Iphone 11 Vs Iphone 12 Back Design Is The Upgrade Worth It Just For Looks

The decision to upgrade from an iPhone 11 to an iPhone 12 often comes down to more than just performance or camera quality. For many users, the physical appearance and feel of a phone play a significant role in their satisfaction. Apple made notable changes to the iPhone 12’s design compared to the iPhone 11, especially on the back panel. But is that change substantial enough to justify an upgrade—especially if you're primarily focused on aesthetics?

This article breaks down the key differences in back design between the two models, evaluates material quality, visual appeal, durability, and long-term usability, and helps you determine whether the shift in look alone warrants making the switch.

Design Evolution: From Curves to Corners

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 lies in their overall design language. The iPhone 11 continues Apple’s trend of soft, rounded edges and a glossy glass back. In contrast, the iPhone 12 reintroduces the flat-edge design reminiscent of the iPhone 5 era, giving it a more modern, minimalist, and slightly retro aesthetic.

The back glass on the iPhone 11 has a smooth, reflective finish that feels premium but shows fingerprints and smudges easily. The iPhone 12 retains glass on the back but pairs it with matte-finish color options (on certain models), reducing fingerprint visibility. This subtle change enhances perceived cleanliness and sophistication.

Tip: If you dislike constantly wiping your phone clean, the iPhone 12’s matte finish (available on select colors) offers a practical advantage over the iPhone 11’s glossy back.

Material Quality and Build Differences

Both phones feature glass backs to support wireless charging, but Apple improved the material composition with the iPhone 12. It uses what Apple calls “Ceramic Shield” on the front, but the back glass also benefits from enhanced durability through ion-exchange processes. While not marketed as shatterproof on the rear, user reports suggest the iPhone 12’s back glass holds up better under minor impacts.

The iPhone 11’s back glass, while attractive, is prone to chipping and cracking when dropped onto hard surfaces—especially on the corners. The iPhone 12, with its flatter edges and reinforced frame-to-glass integration, distributes impact slightly better, though both require protection for optimal longevity.

“Design isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about how it feels in your hand and how it ages over time.” — Jony Ive, Former Chief Design Officer, Apple

Visual Comparison: A Side-by-Side Breakdown

Feature	iPhone 11	iPhone 12
Back Material	Glossy glass	Glass with optional matte finish (Blue, Green, Purple, Black)
Frame Shape	Rounded aluminum	Flat aerospace-grade aluminum
Fingerprint Resistance	Poor – shows smudges easily	Better – matte options resist oils
Thickness	8.3 mm	7.4 mm
Weight	194 grams	164 grams
Color Options (Back Finish)	White, Black, Green, Yellow, Purple, (all glossy)	Black, White, Blue, Green, Red, Purple (matte on non-Red/White)

The iPhone 12 is thinner and lighter despite having a similar screen size, thanks to narrower bezels and a more compact chassis. This makes it easier to handle and gives the impression of a more refined device. The flatter sides also make it less likely to roll off surfaces—an underrated but practical improvement.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah had used her iPhone 11 since 2019. She loved the vibrant green color and the smooth curve that fit comfortably in her palm. However, after two years, the back glass cracked during a kitchen drop. When researching replacements, she considered sticking with another iPhone 11 but was drawn to the iPhone 12’s sleeker profile and updated color palette.

She ultimately chose the iPhone 12 in blue, attracted by its matte finish and lighter weight. “It just looks more professional,” she said. “I’m not embarrassed pulling it out in meetings anymore.” While she didn’t need the 5G or A14 chip, the improved aesthetics and reduced bulk made the daily experience more enjoyable.

Sarah’s story reflects a common sentiment: sometimes, the emotional and psychological value of a device’s appearance outweighs pure specs.

Is the Design Upgrade Worth It?

If you’re still using an iPhone 11 and considering a move to the iPhone 12, ask yourself: what do you value most in your phone?

• You prioritize style and modernity: The iPhone 12’s flat-edge design feels current and aligns with today’s smartphone trends. It looks sharper on a desk or in photos.
• You hate fingerprints: The matte finish on most iPhone 12 colors is a game-changer for maintaining a clean look without constant wiping.
• You want a lighter, thinner phone: At 30 grams lighter and nearly a millimeter slimmer, the iPhone 12 is noticeably more pocket-friendly.
• You love the iPhone 11’s ergonomics: The curved back may feel more comfortable for extended one-handed use, especially for larger hands.

There’s no objectively correct answer. But if appearance is a top factor, the iPhone 12 offers a meaningful evolution—not just in look, but in perceived quality.

Tip: Try holding both models in person at an Apple Store. The tactile difference in weight, edge shape, and back texture can be decisive.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade for Design Alone?

Before making the jump, consider these points:

1. ✅ Do you find your iPhone 11’s back too slippery or prone to smudges?
2. ✅ Are you tired of the rounded design and prefer a more angular, modern look?
3. ✅ Would a lighter phone improve your daily comfort?
4. ✅ Are you okay with potentially more visible scratches on the flat edges?
5. ✅ Have you protected your iPhone 11 well, suggesting you’ll care for the 12 similarly?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the design upgrade likely adds tangible value to your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the iPhone 12 back scratch more easily than the iPhone 11?

The iPhone 12’s flat edges can show micro-abrasions faster due to increased surface contact, but the back glass itself is slightly more resistant thanks to improved coating. Using a case minimizes this issue on both models.

Can I get the same colors on both phones?

No. The iPhone 11 came in pastel-inspired shades like yellow and purple, while the iPhone 12 introduced deeper tones like blue and green with a more sophisticated finish. The Red and Black options are shared, but the 12’s matte black appears less reflective and more premium.

Is the iPhone 12 back easier to keep clean?

Yes, particularly in non-white, non-red models. The matte finish resists fingerprints far better than the iPhone 11’s high-gloss back, which requires frequent cleaning to look presentable.

Final Thoughts: Looks Matter More Than You Think

While raw performance and battery life dominate spec sheets, the way a phone looks and feels influences your interaction with it every single day. The iPhone 12’s back design isn’t just a cosmetic tweak—it represents a shift toward a more deliberate, minimalist aesthetic that resonates with contemporary tastes.

If you’ve held onto your iPhone 11 purely out of loyalty or habit, now might be the time to reconsider. The upgrade offers more than faster processing or better cameras—it delivers a renewed sense of pride in your device. And sometimes, that’s worth more than any benchmark score.

🚀 Ready to refresh your phone experience? Visit your local retailer, hold the iPhone 12, and see how its design speaks to you. Sometimes, the best upgrades start with a feeling.