Ah, the age-old question for tech enthusiasts and loyal Apple users: which iPhone should I buy? With the release of the iPhone 15 Pro, many are pondering whether it’s worth upgrading from their trusty iPhone 12 Pro. Let’s dive into an in-depth comparison, shedding light on both models to help you make an informed decision.
Related: Compare iPhone 11 Pro and 14 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro: Clash of the Titans
Apple’s iPhone lineup constantly evolves, and choosing between generations can be tricky. Here’s a detailed breakdown comparing the iPhone 12 Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro to help you decide which phone reigns supreme for your needs.
Design and Display
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Stainless Steel | Titanium |
| Display Size | 6.1 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Resolution | Super Retina XDR (2532 x 1170) | Super Retina XDR ProMotion (2532 x 1170) |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Notch | Yes (Face ID) | Dynamic Island (Face ID) |
Regarding design, Apple has always led with a penchant for elegance and innovation. The iPhone 12 Pro introduced a new design language with its flat edges and surgical-grade stainless steel, reminiscent of the beloved iPhone 4. In contrast, the iPhone 15 Pro furthers this aesthetic, refining the design with even slimmer bezels and a lighter frame, providing a more comfortable grip without sacrificing screen real estate. The OLED Super Retina XDR display is a common feature. Still, the iPhone 15 Pro elevates the experience with ProMotion technology, offering smoother scrolling and more responsive touch input, making every interaction feel more fluid and life-like.
The iPhone 15 Pro’s screen boasts an improved brightness and contrast ratio, making visuals pop and ensuring readability even in bright sunlight. This enhancement is not just a testament to Apple’s commitment to visual excellence but also a nod to the practical needs of users who consume media and work on their phones in various environments.
Camera
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera System | Triple-lens 12MP (wide, ultrawide, telephoto) | Quad-lens 48MP (wide), 12MP (ultrawide, telephoto), LiDAR Scanner |
| Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth | 12MP TrueDepth |
The camera system on any iPhone is a major selling point, and here, the difference between the iPhone 12 Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro becomes even more pronounced. The iPhone 12 Pro’s camera setup was impressive at its launch, offering a versatile triple-camera array that catered to a wide range of photography needs, from ultra-wide shots to telephoto zoom. However, the iPhone 15 Pro takes this a step further, integrating advanced sensor technology and computational photography capabilities to push the boundaries of mobile photography.
The real-world performance of the iPhone 15 Pro’s camera is where these advancements shine. With features like Night mode on all cameras, Smart HDR 4, and ProRAW, the iPhone 15 Pro is not just capturing photos; it’s creating art. The improved aperture and sensor size make for stunning low-light photography, while the introduction of macro photography opens up a new world of close-up shots with incredible detail. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, the iPhone 15 Pro’s camera is a compelling upgrade, offering the tools and flexibility to capture the world in ways previously unimaginable on a smartphone.
Performance and Battery Life
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | A14 Bionic Chip | A17 Pro Bionic Chip |
| RAM | 6GB | 8GB |
| Battery Life (video playback) | Up to 17 hours | Up to 23 hours |
| Charging Port | Lightning | USB-C |
The heart of any smartphone is its chipset, where Apple’s innovation shines brightest. The A14 Bionic chip in the iPhone 12 Pro already set a high bar for performance, enabling seamless multitasking, high-quality gaming, and efficient use of battery life. Yet, the iPhone 15 Pro, with its next-generation A16 chip, surpasses this, delivering even faster processing speeds and more energy efficiency. This leap in performance means apps load quicker, games run smoother, and AI-driven tasks, such as photo editing and Siri commands, feel instantaneous.
Battery life is another critical aspect that has significantly improved the iPhone 15 Pro. While the iPhone 12 Pro offered a robust battery life that could comfortably last a day under moderate use, the iPhone 15 Pro extends this further. Thanks to the A16 chip’s energy efficiency and a larger battery, users can expect up to an additional four hours of use. Moreover, introducing more advanced charging solutions, including faster wireless charging and the possibility of reverse charging, ensures that staying power throughout the day is easier than ever.
Software
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Latest Supported iOS Version | iOS 16 (as of March 2024) | iOS 17 |
iOS has always been at the core of what makes an iPhone truly an iPhone, bringing together the hardware and software in a harmonious experience. The iPhone 12 Pro runs on iOS 14 out of the box, which introduced widgets on the home screen, App Library, and enhanced privacy features. However, with the iPhone 15 Pro, users experience iOS 16 from the get-go. This newer version brings even more customization options, improved notifications, and interactive widgets, making the user experience more personal and efficient.
Moreover, the iPhone 15 Pro benefits from exclusive software features that fully exploit its hardware capabilities. For instance, the advanced camera system is complemented by new photography and videography modes available only on the latest model. These include ProRes video recording and Cinematic mode, which offer professional-grade production capabilities directly from your smartphone. Such features enhance the user’s creative potential and underscore the synergy between Apple’s hardware and software ecosystems.
Other Features
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 15 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Biometric Security | Face ID | Face ID |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
Pros & Cons
iPhone 12 Pro
- Pros: More affordable, excellent camera system, familiar design with Face ID.
- Cons: Older processor, lower refresh rate display, Lightning port (slower data transfer).
iPhone 15 Pro
- Pros: Cutting-edge A17 Bionic chip, superior camera with higher resolution and LiDAR Scanner, smoother 120Hz display, USB-C port for faster data transfer, longer battery life.
- Cons: More expensive, design change might not suit everyone (eSIM only in some regions).
Which Should You Buy?
If you prioritize affordability and are content with a still-powerful phone, the iPhone 12 Pro remains a solid choice. However, for those seeking the absolute best in performance, camera capabilities, display technology, and future-proofing, the iPhone 15 Pro reigns supreme.
Who Should Upgrade?
iPhone 12 Pro users who crave the latest advancements in processing power, camera tech, display refresh rate, and battery life will significantly benefit from upgrading to the iPhone 15 Pro.
Who Can Stick With the iPhone 12 Pro?
If you’re happy with your iPhone 12 Pro’s performance and prioritize value, there’s no need to rush for an upgrade. However, keep in mind that future software updates may be limited for older iPhones.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 15 Pro represents a significant leap forward, offering a superior user experience in almost every aspect. But the iPhone 12 Pro remains a compelling choice for budget-conscious users who still desire a capable Apple smartphone. Consider your priorities and budget to determine which iPhone best suits your needs.
Related: Compare iPhone 12 Pro and 15 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro vs iPhone 15 Pro: FAQs
Which iPhone is newer, the 12 Pro or 15 Pro?
The iPhone 15 Pro is the newer model.
Which iPhone is more expensive?
The iPhone 15 Pro is generally more expensive than the iPhone 12 Pro.
Do both iPhones have the same screen size?
Yes, both the iPhone 12 Pro and 15 Pro have a 6.1-inch display.
Does the iPhone 15 Pro’s display look smoother?
Yes, the iPhone 15 Pro’s display has a 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and animations feel smoother than the iPhone 12 Pro’s 60Hz display.
Does the iPhone 15 Pro take better pictures?
Yes, the iPhone 15 Pro has a higher-resolution main sensor (48MP vs. 12MP) and additional features like a LiDAR scanner, suggesting it will take better photos and videos.
Can I still take good pictures with the iPhone 12 Pro?
Yes, the iPhone 12 Pro still has a very capable camera system that takes excellent photos.
Which iPhone is faster?
The iPhone 15 Pro has a newer and more powerful A17 Bionic chip compared to the A14 Bionic chip in the iPhone 12 Pro.
Will the iPhone 12 Pro become slow over time?
While the iPhone 12 Pro won’t be as fast as the 15 Pro, it will likely remain capable for everyday tasks for some time.
Does the iPhone 15 Pro last longer on a charge?
Yes, the iPhone 15 Pro is expected to have a longer battery life than the iPhone 12 Pro.
Should I upgrade from iPhone 12 Pro to iPhone 15 Pro?
If you prioritize the latest performance, camera tech, smoother display, and longer battery life, upgrading to the iPhone 15 Pro is worth considering.
Is the iPhone 12 Pro still good enough?
Yes, the iPhone 12 Pro remains a capable phone, especially if you prioritize affordability and are satisfied with its performance.
