The iPhone 13 Pro Max and its predecessor, the iPhone 12 Pro Max, may appear strikingly similar on the surface, but several key upgrades make the newer model a much more powerful device. While both phones share the same overall design, the improvements under the hood in the iPhone 13 Pro Max make it one of the most notable iPhone upgrades to date.
The Two Biggest Upgrades in the iPhone 13 Pro Max
The most significant enhancements in the iPhone 13 Pro Max come down to two areas: battery life and the display. First, the battery is significantly larger, allowing the device to last up to two full days between charges—a huge leap from previous models. Second, the iPhone 13 Pro Max features a 120Hz ProMotion display, which allows for smoother scrolling and a more fluid experience overall, especially when navigating or playing games.
Pros and Cons of the iPhone 13 Pro Max
Pros:
- Exceptional battery life: Easily lasts two days with moderate use.
- Brilliant display: Bright with vibrant colors, offering excellent visibility even in direct sunlight.
- Fastest performance on the market: Thanks to the A15 Bionic chip, it’s one of the fastest smartphones available.
- Improved camera system: Features new sensors and enhanced low-light capabilities.
- Outstanding video quality: The ProRes video feature allows for professional-level recording.
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky: The phone’s large size can be a bit cumbersome.
- No fast charging: Lacks the ultra-fast charging that some competitors offer.
- Cinematic Mode: Although promising, it still needs refinement.
- No USB-C port: Sticking with the Lightning port instead of transitioning to USB-C.
Pros and Cons of the iPhone 12 Pro Max
Pros:
- Durable design: Boasts the toughest display on an iPhone to date, making it less prone to damage.
- Solid camera system: Still a highly capable camera, even by today’s standards.
- More storage: Doubles the base storage compared to its predecessor.
- 5G support: Fully equipped to handle future 5G networks with extensive band support.
- Best-in-class water resistance: Highly resistant to water damage, making it great for outdoor use.
Cons:
- 60Hz display: The refresh rate is noticeably slower compared to the newer 120Hz ProMotion display.
- Heavy and blocky design: Similar to the 13 Pro Max, the size and weight can be a drawback for some users.
- Expensive repair costs: Repairs for a cracked rear glass can cost up to $599.
- No power adapter: Like the 13 Pro Max, it does not include a power adapter in the box, and charging remains slower than many Android competitors.
iPhone 13 Pro Max vs. iPhone 12 Pro Max: A Quick Summary
- Design and Size: Both phones feature nearly identical designs, though the iPhone 13 Pro Max is slightly thicker and heavier. One visual difference is the smaller notch on the 13 Pro Max, which is about 20% reduced in size compared to the 12 Pro Max.
- Display: Both phones have a 6.7-inch screen, but the iPhone 13 Pro Max features a 120Hz ProMotion display, offering a smoother experience compared to the 60Hz display on the 12 Pro Max. The 13 Pro Max’s display is also brighter, making it easier to use in outdoor environments.
- Performance: Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is faster and more efficient than the A14 chip found in the iPhone 12 Pro Max.
- Battery Life: Battery life has been significantly improved in the iPhone 13 Pro Max, lasting about 2.5 hours longer than the 12 Pro Max on average.
- Camera: The iPhone 13 Pro Max comes with new and improved cameras, including a larger sensor and a faster aperture for better low-light performance. It also features a 3X optical zoom compared to the 2.5X zoom on the 12 Pro Max.
- Video Recording: The addition of ProRes video recording on the iPhone 13 Pro Max allows for higher-quality video production, making it a superior choice for content creators.
- New Color Option: The iPhone 13 Pro Max introduces a new Sierra Blue color, adding to its visual appeal.
Should You Upgrade to the iPhone 13 Pro Max?
If you’re looking for the absolute best in battery life, display quality, and camera performance, the iPhone 13 Pro Max is the clear winner. Its combination of a larger battery, 120Hz display, and camera enhancements make it a superior choice for those seeking the latest and greatest in smartphone technology.
However, if you’re trying to save money and can do without some of the latest features, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is still a fantastic device that offers excellent performance, durability, and future-proofing with 5G support. The decision ultimately comes down to whether you value the improvements in battery life, display, and camera enough to justify the extra cost of the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
In summary, both phones are excellent, but the iPhone 13 Pro Max is the one to get if you want the best that Apple currently offers
