When it comes to choosing the right iPhone, size does matter. The unveiling of the iPhone 14 Plus brought with it questions about how it stacks up against its predecessor, the iPhone 12. In this comprehensive comparison, we’re diving deep into what sets these two apart – from design and display to performance and battery life, all the way to the final verdict on which one deserves your hard-earned cash.
Related: iPhone 14 Plus Compared to iPhone XR
iPhone 14 Plus vs. iPhone 12
Choosing between the iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 12 depends on personal preference, especially regarding size. Let’s delve into the key differences to help you decide which iPhone reigns supreme for your needs.
Design and Display
| Feature | iPhone 14 Plus | iPhone 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED |
| Resolution | 2778 x 1284 pixels | 2532 x 1170 pixels |
| Brightness (typical) | 800 nits | 625 nits |
| Bezel | Flat-edged aluminum frame | Flat-edged aluminum frame |
The iPhone 14 Plus, with its sleek design, feels like a breath of fresh air. But how does it really compare to the iPhone 12? First off, the dimensions. The iPhone 14 Plus boasts a larger frame, which might appeal to users craving more screen real estate. But does bigger always mean better? The device’s weight also shows a slight increase – a trade-off for that extra screen size. But don’t let these numbers scare you; both phones maintain Apple’s hallmark of sophistication and durability.
Diving into the displays, the iPhone 14 Plus’s screen is not just larger; it’s designed to dazzle. With state-of-the-art technology powering its display, colors appear more vibrant, and blacks are deeper than ever. This is where the iPhone 12, despite its commendable performance, starts to show its age. While once cutting-edge, the technology behind its screen now plays second fiddle to the advancements seen in the 14 Plus.
Camera
| Feature | iPhone 14 Plus | iPhone 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | Dual 12MP (main + ultrawide) | Dual 12MP (main + ultrawide) |
| Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth | 12MP TrueDepth |
| Improvements | Photonic Engine enhancements | None |
Both iPhones pack a punch in the camera department, but the devil is in the details. The iPhone 14 Plus introduces enhancements that photography enthusiasts will not want to miss. While both devices feature dual-camera setups, the newer model benefits from improved sensor technology and computational photography algorithms. This means more explicit, more vibrant photos, even in challenging lighting conditions.
But how does this translate to real-world usage? Users of the iPhone 14 Plus will notice not just improvements in photo quality but also in video stabilization and low-light performance. The iPhone 12, while still capable of capturing beautiful images, falls a step behind in harnessing the full potential of Apple’s latest imaging advancements.
Performance and Battery Life
| Feature | iPhone 14 Plus | iPhone 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | A15 Bionic chip | A14 Bionic chip |
| RAM | 6GB | 4GB |
| Battery Capacity | 4325 mAh | 2815 mAh |
Under the hood, the iPhone 14 Plus runs on a more advanced chipset, offering not just a bump in overall performance but also in energy efficiency. This means smoother multitasking and gaming, without the battery drain. While the iPhone 12’s processor is no slouch, users looking for the cutting edge in performance might find the newer model more appealing.
Speaking of battery life, the iPhone 14 Plus shines. Thanks to its larger size, accommodating a bigger battery, and the efficiency of its chipset, it outlasts the iPhone 12 significantly. This is crucial for power users or anyone who despises reaching for the charger mid-day.
Software
Both iPhones run on iOS, ensuring a seamless and intuitive user experience. However, the iPhone 14 Plus ships with the latest version, guaranteeing longer support for software updates. This doesn’t just mean new features sooner but also longer-lasting security updates.
With each new iOS version, Apple introduces features often requiring the latest hardware to function. This means the iPhone 14 Plus will access exclusive software enhancements that the iPhone 12 cannot support, further widening the gap between these two contenders.
Other Features
| Feature | iPhone 14 Plus | iPhone 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Connectivity | 5G | 5G |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
Both iPhones offer a robust suite of options for staying connected. However, the iPhone 14 Plus introduces newer standards for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, promising faster speeds and more reliable connections. It’s a subtle upgrade but one that future-proofs your device.
The additional sensors and hardware improvements in the iPhone 14 Plus are not to be overlooked. These enhancements contribute to the device’s performance and usability and introduce new possibilities for app developers to innovate.
Pros & Cons
iPhone 14 Plus
- Pros: Larger display, longer battery life, improved performance, potentially longer software support.
- Cons: Bulkier design, slightly more expensive.
iPhone 12
- Pros: More compact size, potentially lower price point (depending on deals).
- Cons: Smaller display, shorter battery life, slightly older processor, may receive software updates for a shorter period.
Which Should You Buy?
If you prioritize a big screen and extended battery life for activities like video streaming and gaming, the iPhone 14 Plus is the clear winner. However, if you prefer a more pocketable phone and can live with a slightly smaller display and shorter battery life, the iPhone 12 might be a better fit, especially if you can find a good deal.
Who Should Upgrade?
iPhone 11 users or those with older iPhones will significantly benefit from upgrading to either phone due to the advancements in performance, camera quality, and battery life. Existing iPhone 12 users might find the upgrade less compelling unless the larger screen and potentially longer software support are crucial factors.
Who Can Stick With the iPhone 12?
iPhone 12 users who are happy with the phone’s size and performance can likely hold off on upgrading for another year or two, especially if they find a good deal on battery replacements.
Final Thoughts
No matter which phone you choose, the iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 12 offer a fantastic iPhone experience. Consider your needs and preferences—especially screen size and battery life—to make the best choice for you.
Related: iPhone 14 Plus Compared to iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 14 Plus vs. iPhone 12: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the iPhone 14 Plus much bigger than the iPhone 12?
A: Yes, the iPhone 14 Plus has a 6.7-inch display compared to the iPhone 12’s 6.1-inch display. The 14 Plus is also slightly heavier.
Q: Does the iPhone 14 Plus have a better screen?
A: Both phones use OLED technology, but the 14 Plus offers a larger size, higher resolution, and potentially better peak brightness.
Q: How much better is the camera on the iPhone 14 Plus?
A: The megapixel count remains the same, but the 14 Plus benefits from the latest A15 Bionic chip and potentially improved image processing.
Q: Is the iPhone 14 Plus much faster than the iPhone 12?
A: Yes, the A15 Bionic chip in the 14 Plus offers better performance for everyday tasks and demanding apps.
Q: Which phone has a longer battery life?
A: The iPhone 14 Plus boasts a larger battery capacity and is expected to have significantly longer battery life.
Q: Can I keep using my iPhone 12?
A: Absolutely! The iPhone 12 is still a powerful phone. Upgrading depends on your desire for the latest features and potentially longer software support.
