# iPhone 12 or 13: which to choose?

> Compare iPhone 12 and iPhone 13: design, chip, camera, refurbished price.

- URL: https://nomophone.com/en/guides/comparatif/iphone-12-vs-13
- Model comparisons
- Updated on 2026-06-16
- 9 min read

## Introduction

The iPhone 13 upgrades the iPhone 12 (chip, camera, Dynamic Island, USB-C…). The iPhone 12 stays strong **refurbished**.

Based on official Apple specs.

## Design and ergonomics

See the table for materials and buttons. The iPhone 12 often feels similar day to day.

## Performance

Newer chip on the iPhone 13. 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 12 costs less than an equivalent iPhone 13. Compare stock and trade-in estimates.

## Models mentioned

- **iPhone 12** (Apple iPhone 12 128GB) - 2020 generation
- **iPhone 13** (Apple iPhone 13 128GB) - 2021 generation

## Comparison table

| Criterion | iPhone 12 | iPhone 13 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Display | 6,1″ | 6,1″ |
| Chip | A14 Bionic | A15 Bionic |
| Dynamic Island | — | — |
| Connector | Lightning | Lightning |
| ProMotion (120 Hz) | — | — |
| High-resolution camera | — | — |
| Optical zoom | Zoom, 0,5x, 1x | Zoom, 0,5x, 1x |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Aluminum frame |
| Video battery life | Up to 17 hours | Up to 19 hours |
| Refurbished price | Older, usually cheaper | Newer, higher price |
| iOS longevity | Very good | Excellent (+1 generation) |

### Our verdict

**Choose refurbished iPhone 12** if budget comes first.

**Choose iPhone 13** for the newer generation and extra iOS longevity.

Estimate your trade-in to stretch your budget.

## FAQ

### Is 12 / 13 worth the extra cost?

Refurbished iPhone 12 remains excellent for typical use.

### iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 refurbished?

Budget: iPhone 12. Longevity: iPhone 13.

### Trade in my iPhone 12 for a 13?

Yes — use our trade-in simulator.

## Continue reading

- [iPhone 11 or 12: which to choose?](https://nomophone.com/en/guides/comparatif/iphone-11-vs-12)
- [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 13 or 14: which to choose?](https://nomophone.com/en/guides/comparatif/iphone-13-vs-14)