Comparing the iPhone 12 Cameras

Posted November 19, 2020

Share To

 

  TweetEmail

Last month, Apple announced the new iPhone: the iPhone 12. The iPhone 12 then has 4 different models. There's the iPhone 12, the Mini, the Pro and the Pro Max. While they all share many features, there are some differences, particularly with the camera system. So with the holiday season upcoming and many people eyeing a new model, let's look at some of the differences. 

First are the physical differences. The iPhone 12 is the standard model with a 6.1" screen. The iPhone 12 Pro has the same size screen. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a larger 6.7" screen. and the Mini has a 5.7 screen. 

Looking at the camera systems, they all share certain hardware and features. They all share the same A14 chip which allows for image stabilization and extended dynamic range for light. A new feature on all four models is recording in Dolby Vision HDR, which will automatically color grade your videos.

The iPhone 12 and the Mini have identical camera systems. Both have dual 12MP Wide and Ultra Wide lenses and record video in up to 4K at up to 60fps. The Pro and Pro Max have 12MP Wide and Ultra Wide lenses and record video in 4K at 60fps as well, but also have a telephoto lens as part of the system. The third lens on these models gives your video more depth. Using three lenses insead of two, particularly a telephoto lens, will make your wide shots have much more depth to them.

The basic difference between the Pro models and the others is the third lens. It's a marginal difference, but those are slightly better. Between the iPhone Pro and Pro Max, the Max has a slightly better telephoto lens, so then it's marginally better than the standard Pro. All of these differences are minor and whichever model you may choose you are getting one of the best smartphone cameras on the market. Similarly if you have an iPhone 11 or Pro, then the camera system is basically the same as the 12 -- again just a marginal improvement.