iPhone 12 vs iPhone 13 in 2025: Which One Still Wins?
As we step into 2025, the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 remain relevant contenders in the mid-range smartphone market. While newer models like the iPhone 15 and 16 dominate headlines, many users still consider these earlier devices for their reliability, affordability, and Apple’s continued software support. Here's a comprehensive comparison of the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 across critical categories to help you decide which device suits your needs best.
Main Differences
Feature | iPhone 12 | iPhone 13 |
Chipset | A15 Bionic (faster, more efficient) | |
Display | Same size, but brighter display | |
Camera | Dual 12MP (Wide + Ultra-Wide) | Dual 12MP with Sensor-shift OIS |
Battery Life | Up to 17 hours video playback | Up to 19 hours video playback |
Storage Option | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
Weight | 164g | 174g |
1. Gaming Performance
Real-World Testing Insights
iPhone 13 was tested with titles like BGMI and Asphalt Unleashed, maintaining near-console-level frame rates with minimal lag or overheating.
iPhone 12 still handles modern games well, but shows signs of aging with longer load times and more frequent frame drops under stress.
The A15 Bionic chip in the iPhone 13 offers up to 15% faster graphics rendering and 30% better thermal efficiency compared to the A14.
Gaming Experience Summary
iPhone 13 is clearly the more capable gaming device in 2025, offering smoother gameplay, better graphics fidelity, and longer sustained performance.
iPhone 12 remains viable for casual gaming but may struggle with newer titles or extended sessions
Metric | iPhone 12 (A14 Bionic) | iPhone 13 (A15 Bionic) |
GPU Architecture | 4-core GPU | 5-core GPU |
Average FPS (BGMI) | ~50–55 FPS (High settings) | ~58–60 FPS (Ultra settings) |
Average FPS (Asphalt Unleashed) | ~45 FPS | ~60 FPS |
Thermal Throttling (30 min) | ~18% drop in performance | ~8% drop in performance |
82% | 94% | |
~45 ms | ~30 ms | |
Battery Drain (1 hr gaming) | ~18% | ~14% |
Max Graphics Support | Medium–High | High–Ultra |
If you're a mobile gamer who values frame stability and responsiveness, the iPhone 13 is still a beast in 2025.
Verdict: iPhone 13 delivers a more stable and immersive gaming experience.
2. Camera Capabilities
iPhone 12: Dual 12MP wide and ultra-wide cameras with Night Mode and Smart HDR 3. Solid performance in daylight and decent low-light shots.
iPhone 13: Same dual-camera setup, but enhanced with sensor-shift optical image stabilization and Photographic Styles, offering sharper images and improved video stability.
Camera systems on both are dual 12 MP setups (wide and ultrawide), with a 12 MP front camera supporting Night mode and Deep Fusion. They excel in well-lit conditions, producing natural colors and detail.
The iPhone 13 advances with sensor-shift optical image stabilization on the wide lens (borrowed from the 12 Pro Max), improving low-light shots and video stability. It also introduces Cinematic mode for video, which adds depth-of-field effects. In 2025 comparisons, the 13 captures sharper night photos and smoother 4K video at 60 fps. For photography enthusiasts, the iPhone 13's enhancements make it superior, though the 12 remains capable for social media and casual snaps.
Verdict: iPhone 13 refines the iPhone 12’s camera system with better stabilization and computational photography.
3. Performance & Speed
iPhone 12: A14 Bionic chip with 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU. Still snappy in 2025, but shows signs of aging with heavier multitasking.
iPhone 13: A15 Bionic chip with similar core architecture but improved efficiency and speed. Benchmarks show up to 16% better performance in real-world tasks.
The iPhone 12 is powered by the A14 Bionic chip, a hexa-core processor with a 2+4 core configuration (high-performance Firestorm cores at 3.1 GHz). It handles multitasking, app launches, and general navigation smoothly even in 2025.
The iPhone 13 upgrades to the A15 Bionic, which is approximately 10-15% faster in CPU tasks and offers superior GPU performance for graphics-intensive operations. Benchmarks from 2025 reviews show the iPhone 13 outperforming the 12 in speed tests, with quicker app openings and smoother performance in demanding apps.
Both have 4 GB of RAM, but the A15's efficiency makes the 13 feel snappier for future-proofing against newer iOS features.
Verdict: iPhone 13 is faster and more responsive, especially under load.
4. Display Quality
Both Models: 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532x1170 resolution, HDR support.
iPhone 13 Advantage: Brighter panel with 800 nits typical brightness vs. 625 nits on iPhone 12, and faster response time.
The key differentiator is brightness. The iPhone 13 reaches 800 nits typical brightness compared to the iPhone 12's 625 nits. Making it more legible in bright outdoor conditions. In 2025, neither supports ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate), which is reserved for Pro models, so scrolling and animations feel similar. For most users, the iPhone 13's brighter screen provides a noticeable improvement in usability
Verdict: iPhone 13 offers better outdoor visibility and smoother touch response.
5. Battery Life
Real-World Testing Insights
Controlled Conditions: Tests were conducted with max brightness, cleared background apps, and mixed usage (gaming, video streaming, flashlight).
Software Impact: iOS 18 appears to slightly favor the iPhone 13 in terms of battery optimization, though both models show some decline compared to their original performance.
Longevity: The iPhone 13’s larger battery and more efficient A15 chip give it a clear edge in endurance, especially for users who stream or game frequently.
Feature | iPhone 12 | iPhone 13 |
Battery Capacity | ~2,815 mAh | ~3,240 mAh |
Video Playback (Apple Rated) | Up to 17 hours | Up to 19 hours |
Audio Playback | Up to 65 hours | Up to 75 hours |
Screen-On Time (2025 Test) | ~6.5 hours | ~8.2 hours |
Battery Drain Test (2025) | Depleted in 7h 45m under stress | Lasted 9h 10m under stress |
Charging Speed (20W Adapter) | ~50% in 30 minutes | ~50% in 28 minutes |
Standby Efficiency (iOS 18) | Moderate drain overnight | Slightly better optimization |
Verdict: iPhone 13 lasts longer on a single charge, making it more suitable for heavy users.
6. Storage Options
iPhone 12: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB.
iPhone 13: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB.
Storage starts at 64 GB for the iPhone 12 (with 128 GB and 256 GB options), which may feel limiting in 2025 with larger apps and media files. The iPhone 13 begins at 128 GB (up to 512 GB), offering more headroom for photos, videos, and downloads. Neither has expandable storage, so base models matter. For users with heavy storage needs, the 13's higher minimum is advantageous.
Verdict: iPhone 13 offers more generous base and maximum storage, ideal for media-heavy users.
7. Build & Design
Both Models: Aerospace-grade aluminum, Ceramic Shield front, IP68 water resistance.
iPhone 13: Slightly thicker and heavier, but with a more refined grip and durability enhancements.
Both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 feature Apple's signature premium build, with flat edges, Ceramic Shield glass on the front for enhanced durability, and an aluminum frame. They are IP68 rated for water and dust resistance, capable of surviving submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The designs are nearly identical in size and aesthetics, making them comfortable for one-handed use.
However, the iPhone 13 introduces a smaller notch (about 20% reduction) for the TrueDepth camera system, allowing for a slightly more immersive screen experience. The iPhone 13 is marginally thicker and heavier due to its larger battery, but this difference is negligible in daily handling. In 2025, both hold up well against wear and tear, though the iPhone 13's components may feel fresher in refurbished units. Overall, if aesthetics matter, the iPhone 13's refined notch gives it a subtle edge.
Verdict: Both are premium, but iPhone 13 feels sturdier and more polished.
8. Software Support
Both the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 have received multiple major software updates since their release, keeping them relevant and functional well into 2025. Here's a breakdown of the most significant changes:
iPhone 12: Released in 2020, still receiving iOS updates but nearing the end of its support window.
iPhone 13: Released in 2021, expected to receive updates for at least two more years beyond the iPhone 12.
Performance Impact
iPhone 12: Still handles iOS 18 well, though some users report minor lag in multitasking-heavy scenarios.
iPhone 13: Runs iOS 18 smoothly, benefiting from the A15 chip’s better optimization.
Software Support Outlook
Apple typically supports iPhones for 5–6 years, so:
iPhone 12 may receive updates until 2026.
iPhone 13 is likely supported until 2027 or beyond, making it a safer long-term investment
Both devices are compatible with iOS 18, and Apple continues to push updates that include security patches, feature enhancements, and performance optimizations
Verdict: iPhone 13 is the safer bet for long-term software support.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, the iPhone 13 emerges as the stronger contender overall, with superior performance, battery life, camera capabilities, and storage options making it more suitable for demanding users. The iPhone 12, however, remains a cost-effective alternative for lighter tasks, especially if found at a steep discount. If your priorities lean toward gaming, photography, or extended battery, opt for the 13; otherwise, the 12 delivers excellent value. Ultimately, both are dependable devices that continue to perform well in Apple's ecosystem.
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