OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Smartphones Methodology v1.0
Smartphones Methodology v1.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontum Smartphones Methodology v1.0: technical specifications plus authentic consumer ratings, with 0% commercial bias.
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Apple iPhone 12 (128GB) Review | 197 Data compared

Avg. price:~£500RAM capacity:4 GBInternal storage:128 GBScreen size:6.1 inchesMain camera megapixels:12 MP & 12 MP

Apple iPhone 12 (128GB) Review: Compare 197 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Smartphones category and whether it is worth buying.

Apple iPhone 12 (128GB)
6.7/10

Overall score

Score
6.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the smartphone's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best smartphones on the market.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 51% of models
Score components

90%

6.5

Technical score

10%

8.8

User score

â–²Better than 51% of smartphones
7.1

Value for money

Value for money
7.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 71% of models
Score components

70%

6.7

Overall score

30%

7.9

Price

â–¼Worse than 71%
6.5

Technical score

Technical score
6.5/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 54% of models
Score components

25%

6.1

Performance & Hardware

18%

7.2

Camera

15%

6.1

Display

15%

4.8

Battery

10%

8.8

Software

10%

7.6

Connectivity

4%

4.4

Audio

3%

7.0

Design

â–¼Worse than 54%
8.8

User score

User score
8.8/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 88% of models
Score components

70%

8.3

User ratings

30%

10

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
â–²Better than 88%
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Best prices
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
Available versions:
128GB64GBCheck price
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Smartphones model ranking

Ranked #494 of 2,002 models in Smartphones (Overall score)

Technical Specifications of smartphone Apple iPhone 12 (128GB)

Technical score
Technical score
6.5/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the smartphone's technical performance, covering eight key areas: performance & hardware, software, camera, connectivity, display, battery, audio, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare smartphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 54% of models
Score components:

25%

6.1

Performance & Hardware

18%

7.2

Camera

15%

6.1

Display

15%

4.8

Battery

10%

8.8

Software

10%

7.6

Connectivity

4%

4.4

Audio

3%

7.0

Design

6.5
User score
User score
8.8/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
When it matters
When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 88% of models
Score components

70%

8.3

User ratings

30%

10

Number of reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
8.8
Popularity
Popularity
10/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the smartphone.
When it matters
When you prefer to purchase a product chosen and reviewed by many other consumers.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 94% of models
Popularity:
Apple iPhone 12 (128GB) has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 94.1% of smartphones.
10
Value for money
Value for money
7.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the smartphone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a smartphone with a good balance between quality and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 71% of models
Score components:

70%

6.7

Overall score

30%

7.9

Price

7.1
Brand name
Apple
Processor model
Apple A14 Bionic
This smartphone uses the Apple A14 Bionic processor which is faster than processors in 75.3% of smartphones and equal to processors in 0.2% of smartphones.
RAM capacity
4 GB
Market range: <4 GB – >16 GB
This smartphone has a RAM capacity of 4 GB which is smaller than the RAM capacity of 82.7% of smartphones and equal to that of 14% of smartphones.
Internal storage
128 GB
Market range: <64 GB – >512 GB
This smartphone has an internal storage capacity of 128 GB which is smaller than the storage of 61.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 28.4% of smartphones.
CPU boost clock speed
3.1 GHz
Market range: <2 GHz – >3.3 GHz
The CPU boost clock speed of this smartphone is 3.1 GHz which is higher than the boost speed of 79.3% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.6% of smartphones.
Show more
Operating system
iOS
This smartphone uses the iOS operating system, which outperforms that of 1%.
iOS 14.1
Android version
N/A
Direct OS updates
yes
This smartphone receives direct OS updates. 20.6% of smartphones receive direct updates.
Open-source OS
no
This smartphone does not use an open-source OS. 94.6% of smartphones use an open-source OS.
Dark mode
yes
This smartphone offers dark mode. 95.8% of smartphones support this feature.
Show more
Multi-lens main camera
yes
This smartphone includes a multi-lens main camera system. 93.7% of smartphones include multi-lens setups.
Main camera megapixels
12 MP & 12 MP
Market range: <10 – >100
This smartphone has a main camera resolution of 12 MP & 12 MP which is lower than that of 95.9% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.2% of smartphones.
Main camera aperture
f/1.6 & f/2.4
This smartphone has a main camera aperture of f/1.6 & f/2.4 which is wider than that of 91.6% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.4% of smartphones.
Main camera sensor area
23.5 mm²
Market range: <19.7 mm² – >71.4 mm²
This smartphone has a main camera sensor area of 23.5 mm² which is smaller than the main camera sensor area of 73.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 2.1% of smartphones.
Main camera pixel size
1.4 µm
Market range: <0.64 µm – >1.22 µm
This smartphone has a main camera pixel size of 1.4 µm which is larger than in 92.7% of smartphones and equal to the size in 4% of smartphones.
Show more
Number of SIM slots
2
Market range: <1 – >6
This smartphone has 2 SIM slots, which is more than in 3.8% of smartphones and equal to the number in 96.1% of smartphones.
Cellular module
yes
This smartphone includes a cellular module. 100% of smartphones include cellular modules.
5G connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports 5G connectivity. 66.9% of smartphones support 5G.
LTE support
yes
This smartphone supports LTE. 99.7% of smartphones include LTE connectivity.
Wi-Fi connectivity
yes
This smartphone supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 100% of smartphones offer Wi-Fi support.
Show more
Screen size
6.1 inches
Market range: <6.3 inches – >6.82 inches
This smartphone has a screen size of 6.1 inches which is smaller than the screens of 92.1% of smartphones and equal to those of 2% of smartphones.
Screen resolution
1170x 2532 px
This smartphone has a screen resolution of 1170x2532 px which is higher than that of 72.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.2% of smartphones.
Pixel density
460 ppi
Market range: <264 ppi – >460 ppi
This smartphone has a pixel density of 460 ppi which is higher than that of 88.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 3.3% of smartphones.
Display type
OLED/AMOLED
This smartphone uses a OLED/AMOLED display type. 58.6% of smartphones use this display technology.
Refresh rate
60 Hz
Market range: <60 Hz – >144 Hz
This smartphone supports a refresh rate of 60 Hz which is lower than in 84.3% of smartphones and equal to that in 15.7% of smartphones.
Show more
Battery capacity
2,815 mAh
Market range: <4k mAh – >7k mAh
This smartphone has a battery capacity of 2,815 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 98.8% of smartphones.
Charging speed
20 W
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This smartphone supports charging speeds of 20 W which is slower than in 74.3% of smartphones and equal to speeds in 1.5% of smartphones.
Fast charging
yes
This smartphone supports fast charging. 93.1% of smartphones support fast charging.
GSMArena full wired charge time
90 min
Market range: <36 min – >120 min
This smartphone reaches a full wired charge in 90 min which is slower than 73.9% of smartphones and equal to the time of 6.9% of smartphones.
Wireless charging
yes
This smartphone supports wireless charging. 25.2% of smartphones support wireless charging.
Show more
Stereo speakers
yes
This smartphone includes stereo speakers. 64.4% of smartphones provide stereo audio.
3.5 mm headphone jack
no
This smartphone does not include a 3.5 mm headphone jack. 45.5% of smartphones offer this port.
Number of microphones
3
Market range: <1 – >3
This smartphone includes 3 microphones, which is more than in 77.2% of smartphones and equal to the number in 19.7% of smartphones.
FM radio
no
This smartphone does not include an FM radio. 34.2% of smartphones offer FM radio functionality.
aptX Lossless
no
This smartphone does not support aptX Lossless. 12.9% of smartphones provide aptX Lossless.
Show more
Height
146.7 mm
Market range: <156.2 mm – >171.56 mm
This smartphone has a height of 146.7 mm which is shorter than 97.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.2% of smartphones.
Width
71.5 mm
Market range: <73.1 mm – >81 mm
This smartphone has a width of 71.5 mm which is narrower than 94.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.6% of smartphones.
Thickness
7.4 mm
Market range: <7.53 mm – >10.5 mm
This smartphone has a thickness of 7.4 mm which is thinner than 92.4% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.4% of smartphones.
Weight
164 g
Market range: <175 g – >256 g
This smartphone weighs 164 g which is lighter than 95.7% of smartphones and equal to the weight of 0.3% of smartphones.
Device volume
72,562 cm³
Market range: <80 cm³ – >190 cm³
This smartphone has a device volume of 72,562 cm³ which is smaller than 97.4% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.2% of smartphones.
Show more

Apple iPhone 12 (128GB) vs the average smartphone

246810TotalPerformance & HardwareSoftwareCameraConnectivityDisplayBatteryAudioDesign
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartphone supports wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 25.2% of smartphones are wireless charging compatible.
  • Direct OS updates
    This smartphone supports direct OS updates, the average smartphone does not. 20.6% of smartphones support this feature.
  • 0.6 µm larger main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a larger main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (1.4 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average pixel size is 0.8 µm.
    1.4 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • Has 3D facial recognition
    This smartphone features 3D facial recognition, the average smartphone does not. 4.3% of smartphones support 3D face unlock.
  • 2.2x higher Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 single-core than the average smartphone (2070 vs 942). The average smartphone scores 942 in single-core.
    2,070 vs 942
  • Better display glass type
    This smartphone features a better display glass type than the average smartphone (Ceramic Shield vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5). The average smartphone uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection.
    Ceramic Shield vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5
  • 29.2% higher CPU boost clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU boost clock speed than the average smartphone (3.1 GHz vs 2.4 GHz). The average smartphone has a boost clock speed of 2.4 GHz.
    3.1 GHz vs 2.4 GHz
  • 10.3% higher user score
    User score
    8.8/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
    When it matters
    When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Apple iPhone 12
    the average smartphone
    Apple iPhone 12 (128GB) has a higher user score than the average smartphone (8.82 vs 8.000).
    8.82 vs 8
  • 83.9% more popular
    Apple iPhone 12 (128GB) is more popular than the average smartphone (10 vs 5.4).
    10 vs 5.44
  • 2.2x higher Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 single-core than the average smartphone (2070 vs 942). The average smartphone scores 942 in single-core.
    2,070 vs 942
  • 29.2% higher CPU boost clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU boost clock speed than the average smartphone (3.1 GHz vs 2.4 GHz). The average smartphone has a boost clock speed of 2.4 GHz.
    3.1 GHz vs 2.4 GHz
  • 2.44x higher 3DMark Wild Life benchmark
    This smartphone scores higher in 3DMark Wild Life than the average smartphone (7,601 vs 3,115). The average smartphone scores 3,115.
    7,601 vs 3,115
  • Higher CPU base clock speed
    This smartphone has a higher CPU base clock speed than the average smartphone (2x3.1 GHz & 4x1.8 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz). The average smartphone has a base clock speed of 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz.
    2x3.1 GHz & 4x1.8 GHz vs 2x2.2 GHz & 6x2 GHz
  • 6x more L1
    This smartphone has more L1 cache than the average smartphone (192 KB vs 32 KB). The average L1 cache is 32 KB.
    192 KB vs 32 KB
  • 34.5% faster GPU clock
    This smartphone has a higher GPU frequency than the average smartphone (1278 MHz vs 950 MHz). The average smartphone GPU frequency is 950 MHz.
    1,278 MHz vs 950 MHz
  • 2.05x higher PassMark single-core benchmark
    This smartphone has a better PassMark single-core score than the average smartphone (2029 vs 988). The average single-core score is 988.
    2,029 vs 988
  • 80.8% higher Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 multi-core than the average smartphone (4,579 vs 2,533). The average smartphone scores 2,533 in multi-core.
    4,579 vs 2,533
  • 88% higher PassMark benchmark
    This smartphone achieves a higher PassMark score than the average smartphone (8,253 vs 4,389). The average smartphone PassMark score is 4,389.
    8,253 vs 4,389
  • 2.19x higher 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited benchmark
    This smartphone scores higher in 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited than the average smartphone (8,394 vs 3,825). The average smartphone scores 3,825.
    8,394 vs 3,825
  • 16.7% smaller process node
    This smartphone uses a smaller process node than the average smartphone (5 nm vs 6 nm). The average process node size is 6 nm.
    5 nm vs 6 nm
  • 89% higher 3DMark Wild Life Extreme benchmark
    This smartphone performs better in 3DMark Wild Life Extreme than the average smartphone (2,317 vs 1,226). The average smartphone scores 1,226.
    2,317 vs 1,226
  • Better processor
    This smartphone features a better processor than the average smartphone (Apple A14 Bionic vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3).
    Apple A14 Bionic vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3
  • 14.6% more transistors
    This smartphone has more transistors than the average smartphone (11800 million vs 10300 million). The average smartphone includes 10300 million transistors.
    11,800 million vs 10,300 million
  • Direct OS updates
    This smartphone supports direct OS updates, the average smartphone does not. 20.6% of smartphones support this feature.
  • Includes cross-site tracking protection
    This smartphone supports cross-site tracking prevention, the average smartphone does not. 32.2% of smartphones include this feature.
  • Supports AirPlay
    This smartphone supports AirPlay, the average smartphone does not. 2.3% of smartphones are AirPlay compatible.
  • Supports Shareplay
    This smartphone supports SharePlay, the average smartphone does not. 2.1% of smartphones include this feature.
  • Supports fast boot
    This smartphone supports fast boot, the average smartphone does not. 22.6% of smartphones include fast boot capabilities.
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • 0.6 µm larger main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a larger main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (1.4 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average pixel size is 0.8 µm.
    1.4 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    This smartphone uses a BSI sensor, the average smartphone does not. 40.5% of smartphones include BSI sensors.
  • Supports Dolby Vision video recording
    This smartphone supports Dolby Vision video recording, the average smartphone does not. 10.7% of smartphones support Dolby Vision.
  • Wider main camera aperture
    This smartphone has a wider main camera aperture than the average smartphone (f/1.6 & f/2.4 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4). The average smartphone has a main camera aperture of f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4.
    f/1.6 & f/2.4 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4
  • Better main camera video
    This smartphone records better main camera video than the average smartphone. 22.60x of smartphones support 4K or higher.
    2160x60 fps vs 2160x30 fps
  • 1 more flash LEDs
    This smartphone has more flash LEDs than the average smartphone (2 vs 1). The average smartphone has 1 flash LEDs.
    2 vs 1
  • Supports HDR10 video recording
    This smartphone supports HDR10 video recording, the average smartphone does not. 35.9% of smartphones support HDR10.
  • Has a dual-tone LED flash
    This smartphone features a dual-tone LED flash, the average smartphone does not. 41.4% of smartphones include dual-tone flash.
  • 34.7% higher DxOMark Selfie score
    This smartphone has a higher DxOMark Selfie score than the average smartphone (132 vs 98). The average smartphone scores 98 for selfies.
    132 vs 98
  • Has 3D facial recognition
    This smartphone features 3D facial recognition, the average smartphone does not. 4.3% of smartphones support 3D face unlock.
  • Newer Wi-Fi version
    This smartphone supports a newer Wi-Fi version than the average smartphone (Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)). The average smartphone uses Wi-Fi Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n).
    Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
  • 2 more external displays supported
    This smartphone supports more external displays than the average smartphone (3 vs 1). The average smartphone supports 1 external displays.
    3 vs 1
  • Has a barometer
    This smartphone features a barometer, the average smartphone does not. 19.9% of smartphones include a barometer.
  • Better display glass type
    This smartphone features a better display glass type than the average smartphone (Ceramic Shield vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5). The average smartphone uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection.
    Ceramic Shield vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5
  • 16.5% higher pixel density
    This smartphone has a higher pixel density than the average smartphone (460 ppi vs 395 ppi). The average smartphone has a pixel density of 395 ppi.
    460 ppi vs 395 ppi
  • Supports Dolby Vision support
    This smartphone supports Dolby Vision, the average smartphone does not. 17.3% of smartphones are Dolby Vision compatible.
  • Supports HDR10+ support
    This smartphone supports HDR10+, the average smartphone does not. 22.2% of smartphones include HDR10+ support.
  • Supports HDR10 support
    This smartphone supports HDR10, the average smartphone does not. 42.7% of smartphones are HDR10 compatible.
  • Higher screen resolution
    This smartphone has a higher screen resolution than the average smartphone (1170x2532 px vs 1080x2400 px). The average smartphone resolution is 1080x2400 px.
    1170x2532 px vs 1080x2400 px
  • Higher contrast ratio
    This smartphone has a higher contrast ratio than the average smartphone (2000000:1 vs 1000000:1). The average smartphone contrast ratio is 1000000:1.
    AMOLED/OLED displays have an effectively infinite contrast ratio
    2,000,000:1 vs 1,000,000:1
  • 200 nits higher peak brightness
    This smartphone has a higher peak brightness than the average smartphone (1200 nits vs 1000 nits). The average peak brightness is 1000 nits.
    1,200 nits vs 1,000 nits
  • Supports wireless charging
    This smartphone supports wireless charging, the average smartphone does not. 25.2% of smartphones are wireless charging compatible.
  • 1 more microphone/s
    This smartphone has more microphones than the average smartphone (3 vs 2). The average smartphone has 2 microphones.
    3 vs 2
  • 6 m deeper water resistance
    This smartphone has a deeper water resistance rating than the average smartphone (6 m vs 0 m). The average depth rating is 0 m.
    6 m vs 0 m
  • 16.4% lighter
    This smartphone is lighter than the average smartphone (164 g vs 196.2 g). The average smartphone weighs 196.2 g.
    164 g vs 196.2 g
  • 4.5 mm narrower
    This smartphone is narrower than the average smartphone (71.5 mm vs 76 mm). The average smartphone width is 76 mm.
    71.5 mm vs 76 mm
  • 16.9 mm shorter
    This smartphone is shorter than the average smartphone (146.7 mm vs 163.6 mm). The average smartphone height is 163.6 mm.
    146.7 mm vs 163.6 mm
  • 0.9 mm thinner
    This smartphone is thinner than the average smartphone (7.4 mm vs 8.3 mm). The average smartphone thickness is 8.3 mm.
    7.4 mm vs 8.3 mm
  • Better IP rating
    This smartphone has a better IP rating than the average smartphone (IP68 vs IP67). The average IP rating is IP67.
    IP68 vs IP67
  • 25.8% smaller volume
    This smartphone has a smaller device volume than the average smartphone (72562 cm³ vs 97800 cm³). The average smartphone volume is 97800 cm³.
    72,562 cm³ vs 97,800 cm³
  • 50% lower refresh rate
    This smartphone has a lower refresh rate than the average smartphone (60 Hz vs 120 Hz). The average smartphone has a refresh rate of 120 Hz.
    60 Hz vs 120 Hz
  • Lower-resolution main camera
    This smartphone has a lower-resolution main camera than the average smartphone (12 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone has a 50 MP & 8 MP main camera.
    12 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • 43.7% smaller battery capacity
    This smartphone has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartphone (2815 mAh vs 5000 mAh). The average smartphone has a capacity of 5000 mAh.
    2,815 mAh vs 5,000 mAh
  • 50% less storage
    This smartphone offers less internal storage than the average smartphone (128 GB vs 256 GB). The average smartphone includes 256 GB of internal storage.
    128 GB vs 256 GB
  • 4 GB less RAM
    This smartphone has less RAM than the average smartphone (4 GB vs 8 GB). The average smartphone has 8 GB of RAM.
    4 GB vs 8 GB
  • 0.57 inches inch smaller screen size
    This smartphone has a smaller screen size than the average smartphone (6.1 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone has a screen size of 6.67 inches.
    6.1 inches vs 6.67 inches
  • Lacks multithreading support
    This smartphone does not support multithreading, the average smartphone does. 80.5% of smartphones support multithreading.
  • 57.1% lower maximum RAM capacity
    This smartphone supports less maximum RAM than the average smartphone (6 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB of RAM.
    6 GB vs 14 GB
  • 92.3% more expensive
    Apple iPhone 12 (128GB) is more expensive than the average smartphone (£500 vs £260).
    £500 vs £260
  • 3.8% worse value for money
    Apple iPhone 12 (128GB) has worse value for money than the average smartphone (7.07 vs 7.3).
    7.07 vs 7.34
  • 4 GB less RAM
    This smartphone has less RAM than the average smartphone (4 GB vs 8 GB). The average smartphone has 8 GB of RAM.
    4 GB vs 8 GB
  • 50% less storage
    This smartphone offers less internal storage than the average smartphone (128 GB vs 256 GB). The average smartphone includes 256 GB of internal storage.
    128 GB vs 256 GB
  • Lacks multithreading support
    This smartphone does not support multithreading, the average smartphone does. 80.5% of smartphones support multithreading.
  • 57.1% lower maximum RAM capacity
    This smartphone supports less maximum RAM than the average smartphone (6 GB vs 14 GB). The average smartphone supports 14 GB of RAM.
    6 GB vs 14 GB
  • 83.4% lower memory bandwidth
    This smartphone has lower memory bandwidth than the average smartphone (4.3 GB/s vs 25.6 GB/s). The average smartphone has a bandwidth of 25.6 GB/s.
    4.26 GB/s vs 25.6 GB/s
  • 2 fewer CPU threads
    This smartphone supports fewer CPU threads than the average smartphone (6 vs 8). The average smartphone supports 8 threads.
    6 vs 8
  • Supports older OpenGL ES version
    This smartphone supports a lower OpenGL ES version than the average smartphone (3 vs 3.2). The average smartphone supports OpenGL ES version 3.2.
    3.0 vs 3.2
  • 22.4% slower memory speed
    This smartphone has a lower memory speed than the average smartphone (2133 MHz vs 2750 MHz). The average smartphone has a memory speed of 2750 MHz.
    2,133 MHz vs 2,750 MHz
  • No theme customization
    This smartphone does not support theme customization, the average smartphone does. 91% of smartphones allow theme customization.
  • Lacks multi-user mode
    User score
    8.8/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the smartphone
    When it matters
    When you want to know how a smartphone handles daily tasks and how reliable it remains over time according to user feedback.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Apple iPhone 12
    the average smartphone
    Apple iPhone 12 (128GB) does not support multi-user mode, the average smartphone does. 96.4% of smartphones allow multiple user profiles.
  • No split-screen support
    This smartphone does not support split-screen, the average smartphone does. %^^ of smartphones allow split-screen multitasking.
  • No dynamic theme support
    This smartphone does not support dynamic themes, the average smartphone does. 81.9% of smartphones support dynamic theming.
  • Runs closed-source/proprietary OS only
    This smartphone does not use an open-source OS, the average smartphone does. 94.6% of smartphones use open-source systems.
  • Lower-resolution main camera
    This smartphone has a lower-resolution main camera than the average smartphone (12 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone has a 50 MP & 8 MP main camera.
    12 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • 26.6% smaller main camera sensor area
    This smartphone has a smaller main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (23.5 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average smartphone sensor area is 32 mm².
    23.5 mm² vs 32 mm²
  • Lower front camera megapixels
    This smartphone has lower front camera megapixels than the average smartphone (12 MP vs 16 MP). The average smartphone has a 16 MP front camera.
    12 MP vs 16 MP
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • Lacks USB Type-C
    This smartphone lacks a USB Type-C port, the average smartphone includes one. 96.9% of smartphones use USB Type-C.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    This smartphone uses an older Bluetooth version than the average smartphone (5.1 vs 5.2). The average smartphone uses Bluetooth 5.2.
    5.1 vs 5.2
  • No fingerprint scanner
    This smartphone does not have a fingerprint scanner, the average smartphone does. 96.4% of smartphones include a fingerprint scanner.
  • 50% lower refresh rate
    This smartphone has a lower refresh rate than the average smartphone (60 Hz vs 120 Hz). The average smartphone has a refresh rate of 120 Hz.
    60 Hz vs 120 Hz
  • 0.57 inches inch smaller screen size
    This smartphone has a smaller screen size than the average smartphone (6.1 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone has a screen size of 6.67 inches.
    6.1 inches vs 6.67 inches
  • 50% lower touch sampling rate
    This smartphone has a lower touch sampling rate than the average smartphone (120 Hz vs 240 Hz). The average smartphone has a sampling rate of 240 Hz.
    120 Hz vs 240 Hz
  • 5.3% lower screen brightness
    This smartphone has a lower screen brightness than the average smartphone (625 nits vs 660 nits). The average smartphone has a brightness of 660 nits.
    625 nits vs 660 nits
  • 43.7% smaller battery capacity
    This smartphone has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartphone (2815 mAh vs 5000 mAh). The average smartphone has a capacity of 5000 mAh.
    2,815 mAh vs 5,000 mAh
  • Lower GSMArena battery endurance score
    This smartphone has a lower GSMArena battery endurance score than the average smartphone (84 vs 99.5). The average smartphone scores 99.5.
    84 vs 99.5
  • 62.5% slower wireless charging speed
    This smartphone has a slower wireless charging speed than the average smartphone (7.5 W vs 20 W). The average smartphone wireless charging speed is 20 W.
    7.5 W vs 20 W
  • No reverse wired charging
    This smartphone does not support reverse wired charging, the average smartphone does. 60.8% of smartphones support reverse wired charging.
  • 28 min slower full wired charge time
    This smartphone has a slower full wired charge time than the average smartphone (90 min vs 62 min). The average smartphone takes 62 min to charge.
    90 min vs 62 min
  • 39.4% slower charging speed
    This smartphone has a slower charging speed than the average smartphone (20 W vs 33 W). The average smartphone charges at 33 W.
    20 W vs 33 W
  • No LDAC support
    This smartphone does not support LDAC, the average smartphone does. 60.3% of smartphones support LDAC.
  • No aptX HD
    This smartphone does not support aptX HD, the average smartphone does. 50.7% of smartphones support aptX HD.
  • 25% lower French repairability index
    This smartphone has a lower French repairability index than the average smartphone (6 vs 8). The average smartphone scores 8.
    6 vs 8
  • 4 year/s older release date
    This smartphone is an older model than the average smartphone (2020 vs 2024). 4.00% of smartphones were released more recently.
    October 2020
    2020 vs 2024
  • Poor brand origin
    This smartphone has a poorer brand origin compared to the average smartphone. 0.00% of smartphones come from top-tier brand origins.
    United States vs China

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

A
arstechnica.com
29/10/2020
Summary of the review
Ars Technica — iPhone 12 and 12 Pro double review: Playing Apple’s greatest hits
D
digitaltrends.com
26/04/2022
Summary of the review
Digital Trends — Apple iPhone 12 review: The best iPhone for most people
W
wired.com
20/10/2020
Summary of the review
Review: Apple iPhone 12
C
consumerreports.org
No Date Provided
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 12 Cell Phone Review - Consumer Reports
T
thecanadiantechie.com
10/02/2021
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 12 Review - TheCanadianTechie
T
t3.com
27/06/2022
Summary of the review
T3 — Apple iPhone 12 review: Still excellent in almost every way
T
tomsguide.com
05/09/2023
Summary of the review
Tom's Guide — iPhone 12 review
T
techradar.com
16/09/2022
Summary of the review
TechRadar — iPhone 12 review
T
theguardian.com
29/10/2020
Summary of the review
The Guardian — iPhone 12 review: Apple's best since the iPhone X
M
macworld.com
29/10/2020
Summary of the review
Macworld: iPhone 12 (2020) review: Non-Pro in name only
P
pcmag.com
31/10/2020
Summary of the review
PCMag — Apple iPhone 12 Review
C
cnet.com
24/09/2021
Summary of the review
CNET — iPhone 12 review: In 2021, it's still an excellent buy
P
presse-citron.net
26/01/2023
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 12 (2021) Review: The New Star
(Translated)Show original
0
01net.com
23/10/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Review: More Powerful and Longer-Lasting, Apple's Mid-Range Smartphone Moves Upmarket
(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
27/10/2020
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 12 Review: A Great Evolution of the iPhone 11
(Translated)Show original
N
numerama.com
23/10/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Review: Almost a Pro
(Translated)Show original
E
easycash.fr
13/10/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Review: Specs and Features
(Translated)Show original
T
tomsguide.fr
27/11/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 review: our take on Apple's new benchmark
(Translated)Show original
C
cnetfrance.fr
23/10/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Review: Two months later, is it still just as...
(Translated)Show original
L
lefigaro.fr
21/10/2020
Summary of the review
We tested the iPhone 12: a spectacular evolution of Apple's smartphone
(Translated)Show original

Third-party reviews

Based on ratings from across the web.
Reviews last updated: August 2026 · How we calculate this

What we like about Apple iPhone 12 (128GB)

  • Vibrant Super Retina XDR OLED display providing excellent contrast and true blacks
  • Blazing fast performance driven by the A14 Bionic chip, which remains powerful for modern tasks
  • Introduction of MagSafe for easy magnetic accessory attachment and wireless charging
  • Significantly improved durability with 'Ceramic Shield' front glass and IP68 water resistance
  • Excellent camera system, specifically for low-light photography and high-quality 4K Dolby Vision video
  • Lighter and thinner flat-edged design that is more comfortable to hold one-handed than previous models

What we don't like about Apple iPhone 12 (128GB)

  • Standard 60Hz refresh rate lacks the smoothness of newer 120Hz displays found in competitors
  • Base storage starts at a relatively low 64GB, which can be quickly filled by apps and media
  • Battery life is generally average and may struggle to last a full day under heavy 5G usage
  • Does not include a charging brick or headphones in the box, requiring additional purchase
  • No dedicated telephoto lens, limiting optical zoom capabilities compared to 'Pro' models
  • Flat edges can sometimes feel 'jabby' or sharp against the palm during extended use

Verdict

The Apple iPhone 12 remains a capable device in 2025, powered by the A14 Bionic chip and 4GB of RAM, which still handles daily tasks smoothly on newer software like iOS 26. This 128GB model features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2532x1170, protected by a durable Ceramic Shield front. Key strengths include its pioneering 5G connectivity, MagSafe support for magnetic accessories, and a reliable dual 12MP camera system capable of 4K Dolby Vision video recording. Its modern flat-edge aluminum design and IP68 water resistance help it maintain a premium feel. However, notable drawbacks in 2025 include a standard 60Hz refresh rate that feels less fluid than newer 120Hz displays, a lack of support for "Apple Intelligence" features, and significant battery degradation over time, often requiring multiple daily charges. Additionally, the aging Lightning port and the 4GB RAM ceiling can lead to occasional app reloads during heavy multitasking compared to modern flagships.

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