Google Pixel 5 or iPhone 12? It’s a tough choice for those considering which one to buy or figure out which is better. Below we’ll tell you everything to know about the screen sizes, cameras, 5G, and more to help you make the right choice.
If you aren’t a committed fan of either iOS or Android, or are open to switching, we’ll break down all the differentiating factors between the two phones to help you decide which phone is right for you.
Pixel 5 vs iPhone 12: Design and Display
These phones are similar, but the overall approach couldn’t be more different. Google is only offering one affordable Pixel 5, while Apple went big and will let you choose between four different iPhone 12 models.
The iPhone 12 Pro is some $300 more than the Pixel 5, and the Pro Max is a huge 6.7 inches. For the sake of keeping things simple, and fair, we’ll mostly focus on the more mainstream models, the iPhone 12 and iPhone 12 mini.
- iPhone 12 mini: 5.4-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 1080 x 2340 pixels @ 476 pixels per inch
- Pixel 5: 6.0-inch OLED 90Hz, 1080 x 2340 pixels @ 432 pixels per inch
- iPhone 12: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 1170 x 2532 resolution @ 460 pixels per inch
Overall, the iPhone 12 and Pixel 5 are nearly identical in size, but Apple’s iPhone is a bit on the heavier side. This year Apple went back to the retro squared design, which a lot of people really love. They’re solid, durable, premium smartphones that look and feel great.
One area where Google’s Pixel 5 definitely beats the iPhone 12, at least on paper, is the screen’s new 90Hz refresh rate. Apple’s phones all have the same 60Hz display technology they’ve used for years.
90Hz means the screen refreshes 90 times a second—50 per cent more than the iPhone. It makes things look, feel, and seem faster, smoother, and more responsive.
Design-wise these phones are quite similar too. They both have a large bezel-free screen, they both have a large square on the back with dual cameras, and they both have front-facing cameras inside the screen.
Here, the difference is Apple has a large notch in the display while Google opted for the hole-punch style to house its camera. Neither option is better, but Google’s is definitely more subtle.
Google Pixel 5 vs iPhone 12: Camera
Everyone talks about the iPhone’s new triple-camera system, but that’s only on the bigger, more expensive models. Both the iPhone 12 and 12 mini only have dual-camera systems, just like the dual-camera array on the Pixel 5.
- iPhone 12 mini: 12MP, f/1.6 main camera, 12MP ultrawide lens, and 12MP front
- Pixel 5: 12.2MP, f/1.7 main camera, 16MP ultrawide, and 8MP front
- iPhone 12: 12MP, f/1.6 main camera, 12MP ultrawide lens, 12MP front
A few years ago Google blew everyone away with computational photography and showed that one camera could take great photos. However, now Apple’s software and hardware have both caught up, while Google hasn’t updated the cameras and instead relies on software.
From what we’ve seen the iPhone 12 performs better in low light situations, and records beautiful and stable videos, while the Pixel 5 produces better portrait or landscape photos and bokeh effects. Make no mistake about it, these are still some of the best cameras on any phone, and you’ll be happy no matter which one you choose.
Pixel 5 vs iPhone 12: Performance and Storage
It’s hard to compare two devices running completely different hardware and software. iPhones use less RAM than Android phones and don’t have crazy 8-core processors, yet they’re still super-fast, smooth, and capable devices.
For example, the Pixel 5 actually has a slower processor than last year’s Pixel 4, and it scores lower on benchmark tests than the older iPhone 11, let alone the new iPhone 12. However, it still has more than enough power to do anything anyone needs, and Google claims they did this as a cost-saving choice, and to add 5G speeds.
The iPhone is the more powerful device of the two. We don’t even need to compare the affordable Snapdragon 765 G processor to Apple’s A14 Bionic chipset, as it doesn’t really matter. They’re both fast, they both have 5G, but the iPhone 12 is the winner and a lot more future-proof.
However, one thing you’ll want to consider when looking at the price of these phones is how much storage they have. Google’s Pixel 5 only comes in one affordable storage variation, while Apple offers three at varying prices.
- iPhone 12 mini: 64GB, 128GB or 256GB
- Pixel 5: 128GB (only option)
- iPhone 12: 64GB, 128GB or 256GB
In our opinion, 64GB isn’t enough for most people these days, which means you’ll have to spend even more money for the 128GB model in the iPhone 12 or 12 mini, but more on pricing in a moment.
Google Pixel 5 vs iPhone 12: Battery Life and Charging
Considering both the iPhone 12 and Pixel 5 are almost the same size, battery life will be important. One has a substantially larger battery cell, although that doesn’t tell the whole story.
- iPhone 12 mini: 2227mAh (15w wireless charging with MagSafe, 7.5w without)
- Pixel 5: 4080mAh battery (12w wireless charging, 18w fast wired charging)
- iPhone 12: 2815mAh (15w wireless charging with MagSafe, 7.5w without)
As you can see the Pixel 5 has a massive battery, the biggest of any Pixel. However, from what we’ve seen online and from our own testing the Pixel 5 beats the iPhone 12 in battery life, but not by a wide margin. For what it’s worth, Google’s Pixel charges faster, too.
Google Pixel 5 vs iPhone 12: Price
Honestly, your choice will likely come down to your preferred screen size or how much you can afford, which is why this last section is important. Google’s Pixel 5 has a recycled aluminum frame, an affordable 5G processor, only two cameras instead of three, and several other small changes to keep it as affordable as possible. These are choices Google made on purpose.
- iPhone 12 mini: $699, $749, $849 (for 64/128/256GB)
- Pixel 5: $699 (for 128GB)
- iPhone 12: $799, $849, $949 (for 64/128/256GB)
As you can see, the bigger Pixel 5 with double the storage is the same price as Apple’s most affordable iPhone 12 mini. To get a comparable iPhone 12 with 128GB of storage you’re looking at $849 vs $699 for Google’s offering.
Then again, Apple’s iPhone 12 has a more durable design, and a few upgrades the Pixel can’t match. It’s also an Apple device, so you can expect to pay a premium.
Pixel 5 vs iPhone 12: Take Your Pick
So which phone should you choose? Basically, it’s all about your personal preference and how much you can afford.
Some people only buy Apple, while others choose what they can afford or the size they want. That’s why Google built the Pixel 5 to hit a $699 price point, and that’s exactly why Apple is offering four different iPhone 12 models this year, including a massive 6.7-inch iPhone 12 Pro Max that’s as good as it gets.
At the end of the day, if you have an older iPhone or Android, you’ll absolutely love either of these devices.