Apple iPhone 12 mini review

Read our full review to find out how the Apple iPhone 12 mini differs, what our opinion of it is and whether it's worth the money.
Added by on 10.14.20 | Last update 11.11.21
Apple iPhone 12 mini ревю
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Intro

Each new Apple flagship excites millions of people around the world. The iPhone 12 mini smartphone, which is a compact and affordable model, just like the familiar iPhone SE, enjoys the same attention. The design and capabilities of this type of phone usually lags behind the flagships. This year, the Cupertino-based company decided to take a step forward and satisfy consumers looking for compactness and modern capabilities in one. What else does the iPhone 12 mini offer us?

Before reading the full review, you can familiarize yourself with the detailed Apple iPhone 12 mini specs or watch the video below the article.

Specifications

  • Release date: 2020, October 13
  • Colors: Black, White, Red, Green, Blue
  • Dimensions: 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.4 mm.
  • Weight: 135 g.
  • Screen: 5.4" inc, 1080 x 2340, Super Retina XDR OLED
  • Camera : Dual, 12MP
  • Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm)
  • CPU: Hexa-core (2x3.1 GHz Firestorm + 4x1.8 GHz Icestorm)
  • Memory: 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM
  • Battery: 2227, Li-Ion, non-removable
  • Network: GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE / 5G
  • Operating system: iOS 14.1
  • Sensors: Face ID, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer

Design

It is said that the iPhone 12 mini is a scaled-down copy of the iPhone 12. It is true. However, the size of the camera block is preserved, which is why it occupies more space on the body of the iPhone 12 mini than the back panel. Second, when you pick up the device, it's like you didn't pick up the iPhone 12, but the iPhone 5.

With the iPhone 12 mini, we notice frames around the screen that are not the same size on all sides. At first glance, it is obvious that this model has no alternative in terms of dimensions (compared to models with a screen less than 5.5 inches). Interest in it is guaranteed because of the five color solutions: black, white, red, light green and blue.

The quality of workmanship also deserves applause. Hull strength cannot be questioned. The smartphone does not bend and does not even emit a squeak when trying to deform. All body parts are well attached to each other. iPhone 12 mini is protected against dust or moisture inside it according to the IP68 standard. According to Apple, the compact model is able to survive when immersed in water to a depth of 6 meters for a maximum of 30 minutes.

Display

The screen of the iPhone 12 mini has a diagonal of 5.4 inches and a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels, which makes an impressive 476 pixels per inch. It makes a good impression that the front panel is made in the form of glass with a mirror surface. It is scratch resistant and perfectly smooth. The matrix of the iPhone 12 mini is Super AMOLED, in other words - of organic LEDs. The screen has great viewing angles.

Apple has provided the Night Shift function, whose task is to make the picture warmer at night. This correction is definitely useful and will help you not to overload your eyesight. When working with the iPhone 12 mini at night, the lower brightness does not irritate the eyes.

Productivity

As with the other models in Apple's 2020 smartphone series, the iPhone 12 mini is based on the Apple A14 Bionic platform. We see the same in the latest generation iPad Air. Sufficient memory is provided for the superb speed and performance of the device. iPhone 12 mini is available in three modifications - 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 256GB 4GB RAM, and there is no possibility to increase the memory. The operating system is iOS 14.1.

Cameras

In the iPhone 12 mini you get two rear cameras - wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle. As for their features, they are the same as those of the iPhone 12. You get perfect photos whether it's light or dark outside.

The main camera is capable of recording 4K video at 60 frames per second using Dolby Vision. The sound quality of the video is also excellent. The iOS 14 operating system allows you to record in PAL format at 25 frames per second. The selfie camera is dual, 12-megapixel and with it you will delight everyone around you with quality photos.

Autonomous work

The iPhone 12 mini battery is smaller than other iPhone 12 models. It is equipped with a non-removable lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 2227 mAh. Tests show that you can count on satisfactory long-term operation before you have to recharge. For example, with the iPhone 12 mini you can read books without interruption for almost 19 hours, watch YouTube videos - up to 14-15 hours and play for a little over 3 hours.

Conclusion

In terms of performance, photo quality and screen, the iPhone 12 mini is not inferior to the more expensive models in its series. Its only drawback is the shorter autonomous operation. If we have to compare this iPhone with the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max, then the shortcomings are immediately apparent - the lack of a telephoto lens, impractical rear surface and others. At the same time, this model is by far the most compact flagship on the market (131.5 X 64.2 X 7.4 mm). It is both comfortable and offers modern features. Its biometric protection is assigned to the FaceID system, which works quickly and reliably.

Apple iPhone 12 mini video review

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is based on our team's personal experience with the Apple iPhone 12 mini and third-party sources. While every effort has been made to provide accurate and reliable information, readers should keep in mind that this is a subjective assessment. The writing of this article was not paid for or sponsored by Apple.

Richard Taylor

Richard Taylor

Richard Taylor is a technology expert and journalist based in the UK. With a degree in Computer Science from the University of Birmingham, he provides insightful analysis and expert reviews of the latest smartphones and technology. His technical expertise, passion for technology and years of experience make him a trusted source in the industry.

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