iPhone 11 Pro vs iPhone 13 mini

iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$326.00

Versus A$1,029.00 new

See options
iPhone 13 mini
iPhone 13 mini
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$369.00

Versus A$1,049.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 11 Pro, released in September 2019, and the iPhone 13 Mini, launched in September 2021, represent different generations of Apple's smartphone lineup. While both devices operate on the familiar iOS platform, they cater to distinct user preferences primarily through their size, camera capabilities, and underlying processing power. The 11 Pro offers a more traditional flagship experience with a telephoto lens, whereas the 13 Mini focuses on a compact design with newer photographic advancements and connectivity.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release dates, software support, and physical construction.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 11 Pro was introduced in September 2019, making it two years older than the iPhone 13 Mini, which debuted in September 2021. This age difference directly impacts their remaining software support.
  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 13 Mini is expected to receive iOS updates for a longer period than the 11 Pro, typically extending its functional lifespan by at least one to two years due to its newer release.
  • Build Materials: Both devices feature robust construction. The iPhone 11 Pro uses a stainless steel frame and glass back, while the iPhone 13 Mini incorporates an aluminum frame and a Ceramic Shield front cover for enhanced durability. Both models are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance.

Release year

2019

2021

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Operating system

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key differentiator, with the newer iPhone 13 Mini benefiting from advancements in processing technology and battery efficiency.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 13 Mini features a more advanced internal processor, allowing it to handle demanding applications, complex games, and intensive multitasking with greater speed and efficiency. Users will experience quicker app loading times and smoother overall system responsiveness compared to the iPhone 11 Pro.
  • Battery Performance: While the iPhone 11 Pro has a physically larger battery capacity at 3046 mAh, the iPhone 13 Mini, with its 2406 mAh battery, often delivers comparable or even better real-world battery life for its size due to its more power-efficient processor and display.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone 11 Pro was initially available with 64GB, 256GB, or 512GB of internal storage. The iPhone 13 Mini starts with a base storage of 128GB, also offering 256GB and 512GB options, providing more storage at its entry level. Both devices come with 4GB of RAM, which supports smooth multitasking for typical smartphone usage.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

Both devices offer high-quality displays, but their physical dimensions and pixel density present different viewing experiences.

  • Display Technology and Size: Both the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone 13 Mini feature Super Retina XDR OLED displays, known for their deep blacks and vibrant colors. The iPhone 11 Pro has a larger 5.8-inch display, while the iPhone 13 Mini offers a more compact 5.4-inch screen.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The iPhone 11 Pro's 5.8-inch display has a resolution of 2436 x 1125 pixels at 458 pixels per inch (ppi). The iPhone 13 Mini's 5.4-inch display has a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels, resulting in a slightly higher pixel density of 476 ppi, offering a very sharp and clear image on its smaller screen.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: Both models achieve a typical maximum brightness of 800 nits and a peak brightness of 1200 nits for HDR content, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. Both displays operate at a standard 60Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth visual experience for everyday use.

Resolution

1125 x 2436

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both devices are capable, but they differ in their lens configurations and advanced computational photography features.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 11 Pro features a versatile triple 12-megapixel camera system, including wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses, offering 2x optical zoom in and 2x optical zoom out. The iPhone 13 Mini has a dual 12-megapixel camera system with wide and ultra-wide lenses, but it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens.
  • Photography Features: The iPhone 11 Pro introduced Night Mode and Deep Fusion for improved low-light and detailed photography. The iPhone 13 Mini builds on this with Sensor-shift optical image stabilization on its wide lens, Smart HDR 4, and Photographic Styles, which allow for more personalized image processing.
  • Video Capabilities: Both phones are capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The iPhone 13 Mini introduces Cinematic Mode, which provides a shallow depth of field effect and automatic focus transitions in videos, a feature not present on the 11 Pro. Both devices offer stereo speakers for media consumption.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, practical elements like connectivity, physical design, and security features contribute to the overall user experience.

  • Connectivity: A significant difference lies in cellular connectivity; the iPhone 13 Mini supports 5G networks, offering faster download and upload speeds where available, while the iPhone 11 Pro is limited to 4G LTE. Both devices support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • Ports and Sensors: Both smartphones utilize the Lightning port for charging and data transfer. For biometric security, both rely on Face ID for secure authentication. The iPhone 11 Pro also includes an Ultra Wideband (U1) chip for enhanced spatial awareness.
  • Physical Design: The iPhone 13 Mini is notably smaller and lighter, measuring 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.65 mm and weighing 141 grams, making it ideal for one-handed use. The iPhone 11 Pro is larger and heavier at 144 x 71.4 x 8.1 mm and 188 grams, offering a more substantial feel.

Weight

188 oz

140 oz

Screen size (in)

5.8

5,4

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

User feedback often highlights the iPhone 11 Pro's robust build and its comprehensive triple-camera system, particularly the telephoto lens, which was a significant draw for photography enthusiasts at its release. Some users found its size and weight to be a comfortable balance between screen real estate and portability for a 'Pro' model of its generation. Criticisms sometimes pointed to its lack of 5G and its eventual shorter software support window compared to newer models.

The iPhone 13 Mini, conversely, is frequently praised for its exceptionally compact form factor, making it a favorite among those who prefer a smaller device that doesn't compromise on modern performance. Its inclusion of 5G, a more efficient processor, and advanced camera features like Cinematic Mode and Sensor-shift OIS are often cited as strong advantages. However, some users note its smaller battery capacity, despite efficiency improvements, and the absence of a telephoto lens as potential drawbacks.

Users prioritizing a dedicated telephoto camera, a slightly larger screen, and a premium, weighty feel may find the iPhone 11 Pro aligns better with their needs. Conversely, those who value a highly portable device with the latest connectivity (5G), enhanced computational photography features, and a longer expected software support lifespan will likely lean towards the iPhone 13 Mini. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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