and apps. Both devices have similar cameras and use the Lightning connector.
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 14 price
Colour
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 14 battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and software support are key durability factors here.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 12 mini has a 2227 mAh battery, which suits everyday use especially if you prefer a smaller phone. The iPhone 14's larger 3279 mAh battery is better if you want longer battery life between charges, which helps with heavy use or longer days away from a charger.
Operating System Support
This means both phones continue to receive new features and security improvements, keeping them current and secure over time.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 14 performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 14 screen
Screen size and resolution affect how much you see and how sharp images look. Both devices use the same Super Retina XDR OLED screen type but their sizes and resolutions differ.
Screen Size
The iPhone 12 mini has a 5.4 inch screen, which suits users who want a compact device that is easy to hold and fits in smaller spaces. The iPhone 14's 6.1 inch screen offers more room for video, reading, and multitasking, which benefits those who prefer a larger display.
Screen Resolution
The iPhone 12 mini's screen resolution is 1080 x 2340, while the iPhone 14 features a higher 1170 x 2532 resolution. The higher resolution on the iPhone 14 means images and text appear sharper, which is useful for detailed viewing or reading.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 14 camera
Camera quality and front camera resolution are important for photos and video calls. Both phones have similar camera specifications.
Camera Megapixels
Both the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 14 have 12 megapixel front and main cameras. This means both phones can take photos and selfies with similar detail levels, suitable for everyday photography and video chats.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 14 size and design
Other factors to consider include size, weight, connectivity, and storage capacities. These can influence comfort, compatibility, and how much you can keep on your phone.
Size and Weight
The iPhone 12 mini measures 131.5 mm in height and 64.2 mm in width, weighing 135 g. This makes it easier to hold and carry, fitting well in smaller hands or pockets. The iPhone 14 is larger at 146.7 mm tall and 71.5 mm wide, weighing 150 g, offering a more substantial feel that suits users who prefer bigger phones.
SIM Card Compatibility
The iPhone 12 mini supports both a physical SIM and eSIM, which can be useful if you want to switch networks or have two numbers. The iPhone 14 uses an eSIM only, which suits users comfortable with digital SIM management.
Storage Options
iPhone 12 mini models come in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB capacities, fitting everyday needs and moderate storage use. The iPhone 14 offers larger options including 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, making it suitable for users who store more apps, photos, and videos.
Connector Type
Both phones use the Lightning connector. If you have existing accessories with Lightning cables, either device will work seamlessly with them.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 12 mini or iPhone 14: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 12 mini if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £161.35, £128.34 less than the iPhone 14
- you want a lighter build (135 g vs 172 g)
Buy the iPhone 14 if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3279 mAh vs 2227 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 5.4 inch)
What our customers say
Customers say the iPhone 12 mini often looks like new even when refurbished, with many praising its compact size and battery health. Some note minor marks or scratches typical of a used phone while others appreciate extras like cases and screen protectors included. The 12 mini suits those wanting a smaller phone that still performs well and fits easily in a bag or pocket. A few customers mention issues like overheating or poor battery life but the majority find it reliable for everyday use.
Reviews for the iPhone 14 highlight its like-new condition and smooth performance. Customers appreciate the larger screen and battery life lasting all day with regular use. The phone is described as solid, reliable, and easy to use making it a good choice for users who want more screen space and storage. Minor marks on the back camera or screen protector fit are noted but do not affect overall satisfaction. Customers often mention the phone suits teenagers or those needing a dependable device for school, messaging, and media.
Overall, the iPhone 12 mini is recommended for those valuing a smaller, lighter phone with enough power for daily tasks. The iPhone 14 is suited to users who prefer a larger display, longer battery life, and more storage capacity for heavier use.
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone 14 FAQs
iPhone 12 mini vs 14 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12 mini, Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone 14. The iPhone 14 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The iPhone 12 mini is cheaper refurbished, from £161.35 compared with £289.69 for the iPhone 14.
The iPhone 14 has a bigger battery: 3279 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 14 is still supported and can run iOS 27.
The iPhone 14 adds more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB), a bigger battery (3279 mAh vs 2227 mAh) and a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 5.4 inch). Refurbished, it costs £128.34 more (from £289.69 vs £161.35).
Refurbished, the iPhone 12 mini comes in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone 14 in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
