OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
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REVIEWS
Scored using Smartphones Methodology v1.0
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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 Pro Max (256GB) Review | 197 Data compared

Avg. price:~£1,110RAM capacity:6 GBInternal storage:256 GBScreen size:6.7 inchesMain camera megapixels:12 MP & 12 MP & 12 MP

Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB) 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 Pro Max (256GB)
7.2/10

Overall score

Score
7.2/ 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 67% of models
Score components

90%

7.1

Technical score

10%

8.8

User score

â–²Better than 67% of smartphones
6.5

Value for money

Value for money
6.5/ 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 95% of models
Score components

70%

7.2

Overall score

30%

4.7

Price

â–¼Worse than 95%
7.1

Technical score

Technical score
7.1/ 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–² Better than 64% of models
Score components

25%

6.6

Performance & Hardware

18%

8.3

Camera

15%

7.3

Display

15%

5.1

Battery

10%

9.2

Software

10%

7.7

Connectivity

4%

4.4

Audio

3%

7.1

Design

â–²Better than 64%
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
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Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
Available versions:
256GB128GBCheck price
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Technical Specifications of smartphone Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB)

Technical score
Technical score
7.1/ 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–² Better than 64% of models
Score components:

25%

6.6

Performance & Hardware

18%

8.3

Camera

15%

7.3

Display

15%

5.1

Battery

10%

9.2

Software

10%

7.7

Connectivity

4%

4.4

Audio

3%

7.1

Design

7.1
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 Pro Max (256GB) has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 94.1% of smartphones.
10
Value for money
Value for money
6.5/ 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 95% of models
Score components:

70%

7.2

Overall score

30%

4.7

Price

6.5
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
6 GB
Market range: <4 GB – >16 GB
This smartphone has a RAM capacity of 6 GB which is smaller than the RAM capacity of 71.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 10.8% of smartphones.
Internal storage
256 GB
Market range: <64 GB – >512 GB
This smartphone has an internal storage capacity of 256 GB which is larger than the storage of 38.8% of smartphones and equal to that of 38.3% 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 14.2
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 & 12 MP
Market range: <10 – >100
This smartphone has a main camera resolution of 12 MP & 12 MP & 12 MP which is lower than that of 95% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.8% of smartphones.
Main camera aperture
f/1.6 & f/2.2 & f/2.4
This smartphone has a main camera aperture of f/1.6 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 which is wider than that of 93.5% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.4% of smartphones.
Main camera sensor area
34.7 mm²
Market range: <19.7 mm² – >71.4 mm²
This smartphone has a main camera sensor area of 34.7 mm² which is larger than the main camera sensor area of 51.3% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.1% of smartphones.
Main camera pixel size
1.7 µm
Market range: <0.64 µm – >1.22 µm
This smartphone has a main camera pixel size of 1.7 µm which is larger than in 98.1% of smartphones and equal to the size in 0.1% 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
6.7 inches
Market range: <6.3 inches – >6.82 inches
This smartphone has a screen size of 6.7 inches which is larger than the screens of 52.2% of smartphones and equal to those of 10.1% of smartphones.
Screen resolution
1284x 2778 px
This smartphone has a screen resolution of 1284x2778 px which is higher than that of 87.1% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.1% of smartphones.
Pixel density
458 ppi
Market range: <264 ppi – >460 ppi
This smartphone has a pixel density of 458 ppi which is higher than that of 87.2% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.8% 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
3,687 mAh
Market range: <4k mAh – >7k mAh
This smartphone has a battery capacity of 3,687 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 94.1% of smartphones and equal to those in 0.1% 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
?
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
160.8 mm
Market range: <156.2 mm – >171.56 mm
This smartphone has a height of 160.8 mm which is shorter than 77.1% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.4% of smartphones.
Width
78.1 mm
Market range: <73.1 mm – >81 mm
This smartphone has a width of 78.1 mm which is wider than 85.1% of smartphones and equal to that of 1.2% 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
228 g
Market range: <175 g – >256 g
This smartphone weighs 228 g which is heavier than 85.1% of smartphones and equal to the weight of 0.5% of smartphones.
Device volume
87,360 cm³
Market range: <80 cm³ – >190 cm³
This smartphone has a device volume of 87,360 cm³ which is smaller than 75.3% of smartphones and equal to that of 0.2% of smartphones.
Show more

Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB) vs the average smartphone

246810TotalPerformance & HardwareSoftwareCameraConnectivityDisplayBatteryAudioDesign
  • 2.5 x higher optical zoom
    This smartphone offers higher optical zoom than the average smartphone (2.5 x vs 0 x).
    2.5 x vs 0 x
  • 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.
  • 0.9 µm larger main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a larger main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (1.7 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average pixel size is 0.8 µm.
    1.7 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • Direct OS updates
    This smartphone supports direct OS updates, the average smartphone does not. 20.6% of smartphones support this feature.
  • 2.29x higher Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 single-core than the average smartphone (2,160 vs 942). The average smartphone scores 942 in single-core.
    2,160 vs 942
  • Has 3D facial recognition
    This smartphone features 3D facial recognition, the average smartphone does not. 4.3% of smartphones support 3D face unlock.
  • Higher screen resolution
    This smartphone has a higher screen resolution than the average smartphone (1284x2778 px vs 1080x2400 px). The average smartphone resolution is 1080x2400 px.
    1284x2778 px vs 1080x2400 px
  • 9.9% 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 Pro Max
    the average smartphone
    Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB) has a higher user score than the average smartphone (8.79 vs 8.000).
    8.79 vs 8
  • 83.9% more popular
    Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB) is more popular than the average smartphone (10 vs 5.4).
    10 vs 5.44
  • 2.29x higher Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 single-core than the average smartphone (2,160 vs 942). The average smartphone scores 942 in single-core.
    2,160 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
  • 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
  • 96.1% higher Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
    This smartphone scores better in Geekbench 6 multi-core than the average smartphone (4,966 vs 2,533). The average smartphone scores 2,533 in multi-core.
    4,966 vs 2,533
  • 2.36x higher 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited benchmark
    This smartphone scores higher in 3DMark Wild Life Unlimited than the average smartphone (9,036 vs 3,825). The average smartphone scores 3,825.
    9,036 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.
  • 2.5 x higher optical zoom
    This smartphone offers higher optical zoom than the average smartphone (2.5 x vs 0 x).
    2.5 x vs 0 x
  • Has optical image stabilization
    This smartphone has optical image stabilization (OIS), the average smartphone does not. 48.3% of smartphones feature OIS.
  • 0.9 µm larger main camera pixel size
    This smartphone has a larger main camera pixel size than the average smartphone (1.7 µm vs 0.8 µm). The average pixel size is 0.8 µm.
    1.7 µm vs 0.8 µm
  • Supports RAW photo capture
    This smartphone supports RAW photo capture, the average smartphone does not. 37.1% of smartphones allow RAW files.
  • 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/2.2 & 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/2.2 & f/2.4 vs f/1.8 & f/2.2 & f/2.4 & f/2.4
  • Has a multi-lens front camera
    This smartphone features a multi-lens front camera, the average smartphone does not. 18% of smartphones have multiple front lenses.
  • Supports laser autofocus
    This smartphone features laser autofocus, the average smartphone does not. 21.4% of smartphones include laser AF.
  • 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
  • Allows manual shutter speed
    This smartphone allows manual shutter speed control, the average smartphone does not. 29.8% of smartphones include this.
  • 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.
  • 9.2% higher DxOMark Mobile score
    This smartphone has a higher DxOMark Mobile score than the average smartphone (131 vs 120). The average smartphone scores 120.
    131 vs 120
  • 8.4% larger main camera sensor area
    This smartphone has a larger main camera sensor area than the average smartphone (34.7 mm² vs 32 mm²). The average main camera sensor area is 32 mm².
    34.7 mm² vs 32 mm²
  • 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.
  • Has an infrared sensor
    This smartphone includes an infrared sensor, the average smartphone does not. 33.3% of smartphones feature an IR blaster.
  • Higher screen resolution
    This smartphone has a higher screen resolution than the average smartphone (1284x2778 px vs 1080x2400 px). The average smartphone resolution is 1080x2400 px.
    1284x2778 px vs 1080x2400 px
  • 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
  • 15.9% higher pixel density
    This smartphone has a higher pixel density than the average smartphone (458 ppi vs 395 ppi). The average smartphone has a pixel density of 395 ppi.
    458 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 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
  • 25% higher screen brightness
    This smartphone has a higher screen brightness than the average smartphone (825 nits vs 660 nits). The average smartphone brightness is 660 nits.
    825 nits vs 660 nits
  • 0.03 inches inch larger screen size
    This smartphone has a larger screen size than the average smartphone (6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches). The average smartphone screen is 6.67 inches.
    6.7 inches vs 6.67 inches
  • 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
  • 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
  • 2.8 mm shorter
    This smartphone is shorter than the average smartphone (160.8 mm vs 163.6 mm). The average smartphone height is 163.6 mm.
    160.8 mm vs 163.6 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
  • 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 & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone has a 50 MP & 8 MP main camera.
    12 MP & 12 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • 26.3% smaller battery capacity
    This smartphone has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartphone (3687 mAh vs 5000 mAh). The average smartphone has a capacity of 5000 mAh.
    3,687 mAh vs 5,000 mAh
  • 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
  • No LDAC support
    This smartphone does not support LDAC, the average smartphone does. 60.3% of smartphones support LDAC.
  • No memory card slot
    This smartphone does not have a memory card slot, the average smartphone does. 53.5% of smartphones feature expandable storage.
  • No aptX HD
    This smartphone does not support aptX HD, the average smartphone does. 50.7% of smartphones support aptX HD.
  • 4.27x more expensive
    Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB) is more expensive than the average smartphone (£1,110 vs £260).
    £1,110 vs £260
  • 13.4% worse value for money
    Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB) has worse value for money than the average smartphone (6.47 vs 7.3).
    6.47 vs 7.34
  • 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
  • 2 GB less RAM
    This smartphone has less RAM than the average smartphone (6 GB vs 8 GB). The average smartphone has 8 GB of RAM.
    6 GB vs 8 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
  • 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 Pro Max
    the average smartphone
    Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB) 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.
  • 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 & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP). The average smartphone has a 50 MP & 8 MP main camera.
    12 MP & 12 MP & 12 MP vs 50 MP & 8 MP
  • 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
  • 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
  • 26.3% smaller battery capacity
    This smartphone has a smaller battery capacity than the average smartphone (3687 mAh vs 5000 mAh). The average smartphone has a capacity of 5000 mAh.
    3,687 mAh vs 5,000 mAh
  • No reverse wired charging
    This smartphone does not support reverse wired charging, the average smartphone does. 60.8% of smartphones support reverse wired charging.
  • No ultra power-saving mode
    This smartphone does not have an ultra power-saving mode, the average smartphone does. 93.8% of smartphones include ultra power-saving.
  • 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
  • 25% slower wireless charging speed
    This smartphone has a slower wireless charging speed than the average smartphone (15 W vs 20 W). The average smartphone wireless charging speed is 20 W.
    15 W vs 20 W
  • Lower GSMArena battery endurance score
    This smartphone has a lower GSMArena battery endurance score than the average smartphone (95 vs 99.5). The average smartphone scores 99.5.
    95 vs 99.5
  • 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.
  • 16.2% heavier
    This smartphone is heavier than the average smartphone (228 g vs 196.2 g). The average smartphone weighs 196.2 g.
    228 g vs 196.2 g
  • 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.
    November 2020
    2020 vs 2024
  • 2.1 mm wider
    This smartphone is wider than the average smartphone (78.1 mm vs 76 mm). The average smartphone has a width of 76 mm.
    78.1 mm vs 76 mm
  • 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

I
imore.com
17/03/2021
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max review: The biggest, best iPhone so far
N
neowin.net
21/11/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max review: Do not buy this phone
P
phonearena.com
05/06/2023
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max review: the best camera and display ...
T
tomsguide.com
21/09/2021
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max review
F
forbes.com
14/11/2020
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max Review: Size Matters
B
businessinsider.com
13/11/2020
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max Review
T
theverge.com
09/11/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max review: the best smartphone camera you can get
T
techzine.eu
27/02/2021
Summary of the review
Review: Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max after 3 months - Techzine Global
T
techradar.com
08/08/2022
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max review - TechRadar
M
macworld.com
11/11/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max review: Max display, max battery, max ...
P
pcmag.com
18/11/2020
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max Review - PCMag
E
expertreviews.co.uk
19/11/2020
Summary of the review
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max review: It's astounding
T
theguardian.com
26/11/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max review: Apple's longer lasting superphone
C
cnet.com
25/12/2020
Summary of the review
Review: iPhone 12 Pro Max deserves a spot in your pocket - CNET
I
iphoneitalia.com
26/11/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max Photo Test: A Portrait Champion!
(Translated)Show original
T
tomshw.it
03/12/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max: Who is it actually for? | Review
(Translated)Show original
M
macitynet.it
13/12/2020
Summary of the review
A month with iPhone 12 Pro Max: a big phone for big ambitions
(Translated)Show original
G
global.techradar.com
22/02/2022
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max Review - TechRadar
(Translated)Show original
M
macitynet.it
23/11/2020
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max Review: A Big, Bold Bet on the Future
(Translated)Show original
D
digitec.ch
05/03/2021
Summary of the review
iPhone 12 Pro Max: Top 4, Flop 3, and Much More
(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 Pro Max (256GB)

  • Excellent and professional-quality camera, especially in low light conditions, with advanced features like 2.5x optical zoom and sensor-shift stabilization.
  • Huge 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display which is bright, crisp, and ideal for media consumption.
  • Very long battery life, often lasting over a day with heavy use.
  • Top-of-the-line performance with the powerful A14 Bionic chip, ensuring fast and smooth operation.
  • Premium and durable design featuring Ceramic Shield front cover and flat stainless steel edges, which some users find easier to grip.
  • 5G connectivity for faster download and upload speeds (where available).
  • Ample storage options (128GB, 256GB, 512GB) and long-term software support from Apple.

What we don't like about Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB)

  • Enormous size and heavy weight make it difficult to use with one hand and a challenge to fit into some pockets.
  • Very expensive, representing a significant investment.
  • No charging adapter or headphones included in the box, requiring separate purchases.
  • Display is locked at a 60Hz refresh rate, which is lower than many competing Android flagships.
  • The camera bump causes the phone to wobble when placed on a flat surface.
  • Lacks a fingerprint scanner (only Face ID, which was inconvenient when wearing masks initially).
  • The glossy stainless steel frame is a fingerprint magnet and can be slippery.

Verdict

The Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (6GB RAM + 256GB storage variant) is a high-end smartphone defined by its powerful A14 Bionic chip, pro-grade camera system featuring a 12MP triple-lens setup with LiDAR scanner for enhanced augmented reality and low-light focus, and a large 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display. Its main pros include exceptional camera performance, robust Ceramic Shield front cover durability, and 5G connectivity. Key cons often noted are its high price point and the proprietary Lightning port connector instead of the more universal USB-C.

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