The iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 13 mini are two of the most compact smartphones Apple has ever developed. They combine a handy design with impressive performance and cutting-edge technology. The iPhone 13 mini in particular has a special significance: it is the last mini model that Apple produced. With the introduction of the iPhone 14, the mini series was discontinued, so the iPhone 13 mini remains the youngest and most powerful choice for fans of small smartphones.
In this buying guide, we compare the most important features of both models - from performance and camera quality to battery life. We also give you recommendations on which mini iPhone suits your needs and budget. Whether you're looking for a powerful second device or want the best mini experience, we'll help you make the right decision.
Technical data in comparison
iPhone 12 mini
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Display: 5.4" Super Retina XDR OLED, maximum brightness 625 nits - sharp and color-intensive, but more suitable for indoor use as it is less visible in direct sunlight.
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Processor: A14 Bionic – still offers enough power for everyday apps and games.
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Camera system: 12 MP dual camera (wide angle, ultra wide angle), night mode, 4K HDR video recording - The camera takes excellent pictures in daylight, and in the dark the night mode helps for clear shots.
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Storage options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB – The 64GB option is tight for many users, especially if they store a lot of photos, videos or apps.
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Battery life: Up to 15 hours of video playback – Battery life is good for a compact device, but power users may need to charge the device more frequently.
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Colors: Black, white, red, green, blue, purple.
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Water resistance: IP68 (up to 6 m for 30 minutes).
iPhone 13 mini
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Display: 5.4" Super Retina XDR OLED, maximum brightness 800 nits - Thanks to the higher brightness, the display is easier to read even in sunshine - a clear advantage for outdoor users.
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Processor: A15 Bionic – The A15 chip delivers even faster performance and makes the iPhone 13 mini future-proof for years to come.
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Camera system: 12 MP dual camera (wide angle with larger sensor, ultra wide angle) with sensor-shift image stabilization, Cinema mode, Photographic styles - The camera captures more light and delivers better results even in low light conditions. Cinema mode makes videos particularly exciting.
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Storage options: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB – More storage options make this model ideal for users who need plenty of space for photos and videos.
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Battery life: Up to 17 hours of video playback – The longer running time is noticeable and particularly practical when on the go or on long days without a power outlet.
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Colors: Midnight, Polaris, Red, Blue, Rose, Green.
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Water resistance: IP68 (up to 6 m for 30 minutes).
camera comparison
The camera system on the Mini models offers impressive performance for their size. Both devices feature a dual camera setup with a 12MP wide-angle and an ultra-wide-angle camera that deliver clear and colorful images in daylight. Night mode allows you to take detailed photos even in low light, and support for 4K HDR video recording ensures razor-sharp videos.
However, the iPhone 13 mini improves on this system with a larger sensor that captures up to 47% more light, as well as sensor-shift image stabilization, which reduces blurry shots. New features like Cinematic mode for videos and Photographic Styles for customized colors make it an ideal choice for creative users. The iPhone 12 mini's camera is sufficient for everyday shots, while the iPhone 13 mini's improvements score for more demanding photography and video projects.
battery life
The tech YouTuber DariusKracht has tested the battery life of the iPhone 12 mini and the iPhone 13 mini in one of his shorts under intensive use. The iPhone 12 mini lasted just over 6 hours, while the iPhone 13 mini lasted about an hour longer.
The result shows that the iPhone 13 mini offers a noticeable advantage not only thanks to its more efficient A15 Bionic chip, but also thanks to a slightly larger battery capacity. The extra hour can be crucial, especially for users who spend a lot of time streaming, gaming or using other resource-intensive applications. Nevertheless, the iPhone 12 mini is still sufficient for normal usage scenarios and impresses with its compact format.
Find the iPhone that suits you
The right iPhone for price-conscious people
The iPhone 12 mini is the perfect choice if you are looking for a compact smartphone with strong performance without having to dig deep into your pockets. It offers you entry into the Apple ecosystem at an attractive price and impresses with a high-quality display, a solid camera and a fast processor. The iPhone 12 mini is an excellent companion, especially if you need a smartphone for everyday use such as news, social media and streaming. Why spend more when you get everything you need here?
Ideal for everyday use
If you use your smartphone primarily for calls, messages, and simple applications, the iPhone 12 mini is ideal for you. It offers you strong performance for all basic tasks without overwhelming you with features you may not need. Its compact design means it fits comfortably in your hand and is a reliable companion for your everyday life. Whether you want to quickly google something, take photos in daylight, or keep in touch with friends - that's all you need.
The best choice for long-term use
The iPhone 13 mini is the better choice if you're looking for a compact smartphone that will stay relevant for years to come. The A15 Bionic chip, better battery life, and larger storage options make it future-proof for upcoming software updates and more demanding applications.When you invest for the long term, you value quality and durability - and that's exactly what you get with the iPhone 13 mini. It's a device that can grow with you and your needs.
For those who want a little more
The iPhone 13 mini is ideal for power users and hobby photographers who want to use their smartphone creatively and intensively. With the improved camera, cinema mode and longer battery life, it meets demands that go beyond the standard. Whether you're on the go a lot, taking photos in low light conditions or using your smartphone for video editing and social media - the iPhone 13 mini offers you everything you need and a little more. A real upgrade for anyone who wants to get the most out of their device.
Review – What the Tech YouTubers say
The Tech YouTuber Isa does tech examined and compared the iPhone 12 mini and 13 mini in her videoWe have summarized their results here.
iPhone 12 mini
Advantages:
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Affordable price, ideal for beginners or price-conscious people.
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Compact design, light and handy.
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Solid camera quality for daylight shots and everyday use.
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Available in many colors including black, white, red, blue, green and lavender.
Disadvantages:
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Shorter battery life, especially with intensive use.
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Basic version with only 64 GB of storage, which may be tight for many users.
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Less good results in low light conditions and videos without stabilization.
iPhone 13 mini
Advantages:
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Improved battery life, around 1.5 hours longer than the 12 mini.
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More powerful A15 Bionic chip, more efficient and future-proof.
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Higher quality cameras with sensor-shift image stabilization, better low-light performance and new features like cinema mode and photographic styles.
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Basic version with 128 GB storage, more space for photos, videos and apps.
Disadvantages:
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Higher price compared to the 12 mini.
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Slightly heavier and thicker, but hardly noticeable in everyday life.
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Colors less varied (midnight, polar star, red, blue, rose, pink).
Conclusion – Which iPhone is right for you?
The iPhone 12 mini and iPhone 13 mini are two compact smartphones that offer strong performance despite their size. Both models share the same handy design, a high-quality 5.4-inch OLED display and solid cameras, but the iPhone 13 mini scores with noticeable improvements in performance, battery life and photography.
The iPhone 12 mini is the right choice for price-conscious buyers who are looking for a small, lightweight smartphone with good camera and display quality. It is ideal for everyday tasks and users who do not need a high-end feature set. The lower entry-level model in particular makes it an attractive offer.
The iPhone 13 mini, on the other hand, is aimed at those who want to get the most out of a small smartphone. It offers longer battery life, a more powerful A15 chip, better camera features and more storage options. It is the future-proof choice, especially for power users and photography enthusiasts.
Overall, the decision depends on what is important to you. If price and basic features are your priority, the iPhone 12 mini offers excellent value for money. However, if you are willing to invest a little more for longer battery life, a better camera and more storage, the iPhone 13 mini is the better choice. No matter what you choose, both devices are strong companions in everyday life.
