Iphone 12 Vs 11 Is The Newer Models Green Color Worth The Upgrade

The iPhone 12 introduced a fresh aesthetic with its flat-edge aluminum design and new color options, including a striking green finish that caught the attention of Apple fans. For owners of the iPhone 11, the question isn’t just about performance—it’s whether the visual appeal of the green iPhone 12 justifies the cost of an upgrade. While color might seem like a superficial factor, it plays a meaningful role in personal expression and long-term satisfaction with a device you use daily. But beyond aesthetics, what real improvements does the iPhone 12 offer? And is the combination of design, speed, and that vibrant green enough to warrant switching?

Design Evolution: From Curves to Flat Edges

The most immediate difference between the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 is the design language. The iPhone 11 features rounded edges and a glossy back, while the iPhone 12 returns to the flat-edge aluminum frame reminiscent of the iPhone 5 era. This shift not only changes how the phone feels in hand—offering a more precise, premium grip—but also signals a move toward a modernized, minimalist aesthetic.

The green color option on the iPhone 12 (initially launched as “Green” and later updated to “Blue” and “Purple”) stands out for its depth and subtlety. Unlike the brighter hues of past iPhones, this green has a sophisticated, almost forest-like tone that catches light differently throughout the day. In contrast, the iPhone 11’s green variant was more olive-toned and less prominent in marketing.

Tip: If you prioritize aesthetics and carry your phone frequently, a unique color like the iPhone 12’s green can enhance personal style and make your device stand out.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

Beneath the surface, the differences become more substantial. The iPhone 12 is powered by Apple’s A14 Bionic chip, the first smartphone processor built on a 5-nanometer process. This brings a 16% increase in CPU performance and a 20% boost in GPU speed over the iPhone 11’s A13 chip. While both phones handle everyday tasks smoothly, the A14 provides better longevity for future iOS updates and demanding apps like video editing or augmented reality.

The iPhone 12 also supports 5G connectivity, a feature absent in the iPhone 11. While 5G coverage is still expanding and battery drain remains a concern, having future-proof network capability adds tangible value—especially for users who travel frequently or live in urban areas with robust 5G infrastructure.

“Even if you don’t need 5G today, having it in your pocket means you’re ready when it becomes essential.” — David Liu, Tech Analyst at MobileInsight Group

Camera Upgrades: Subtle but Meaningful

On paper, both phones feature dual-camera systems: a 12MP wide and ultra-wide lens. However, the iPhone 12 introduces improvements in low-light performance thanks to Night mode on both rear cameras and the front-facing TrueDepth sensor. The larger aperture (ƒ/1.6 on the wide lens) allows 27% more light, resulting in sharper night photos and more natural HDR rendering in challenging lighting.

Video quality sees a significant leap too. The iPhone 12 supports Dolby Vision HDR recording up to 4K at 60fps—a first for any smartphone. This gives content creators professional-grade video capabilities straight out of the box. If you regularly record videos for social media, vlogging, or family memories, this feature alone may justify the upgrade.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Feature	iPhone 11	iPhone 12
Processor	A13 Bionic	A14 Bionic (5nm)
Display	Liquid Retina HD (LCD)	Super Retina XDR (OLED)
5G Support	No	Yes (Sub-6GHz)
Front Camera Night Mode	No	Yes
Video Recording	4K at 60fps (HDR)	4K at 60fps with Dolby Vision HDR
Design Material	Glass back, aluminum frame	Ceramic Shield front, glass back, flat aluminum frame
Water Resistance	IP68 (2m for 30 min)	IP68 (6m for 30 min)
Weight	194g	164g
Starting Price (Launch)	$699	$799

The Super Retina XDR OLED display on the iPhone 12 delivers deeper blacks, higher contrast, and improved brightness compared to the iPhone 11’s LCD screen. This makes a noticeable difference when watching movies, viewing photos, or using dark mode. The lighter weight, despite similar dimensions, also enhances one-handed usability.

Real-World Scenario: Should You Upgrade?

Consider Sarah, a freelance photographer who uses her iPhone for client previews and social media content. She’s had an iPhone 11 since 2019 and loves its reliability. But lately, she’s noticed her videos lack the dynamic range her peers achieve. After testing a friend’s iPhone 12, she was impressed by the Dolby Vision footage and the clarity of low-light portraits. Though she initially hesitated due to the price, the combination of better video, faster processing, and the understated elegance of the green model convinced her to upgrade. A year later, she reports smoother editing workflows and greater client satisfaction—all tied to incremental improvements that add up in practice.

This scenario illustrates that while no single upgrade may seem revolutionary, the cumulative effect across camera, display, and performance can significantly impact user experience—especially for creative professionals or tech-savvy users.

Checklist: Is the iPhone 12 Worth It for You?

• ✅ Do you value a more modern, flat-edge design?
• ✅ Are you interested in 5G for future connectivity?
• ✅ Do you record videos and want Dolby Vision support?
• ✅ Do you prefer OLED displays with deeper blacks and better contrast?
• ✅ Does a unique, stylish color like green matter in your daily carry?
• ✅ Are you planning to keep your phone for 3+ years?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the iPhone 12 likely offers meaningful benefits beyond just color. However, if your iPhone 11 still performs well and you mainly use your phone for calls, messaging, and light browsing, the upgrade may be more cosmetic than functional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the green color scratch more easily?

No, the green finish on the iPhone 12 uses the same durable glass and coating as other colors. Scratches depend more on usage and protection than color. Using a case minimizes wear regardless of shade.

Is the battery life worse on the iPhone 12 due to 5G?

Slightly. With 5G enabled, battery drains faster than LTE-only usage. However, Apple’s Smart Data mode automatically switches to LTE when 5G isn’t needed, helping preserve battery. In real-world use, the difference is minimal for most users.

Can I notice the display difference between iPhone 11 and 12?

Yes, especially in bright sunlight or when viewing HDR content. The OLED panel on the iPhone 12 offers superior contrast and color accuracy. Once you switch, returning to LCD often feels duller.

Final Verdict: Color as a Catalyst, Not the Reason

The green color of the iPhone 12 isn’t just a paint job—it’s part of a broader rebranding of Apple’s mid-tier lineup with a more refined identity. But while the color may catch your eye, the real value lies in the package of upgrades: faster processor, better display, improved cameras, and 5G readiness. For iPhone 11 owners, the decision shouldn’t hinge solely on color. Instead, view the green model as a symbol of the overall refinement Apple brought to the iPhone 12 series.

If you're due for a replacement, value aesthetics, and want a phone that will stay capable for years, the iPhone 12—especially in green—is a compelling step forward. But if your iPhone 11 still meets your needs, consider waiting until a more significant leap arrives. After all, true value isn’t just in looking good—it’s in lasting longer, performing better, and fitting seamlessly into your life.

🚀 Ready to decide? Evaluate your current phone’s performance, consider how much you use advanced features, and choose based on function—not just fashion. Share your upgrade story in the comments below.