The iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro, separated by two generations, offer fascinating insights into Apple’s technological advancements and strategic shifts. This comparison delves deep into their features, helping you understand the nuances that might influence your decision to upgrade, hold onto your current device, or switch allegiances within the iPhone ecosystem.
Related: iPhone 12 Mini Compared to iPhone XR
iPhone 12 Pro vs iPhone 14 Pro
Apple’s iPhones are renowned for their performance and user experience. Choosing between the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro can be tricky, so we’ve compared them across key features to help you decide.
Design and Display
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Technology | Super Retina XDR OLED | Super Retina XDR OLED |
| Resolution | 2532 x 1170 pixels | 2556 x 1179 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz ProMotion |
The design language of Apple iPhones has always been about refinement and evolution rather than revolution. The transition from the iPhone 12 Pro to the iPhone 14 Pro exemplifies this philosophy. While both models boast the surgical-grade stainless steel frame and Ceramic Shield front cover, subtle changes in their dimensions, weight, and finishes reflect Apple’s continuous pursuit of elegance and comfort. The iPhone 14 Pro introduces a slightly more robust and premium feel, possibly due to its refined manufacturing process and material improvements.
Display technology is one arena where Apple consistently seeks to outdo itself. The iPhone 12 Pro’s Super Retina XDR display was a marvel of its time, offering incredible color accuracy and brightness. However, the iPhone 14 Pro elevates the viewing experience with the introduction of the ProMotion technology, which supports adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz. This feature makes scrolling and gaming more fluid and contributes to battery efficiency by adjusting the refresh rate based on the content being viewed.
Camera
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera System | Triple-lens 12MP (wide, ultrawide, telephoto) | Quad-lens 48MP (main), 12MP (ultrawide, telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth | 12MP TrueDepth with autofocus |
Apple’s focus on camera capabilities as a key differentiator continues unabated in the iPhone 14 Pro. While the iPhone 12 Pro offered a significant leap in photography with its triple-lens setup and LiDAR scanner, the iPhone 14 Pro pushes boundaries further with larger sensors and advanced computational photography algorithms. The aperture sizes, sensor technology, and the introduction of features like Photonic Engine in the iPhone 14 Pro showcase Apple’s commitment to empowering users to capture professional-grade photographs with their smartphones.
Specifications only tell half the story; the true test of a camera’s worth is its performance in varied real-world conditions. Users of the iPhone 12 Pro have lauded its ability to capture stunning images in almost any lighting condition. However, the iPhone 14 Pro sets a new benchmark with its improved night mode, macro photography capabilities, and cinematic mode for video. These enhancements offer more creative freedom and ensure that memories are captured in the best possible quality.
Performance and Battery Life
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | A14 Bionic chip | A16 Bionic chip |
| Battery Life (estimated) | Up to 17 hours video playback | Up to 23 hours video playback |
Under the hood, the transition from the iPhone 12 Pro to the iPhone 14 Pro is marked by significant leaps in processing power and efficiency. The A14 Bionic chip in the iPhone 12 Pro was a powerhouse in its own right, but the A16 Bionic chip in the iPhone 14 Pro redefines what’s possible in a smartphone. This new chip accelerates performance in demanding applications and games and enhances efficiency for better battery life.
Battery life is a crucial consideration for any smartphone user. Both the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro benefit from optimizations in hardware and software to extend their usable life between charges. However, the iPhone 14 Pro benefits from a more energy-efficient chip and software optimizations that squeeze out additional hours of use, even under heavy usage scenarios. Moreover, improvements in charging technology mean that users can get back to full power quicker than ever before.
Software
Software is the soul of any smartphone, and Apple’s iOS platform is renowned for its fluidity, security, and user-friendly interface. Both the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro run on iOS, but each supports different versions out of the box, with the iPhone 14 Pro benefitting from the latest features and security enhancements introduced in iOS 16. These variations affect not just the user experience but also Apple’s longevity of device support.
The software features and updates provided by iOS not only enhance the functionality of the iPhones but also ensure their relevance over time. Features like Focus Modes, Live Text, and enhanced privacy controls introduced in recent iOS versions make the iPhone 14 Pro a more versatile and personal device. Additionally, Apple’s commitment to providing timely software updates means that both the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro will remain secure and feature-rich for years to come.
Other Features
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro | iPhone 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Connectivity | 5G | 5G (potentially faster mmWave support) |
| New Features | Always-on display, Emergency SOS via satellite, Crash Detection |
Connectivity features like 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) are present in both models, facilitating fast internet speeds, precise location tracking, and more efficient wireless communication. However, the iPhone 14 Pro introduces new satellite connectivity features for emergency situations, underscoring Apple’s focus on safety and innovation.
Each iPhone iteration comes with its set of unique selling propositions (USPs). For the iPhone 12 Pro, the introduction of 5G and the LiDAR scanner set it apart. The iPhone 14 Pro, on the other hand, distinguishes itself with features like the Always-On display and ProMotion technology, catering to users who value cutting-edge technology and enhanced usability.
Pros & Cons
iPhone 12 Pro
Pros:
- More affordable
- Excellent camera system
- Still a very capable phone
Cons:
- Older processor
- Lower refresh rate display
- Limited storage options
iPhone 14 Pro
Pros:
- The latest A16 Bionic chip for superior performance
- Improved camera system with a 48MP main sensor
- 120Hz ProMotion display for smoother visuals
- Longer battery life
- Innovative features like always-on display and Emergency SOS via satellite
Cons:
- More expensive
- The design remains similar to the iPhone 12 Pro
Which Should You Buy?
If you prioritize affordability and are happy with a still-excellent camera system and display, the iPhone 12 Pro remains a solid choice.
The iPhone 14 Pro is ideal for those seeking the absolute best performance, camera capabilities, innovative features, and a smoother display experience.
Who Should Upgrade?
iPhone 11 Pro or older users will see a significant jump in performance and camera quality with the iPhone 14 Pro.
Who Can Stick With the iPhone 12 Pro?
iPhone 12 Pro users who are happy with their phone’s performance and features can hold off on upgrading unless they crave the latest innovations and a smoother display.
Final Thoughts
Both iPhones are excellent devices, but the iPhone 14 Pro edges out the 12 Pro with its superior performance, camera system, display technology, and innovative features. However, the iPhone 12 Pro remains a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers who still desire a premium Apple experience.
Related: iPhone 11 Pro Max Compared to iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 12 Pro vs iPhone 14 Pro: FAQs
Is the camera upgrade on the iPhone 14 Pro worth it?
Yes, if photography or videography is a priority for you, the iPhone 14 Pro’s camera upgrades offer significant improvements in low-light performance, detail, and versatility.
Can the iPhone 12 Pro still handle the latest games and apps?
Absolutely. The A14 Bionic chip is still powerful enough to handle current games and apps easily, making the iPhone 12 Pro a viable option for gamers and general users.
How does the battery life compare between the two models?
The iPhone 14 Pro has a slightly better battery life thanks to its more efficient A16 Bionic chip and software optimizations, but both models should last a full day under normal usage.
Will I notice a difference in display quality?
Yes, especially if you value smoother scrolling and animations thanks to the ProMotion technology on the iPhone 14 Pro, which is not available on the iPhone 12 Pro.
Is it worth upgrading from the iPhone 12 Pro to the iPhone 14 Pro for the Always-On display feature?
It depends on your personal preference. If you find the Always-On display useful for checking information at a glance without waking your phone, it might be worth considering.
