As we approach the end of 2024, the iPhone 12 Mini, released in October 2020, remains an excellent option for those looking for a compact yet powerful iPhone at a very affordable price. According to our UpTrade Price Tracker, Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 Mini models have dropped to just under $200, making it a great deal for a relatively new iPhone model. If you’re looking for an affordable, small-sized iPhone with modern features, the iPhone 12 Mini is highly recommended. For those who prefer a slightly larger screen, a Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 is another solid option, priced $20–$50 more than the Mini.
Full Specs of the iPhone 12 Mini
| Specification |
iPhone 12 Mini |
| Release Date |
October 2020 |
| Display |
5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED |
| Processor |
A14 Bionic chip |
| Operating System |
iOS 18 |
| Storage Options |
64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Rear Cameras |
12MP (wide), 12MP (ultra-wide) |
| Front Camera |
12MP (TrueDepth) |
| Battery Life |
Up to 15 hours video playback |
| 5G Support |
Yes |
| Water Resistance |
IP68 (up to 6 meters for 30 minutes) |
| Weight |
135 grams |
| Build |
Ceramic Shield front, glass back, aluminum frame |
| Face ID |
Yes |
Display
The 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display on the iPhone 12 Mini offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and sharp resolution, making it perfect for media consumption, gaming, and everyday use. Despite its smaller size, the iPhone 12 Mini’s display matches the quality of larger iPhone models, providing an immersive experience in a more compact form. For users who prefer a smaller device that still offers top-notch display quality, the iPhone 12 Mini is an excellent choice.
Chipset
The A14 Bionic chip powers the iPhone 12 Mini, providing fast and efficient performance even in 2024. Built on a 5nm architecture, the A14 was a significant leap forward in speed and efficiency when it launched, and it still holds up well for most users today. Whether you’re multitasking, gaming, or running demanding apps, the A14 ensures smooth performance. Additionally, with support for the latest iOS 18, the iPhone 12 Mini remains responsive and up-to-date.
Camera
The iPhone 12 Mini features a dual-camera system, consisting of a 12MP wide lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. The cameras support Night Mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 3, enabling excellent photo and video quality even in low-light conditions. The 12MP front-facing TrueDepth camera also supports Night Mode and 4K Dolby Vision HDR video recording, making it perfect for selfies and video calls.
Battery
While the iPhone 12 Mini has a smaller battery than its larger counterparts, it can still provide up to 15 hours of video playback, which is sufficient for most users. The phone also supports MagSafe wireless charging, 20W fast charging, and reverse wireless charging for accessories. The combination of the A14 Bionic chip and iOS optimizations ensures that the iPhone 12 Mini delivers reliable battery performance throughout the day.
Design and Build
The iPhone 12 Mini boasts a premium build, with a Ceramic Shield front, glass back, and aluminum frame. It’s also one of the lightest iPhones available, weighing just 135 grams, making it extremely easy to carry around. With its IP68 water and dust resistance rating, the iPhone 12 Mini can withstand submersion in up to 6 meters of water for 30 minutes, providing durability for everyday use.
Water Resistance
The iPhone 12 Mini is IP68 water and dust resistant, meaning it’s designed to survive submersion in water up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. This makes it suitable for various environments, from accidental spills to challenging outdoor conditions. Its compact size, combined with its water resistance, makes the iPhone 12 Mini a reliable choice for users on the go.
Support for the Latest iOS Version (iOS 18)
The iPhone 12 Mini continues to receive support for the latest iOS 18, ensuring that it benefits from new features, security updates, and performance enhancements. This makes it a reliable choice for those seeking a modern iPhone experience at an affordable price. The ongoing support for iOS 18 keeps the iPhone 12 Mini relevant and fully functional in 2024.
iPhone 12 or iPhone 12 Mini?
If you’re considering the iPhone 12 Mini, you might also want to compare it with the iPhone 12. A Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 typically costs $20–$50 more than the Mini, but it offers a larger 6.1-inch display and slightly better battery life. The iPhone 12 shares the same A14 Bionic chip and camera system as the Mini, making it a suitable option for users who prefer a larger screen. However, if portability and price are your top priorities, the iPhone 12 Mini remains an excellent value in 2024.
Conclusion
In 2024, the Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 Mini, priced at just under $200, offers exceptional value for those looking for a compact, high-performing iPhone. With its powerful A14 Bionic chip, excellent dual-camera system, support for iOS 18, and lightweight design, it’s an ideal choice for budget-conscious users. If you prefer a slightly larger screen, the Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 is also a great option, available for $20–$50 more. Both models offer great value, but your decision will depend on your preference for size and budget.
Where to Buy
When it comes to purchasing an iPhone 12 Mini, there are several options available:
- Certified Sellers: Reputable platforms like Amazon Renewed, Best Buy, and Apple’s Refurbished Store offer Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 Mini models, which come with warranties and have been tested for performance and reliability.
- Open Market: Platforms like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp also have iPhone 12 Mini listings. While prices may be lower, there is a higher risk of buying phones with hidden defects, poor battery life, or no warranty. Be cautious and verify the seller’s reputation before making a purchase.
Buy at UpTrade with Confidence
At UpTrade, we provide a safe and reliable way to find Certified Used and Refurbished iPhones like the iPhone 12 Mini. UpTrade does not sell the phones directly but partners with UpTrade Certified Sellers, such as Amazon, Apple, and Best Buy. These sellers have met rigorous criteria to ensure that all phones are professionally inspected, tested, and come with warranties, guaranteeing a high-quality device.
Here’s how UpTrade works:
- Price Tracking: UpTrade actively tracks prices across all Certified Sellers, monitoring fluctuations and displaying the best available prices in real-time. This ensures that you always find the best deal without having to search multiple platforms.
- Transparency: When you browse for an iPhone 12 Mini on UpTrade, you’ll see detailed information about the seller and the condition of the phone, helping you make an informed purchase decision.
- Best Price Assurance: By aggregating prices from multiple Certified Sellers, UpTrade ensures that you get the most competitive price on a Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 Mini.
UpTrade offers a convenient, secure, and transparent way to buy a refurbished phone with confidence, knowing that it has been inspected, tested, and priced right by the best sellers in the market.
