Apple iPhone 12 Pro Review: A Look Back at a Classic in 2024
Released in late 2020, the Apple iPhone 12 Pro marked a turning point for Apple’s flagship smartphone. While it may not be the latest and greatest anymore, in 2024, the iPhone 12 Pro remains a compelling option for many users.
Let’s delve into its features, assess its strengths and weaknesses, and see if it still holds up in today’s market.
Flat edges and timeless style:
The Apple iPhone 12 Pro heralded a design change for Apple, departing from the curved edges of previous models for a flatter, more angular look reminiscent of the iPhone 4 and 5. This change divided opinions, but there’s no denying that the phone feels incredibly sturdy and premium in the hand.
The surgical-grade stainless steel frame and a Ceramic Shield front offer excellent scratch and drop resistance. While some may find the flat edges a little discomforting to hold for extended periods, the overall design exudes a timeless elegance.
A display to match the Pro name:
The Apple iPhone 12 Pro boasts a stunning 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. This display delivers vibrant colours, deep blacks, and exceptional contrast. While newer iPhones boast higher refresh rates, the 12 Pro’s display remains a joy.
Whether you’re watching videos, browsing the web, or gaming, everything comes alive on the screen. The visuals are always sharp and immersive.
Powerhouse performance:
At its heart lies the A14 Bionic chip, a powerhouse that continues to perform well even in 2024. This chip delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks, multitasking with numerous apps, and even running graphically-intensive games.
You won’t experience lag or stutter, ensuring a frustration-free user experience. Frankly, the difference in performance is hardly noticeable in the slightly faster A15 Bionic and A16 Bionic chips present in newer iPhones.
Top-performing camera system:
The Apple iPhone 12 Pro sports a triple-lens rear camera system: a 12MP wide lens, a 12MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens.
Indeed, it does not have the cutting-edge features of the latest iPhones, but it still delivers excellent image quality. The results come out spectacularly well in good lighting conditions. Photos are sharp, detailed, and accurate in colour.
Night mode continues to be a highlight, significantly improving low-light performance. Further, Dolby Vision HDR recording allows you to capture stunning cinematic-style videos.
However, newer Apple iPhones model might be a better fit if low-light photography or the absolute best zoom capabilities are your priorities.
A look at the not-so-highs:
While the iPhone 12 Pro remains a great phone, it’s not without limitations:
Battery life: Battery technology has improved somewhat since the release of the iPhone 12 Pro. Power users might find themselves reaching for the charger more often than with newer iPhones.
Storage capacity: The base model only came with 128GB of storage, which can fill up quickly for users who store many photos, videos, and apps. Consider your storage needs and opt for a higher-capacity model if necessary.
No high refresh rate: If you’re used to the smoother scrolling experience offered by higher refresh rate displays (120Hz) in newer iPhones and some competitor phones, the 12 Pro’s 60Hz display might feel less fluid.
The Verdict: A classic with caveats
The iPhone 12 Pro may not be the absolute best iPhone on the market anymore, but it’s a classic that continues to offer much value in 2024. Its strengths lie in its powerful A14 Bionic chip, stunning Super Retina XDR display, excellent camera system, and Apple’s long-lasting software support.
However, suppose you prioritize better battery life. In that case, a newer iPhone model might be better for cutting-edge camera features like a telephoto lens with a more extended zoom range, superior low-light performance, or the smoothest display experience.
Still, the Apple iPhone 12 Pro remains a fantastic option for users who value a powerful and stylish phone with a great camera system, all at a more affordable price than its launch or the latest flagships.
If you find a good deal on a well-maintained iPhone 12 Pro, it can be a smart choice for those who don’t necessarily need the absolute cutting edge.
FAQs:
Q: What are the camera specs of the iPhone 12 Pro?
A: The iPhone 12 Pro boasts a triple-lens rear camera system with a 12MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 12MP telephoto sensor with 4x optical zoom. It also features a LiDAR scanner for improved depth sensing and night-mode photography.
Q: Does the iPhone 12 Pro have 5G?
A: The iPhone 12 Pro supports mmWave and sub-6GHz 5G frequencies, allowing faster data speeds on compatible networks.
Q: What are the differences between the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max?
A: The main differences lie in screen size and camera system. The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a larger 6.7-inch display than the 6.1-inch display on the iPhone 12 Pro. Additionally, the Pro Max features sensor-shift stabilization for the primary camera, which is not present in the standard Pro model.
Q: Is the iPhone 12 Pro still worth buying in 2024?
A: While newer models exist, the iPhone 12 Pro can still be a good choice, depending on your needs and budget. It offers a powerful A14 Bionic chip, excellent camera capabilities, and 5G connectivity. Consider factors like battery life and the latest features before making a decision.