iPhone 12 Pro Max OR ...?

need403bhelp · Post by **need403bhelp** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 12:38 pm

I have an iPhone 6 Plus 128GB currently that I bought in 2014 at release. Mostly an Apple household so would prefer another iPhone to an Android phone, although I realize the latter generally have newer tech for a lower price.

The home button no longer works (I use the on-screen AssistiveTouch for past year), I am out of the "support cycle" for iOS updates (although still getting some security updates), and DW isn't happy that my phone is so slow (we mainly use my phone when we go out, and DW likes to leave her phone at home).

I do use the camera fairly regularly for my work, so that is important to me. Additionally, longer battery life is always good, as the batteries invariably start to work less well over time.

Further, it looks the new iPhone 12 Pro Max is only ~3 mm or so taller than the iPhone 6 Plus:

iPhone 6 Plus dimensions from https://support.apple.com/kb/sp706?locale=en_US :

Weight and Dimensions2
Height: 6.22 inches (158.1 mm)
Width: 3.06 inches (77.8 mm)
Depth:0.28 inch (7.1 mm)
Weight: 6.07 ounces (172 grams)

iPhone 12 Pro Max dimensions from https://www.apple.com/iphone-12-pro/specs/ :

Height: 6.33 inches (160.8 mm)
Width: 3.07 inches (78.1 mm)
Depth: 0.29 inch (7.4 mm)
Weight: 8.03 ounces (228 grams)

I'm pretty confident that with 5G support I'd probably keep the iPhone 12 Pro Max for another 5+ years. I won't get any discounts (Verizon offering $23 as trade-in for my iPhone 6 Plus

) so looks like it would be:

iPhone 12 Pro Max:
256 GB, $1199 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,398 = $279.80/yr over 5 yrs
512 GB, $1399 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,598 = $319.60/yr over 5 yrs

I did look at Apple Certified Refurbished store also to consider other options https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/iphone . They have a refurbished iPhone X 256 GB for $679.00 https://www.apple.com/shop/product/FQA8 ... d05c8bdbc3 . Release date 9/2017 so I'm assuming I'd be able to use for 3? or so years.

iPhone X Certified Refurbished:
256 GB, $679 + $199 AppleCare+ = $878 = $292.67/yr over 3? yrs

For iPhone XS Max Certified Refurbished https://www.apple.com/shop/product/FT5D ... d05c8bdbc3 . Release date 9/2018 so assuming would be able to use for 4? or so years.

iPhone XS Max Certified Refurbished:
256 GB, $849 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,048 = $262.00/yr over 4? yrs
512 GB, $1019 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,218 = $304.50/yr over 4? yrs

Looking at above per year calculations, it seems that iPhone 12 Pro Max 256 GB would probably be way to go. Any thoughts or other ideas?

I realize USED phones are available through swappa.com and such, but I'd be hesitant to have a used phone without an Apple (or similar) warranty.

Thanks!

Normchad · Post by **Normchad** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 12:50 pm

I too had the iPhone6 for a long time. I finally upgraded to an XR a few years ago. It is simply terrific.i wouldn’t hesitate to buy it again. I’d also consider the current iPhone SE.

So if you’d like to get a big upgrade but save some money, that’s where I’d look.

If the money isn’t that important, I’d get one if the 12s. You keep them a long time, and use them a lot, so it’s probably worth it to you.

climber2020 · Post by **climber2020** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:01 pm

In my opinion, the best deal right now is the year old iPhone 11 for $599 (more for larger storage). The camera will be significantly better than what you're using now.

You don't get 5G or an OLED screen, but for 600 bucks it's a great deal.

Lee_WSP · Post by **Lee_WSP** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:29 pm

If you’re going to utilize the larger sensor and third camera and the lidar, you aren’t going to find those features in a cheaper iphone.

anoop · Post by **anoop** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:40 pm

I think the X/XS phones will be supported a lot longer than 4 years.

If you look at the compatibility list for iOS 13 and iOS 14, they didn't drop any of the old phones -- both work on the 6s/2016 SE.
https://osxdaily.com/2019/06/04/ios-13- ... hone-ipad/
https://osxdaily.com/2020/06/29/ios-14- ... lity-list/

Your 6 Plus has a 5.5" screen, while even the iPhone Mini now will have a 5.4" screen. The Pro Max has a 6.7" screen. If you want to save some money, you could go with the iPhone 12 with a 6.1" screen.

need403bhelp · Post by **need403bhelp** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:59 pm

anoop wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:40 pm I think the X/XS phones will be supported a lot longer than 4 years.

If you look at the compatibility list for iOS 13 and iOS 14, they didn't drop any of the old phones -- both work on the 6s/2016 SE.
https://osxdaily.com/2019/06/04/ios-13- ... hone-ipad/
https://osxdaily.com/2020/06/29/ios-14- ... lity-list/

Thanks, but I am quite skeptical about this. I purchased my iPhone 6 Plus brand new fall of 2014 @ release and iOS support ended for my 6 Plus on 9/19/2019 with iOS 13 which is slightly less than 5 years. So I don't know why the X would get longer support and would expect it to have approximately same time frame for support, if anything (release date 2017 so iOS support ending in 2022?).

anoop wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:40 pm Your 6 Plus has a 5.5" screen, while even the iPhone Mini now will have a 5.4" screen. The Pro Max has a 6.7" screen. If you want to save some money, you could go with the iPhone 12 with a 6.1" screen.

Thanks. Will consider this, although I do use the camera quite a bit for work (although, to be fair, 6 Plus camera works fine for me, albeit I do tend to take lots of extra pictures so I have a few that are ok) so would be important to me also.

j9j · Post by **j9j** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:05 pm

As someone stated above, the iPhone 12 with new 6.1 OlED would be good option for the 6 plus upgrade.

Same processors and same cameras(except the telephoto zoom). I had 7 plus went to a XS(screen too small) so shifted to XS max. One thing that gets overlooked is how heavy the Max models are compared to the smaller ones. XS max is hefty and the 11 max and 12 max are even heavier

lthenderson · Post by **lthenderson** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:06 pm

I currently have an iPhone 6 on its last legs and preordered the iPhone12 Pro. It should be delivered later this week. I loved the iPhone 6 but I'm done always thinking about where I will be able to charge it to get through a day. Can't wait for the new 12 Pro to arrive.

anoop · Post by **anoop** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:07 pm

need403bhelp wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:59 pm
anoop wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:40 pm I think the X/XS phones will be supported a lot longer than 4 years.

If you look at the compatibility list for iOS 13 and iOS 14, they didn't drop any of the old phones -- both work on the 6s/2016 SE.
https://osxdaily.com/2019/06/04/ios-13- ... hone-ipad/
https://osxdaily.com/2020/06/29/ios-14- ... lity-list/
Thanks, but I am quite skeptical about this. I purchased my iPhone 6 Plus brand new fall of 2014 @ release and iOS support ended for my 6 Plus on 9/19/2019 with iOS 13 which is slightly less than 5 years. So I don't know why the X would get longer support and would expect it to have approximately same time frame for support, if anything (release date 2017 so iOS support ending in 2022?).

Apple changed its stance on supporting older hardware. They used to not make much effort to support older hardware but that has changed with both macOS and iOS. The 6/6 Plus was dropped because it only had 1 GB of RAM. Ever since then, the phones have had at least 2 GB of RAM.

need403bhelp wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:59 pm
anoop wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 1:40 pm Your 6 Plus has a 5.5" screen, while even the iPhone Mini now will have a 5.4" screen. The Pro Max has a 6.7" screen. If you want to save some money, you could go with the iPhone 12 with a 6.1" screen.
Thanks. Will consider this, although I do use the camera quite a bit for work (although, to be fair, 6 Plus camera works fine for me, albeit I do tend to take lots of extra pictures so I have a few that are ok) so would be important to me also.

Ultimately, I think you should buy the phone you like without worrying too much about costs. The difference of a few 10's of dollars a year for something you use practically all the time is noise in the grand scheme of things.

Texanbybirth · Post by **Texanbybirth** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:11 pm

The Pro and Pro Max have almost the exact same camera. I'd drop the Max and just get the 12 Pro, and enjoy the smaller form factor.

You're due for a nice upgrade.

Lee_WSP · Post by **Lee_WSP** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:13 pm

j9j wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:05 pm As someone stated above, the iPhone 12 with new 6.1 OlED would be good option for the 6 plus upgrade.

Same processors and same cameras(except the telephoto zoom).

The pro max has a much better camera system. Although you have to be a camera nerd to appreciate the major upgrades it has.

But between the 12 and 12 pro, yes they’re pretty similar but also only a couple hundred dollars difference.

Lee_WSP · Post by **Lee_WSP** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:15 pm

Texanbybirth wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:11 pm The Pro and Pro Max have almost the exact same camera. I'd drop the Max and just get the 12 Pro, and enjoy the smaller form factor.

You're due for a nice upgrade.

The camera is only one half of the system. The sensor in the max is much better and features sensor stabilization.

anoop · Post by **anoop** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:17 pm

Texanbybirth wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:11 pm The Pro and Pro Max have almost the exact same camera. I'd drop the Max and just get the 12 Pro, and enjoy the smaller form factor.

There are 3 differences --
larger sensor, better optical zoom, and improved image stabilization.
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/iphone- ... 2-pro-max/

(I wouldn't buy either because they are both too heavy for my liking. I can forego camera and battery performance for size and weight, so 12 Mini is the phone for me should I decide to upgrade.)

Texanbybirth · Post by **Texanbybirth** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:19 pm

anoop wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:17 pm
Texanbybirth wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:11 pm The Pro and Pro Max have almost the exact same camera. I'd drop the Max and just get the 12 Pro, and enjoy the smaller form factor.
There are 3 differences --
larger sensor, better optical zoom, and improved image stabilization.
https://www.macrumors.com/guide/iphone- ... 2-pro-max/

(I wouldn't buy either because they are both too heavy for my liking. I can forego camera and battery performance for size and weight, so 12 Mini is the phone for me should I decide to upgrade.)

Ah, I stand corrected. Thanks for the article!

whereskyle · Post by **whereskyle** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 2:57 pm

need403bhelp wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 12:38 pm I have an iPhone 6 Plus 128GB currently that I bought in 2014 at release. Mostly an Apple household so would prefer another iPhone to an Android phone, although I realize the latter generally have newer tech for a lower price.

The home button no longer works (I use the on-screen AssistiveTouch for past year), I am out of the "support cycle" for iOS updates (although still getting some security updates), and DW isn't happy that my phone is so slow (we mainly use my phone when we go out, and DW likes to leave her phone at home).

I do use the camera fairly regularly for my work, so that is important to me. Additionally, longer battery life is always good, as the batteries invariably start to work less well over time.

Further, it looks the new iPhone 12 Pro Max is only ~3 mm or so taller than the iPhone 6 Plus:

iPhone 6 Plus dimensions from https://support.apple.com/kb/sp706?locale=en_US :

Weight and Dimensions2
Height: 6.22 inches (158.1 mm)
Width: 3.06 inches (77.8 mm)
Depth:0.28 inch (7.1 mm)
Weight: 6.07 ounces (172 grams)
iPhone 12 Pro Max dimensions from https://www.apple.com/iphone-12-pro/specs/ :

Height: 6.33 inches (160.8 mm)
Width: 3.07 inches (78.1 mm)
Depth: 0.29 inch (7.4 mm)
Weight: 8.03 ounces (228 grams)
I'm pretty confident that with 5G support I'd probably keep the iPhone 12 Pro Max for another 5+ years. I won't get any discounts (Verizon offering $23 as trade-in for my iPhone 6 Plus ) so looks like it would be:

iPhone 12 Pro Max:
256 GB, $1199 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,398 = $279.80/yr over 5 yrs
512 GB, $1399 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,598 = $319.60/yr over 5 yrs

I did look at Apple Certified Refurbished store also to consider other options https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/iphone . They have a refurbished iPhone X 256 GB for $679.00 https://www.apple.com/shop/product/FQA8 ... d05c8bdbc3 . Release date 9/2017 so I'm assuming I'd be able to use for 3? or so years.

iPhone X Certified Refurbished:
256 GB, $679 + $199 AppleCare+ = $878 = $292.67/yr over 3? yrs

For iPhone XS Max Certified Refurbished https://www.apple.com/shop/product/FT5D ... d05c8bdbc3 . Release date 9/2018 so assuming would be able to use for 4? or so years.

iPhone XS Max Certified Refurbished:
256 GB, $849 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,048 = $262.00/yr over 4? yrs
512 GB, $1019 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,218 = $304.50/yr over 4? yrs

Looking at above per year calculations, it seems that iPhone 12 Pro Max 256 GB would probably be way to go. Any thoughts or other ideas?

I realize USED phones are available through swappa.com and such, but I'd be hesitant to have a used phone without an Apple (or similar) warranty.

Thanks!

Seconding a poster above, I think the 11 starting at $599 is currently the best deal for Americans in light of the absence of real 5g. Wife and I just upgraded from a 5 and a 6s and we love 'em. The dual camera system is fun and impressive. I plan to get a 5g phone in a couple years when it's actually worthwhile in the states.

mystiq · Post by **mystiq** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 4:19 pm

need403bhelp wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 12:38 pm I have an iPhone 6 Plus 128GB currently that I bought in 2014 at release. Mostly an Apple household so would prefer another iPhone to an Android phone, although I realize the latter generally have newer tech for a lower price.

The home button no longer works (I use the on-screen AssistiveTouch for past year), I am out of the "support cycle" for iOS updates (although still getting some security updates), and DW isn't happy that my phone is so slow (we mainly use my phone when we go out, and DW likes to leave her phone at home).

I do use the camera fairly regularly for my work, so that is important to me. Additionally, longer battery life is always good, as the batteries invariably start to work less well over time.

Further, it looks the new iPhone 12 Pro Max is only ~3 mm or so taller than the iPhone 6 Plus:

iPhone 6 Plus dimensions from https://support.apple.com/kb/sp706?locale=en_US :

Weight and Dimensions2
Height: 6.22 inches (158.1 mm)
Width: 3.06 inches (77.8 mm)
Depth:0.28 inch (7.1 mm)
Weight: 6.07 ounces (172 grams)
iPhone 12 Pro Max dimensions from https://www.apple.com/iphone-12-pro/specs/ :

Height: 6.33 inches (160.8 mm)
Width: 3.07 inches (78.1 mm)
Depth: 0.29 inch (7.4 mm)
Weight: 8.03 ounces (228 grams)
I'm pretty confident that with 5G support I'd probably keep the iPhone 12 Pro Max for another 5+ years. I won't get any discounts (Verizon offering $23 as trade-in for my iPhone 6 Plus ) so looks like it would be:

iPhone 12 Pro Max:
256 GB, $1199 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,398 = $279.80/yr over 5 yrs
512 GB, $1399 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,598 = $319.60/yr over 5 yrs

I did look at Apple Certified Refurbished store also to consider other options https://www.apple.com/shop/refurbished/iphone . They have a refurbished iPhone X 256 GB for $679.00 https://www.apple.com/shop/product/FQA8 ... d05c8bdbc3 . Release date 9/2017 so I'm assuming I'd be able to use for 3? or so years.

iPhone X Certified Refurbished:
256 GB, $679 + $199 AppleCare+ = $878 = $292.67/yr over 3? yrs

For iPhone XS Max Certified Refurbished https://www.apple.com/shop/product/FT5D ... d05c8bdbc3 . Release date 9/2018 so assuming would be able to use for 4? or so years.

iPhone XS Max Certified Refurbished:
256 GB, $849 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,048 = $262.00/yr over 4? yrs
512 GB, $1019 + $199 AppleCare+ = $1,218 = $304.50/yr over 4? yrs

Looking at above per year calculations, it seems that iPhone 12 Pro Max 256 GB would probably be way to go. Any thoughts or other ideas?

I realize USED phones are available through swappa.com and such, but I'd be hesitant to have a used phone without an Apple (or similar) warranty.

Thanks!

Another idea which I was thinking was to buy a used iphone 8 and trade in for around 800-850 for various new line / trade-in offers by all three carriers. Works only if you need multiple lines with unlimited plan.

Lee_WSP · Post by **Lee_WSP** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 4:43 pm

need403bhelp wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 12:38 pm
iPhone X Certified Refurbished:
256 GB, $679 + $199 AppleCare+ = $878 = $292.67/yr over 3? yrs

Hold on. Why is this phone even in the running? The 11 is just as cheap, will last the 5 years you cite, and has better processor and cameras.

need403bhelp · Post by **need403bhelp** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 7:00 pm

Thank you all!

I made a spreadsheet that assumes I'll keep phones for 6 years from release date and calculates total/yr based on price on apple.com retail or certified refurbished (phones are only available on one). Here is table below. Will still need to process everyone's comments. Thank you!

Code: Select all

Phone				Phone	AC+	Total	Releas	YrsOut	YrsKept	Total/Yr
iPhone X		256GB	$679 	$199 	$878 	Sep-17	3	3	$292.67 
iPhone XS Max		256GB	$849 	$199 	$1,048 	Sep-18	2	4	$262.00 
iPhone XS Max		512GB	$1,019 	$199 	$1,218 	Sep-18	2	4	$304.50 
iPhone XR		128GB	$549 	$199 	$748 	Oct-18	2	4	$187.00 
iPhone 11		128GB	$649 	$199 	$848 	Sep-19	1	5	$169.60 
iPhone 11		256GB	$749 	$199 	$948 	Sep-19	1	5	$189.60 
iPhone 12		128GB	$849 	$199 	$1,048 	Nov-20	0	6	$174.67 
iPhone 12		256GB	$949 	$199 	$1,148 	Nov-20	0	6	$191.33 
iPhone 12 Pro		256GB	$1,099 	$199 	$1,298 	Nov-20	0	6	$216.33 
iPhone 12 Pro Max	256GB	$1,199 	$199 	$1,398 	Nov-20	0	6	$233.00 
iPhone 12 Pro		512GB	$1,299 	$199 	$1,498 	Nov-20	0	6	$249.67 
iPhone 12 Pro Max	512GB	$1,399 	$199 	$1,598 	Nov-20	0	6	$266.33

stimulacra · Post by **stimulacra** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 7:14 pm

Seems like you should add the 2nd Gen iPhone SE to your matrix to get a value baseline. You can be sure that Apple will support that model for another 4 years.

iPhone 12 Mini would be another value sweet spot to consider. All of the latest specs, 2 cameras.

I have the original iPhone SE that's still running in tiptop shape and am in the market as well.

Thegame14 · Post by **Thegame14** » Mon Oct 19, 2020 10:15 pm

I am getting the Iphone 12 Pro Max, trading in my Iphone 7 Plus phone is like 4 years old, and wont be supported soon, cant wait for the pre-order November 6th to get it. A new phone once every 4 years is more than reasonable, phones are our lives these days, and with 5G it will open all kinds of tech I waited and didnt get the Iphone 11 just because of waiting for 5G, to me it is a game changer in tech.

need403bhelp · Post by **need403bhelp** » Tue Oct 20, 2020 9:13 pm

Thegame14 wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 10:15 pm I am getting the Iphone 12 Pro Max, trading in my Iphone 7 Plus phone is like 4 years old, and wont be supported soon, cant wait for the pre-order November 6th to get it. A new phone once every 4 years is more than reasonable, phones are our lives these days, and with 5G it will open all kinds of tech I waited and didnt get the Iphone 11 just because of waiting for 5G, to me it is a game changer in tech.

Thanks!

need403bhelp · Post by **need403bhelp** » Tue Oct 20, 2020 9:16 pm

stimulacra wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 7:14 pm Seems like you should add the 2nd Gen iPhone SE to your matrix to get a value baseline. You can be sure that Apple will support that model for another 4 years.

iPhone 12 Mini would be another value sweet spot to consider. All of the latest specs, 2 cameras.

I have the original iPhone SE that's still running in tiptop shape and am in the market as well.

Thanks, I may end up getting a 12 mini for DW.

DW has an iPhone 6 which is actually in great condition as she rarely uses it.

I'm a little concerned about lack of iOS support for her device. She doesn't use it for any bank type things or even for email, but we do use Signal to send some more sensitive information so I'm concerned that could be bad with continued lack of iOS support and possibility for someone to take over her phone (she mostly browses the web via Safari).

srt7 · Post by **srt7** » Tue Oct 20, 2020 9:22 pm

I've been using an iPhone 7 for many years. Pre-ordered an iPhone 12 Pro base model (128 GB). IMHO if you keep your phone for 4+ years then it makes sense to get the latest and the top of the product line. So your call on iPhone Pro Max gets my vote.

srt7 · Post by **srt7** » Tue Oct 20, 2020 9:25 pm

Thegame14 wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 10:15 pm I am getting the Iphone 12 Pro Max, trading in my Iphone 7 Plus phone is like 4 years old, and wont be supported soon, cant wait for the pre-order November 6th to get it. A new phone once every 4 years is more than reasonable, phones are our lives these days, and with 5G it will open all kinds of tech I waited and didnt get the Iphone 11 just because of waiting for 5G, to me it is a game changer in tech.

+100

Thegame14 · Post by **Thegame14** » Tue Oct 20, 2020 10:00 pm

also remember your trade in will have value, mine is $140, so that reduces the price plus if you have verizon each month you get a VErizon UP reward and I have been getting the $5 off a phone reward, I used them to reduce the cost of my wife getting the iphone XE (2020), but now I have another $30 in credits plus my $140 trade in so that is $170 off the price of the phone. plus I will pay it over 2 years and claim it as a business deduction for half business use.

Bogle7 · Post by **Bogle7** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 12:28 pm

Read this
http://austinmann.com/trek/iphone-12-pr ... ew-glacier
gorgeous photos

"The iPhone 12 Pro is a solid camera, and thanks to a bunch of new digital tech I found it to be slightly stronger than the already great iPhone 11 Pro — but if you are serious about photography with your iPhone, wait for the iPhone 12 Pro Max. It looks to be the most significant jump in iPhone camera hardware we’ve experienced in years, and it’s only three weeks away."

Lee_WSP · Post by **Lee_WSP** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 1:47 pm

need403bhelp wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 7:00 pm Thank you all!

I made a spreadsheet that assumes I'll keep phones for 6 years from release date and calculates total/yr based on price on apple.com retail or certified refurbished (phones are only available on one).

Why pay for Apple Care at all when your planning on keeping the device for six years from date of model release? It's only good for two and only if you cause accidental damage.

need403bhelp · Post by **need403bhelp** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 3:17 pm

Lee_WSP wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 1:47 pm
need403bhelp wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 7:00 pm Thank you all!

I made a spreadsheet that assumes I'll keep phones for 6 years from release date and calculates total/yr based on price on apple.com retail or certified refurbished (phones are only available on one).
Why pay for Apple Care at all when your planning on keeping the device for six years from date of model release? It's only good for two and only if you cause accidental damage.

I don’t think Apple care only covers accidental damage. My WiFi stopped working on my iPhone 6 Plus within first two years of purchase for unclear reasons and they replaced the phone for free. You can correct me but I don’t believe this repair would have been covered otherwise. There was no accident leading up to it not working that I know of, and it was not within 90 days of purchase.

Also, I guess it is really paying for peace of mind for those two years when the phone would theoretically be most expensive to replace.

Lee_WSP · Post by **Lee_WSP** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 3:24 pm

need403bhelp wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 3:17 pm
Lee_WSP wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 1:47 pm
need403bhelp wrote: ↑Mon Oct 19, 2020 7:00 pm Thank you all!

I made a spreadsheet that assumes I'll keep phones for 6 years from release date and calculates total/yr based on price on apple.com retail or certified refurbished (phones are only available on one).
Why pay for Apple Care at all when your planning on keeping the device for six years from date of model release? It's only good for two and only if you cause accidental damage.
I don’t think Apple care only covers accidental damage. My WiFi stopped working on my iPhone 6 Plus within first two years of purchase for unclear reasons and they replaced the phone for free. You can correct me but I don’t believe this repair would have been covered otherwise. There was no accident leading up to it not working that I know of, and it was not within 90 days of purchase.

Also, I guess it is really paying for peace of mind for those two years when the phone would theoretically be most expensive to replace.

Just making sure I understood your thinking.

Then I strongly believe you will be best served with only the latest models, be it the upcoming SE or a 12

logos · Post by **logos** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 3:27 pm

I have a 6 that is on its last legs both in terms of battery and storage space (what app do I delete to re-download uber for this trip?).

I pre-ordered the regular 12. I just don't see much value in the pro - the difference is basically just camera stuff I won't use. I did order the largest storage space model - hopefully 5G and high storage space will make it last a long time.

Lee_WSP · Post by **Lee_WSP** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 4:30 pm

Just out of curiosity, I separated the cost per year to the cost per year for the first two (Apple Care) and the cost per year for remaining years.

Code: Select all

Phone		Phone	AC+	Total	Releas	YrsOut	YrsKept	$/yr 1&2	Remaining Years
iPhone X	256GB	$679 	$199 	$878 	17-Sep	3	3	$325.83 	$226.33 
iPhone XS Max	256GB	$849 	$199 	$1,048 	18-Sep	2	4	$311.75 	$212.25 
iPhone XS Max	512GB	$1,019 	$199 	$1,218 	18-Sep	2	4	$354.25 	$254.75 
iPhone XR	128GB	$549 	$199 	$748 	18-Oct	2	4	$236.75 	$137.25 
iPhone 11	128GB	$649 	$199 	$848 	19-Sep	1	5	$229.30 	$129.80 
iPhone 11	256GB	$749 	$199 	$948 	19-Sep	1	5	$249.30 	$149.80 
iPhone 12	128GB	$849 	$199 	$1,048 	20-Nov	0	6	$241.00 	$141.50 
iPhone 12	256GB	$949 	$199 	$1,148 	20-Nov	0	6	$257.67 	$158.17 
iPhone 12 Pro	256GB	$1,099 	$199 	$1,298 	20-Nov	0	6	$282.67 	$183.17 
12 Pro Max	256GB	$1,199 	$199 	$1,398 	20-Nov	0	6	$299.33 	$199.83 
12 Pro		512GB	$1,299 	$199 	$1,498 	20-Nov	0	6	$316.00 	$216.50 
12 Pro Max	512GB	$1,399 	$199 	$1,598 	20-Nov	0	6	$332.67 	$233.17

Workaholic · Post by **Workaholic** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 4:38 pm

logos wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 3:27 pm I have a 6 that is on its last legs both in terms of battery and storage space (what app do I delete to re-download uber for this trip?).

I pre-ordered the regular 12. I just don't see much value in the pro - the difference is basically just camera stuff I won't use. I did order the largest storage space model - hopefully 5G and high storage space will make it last a long time.

I preordered the iPhone 12 as well- skipped the Pro but went with the 128 gb version of the 12. I'm trading in my iPhone 7 plus and I'm excited for some of the tech! The 12 is probably the biggest leap in technology since the iPhone 5 debuted with LTE, a bigger 4" screen, and the lightning connector. Apple does incremental upgrades very well but it takes many generations of iPhones to get to the next massive leap forward. With the 12 having 5G, an OLED screen, an amazing camera system, and many other improvements over even last years model- I found it hard to hold onto my 7 Plus any longer. However the Pro just didn't offer enough compelling equipment to make me splurge for it. If there would've been some drastic reason to get the Pro I would've jumped on it but Apple pretty much stuffed every goodie into the base 12 (which is fine by me!).

apex84 · Post by **apex84** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 4:40 pm

In your size comparison, I believe the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro are the same size as your current phone. The 12 Pro Max is bigger.

need403bhelp · Post by **need403bhelp** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 6:00 pm

apex84 wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 4:40 pm In your size comparison, I believe the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro are the same size as your current phone. The 12 Pro Max is bigger.

Not so in any measurable way according to Apple.

iPhone 6 Plus dimensions from https://support.apple.com/kb/sp706?locale=en_US :

Weight and Dimensions2
Height: 6.22 inches (158.1 mm)
Width: 3.06 inches (77.8 mm)
Depth:0.28 inch (7.1 mm)
Weight: 6.07 ounces (172 grams)

iPhone 12 Pro Max dimensions from https://www.apple.com/iphone-12-pro/specs/ :

Height: 6.33 inches (160.8 mm)
Width: 3.07 inches (78.1 mm)
Depth: 0.29 inch (7.4 mm)
Weight: 8.03 ounces (228 grams)

So new phone's height would be 6.33 inches which yes is greater than 6.22 inches but only by 0.11 inches.

New phone's width is 3.07 inches, old phone's width is 3.06 inches, so basically same.

New phone's depth is 0.29 inches, old phone's depth is 0.28 inches, so also basically same.

Weight would be big difference, 8.03 ounces for new phone, 6.07 ounces for old phone.

I think this is because the screen now is most of the phone in the 12 Pro Max, whereas there is a lot of non-screen space in the old 6 Plus.

Am I missing something re the size?

Thx!

TheNightsToCome · Post by **TheNightsToCome** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 7:35 pm

need403bhelp wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 6:00 pm
apex84 wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 4:40 pm In your size comparison, I believe the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro are the same size as your current phone. The 12 Pro Max is bigger.
Not so in any measurable way according to Apple.

iPhone 6 Plus dimensions from https://support.apple.com/kb/sp706?locale=en_US :

Weight and Dimensions2
Height: 6.22 inches (158.1 mm)
Width: 3.06 inches (77.8 mm)
Depth:0.28 inch (7.1 mm)
Weight: 6.07 ounces (172 grams)
iPhone 12 Pro Max dimensions from https://www.apple.com/iphone-12-pro/specs/ :

Height: 6.33 inches (160.8 mm)
Width: 3.07 inches (78.1 mm)
Depth: 0.29 inch (7.4 mm)
Weight: 8.03 ounces (228 grams)
So new phone's height would be 6.33 inches which yes is greater than 6.22 inches but only by 0.11 inches.

New phone's width is 3.07 inches, old phone's width is 3.06 inches, so basically same.

New phone's depth is 0.29 inches, old phone's depth is 0.28 inches, so also basically same.

Weight would be big difference, 8.03 ounces for new phone, 6.07 ounces for old phone.

I think this is because the screen now is most of the phone in the 12 Pro Max, whereas there is a lot of non-screen space in the old 6 Plus.

Am I missing something re the size?

Thx!

Well a 32% increase in weight is significant, but I think the most important difference is the screen size; 6.7 inches on the diagonal for the 12 Pro Max, largest Apple has made, correct?

need403bhelp · Post by **need403bhelp** » Wed Oct 21, 2020 8:34 pm

TheNightsToCome wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 7:35 pm
need403bhelp wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 6:00 pm
apex84 wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 4:40 pm In your size comparison, I believe the iPhone 12 and 12 Pro are the same size as your current phone. The 12 Pro Max is bigger.
Not so in any measurable way according to Apple.

iPhone 6 Plus dimensions from https://support.apple.com/kb/sp706?locale=en_US :

Weight and Dimensions2
Height: 6.22 inches (158.1 mm)
Width: 3.06 inches (77.8 mm)
Depth:0.28 inch (7.1 mm)
Weight: 6.07 ounces (172 grams)
iPhone 12 Pro Max dimensions from https://www.apple.com/iphone-12-pro/specs/ :

Height: 6.33 inches (160.8 mm)
Width: 3.07 inches (78.1 mm)
Depth: 0.29 inch (7.4 mm)
Weight: 8.03 ounces (228 grams)
So new phone's height would be 6.33 inches which yes is greater than 6.22 inches but only by 0.11 inches.

New phone's width is 3.07 inches, old phone's width is 3.06 inches, so basically same.

New phone's depth is 0.29 inches, old phone's depth is 0.28 inches, so also basically same.

Weight would be big difference, 8.03 ounces for new phone, 6.07 ounces for old phone.

I think this is because the screen now is most of the phone in the 12 Pro Max, whereas there is a lot of non-screen space in the old 6 Plus.

Am I missing something re the size?

Thx!
Well a 32% increase in weight is significant, but I think the most important difference is the screen size; 6.7 inches on the diagonal for the 12 Pro Max, largest Apple has made, correct?

Yes, screen will definitely be bigger.

Phone itself basically same size but heavier.

My main concern, honestly, with size was phone fitting in my shirt pocket.

At the time it came out, I think iPhone 6 Plus was also Apple's biggest phone to date, and I had quite a few concerns about the size. However, that turned out fine.

Lee_WSP · Post by **Lee_WSP** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 4:04 pm

need403bhelp wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 8:34 pm

Did you buy it yet?

If not, Walmart's Black Friday ad leaked quoted below.

$450 eGift Card on iPhone XS or XS Max In-Store Only

$450 eGift Card on iPhone 11 Pro or 11 Pro Max

$400 eGift Card on iPhone 11

Nov 14th-20th

abuss368 · Post by **abuss368** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 4:14 pm

Our iPhones are our main phones as we turned off the home phone years ago. That said, I realized the value of a good phone that makes you happy. I paid a little more for a larger screen with my iPhone XR. I have considered a Max for the next phone.

I found I can see much easier.

Buy what fees beat and what you are happy with. I use my iPhone all day so that was key.

ThankYouJack · Post by **ThankYouJack** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 4:43 pm

Lee_WSP wrote: ↑Fri Oct 23, 2020 4:04 pm
need403bhelp wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 8:34 pm
Did you buy it yet?

If not, Walmart's Black Friday ad leaked quoted below.

$450 eGift Card on iPhone XS or XS Max In-Store Only

$450 eGift Card on iPhone 11 Pro or 11 Pro Max

$400 eGift Card on iPhone 11

Nov 14th-20th

But it requires activation with specific carriers, right?

sd323232 · Post by **sd323232** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:23 pm

i would not buy any 5G phone because simply 5G is not coming in the next 5 years. i know every phone company is screaming on every corner 5G is here but this is only so that they can sell you a 5G phone for high price.

Jags4186 · Post by **Jags4186** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:26 pm

sd323232 wrote: ↑Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:23 pm i would not buy any 5G phone because simply 5G is not coming in the next 5 years. i know every phone company is screaming on every corner 5G is here but this is only so that they can sell you a 5G phone for high price.

5G is here and many people have it. For example, T-Mobile blankets most of New Jersey with both low band and mid band. UWB will never be the “norm” but will simply be supplemental (think, Times Square, football stadium or concert).

whereskyle · Post by **whereskyle** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:27 pm

I'm very happy with my 11 (upgraded from a 6s) if you'd like to save several hundred dollars. Does everything. Very fast. Great screen, even though it's not OLED. Great cameras and picture and video quality.

All that said, if the money really didn't matter to me, I'd go pro just for the third camera. It's clear that the double-wide, wide, and zoom cameras form a complete set. Having to use digital zoom just feels wrong and looks noticeably worse than the cameras in their proper states. "Filmmakers" use pros for a reason. If you have the money and want to nerd out with your camera, that's a reason to get a pro.

All that said, I'd recommend my 11 to anyone.

02nz · Post by **02nz** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:28 pm

sd323232 wrote: ↑Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:23 pm i would not buy any 5G phone because simply 5G is not coming in the next 5 years. i know every phone company is screaming on every corner 5G is here but this is only so that they can sell you a 5G phone for high price.

LOL "5G is not coming in the next 5 years." I agree that 5G is overhyped, but 5G service is here (esp. the sub-6 GHz variety, which is not as fast but has broader coverage). Here's T-Mobile's coverage map: https://www.t-mobile.com/coverage/coverage-map

02nz · Post by **02nz** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:31 pm

whereskyle wrote: ↑Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:27 pm I'm very happy with my 11 (upgraded from a 6s) if you'd like to save several hundred dollars. Does everything. Very fast. Great screen, even though it's not OLED. Great cameras and picture and video quality.

All that said, if the money really didn't matter to me, I'd go pro just for the third camera. It's clear that the double-wide, wide, and zoom cameras form a complete set. Having to use digital zoom just feels wrong and looks noticeably worse than the cameras in their proper states. "Filmmakers" use pros for a reason. If you have the money and want to nerd out with your camera, that's a reason to get a pro.

All that said, I'd recommend my 11 to anyone.

Apple's use of the term "optical zoom" is misleading. All 3 lenses have fixed focal lengths, there's no actual zoom. The "zoom range" is simply the focal length of the "telephoto" lens divided by that of the ultrawide lens. It is not a true zoom lens, and at any focal length other than the 2 or 3 fixed ones, there's still cropping/digital zoom going on.

whereskyle · Post by **whereskyle** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 8:58 pm

02nz wrote: ↑Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:31 pm
whereskyle wrote: ↑Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:27 pm I'm very happy with my 11 (upgraded from a 6s) if you'd like to save several hundred dollars. Does everything. Very fast. Great screen, even though it's not OLED. Great cameras and picture and video quality.

All that said, if the money really didn't matter to me, I'd go pro just for the third camera. It's clear that the double-wide, wide, and zoom cameras form a complete set. Having to use digital zoom just feels wrong and looks noticeably worse than the cameras in their proper states. "Filmmakers" use pros for a reason. If you have the money and want to nerd out with your camera, that's a reason to get a pro.

All that said, I'd recommend my 11 to anyone.
Apple's use of the term "optical zoom" is misleading. All 3 lenses have fixed focal lengths, there's no actual zoom. The "zoom range" is simply the focal length of the "telephoto" lens divided by that of the ultrawide lens. It is not a true zoom lens, and at any focal length other than the 2 or 3 fixed ones, there's still cropping/digital zoom going on.

Yes, of course. Just called it the zoom camera for practicality's sake.

need403bhelp · Post by **need403bhelp** » Fri Oct 23, 2020 9:19 pm

Lee_WSP wrote: ↑Fri Oct 23, 2020 4:04 pm
need403bhelp wrote: ↑Wed Oct 21, 2020 8:34 pm
Did you buy it yet?

If not, Walmart's Black Friday ad leaked quoted below.

$450 eGift Card on iPhone XS or XS Max In-Store Only

$450 eGift Card on iPhone 11 Pro or 11 Pro Max

$400 eGift Card on iPhone 11

Nov 14th-20th

Thanks, interesting. Haven't bought yet.

Looks like it is page 17 of the Black Fri November 11th ad posted in walmart.com.

Terms are not copy and paste-able, but looks like no new line is required but must activate on a device payment plan.

Anyone does this deal with Verizon? It looks like they are listed as an available company for this (as well as AT&T Next and Sprint Now Part of T-Mobile).

Thanks!

leod · Post by **leod** » Sat Oct 24, 2020 6:37 am

Dont compare screen size from 6 plus to new iphone, that is a square screen vs rectangle.

The difference in weight is on the pro max is the use of stainless steel. Much durable and wont dent on drops. But if you put case on then that is moot but they dont offer the pro max size in aluminum case

The pro cameras take better pictures, the 12 pro have lidar which will take even better pix then 11 pro. 12 will also better low light/night photos but not sure if this is only on 12 pro models. 12 is also good for videos.

For non pro model, The 11 6.1 has lcd and lower resolution, the 12 will be a better buy imo. All improvements from Cpu, camera, 5g, magsafe, etc...

02nz · Post by **02nz** » Sat Oct 24, 2020 6:47 pm

leod wrote: ↑Sat Oct 24, 2020 6:37 am Dont compare screen size from 6 plus to new iphone, that is a square screen vs rectangle.

The difference in weight is on the pro max is the use of stainless steel. Much durable and wont dent on drops. But if you put case on then that is moot but they dont offer the pro max size in aluminum case

The pro cameras take better pictures, the 12 pro have lidar which will take even better pix then 11 pro. 12 will also better low light/night photos but not sure if this is only on 12 pro models. 12 is also good for videos.

For non pro model, The 11 6.1 has lcd and lower resolution, the 12 will be a better buy imo. All improvements from Cpu, camera, 5g, magsafe, etc...

The LiDAR sensor helps focus more quickly in low light but otherwise makes no difference in the picture quality. The main (wide-angle) lens on the 12 Pro Max does have a larger sensor than on the 12/12 Pro, which should mean better picture quality, but the Max is coming later, so no one knows for sure yet how big the difference will be.

The other improvement on the 12 (and this applies across the board to all the models, not just the Pros) is that Deep Fusion and Night Mode are available on more of the lenses, whereas on the 11 generation only the main (wide) lens had these features.

sd323232 · Post by **sd323232** » Sun Oct 25, 2020 1:43 pm

02nz wrote: ↑Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:28 pm
sd323232 wrote: ↑Fri Oct 23, 2020 7:23 pm i would not buy any 5G phone because simply 5G is not coming in the next 5 years. i know every phone company is screaming on every corner 5G is here but this is only so that they can sell you a 5G phone for high price.
LOL "5G is not coming in the next 5 years." I agree that 5G is overhyped, but 5G service is here (esp. the sub-6 GHz variety, which is not as fast but has broader coverage). Here's T-Mobile's coverage map: https://www.t-mobile.com/coverage/coverage-map

https://www.washingtonpost.com/technolo ... /5g-speed/

"And in some places, like inside my house and along the California highway, my 5G phones actually have been slower."

Current 5G is simply not good, and wont be good anytime soon. I mean, they can advertise donkey as horse, but it wont make donkey a horse just cause they say so. But you still pay 5G money for service that is simply not not what is being advertised.

eddot98 · Post by **eddot98** » Fri Oct 30, 2020 5:01 pm

Not sure if this is off topic or not, but I just got an insane deal on iPhone 12 from AT&T. Earlier this year I bought an iPhone SE 2020 for $200 on an installment plan through Walmart, payable to AT&T on my monthly bill. I called about the current deal of a free iPhone 12 on certain plans with a trade in of a qualifying iPhone with no real hopes that it would apply. Well, it did. I paid off the balance on the SE, about $150, paid the sales tax on the 12, about $50 and I will get a free iPhone 12. Actually they charge $26+ per month and include the same amount as a bill credit for 30 months. So, I got an $800 phone for $200 plus $50 tax. I’m okay with that.