iPhone 12 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro Max: Used iPhone Buying Guide
The 13 Pro Max adds ProMotion to the large-screen formula of 12 Pro Max. For a used buyer, that is a tangible distinction, but neither model is a good deal if battery, display or account problems are hidden behind a low price.
Quick Verdict
Choose 13 Pro Max when a healthy unit is within budget and smooth scrolling matters. Consider 12 Pro Max for a significant complete saving after inspection, not simply because it was once the top model.
How we compare →
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 12 Pro Max | iPhone 13 Pro Max | What matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.7-inch OLED, no ProMotion | 6.7-inch OLED, adaptive up to 120Hz | Size and handling |
| Processor | A14 Bionic | A15 Bionic with 5-core GPU | App and workload needs |
| Rear cameras | 12MP main, ultra wide and 2.5x telephoto | 12MP main, ultra wide and 3x telephoto | Capture requirements |
| Battery context | Up to 20 hours video playback (Apple US test) | Up to 28 hours video playback (Apple US test) | Claims, not our tests |
| Connector / data | Lightning | Lightning | Cable and workflow |
| Construction | Stainless steel design | Stainless steel design | Protection and handling |
Battery and performance claims are manufacturer figures, not FixUpPhone measurements. Current selling prices may differ from launch prices.
Detailed Comparison
Design & Display
Both have 6.7-inch screens, while 13 Pro Max adds adaptive refresh up to 120Hz. Try scrolling and carrying the phone with a case. Inspect screen uniformity and touch, especially on repaired units.
iPhone 12 Pro Max
- 6.7-inch OLED, no ProMotion
- Stainless steel design
iPhone 13 Pro Max
- 6.7-inch OLED, adaptive up to 120Hz
- Stainless steel design
Handling & ownership considerations
The move to ProMotion can be noticeable even though the screen diagonal stays at 6.7 inches. Try scrolling and extended holding with a case. Buyers who find either Max too bulky should reconsider size rather than assume the newer generation fixes it.
Performance
A15 Bionic replaces A14 Bionic. Current app suitability is more useful than an invented benchmark percentage. Avoid insufficient storage if the phone will hold large photo libraries or offline media.
Large photo libraries and offline media need enough storage as well as a suitable processor. Compare capacities explicitly. A small initial saving can be a poor trade if it forces constant deletion of files needed for work or travel.
Camera Comparison
12 Pro Max provides 2.5x telephoto and 13 Pro Max 3x. Both have 12MP rear systems with different capabilities. Test each camera and check focus rather than assuming three working-looking lenses guarantee three functional cameras.
The change from 2.5x to 3x is a framing difference, not a claim of dramatically more reach. Inspect focus and each camera on the actual phone. For either, a damaged camera can erase the appeal of a low used price.
Battery Life & Charging
Large-phone endurance depends on the battery actually installed today. Ask about replacements and charging history. Include a realistic service assessment when comparing a cheap worn unit with a healthier alternative.
Apple’s US specifications list up to 20 hours of video playback for iPhone 12 Pro Max and 28 for iPhone 13 Pro Max. These are manufacturer test maxima for the models, not measurements of a used unit or promises for navigation, recording or weak-signal use.
Software & Features
Neither supports Apple Intelligence. Verify current operating-system and essential app support before buying an older device for long-term use. Future support dates are not guaranteed in this guide.
Both models appear on Apple’s current iOS 27 compatibility list, checked September 18, 2026. Operating-system compatibility is separate from Apple Intelligence eligibility and does not promise an exact future support period. Confirm your essential apps and available storage before updating or buying.
Repairability & Ownership
Check Face ID, account removal, speakers, cameras, charging and the entire touch surface. Large display damage can erase savings. Written returns matter when intermittent faults only appear after longer use.
A worn large-screen phone can need more than one service intervention. Ask for an assessment of disclosed faults and check the remaining functions before purchase. Written return terms are valuable when an intermittent fault appears only after longer use.
Explore FixUp repair services or request an assessment before deciding.
Price & Value
The 13 Pro Max is a stronger default shortlist because of ProMotion, but condition can reverse the decision. Compare complete ready-to-use prices and seller protection, not a damaged listing against a clean one.
Our default is a healthy 13 Pro Max at a reasonable complete premium for ProMotion. A 12 Pro Max can still fit a tighter budget if its condition is documented and the saving remains after service. Do not compare a damaged bargain with a clean device as if condition were equal.
The manufacturer link may show current alternatives rather than either older model. No live used-stock or retailer-price feed is connected. Check model, storage, condition, activation and return terms in the actual offer.
Pros & Cons: iPhone 12 Pro Max
Reasons to consider
- Large 6.7-inch display
- 2.5x telephoto
Trade-offs
- No ProMotion
- Older condition and support considerations
Pros & Cons: iPhone 13 Pro Max
Reasons to consider
- Large ProMotion screen
- 3x telephoto
Trade-offs
- Bulky to carry
- Battery and repair history remain critical
Who Should Choose iPhone 12 Pro Max?
- Choose 12 Pro Max for a strong inspected offer when its standard-refresh screen is sufficient.
- Large 6.7-inch display
- 2.5x telephoto
Who Should Choose iPhone 13 Pro Max?
- Choose 13 Pro Max for ProMotion and a healthy large-screen used phone.
- Large ProMotion screen
- 3x telephoto
Ready to Buy?
Compare the exact model, storage, condition, return terms and complete price before ordering.
View Buying OptionsNo affiliate tracking links are currently used. Retailer stock and prices are not guaranteed.
Already Own One?
Describe the issue before deciding to replace your phone. Request mail-in or local repair help from FixUp.
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Wait for instructions3. Assessment
Approve a quote4. Return
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A request is not a confirmed appointment or prepaid shipping label. Confirm service eligibility, parts, cost, turnaround and return arrangements before shipping. Do not mail a swollen or damaged battery; contact the team for safe handling guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the better buy for my needs?
Choose 12 Pro Max for a strong inspected offer when its standard-refresh screen is sufficient. Choose 13 Pro Max for ProMotion and a healthy large-screen used phone.
What is the most useful camera distinction?
12 Pro Max provides 2.5x telephoto and 13 Pro Max 3x. Both have 12MP rear systems with different capabilities. Test each camera and check focus rather than assuming three working-looking lenses guarantee three functional cameras.
Does a newer model guarantee better used battery life?
No. The table lists original manufacturer test claims. Inspect the actual unit, charging behavior and service history; include any necessary work in its total price.
Will both run the current iOS?
Apple lists both on its iOS 27 compatibility page as of September 18, 2026. Feature eligibility, including Apple Intelligence, remains device-dependent. This does not guarantee a future support end date.
Is this a hands-on test or a live-price listing?
No. We use linked manufacturer documentation and editorial buying analysis, without invented scores or measured tests. Buying links do not guarantee stock or a current price.
Sources & Editorial Method
Documentation checked September 18, 2026. We compare published features and explain ownership trade-offs; no physical testing, measured benchmark, technician case history or numerical review rating is claimed. Images are original illustrations. Buying recommendations are editorial judgments, not guarantees of price, stock or repair outcome.
- iPhone 12 Pro Max specifications
- iPhone 13 Pro Max specifications
- Apple Parts and Service History
- Apple: current iOS compatibility
- Apple: Apple Intelligence requirements
Questions or corrections? Contact FixUpPhone.