iPhone 12 vs iPhone 12 mini
Shop iPhone
iPhone 12
Starting at
£170.00£649.00 new
iPhone 12 mini
Starting at
£161.35£579.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini?
iPhone 12 vs mini comes down to the battery, screen size and weight. Refurbished, the iPhone 12 mini starts at £161.35, £8.65 less than the iPhone 12.
Refurbished from
Battery
Screen size
Weight
- The iPhone 12 has a bigger battery: 2815 mAh vs 2227 mAh.
- The iPhone 12 has a bigger screen: 6.1 inch vs 5.4 inch.
- The iPhone 12 mini has a lighter build: 135 g vs 162 g.
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 12 mini specs
The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini share many features including the same chipset, RAM, camera quality, and software support, making both suitable for everyday use with smooth performance and camera capabilities. The main differences lie in size, screen resolution, battery capacity, and weight. The iPhone 12 has a larger 6.1 inch screen with higher resolution and a bigger battery, which suits those who prefer a more spacious display and longer battery life. The iPhone 12 mini is smaller, lighter, and easier to hold or fit in a pocket, making it ideal for users seeking a compact phone without sacrificing performance or camera quality.
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 12 mini price
Colour
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 12 mini battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and software support are key durability factors. The battery size differs, affecting daily usage.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 12 has a 2815 mAh battery while the iPhone 12 mini comes with a 2227 mAh battery. This means the iPhone 12 generally lasts longer on a single charge, which suits users who need extra endurance for long days without charging. The 12 mini's smaller battery still supports regular daily use but may require more frequent charging.
Software Updates
Users can expect ongoing software improvements and security patches on either device, ensuring they stay current for some years.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 12 mini performance
Both phones share the same chipset, RAM, and storage options, so performance is consistent across the two models. This suits users who want dependable speed and multitasking on either size.
Processor and Memory
Both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini use the Apple A14 Bionic chip with 4 GB RAM. This combination handles everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking smoothly on either device.
Storage Options
Both models are available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage capacities. This allows users to choose the amount of space they need for apps, photos, and files regardless of device size.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 12 mini screen
Screen size and resolution differ, which affects how much you see on the display and the clarity of images. Both use the same OLED technology for vibrant colours and contrast.
Screen Size
The iPhone 12 has a 6.1 inch screen, offering a larger viewing area for videos, games, and browsing. The iPhone 12 mini's 5.4 inch screen suits users who prefer a more compact phone that fits easily in one hand or a pocket.
Screen Resolution
The iPhone 12 features a resolution of 1170 by 2532 pixels, while the 12 mini has 1080 by 2340 pixels. The higher resolution on the iPhone 12 means sharper detail on its bigger screen. Both screens use Super Retina XDR OLED technology, ensuring rich colours and deep blacks.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 12 mini camera
Camera and front-facing selfie quality are identical on both devices, so photo and video capabilities are the same regardless of size.
Camera Quality
Both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini have 12 megapixel front and main cameras. This means either phone captures detailed photos and videos with consistent image quality.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 12 mini size and design
Other differences include physical size, weight, and ease of carrying. Both phones support 5G and use the Lightning connector. Carrier compatibility and SIM options are also the same.
Dimensions and Weight
The iPhone 12 measures 146.7 mm in height, 71.5 mm in width, and weighs 164 g. The iPhone 12 mini is smaller and lighter at 131.5 mm tall, 64.2 mm wide, and 135 g. This makes the mini easier to hold and carry for users who want a compact device.
Network and SIM
Both phones support 5G networks and use a combination of physical SIM and eSIM. This provides flexibility for network use without any difference between the models.
Connector Type
The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini both use a Lightning connector for charging and accessories, so there is no change in cable compatibility between the two.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 mini: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 12 if
- you want a bigger battery (2815 mAh vs 2227 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 5.4 inch)
Buy the iPhone 12 mini if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £161.35, £8.65 less than the iPhone 12
- you want a lighter build (135 g vs 162 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the iPhone 12 often remark on its like-new condition, clean glass, and flawless frame. Many appreciate the performance powered by the A14 Bionic chip, which handles apps and multitasking smoothly. Several customers mention ordering a new battery with their refurbished phone, which enhances durability and daily use. The phone's larger size and clear screen protector also receive positive comments, with buyers noting it feels like a new device. Overall, iPhone 12 users value its reliability, screen size, and performance for everyday tasks and photo editing.
iPhone 12 mini customers highlight its compact size and light weight, making it easy to carry and fit in handbags or pockets. Many reviews mention the phone looking great with battery health at 100 percent and working well for typical use. Some users appreciate the case and screen protector included. However, a few mention issues like overheating, screen or body damage, and battery life concerns, especially with phones in fair or lower conditions. Despite this, many customers find the mini a good choice for those wanting a smaller device with solid performance.
The iPhone 12 is suited to users who prefer a larger screen and longer battery life for extended daily use. The iPhone 12 mini appeals to those who favour a smaller, lighter phone that remains powerful and easy to handle.
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 12 mini FAQs
iPhone 12 vs mini comes down to the battery, screen size and weight. The iPhone 12 has a bigger battery: 2815 mAh vs 2227 mAh. The iPhone 12 has a bigger screen: 6.1 inch vs 5.4 inch.
The iPhone 12 mini is cheaper refurbished, from £161.35 compared with £170 for the iPhone 12.
The iPhone 12 has a bigger battery: 2815 mAh vs 2227 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 12 is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone 12 mini is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Both come in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB refurbished.
