Laatste update: 21 augustus 2026

iPhone 11 vs. 12 Differences: Which One Is Right for You?

iPhone 11 vs iPhone 12: The Main Differences

You're facing a choice. The iPhone 11 or the new iPhone 12? The price difference is significant, and smartphone accessories are no longer included as standard with the 12. Both devices have the same screen size and a dual camera. Yet, there are fundamental differences that can determine your decision. The new OLED screen of the 12 displays colors more vividly than ever, and with the magnetic MagSafe connection, you can even wirelessly charge your AirPods. But the most surprising part? With its angular design, Apple returns to the iconic look of the iPhone 4 – combining it with the latest technology.

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Screen: OLED vs LCD

Both the iPhone 11 and 12 have a screen size of 6.1 inches, but there's a significant difference. The iPhone 12 introduces an OLED screen that extends from edge to edge, while the iPhone 11 has an LCD Liquid Retina display.

The 12's OLED screen offers more contrast, more vibrant colors, and a higher pixel density. This makes it the best display Apple has ever created for its iPhones. It's a noticeable leap forward for those who enjoy watching movies and series or playing games on their phone.

A14 Bionic: the fastest chip

Under the hood, the iPhone 12 boasts the most powerful processor ever put into a smartphone. The new A14 Bionic chip can perform trillions of operations thanks to its Neural Engine. Even filming in Dolby Vision is possible, something even professional cameras cannot do.

The iPhone 11, with its A13 Bionic chip, is certainly no powerhouse, but the A14 is just a bit faster and more power-efficient. This means better performance and longer battery life for the iPhone 12.

Dual camera, now with night mode

Like the iPhone 11, the 12 has a 12MP dual camera with a wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle lens. Ideal for landscape photos during your holiday. New is the improved night mode on the iPhone 12. The wide-angle camera captures 27% more light, resulting in sharper and more colorful photos in low light.

Other improvements include a more beautiful bokeh effect in portrait mode and better HDR function for an optimal balance between dark and light areas of the image. Filming in 4K and slow motion is possible with both models, but the iPhone 12 also records Dolby Vision with up to 700 million colors per frame.

Retro design with thinner bezels

In terms of appearance, the iPhone 12 harks back to the iconic angular design of the iPhone 4. The screen is the same size as that of the iPhone 11, but the bezels are even thinner. Moreover, the new model is up to 4 times better protected against fall damage thanks to Ceramic Shield technology.

Do you like more compact phones? The iPhone 12 is also available as a mini version with a 5.4-inch screen. You get the same powerful specs as the standard model, apart from the slightly shorter battery life.

Other advantages of the iPhone 12

In addition to the aforementioned upgrades, the iPhone 12 has a few extra features in store:

  • Support for super-fast 5G internet, a first for iPhones
  • Magnetic MagSafe technology for easy wireless charging and attaching accessories
  • No included charger and earbuds, which Apple says is more sustainable because most people already have them

The iPhone 12 will cost you at least €909 for the 64GB model. A significant investment, especially compared to the iPhone 11, which you can get refurbished from €539. Nevertheless, it's worth the extra cost if you truly want the very best from Apple.

Which iPhone Suits You?

The choice between the iPhone 11 and 12 depends on your needs and budget. The iPhone 12 offers clear advantages for those seeking the best from Apple, with its OLED screen, faster A14 chip, and improved camera. Its new angular design and 5G support also make it more future-proof. But with its excellent performance and attractive price, the iPhone 11 remains a sensible choice. Both devices are suitable for daily use, with the 12 being particularly interesting for photography enthusiasts and those who like to be at the forefront of new technology.

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