If you're thinking about iPhone 12 Mini vs iPhone SE, understanding their distinct features and capabilities is key to making the right choice.
This article delves into a detailed comparison, exploring the specifications, design, camera systems, battery life, software, and pricing of these two pocket-sized powerhouses. By examining the nuances of the iPhone SE vs iPhone 12 Mini, we aim to provide you with the information needed to determine which best aligns with your individual needs and preferences.
A quick glance at the core specifications reveals the fundamental differences between the iPhone 12 Mini vs iPhone SE. While both offer a smooth iOS experience, their underlying technology presents a clear distinction. Considering these basics is crucial when evaluating the iPhone SE vs iPhone 12 Mini.
Feature |
iPhone 12 Mini |
iPhone SE |
Display |
5.4-inch Super Retina XDR |
4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD |
Design |
Aluminium with Ceramic Shield front, glass back |
Aluminium with glass front and back |
Main Camera |
12MP Wide + 12MP Ultra Wide |
12MP Wide |
Front Camera |
12MP TrueDepth |
7MP FaceTime HD |
Processor |
A14 Bionic chip |
A15 Bionic chip |
Storage Options |
64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
Battery Life (Video playback) |
Up to 15 hours |
Up to 15 hours |
Connectivity |
5G, Gigabit LTE, Wi-Fi 6 |
5G, Gigabit LTE, Wi-Fi 6 |
Water Resistance |
IP68 (up to 6 metres for 30 mins) |
IP67 (up to 1 metre for 30 mins) |
Authentication |
Face ID |
Touch ID |
Operating System (Launch) |
iOS 14 |
iOS 15 |
When considering the iPhone SE vs iPhone 12 Mini in terms of design, personal preference for modern vs. classic aesthetics and biometric authentication plays a significant role.
Design Aspect |
iPhone 12 Mini |
iPhone SE |
Frame Material |
Aerospace-grade aluminium |
Aerospace-grade aluminium |
Front Material |
Ceramic Shield |
Glass |
Back Material |
Glass |
Glass |
Notch |
Yes (for Face ID) |
No (traditional bezels) |
Home Button |
No |
Yes (with integrated Touch ID) |
Dimensions (H x W x D) |
131.5 x 64.2 x 7.4 mm |
138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm |
Weight |
133 grams |
144 grams |
Water Resistance |
IP68 (up to 6 metres for 30 mins) |
IP67 (up to 1 metre for 30 mins) |
Colour Options |
Black, White, Red, Green, Blue, Purple |
Midnight, Starlight, Red |
For users prioritising photographic versatility, the iPhone 12 Mini vs iPhone SE comparison clearly favours the former. Below are the details-
Camera Feature |
iPhone 12 Mini |
iPhone SE |
Rear Main Camera |
12MP Wide, ƒ/1.6 aperture |
12MP Wide, ƒ/1.8 aperture |
Rear Ultra Wide Camera |
12MP Ultra Wide, ƒ/2.4 aperture |
No |
Telephoto Camera |
No |
No |
Front Camera |
12MP TrueDepth, ƒ/2.2 aperture |
7MP FaceTime HD, ƒ/2.2 aperture |
Optical Zoom |
2x optical zoom out |
Up to 5x digital zoom |
Digital Zoom |
Up to 5x digital zoom |
Photographic Styles, Deep Fusion, Smart HDR 4 |
Photographic Styles |
No |
Yes |
Night Mode |
Yes (Wide and Ultra Wide) |
Yes (Wide) |
Deep Fusion |
Yes (All cameras) |
Yes (Wide) |
Smart HDR |
Smart HDR 3 for photos |
Smart HDR 4 for photos |
Portrait Mode |
Yes (all cameras) |
Yes (rear and front) |
While the specifications list the same video playback time, real-world usage can vary. The larger physical size of the iPhone SE might allow for slightly better sustained battery performance for some users. When comparing the iPhone SE vs iPhone 12 Mini for performance, both are excellent, but the iPhone SE holds a marginal advantage with its newer chip.
Specification |
iPhone 12 Mini |
iPhone SE |
Chipset |
A14 Bionic chip (6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine) |
A15 Bionic chip (6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, 16-core Neural Engine) |
Storage Options |
64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
RAM (Estimated) |
4GB |
4GB |
Video Playback |
Up to 15 hours |
Up to 15 hours |
Video Streaming |
Up to 10 hours |
Up to 10 hours |
Audio Playback |
Up to 50 hours |
Up to 50 hours |
Fast Charging |
Up to 50% in 30 mins with 20W adapter (sold separately) |
Up to 50% in 30 mins with 20W adapter (sold separately) |
Wireless Charging |
Yes (MagSafe and Qi) |
Yes (Qi) |
When comparing the iPhone SE vs iPhone 12 Mini in terms of software, both provide a seamless iOS experience, but the iPhone 12 Mini offers a more modern authentication method and broader camera feature support. The iPhone 12 Mini vs iPhone SE 2022 both deliver a robust iOS experience, with key differences lying in biometric authentication and camera feature availability. Given below is the detailed information-
Key Aspect |
iPhone 12 Mini |
iPhone SE |
Biometric Authentication |
Face ID |
Touch ID |
5G Connectivity |
Yes |
Yes |
Wi-Fi |
Wi-Fi 6 |
Wi-Fi 6 |
Ultra Wideband (UWB) chip |
Yes |
No |
Spatial Audio Playback |
Yes |
Yes |
Accessibility Features |
Comprehensive suite of iOS features |
Comprehensive suite of iOS features |
Software Update Longevity |
Expected to receive updates for a similar duration |
Expected to receive updates for a similar duration |
Price is a significant factor for many when choosing between the iPhone 12 Mini vs iPhone SE. When making your decision between the two, carefully consider your budget and the features that justify the price difference for your individual needs.
Price |
iPhone 12 Mini (Discontinued by Apple, New stock may be limited) |
iPhone SE (Current Model) |
64GB |
₹59,900 |
₹32,699 - ₹47,600 |
128GB |
₹64,900 |
₹36,999 - ₹52,600 |
256GB |
₹74,900 |
₹44,999 - ₹62,600 |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on region and retailer. Please check official Apple websites or authorised resellers for the most up-to-date pricing.
Choosing between the iPhone 12 Mini and iPhone SE ultimately depends on your priorities.
You value a larger, more immersive near-bezel-less display.
You want the convenience and security of Face ID.
You need the versatility of a dual-camera system with an Ultra Wide lens.
You appreciate advanced front camera features like Night mode and Deep Fusion.
Budget is your primary concern.
You prefer the familiar feel and ease of use of the Touch ID Home button.
A smaller overall footprint (slightly shorter and narrower) is desired.
You are comfortable with a single rear camera and a less advanced front camera.
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The primary differences between the two phones lie in their design, display and camera system.
Generally, the iPhone 12 mini was priced higher due to its advanced display, dual cameras, and Face ID. However, its value now depends on availability and condition in the used market.
Battery life is comparable for video playback, but real-world usage can vary. Neither is significantly superior, often considered similar.
The iPhone 12 mini offers a larger, more vibrant Super Retina XDR (OLED) display with higher resolution and HDR support, providing a superior viewing experience compared to the iPhone SE's smaller Retina IPS LCD.
Yes, the iPhone 12 mini offers Face ID, a dual-camera system with an Ultra Wide lens, Night mode and Deep Fusion on all cameras, and a more modern, near-bezel-less design.
Upgrading depends on your priorities. If you value a larger, better display, more versatile cameras, and Face ID, the iPhone 12 Mini could be worth the upgrade. If budget and the familiarity of Touch ID are paramount, the iPhone SE remains a capable option.