Key Differences Between the New iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max

April. 22,2025

This article compares the key differences between the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max, focusing on display, camera, battery life, and pricing. It helps prospective buyers understand which model offers better features and value for their needs, aiding informed purchasing decisions on the latest Apple devices.

Key Differences Between the New iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max

Key Differences Between the New iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max

The highly anticipated Apple event on October 13 revealed four new iPhone models: iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max. All models support 5G and are powered by the efficient A14 Bionic chip. The Pro models come with cutting-edge features making them top-tier smartphones. If you’re considering a Pro version, you might wonder how the iPhone 12 Pro differs from the Pro Max and if the extra cost is justified.

Let’s explore the main distinctions between the iPhone 12 Pro 5G and iPhone 12 Pro Max 5G.

Display Size

The primary difference is display size. The iPhone 12 Pro sports a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with resolution of 2532 x 1170, while the Pro Max boasts a larger 6.7-inch screen with 2778 x 1284 resolution. The Pro Max has the largest display on any iPhone and the highest resolution to date.

Camera Capabilities

Both devices feature three-lens camera systems that look similar. However, the main sensor in the Pro Max is larger, providing better low-light performance — 87% compared to 27% on the Pro. The telephoto lenses differ as well; the Pro offers an f/2.0 aperture, while the Pro Max has an f/2.2, allowing for a 1x higher optical zoom range.

Battery Life

Apple doesn’t specify battery sizes but suggests different capacities. The iPhone 12 Pro provides up to 65 hours of audio playback and 17 hours of video, whereas the Pro Max offers 80 hours and 20 hours respectively. The larger display of the Pro Max indicates a bigger battery.

Pricing

The iPhone 12 Pro Max starts at $1,099, while the iPhone 12 Pro begins at $999. Pre-orders for the Pro start on October 16, with the Pro Max set to launch on November 13, 2020.