iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022)
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iPhone 12 mini
Starting at
£161.35£579.00 new
iPhone SE (2022)
Starting at
£113.85£429.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 12 mini and iPhone SE (2022)?
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) comes down to the chipset, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2022) starts at £113.85, £47.50 less than the iPhone 12 mini. The iPhone SE (2022) is the newer model, released in 2022.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Screen size
Screen type
Front camera
Weight
- Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12 mini, Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022).
- The iPhone 12 mini has a bigger screen: 5.4 inch vs 4.7 inch.
- The iPhone 12 mini has an OLED screen.
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) specs
The iPhone 12 mini offers a larger, higher resolution OLED screen suited to those who value a vibrant display for videos and photos, while the iPhone SE (2022) has a smaller LCD screen that fits comfortably in one hand. Both have the same RAM and main camera resolution, but the 12 mini has a higher resolution front camera for sharper selfies. Storage choices vary, with the 12 mini available up to 256GB and the SE stocked at 64GB. These differences help guide which device suits your preferences for screen experience, photography, and storage needs.
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) price
Colour
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) battery life and software updates
They share similar build features like unlocked carrier compatibility.
Software Support
This means you get the latest apps and services regardless of which model you choose.
Build and Network
Both phones are unlocked for use on any carrier. They support 5G networks, so you'll have access to fast mobile data where available. Their physical SIM plus eSIM options offer flexibility in managing mobile plans.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) screen
Screen quality and size are key differences between these two iPhones. The display affects how you watch videos, browse, and interact with apps.
Screen Size and Type
The iPhone 12 mini features a 5.4 inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen, which delivers vibrant colours and deeper blacks, making it well suited for media lovers and those who enjoy rich visuals. The iPhone SE (2022) has a smaller 4.7 inch Retina IPS LCD screen that fits comfortably in one hand and suits users who prefer compact devices.
Screen Resolution
With a resolution of 1080 x 2340, the iPhone 12 mini offers a sharper and more detailed display, ideal for clear text and crisp images. The iPhone SE (2022) has a resolution of 750 x 1334, which still provides good clarity but is best for everyday use and simpler viewing needs.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) camera
Both phones have 12 megapixel main cameras, but their front cameras differ in resolution which can affect selfie quality and video calls.
Front Camera Resolution
The iPhone 12 mini has a 12 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail in selfies and video calls. This suits users who prioritise selfie quality or frequent video chatting. The iPhone SE (2022) offers a 7 megapixel front camera, which works well for everyday photos and video calls but with less detail.
Main Camera Similarity
Both phones have a 12 megapixel main camera, so photo quality for everyday shots will be similar. This makes either phone a solid choice for standard photography needs.
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) size and design
Additional practical differences relate to size, weight, storage options, and other physical characteristics that affect everyday use.
Storage Options
The iPhone 12 mini is available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB versions, giving you more choice if you need extra space for apps, photos, and videos. The iPhone SE (2022) is stocked with 64GB, which suits users with more basic storage needs.
Size and Weight
The iPhone 12 mini is slightly taller at 131.5 mm and wider at 64.2 mm but lighter at 135 g. This makes it comfortable to hold while offering a larger screen. The iPhone SE (2022) measures 130 mm tall and 60 mm wide, weighing 144 g, making it compact and easy to carry for those who prefer smaller phones.
Physical Design Details
Both phones have similar thickness around 7.4 mm and use Lightning connectors. The physical SIM plus eSIM support on both models allows flexible network setups without needing an SD card slot.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 12 mini or iPhone SE (2022): which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 12 mini if
- you want a bigger screen (5.4 inch vs 4.7 inch)
- you want an OLED screen
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (12 megapixels vs 7 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone SE (2022) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £113.85, £47.50 less than the iPhone 12 mini
- you want the newer model (2022)
What our customers say
Customers generally praise the iPhone 12 mini for its condition and performance. Many say it looks like new or has only minor marks, with battery health often noted as excellent. Users appreciate the size, which fits nicely in a handbag or pocket, and the phone's smooth running for everyday tasks. Some reviews mention occasional issues such as overheating or faults, but most feedback highlights good value and satisfaction with the refurbished condition.
For the iPhone SE (2022), customers report smooth operation and ease of setup, with many saying the phone matches the description and looks very good. The 5G capability is noted as a benefit. Battery health reports vary, with some users seeing discrepancies, but overall the SE is seen as reliable for everyday use and a comfortable size for those upgrading from smaller models.
Both phones suit different users: the iPhone 12 mini appeals to those who want a larger, higher resolution screen and more storage options, while the iPhone SE (2022) fits well for those wanting a compact, straightforward device with solid daily performance.
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) FAQs
iPhone 12 mini vs iPhone SE (2022) comes down to the chipset, screen size and screen type. Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12 mini, Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022). The iPhone 12 mini has a bigger screen: 5.4 inch vs 4.7 inch.
The iPhone SE (2022) is cheaper refurbished, from £113.85 compared with £161.35 for the iPhone 12 mini.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 12 mini is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone SE (2022) is still supported and can run iOS 27.
The iPhone SE (2022) is newer, but the main specs we compare are the same. Refurbished, it costs £47.50 less (from £113.85 vs £161.35).
Refurbished, the iPhone 12 mini comes in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone SE (2022) in 64GB.
