How To Choose Between The 4 New iPhone 12 Models

It all comes down to the camera and size.

On Oct. 13, Apple announced four new iPhones. If you're in the market for a new phone, here's a look at the noteworthy features in the iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max.

The entire lineup boasts the broadest 5G coverage in the world. That means faster downloads and uploads, better streaming quality, FaceTime in HD, and faster connection in crowded spaces, like train stations and stadiums.

The iPhone 12 models also have a built-in system of magnets in the back of the phone that connect to wireless chargers for more efficient charging. This also allows accessories, like cases or wallets, to snap onto the back of the phone easily.

The A14 Bionic, featured in all four models, is the fastest chip in a smartphone. This improves performance (Apple says you'll see 50% faster graphics), energy efficiency, and battery life.

The iPhone 12 models have an all-new Ceramic Shield front cover, which is more durable than glass. Apple says this new material makes the phone four times more likely to survive a drop.

At $799 and 6.1 inches, the 12 comes in blue, green, black, white, and red aluminum finishes. The phone's dual-camera system features an Ultra Wide camera and a new Wide camera, which brings more light to photos and videos. Each camera now has Night mode, too.

The iPhone mini is the same phone as the iPhone 12, except for size and price. At $699 and 5.4 inches, Apple says the mini is the smallest, thinnest, and lightest 5G smartphone in the world. It'll fit right in your palm.

At 6.1 inches, the 12 Pro ($999) is a photographer and videographer's dream, along with the Pro Max. Apple says the Pro models have the highest quality video in a smartphone. They come in graphite, silver, gold, and pacific blue stainless steel finishes.

The Pro & Pro Max camera system includes an Ultra Wide, a Telephoto for better zoom, and new Wide for low-light performance. The LiDAR scanner adds faster autofocus in low light and instant AR (augmented reality). They're the first to record in Dolby Vision HDR.

At 6.7 inches, the Pro Max ($1,099) has the largest display and highest resolution on an iPhone. It has a bigger sensor for the Wide camera, leading to 87% improvement in low-light conditions. The phone also boasts a 5x optical zoom range versus the Pro's 4x.

All in all, the choice comes down to your camera quality needs and size preferences. The iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 Pro are available for pre-order now, and you can pre-order the iPhone mini and iPhone 12 Pro Max on Nov. 6.