The iPhone 13 mini, the smallest and least expensive phone in Apple's 2021 range (starting at $699), is essentially an iPhone 13 with a smaller battery. It's that latter part that will likely keep the mini from being a best-seller, but if you're shopping for a small phone, it's totally worth checking out. For the most part, we recommend the standard iPhone 13 as it offers the best blend of performance and battery for its price, but if you don't mind trading battery life for a bit of size, the iPhone 13 mini is one of the best small phones out today.
What Happened to the iPhone 12 mini?
The steadily increasing size of phones has been the topic of complaints in certain corners of the internet for years now. Smaller phones are less addictive, the argument goes. In addition, they fit better in tight pockets and are easier to use with one hand. Small phones make it easier to make calls while holding them close to the head, and taking photographs with one hand.
OUR VERDICT
The iPhone 12 mini is an affordable and compact yet powerful flagship phone that is truly in a class all its own. Pending the arrival of the iPhone 13 mini, this is the best small phone there is, and an even better 5G value now that Apple dropped the price
FOR
- Perfect for small phone lovers
- Capable dual cameras
- Comprehensive 5G support
- Incredible A14 Bionic power
- Reasonable starting price
AGAINST
- Only 64GB storage to start
- No charger in box
- Battery life shorter than other iPhone 12 models