# iPhone 11 Pro or 12 Pro: which to choose?

> Compare iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro: design, chip, camera, refurbished price.

- URL: https://nomophone.com/en/guides/comparatif/iphone-11-pro-vs-12-pro
- Model comparisons
- Updated on 2026-06-16
- 9 min read

## Introduction

The iPhone 12 Pro upgrades the iPhone 11 Pro (chip, camera, Dynamic Island, USB-C…). The iPhone 11 Pro stays strong **refurbished**.

Based on official Apple specs.

## Design and ergonomics

See the table for materials and buttons. The iPhone 11 Pro often feels similar day to day.

## Performance

Newer chip on the iPhone 12 Pro. Both stay smooth; the gap shows in intensive gaming or 4–5 year ownership.

## Photo and video

Each generation improves zoom and processing. Also compare **Pro** variants.

## Refurbished price

A refurbished iPhone 11 Pro costs less than an equivalent iPhone 12 Pro. Compare stock and trade-in estimates.

## Models mentioned

- **iPhone 11 Pro** (Apple iPhone 11 Pro 256GB) - 2019 generation
- **iPhone 12 Pro** (Apple iPhone 12 Pro 256GB) - 2020 generation

## Comparison table

| Criterion | iPhone 11 Pro | iPhone 12 Pro |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Display | 5,8″ | 6,1″ |
| Chip | A13 Bionic | A14 Bionic |
| Dynamic Island | — | — |
| Connector | Lightning | Lightning |
| ProMotion (120 Hz) | — | — |
| High-resolution camera | — | — |
| Optical zoom | Zoom, 0,5x, 1x, 2x | Zoom, 0,5x, 1x, 2x |
| Material | Stainless steel frame | Stainless steel frame |
| Video battery life | Up to 18 hours | Up to 17 hours |
| Refurbished price | Older, usually cheaper | Newer, higher price |
| iOS longevity | Very good | Excellent (+1 generation) |

### Our verdict

**Choose refurbished iPhone 11 Pro** if budget comes first.

**Choose iPhone 12 Pro** for the newer generation and extra iOS longevity.

Estimate your trade-in to stretch your budget.

## FAQ

### Is 11 Pro / 12 Pro worth the extra cost?

Refurbished iPhone 11 Pro remains excellent for typical use.

### iPhone 11 Pro or iPhone 12 Pro refurbished?

Budget: iPhone 11 Pro. Longevity: iPhone 12 Pro.

### Trade in my iPhone 11 Pro for a 12 Pro?

Yes — use our trade-in simulator.

## Continue reading

- [Which iPhone should you choose in 2026?](https://nomophone.com/en/guides/achat/which-iphone-to-choose)
- [How much is my iPhone worth?](https://nomophone.com/en/guides/reprise/how-much-is-my-iphone-worth)
- [iPhone 12 Pro or 13 Pro: which to choose?](https://nomophone.com/en/guides/comparatif/iphone-12-pro-vs-13-pro)