What Is the Smallest iPhone?
Big is not always better when it comes to iPhones. Yes, a larger size can accommodate additional features and better performance, but that’s not always a good thing. As a user, you might be more comfortable with something pocket-sized. That’s why you can’t ignore ergonomics, which brings us to the question, “What is the smallest iPhone?”
Well, the current generation of iPhones in the market doesn’t fall into the “mini” or “small” category, so it might be impossible to find one. However, Apple did produce smaller versions of their iPhone series a few years ago—the iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 12 Mini, and the iPhone SE (3rd Gen). They have since been discontinued, but that hasn’t stopped Apple enthusiasts from actively going out of their way to find them.
This blog will compare the 3 iPhone models, provide their specifications, and help you determine which is indeed the smallest. You’ll also learn where to find these devices if you’re looking to buy one. Let’s get started.
iPhone 12 Mini
Announced in October 2020 and released on November 13 of the same year, the iPhone 12 Mini packs quite a punch. With a dimension of just 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.4 mm, it’s one of the smallest iPhones released by Apple (yes, even smaller than the 1st Gen iPhone SE). This also makes it light, at just 135 gm, and is easy to slip into a pocket without feeling cumbersome. Given all these aspects, the iPhone 12 Mini is a strong contender for the title of “which is the smallest iPhone.”
Despite its size, the 12 Mini boasts a 5.4” Super Retina XDR display with a 2340x1080 pixel resolution at 476 PPI. The display is sharp and offers crisp pictures, which improves the UI experience. It also means that watching movies or playing games is smoother, and images look better.
The A14 Bionic chip powers the iPhone Mini 12 and comes with a 6-core CPU. While it certainly lacks the performance of newer chipsets, it still holds its own in everyday use. It also has a 2,227 mAh Li-Ion battery, allowing for up to 15 hours of video playback. If you’re interested in owning a classic, pocket-size iPhone, the 12 Mini is a great choice.
iPhone 13 Mini
The iPhone 13 Mini is Apple’s second and last line of small-body smartphones. Arguably, it’s still one of the best small phones on the market. The 13 Mini is a powerhouse to reckon with when compared to its competitors. It’s the same size as the 12 Mini at 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.65 mm, and slightly thicker, which increases its weight to 141 gm.
The 13 Mini also has a 5.4” Super Retina XDR display and a 2340x1080 pixel resolution at 476 PPI, like the 12 Mini. However, the brightness is higher at 800 nits (typical) with a peak of 1,200 nits (HDR). This makes quite a difference in outdoor use.
It also gets an upgrade with the A15 Bionic chip for faster processing and overall smoother performance. Another improvement is the Li-Ion 2438 mAh battery, which offers up to 17 hours of video playback. Additionally, the choice of 128, 256, or 512 GB of storage ensures you have enough space for apps, photos, and videos. While it’s not the best iPhone out there, the 13 Mini is a must-buy if you want the smallest iPhone that still beats the 12 Mini.
iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
The third iPhone on our list, which is the smallest iPhone, is the iPhone SE (3rd Gen). Released on March 18, 2022, it retains the retro SE look, which is reminiscent of the iPhone 8 design introduced in 2017. In terms of size, it’s slightly bigger than the 12 and 13 Minis but thinner at 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm. This raises its overall weight to 144 gm—the heaviest of all three.
It has the smallest display, a 4.7” Retina HD LCD with a 1334x750 pixel resolution at 326 PPI. This makes it the smallest of all three in terms of screen size. When it comes to performance, the SE (3rd Gen) features the A15 Bionic chip, an upgrade from the 2nd Gen and the same processor used in the 13 Mini.
You get up to 15 hours of video playback, thanks to the Li-Ion 2018 mAh battery, which is fast-charge capable. For storage, you have 64, 128, and 256 GB options. Simply put, this iPhone makes sense if you’re an Apple enthusiast with a collection or you want a budget-friendly device that performs decently.
iPhone 12 Mini vs iPhone 13 Mini vs iPhone SE (3rd Gen): A Quick Comparison
Now that you’re familiar with the 3 iPhone models that meet the criteria for what is the smallest iPhone, let’s make a side-by-side comparison. This will make it easier to find out which one is the smallest and if it’s something you’d like.
| Feature | iPhone 13 mini | iPhone 12 mini | iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.65 mm | 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.4 mm | 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm |
| Display Size | 5.4” Super Retina XDR | 5.4” Super Retina XDR | 4.7” Retina HD |
| Weight | 141 gm | 135 gm | 144 gm |
| Chip | A15 Bionic chip | A14 Bionic chip | A15 Bionic chip |
| Camera | Dual 12MP (wide + ultrawide) | Dual 12MP (wide + ultrawide) | Single 12MP wide |
| Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth | 12MP TrueDepth | 7MP FaceTime HD |
| Battery | Up to 17 hours of video playback | Up to 15 hours of video playback | Up to 15 hours of video playback |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Security | Face ID | Face ID | Touch ID (front-mounted) |
Based on the data above, it’s fair to say that the 12 and 13 Mini are the smallest iPhones still available in Australia since 2020. The 12 Mini is slightly lighter, but the 13 Mini makes up for it with its raw processing power and better features overall.
Find Your Ideal iPhone Size at Mobile Guru
We hope this blog has provided a conclusive answer to the question, “What is the smallest iPhone?” If you want to purchase but are struggling to get your hands on one, Mobile Guru has you covered. We have a vast collection of refurbished iPhones that go all the way back to the 7 Series, and checking their specifications is easy.
All our devices undergo a strict 72-point test and are 100% functional before being sold. You also enjoy a 24-month warranty with every purchase, and an additional 1-year coverage if you opt for Guru+ Care. So if you’re looking to complete your small iPhone collection or want something pocket-sized, we have the right iPhone for your needs.
All you have to do is visit our website to explore all the options. If you have any enquiries, you can call us on 1300 362 017. Alternatively, you can also send us an email at hello@mobileguru.com.au for more details.
