Knowing if you should upgrade from iPhone 12 Pro Max to the iPhone 13 Pro Max can be challenging - especially when the differences from its predecessor are beneath the surface. However, it’s sometimes the small technical changes that make the biggest difference.
Some of the changes you’ll find in the iPhone 13 Pro include screen size and resolution, performance, and long battery life. The only notable similarity between these two models is the design aesthetics. So, is the iPhone 13 Pro Max worth its high price?
Here we examine 3 things that surprised us when we switched from the iPhone 12 Pro Max to the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
1. iPhone 12 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Screen Size and Resolution
These two models' screen size and resolution are similar, measuring 6.7 inches and 1284 x 2778-pixel respectively. However, their refresh rate differs.
iPhone 12 Pro Max has a 60Hz refresh rate against iPhone 13 Pro Max's 120HZ rate. Besides the high refresh rate, iPhone 13 Pro Max enjoys Apple's ProMotion feature.
The changes in screen refresh rate mean that the iPhone 13 Pro Max is better at reducing motion blur and offering a smooth display. This makes it a clear winner when you watch movies or play games on your iPhone.
Apple's ProMotion feature means the phone can regulate its refresh rate from 120Hz to 10Hz based on what you're using it for.
A faster refresh rate consumes more battery; the ProMotion feature prevents high battery consumption where possible. For instance, you don't need a high refresh rate when reading static text.
iPhone 13 Pro Max has a peak brightness of 1,000 units against 800 units for iPhone 120 Pro Max. Therefore, iPhone 13 Pro Max will offer you better visibility in bright conditions than iPhone 12 Por max.
However, if the refresh rate isn't a big concern to you, you can easily go for a refurbished Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max and enjoy its peak features.
2. iPhone 12 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Performance
It is not a secret that iPhone 13 Pro Max is the fastest iPhone ever made. When you look at its raw specs, you'll realize that it's also the most powerful smartphone you can own globally.
The A15 Bionic chipset, which is the brains of the iPhone 13 Pro Max, offers an impressive performance. Its chipset is the fastest ever in a smartphone making iPhone 13 Pro Max 50% faster than its competitors.
The new 5-core GPU further improves performance. This new model is compatible with iOS 15 features, including the latest 3D map navigation and Live Text in Camera features.
On the other hand, iPhone 12 Pro Max has an A14 Bionic chipset that is fast but not as fast as iPhone 13 Pro Max. Additionally, iPhone 12 Pro Max has a 4-core GPU which is 30% slower than iPhone 3 Pro max.
So, if your interest is in high performance, iPhone 13 Pro Max will do you good. Fortunately, you can buy a refurbished Apple iPhone 13 to enjoy its high performance.
While both models offer 6GB & 128GB, 256GB & 512GB storage capabilities, iPhone 13 Pro Max has a 1TB storage option. So, if you are looking for a phone with more storage, iPhone 13 Pro Max is your best option.
3.iPhone 12 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Battery Life
The iPhone 13 Pro Max has a better battery life than the iPhone 12 Pro Max. iPhone 13 Pro Max has a battery of 4352mAh compared to the 3687mAh capacity of the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
Besides this difference, iPhone 13 Pro Max has software that optimizes battery consumption. The ProMotion display feature also contributes to the low battery consumption on iPhone 13 Pro.
The difference in battery capacity gives iPhone 13 Pro Max about two and half hours extra operation time. It is excellent news for people who are always on the go and need a phone that can last longer without being charged.
Both models have a fast-charging system that can charge up to 50% in 30 minutes with a 20W charger. And they both support wireless charging. So, you can conveniently recharge your phone without having to worry about tangled cords.
Other Notable Features in iPhone 12 Pro Max Vs iPhone 13 Pro max
Apart from the three features, we have looked at, there are other notable features in the iPhone 13 Pro Max that you might find attractive. These include:
- Camera Quality
- Weight
Camera Quality
The iPhone 13 Pro Max has a wider camera with an f/1.5 aperture compared to the iPhone 12 Pro Max that has an f/1.6 aperture. On the 13 Pro Max, the ultra-wide camera has an aperture of f/1.8 while its predecessor has an f/2.4 aperture.
When it comes to telephoto, iPhone 13 Pro max has a 2.8 aperture while the other model has a 2.0 aperture. The iPhone 13 has a 6X optical zoom range compared to the 4X zoom range of the iPhone 12.
Weight
iPhone 13 Pro max is slightly heavier at 203 grams, while iPhone 12 model weighs 186 grams. The difference in weight is because of the increase in battery size and thickness in iPhone 13.
iPhone 12 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Final Verdict
Apple makes some of the best smartphones on the market. Overall, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is a better phone than the iPhone 12 Pro Max. It has a better screen display, faster performance, longer-lasting battery life, and better cameras.
However, if you’re looking for a better deal on a comparable phone then the iPhone 12 Pro Max is your best bet. You can even get one for up to 40% cheaper than new if you buy a refurbished iPhone 12 Pro Max.
If you’re still tempted to get your hands on the newest Apple device but don’t want to spend as much money, you can opt for a refurbished Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max. It will offer you all the available features of the new iPhone 13 Pro Max.