It has been about four months since Apple presented its latest iPhones, including the small and super-fast iPhone 12 mini. You can read in this second impression how that device works after a few months of use.
Second impression of the iPhone 12 mini
In November we published our review of the iPhone 12 mini and in the conclusion we mentioned, among other things, that this is the phone that many Apple enthusiasts had been waiting for for years. The price has dropped slightly in recent months, which makes the device a bit more attractive, but sales are, according to some rumors, quite disappointing. In this second impression, you will therefore read all our experiences that we have gained in recent months.
Design: small and fine, but not that chic
After using the iPhone 12 mini for a while I’m still amazed about the cuteness factor. The device is small, narrow, thin and that is something I have not seen or used for years. That in combination with the hardware and features (more on that later) simply makes it a unique device.
The straight edges of the case provide extra grip and are less irritating than with the larger iPhone 12, which is therefore better to use with two hands. These have a matte finish, which ensures a sleek appearance. This does not apply to the shiny back, which is made of glass. Fingerprints already appear when you look at them, although this is less true for the matte camera module.
OLED screen is beautiful, edges and notch are too big
We are still very pleased with the screen of the iPhone 12 mini. After all, it is an OLED display, which ensures that colors splash off the screen and black is displayed really well. As far as we are concerned, that type of screen is one sparrowt in every device, but especially in this price range.
Together with the high resolution of 2340 by 1080 pixels, it ensures that photos, movies, websites, apps and games look sharp. Where the iPhone 12 mini scores less well, and many high-end Android phones, for example, much better, is the refresh rate of the screen.
Apple (unfortunately) opts for 60Hz screens for the iPhone 12 series, which means that they refresh 60 times per second. If you look at Android country, a device with a 60Hz screen can only be found in the budget segment. Smartphones that cost half the iPhone 12 mini already have 90Hz or even 120Hz screens. This makes these phones feel faster and smoother.
Also a pity are the screen edges and notch. Of course that is (also) a matter of taste, but in 2020 and 2021 we find that points in which Android manufacturers are also leading the way. Whereas years ago Apple was the market leader in the introduction of new features, design and functions, that is really not always the case now.
Fine, but limited cameras
The iPhone 12 mini has a total of three cameras, each with a resolution of 12 megapixels. On the front you will find the selfie camera, with which you can shoot or FaceTime great selfies. A wide angle and ultra wide angle lens are placed on the back. This usually takes a great snapshot, as we are used to from Apple.
Colors look good and so does the contrast and resolution. However, the possibilities are not as extensive as with the iPhone 12 Pros or with many Android smartphones. If the camera is not the focal point of a smartphone for you, the 12 mini is fine.
Let’s talk about the ‘camera island’, in which the two lenses are incorporated. These protrude a few millimeters from the device, which can cause them to be damaged a little more quickly. A case quickly solves this, because the sensors then fall ‘into’ the case.
Finger-licking performance
We can be brief about the performance of the iPhone 12: they are simply excellent. From switching between apps or playing a heavy game: the device does not turn its hand around. Such a powerful smartphone as this one in such a form factor has not appeared on the market for years. Apple scores extra plus points that they have also used the A14 chip in the normal iPhone 12s and not only in the Pro models.
Battery life is sufficient
In our review we labeled the battery life as good, but no more than that. Our opinion on this has remained unchanged in recent months. Still, you don’t have to worry, because the iPhone 12 mini will last a day with normal use.
If you use it fairly intensively, you shouldn’t be surprised that you have to top up at the end of the afternoon or the beginning of the evening. This is possible via the Lightning port, but also wirelessly. Keep in mind that Apple does not include a charger.
If you don’t have it from a previous iPhone yet, then you still have to dig into your pouch. By the way, a USB cable is included and Apple does this to save the environment and (transport) costs.
MagSafe is great, but development is needed
Wireless charging can be done via MagSafe, among other things, which is a great option. For example, you can easily click a ‘wireless’ charger on the back, which works via magnets. Keep in mind that charging via that route is slower than with a cable.
MagSafe must of course also become a source of income for Apple and other manufacturers that will release accessories for this. In addition to chargers, you can also think of car or card holders. You click it on your device, or again on a special MagSafe case, and you can insert a few cards.
5G on board is nice
Maybe you are not quite looking at 5G yet, and that makes sense. Before we can really enjoy the new mobile (data) network it will already be 2022. That has to do with the required frequency that will be auctioned at that time. However, with the iPhone 12 mini you are already ready for the future, especially if you use your device for years.
Want to know more about 5G? Check out the video below. In it, we take a closer look at five questions and answers about upcoming network technology.
Conclusion iPhone 12 mini second impression
The iPhone 12 mini already made a splash last year for its compact body and great performance, and it still is. We do think it’s a shame that the storage with 64GB is a bit limited. On the other hand, the price has dropped slightly in recent months, making the phone more attractive.
Still don’t expect miracles from the battery life, but thanks to the excellent cameras, good performance, 5G support and years of software (updates), you can easily go for years with the iPhone 12 mini. If you’re looking for a compact phone, we definitely recommend the mini.
Price and deals iPhone 12 mini
The iPhone 12 mini has a suggested retail price of 809 euros, but you can now buy a separate iPhone 12 mini for around 729 euros. Of course you can also combine the iPhone 12 mini with a subscription. You can choose from the colors mint green, black, red, dark blue and white. Check out the best deals via the price comparator below.