IPhone 13 test: Should we always fall for him in 2023 

As for the video, the iPhone remains one of the best smartphones on the market and this number 13 confirms this trend. The iPhone 13 will be generally more comfortable in low light conditions and this time offers support from Dolby Vision, i.e. HDR 10-bit. We also note the arrival of a Sensor Shift stabilization, previously present only on the iPhone 12 Pro Max, but now generalized to the whole range. The autofocus is still so good, and the iPhone 13 is devilishly effective in shooting images in motion.

IPhone 13 test: always the best compromise between screen size, performance and price

An anchamber of the very high -end of Apple smartphones, the iPhone 13 displays a super 6.1 inch slab, which we can just blame for not being pro motion, and makes progress in all areas that count: power , photo and autonomy.

01net’s opinion.com

Apple iPhone 13

• + The always pleasant design
• + The performance of the A15 Bionic
• + The brighter slab
• + No more storage or cheaper
• + The gain in autonomy
• + Improved cameras modules
• + The performance of the kinematic mode

• – The absence of pro motion technology
• – The lack of dive of the clichés
• – Where is the USB-C ?

Writing note

Note published on 09/23/2021

Technical sheet

Apple iPhone 13

System	iOS 15
Processor	Apple A15 Bionic
Size (diagonal)	6.1 “
Screen resolution	460 ppi

See the full file

After a range of iPhone 12, which redefined the extent of Apple’s offer, by offering four models – a first – and adopting a new design after a few years of relative immobility, Tim Cook teams must take up The challenge of years in “S”, even if the name no longer officially explains it. After a year of strong changes, it is always difficult to maintain the course, as it is true that “new design” rhymes, in many minds, with new features.

An identical design, and some improvements

In this case, the iPhone 13 retains the features of the iPhone 12, which remains on sale. It gains just in thickness (0.025 cm) and in weight (7 g), which does not change the comfort of handling. The compromise between size and ease of use with both hands, or even one, is always good. No complaints, Apple keeps a recipe that seduces.

The two facades are made of glass. The rear to allow wireless recharging with Qi or Magsafe chargers. The one before is covered with Ceramic Shield introduced last year, and given to be extremely resistant, while the vertical slices are in tinted aluminum, to correspond to one of the five finishes proposed: pink, blue, minuit, stellar light, and the Classic and popular (Product) Red.

Apart from these new finishes, there are two changes-and no, sorry, it is still not the arrival of a USB-C port replacing the unbeatable Lightning. The first is at the disposal of the objectives at the rear of the device. They are now placed diagonally, not vertically one on the other. A modification which seems, it seems, as much from the desire to differentiate the two generations externally as from a necessity linked to the complete reorganization of the bowels of the iPhone 13.

The second exterior change goes through the notch, where the True Depth camera is located. It is now smaller than on the previous generation. Apple announces a 20% reduction, which is not necessarily very telling. Rule in hand, we note that it goes 3.5 cm wide, on generation 12, to 2.7 cm for the iPhone 13. On the other hand, it retains the same height, about 0.5 cm. This reduction is appreciable, unequivocally to a pure and simple disappearance. It will still take a little patience.

Nevertheless, mathematically, this offers more space to display, even if the screen officially retains its diagonal of 6.1 inch. The Oled Super Retina XDR panel evolves a little. In addition to keeps its HDR brightness peak at 1200 cd/m2 when it displays HDR content, Apple above all made it possible to increase its maximum “classic” brightness. Last year, we recorded a brightness at 623 cd/m2, more than the 600 nits announced by Apple. This year, the Cupertino teams have a goal at 800 nits. Once again, our measures confirm that the objectives are achieved, even exceeded, since our probes have recorded a brightness at 815 CD/m2. So we clearly have to do a very bright slab – perfect for an outdoor consultation on sunny days.

The Delta E 2000 recorded, the value which defines the difference between the true value of a color and the one that is displayed, is excellent, although slightly withdrawn from last year. It is 1.32 against 0.95 for the iPhone 12. All that is less than 2 is exceptional.

Apple A15: A SOC, in power … and intelligence

It is time to take an interest in the heart and brain of this iPhone 13, the SOC A15 now. Like last year, it has six hearts, two high performance and four low consumption, which will work alternately or canned. The objective is to offer the quantity of power required while saving as much as possible the autonomy of the device.

For the graphic part of the SOC, Apple maintains four dedicated cores – for the first time, the Tim Cook teams created a difference between the iPhone 13 and 13 pro, by allocating an additional GPU heart to the most expensive models. However, in addition to a higher operating frequency, the A15 also and above all have a greater number of transistors – synonyms of greater computing power. There are 15 billion against around 11.8 billion for the A14.

During its conference, Apple put forward figures on the supposed power of its new chip, comparing it to the performance of competing chips, without obviously designating an obvious target, or giving details on the way these figures are obtained. Thus, the A15 is supposed to be 50% more efficient than the competition for the CPU part, and 30%, more powerful for the GPU part ..

We therefore decided to compare the results obtained in Geekbench by the iPhone 13 with those of some serious Android competitors, all equipped with the Snapdragon 888, the quality spearhead. Thus, for the multi-hearting part (CPU), we note that the new iPhone is 24% more efficient than the OnePlus 9, 24.4% faster than ZenFone 8, Asus, or 31.4% Plus Veloce that the Find X3 Pro, of Oppo. For the compute part, which estimates the overall performance of the smartphone for demanding tasks such as games, image processing, video editing, etc. We fully perceive the strength of software and material integration. The iPhone 13 is 126% more powerful than ZenFone 8, 130% above the OnePlus 9 and 131% stronger than the Find X3 Pro for these activities.

If we are just interested in the graphic games/rendering part, GFXBENCH grants him between 14.4 and 26.7% more performance in the field. To complete this little overview of synthetic tests, we finally turned to 3dmark Wildlife, which has the good idea to test two important aspects. On the one hand, the power deployed by the chip when it is asked to display beautiful graphics. On the other hand, the ability of this same chip to ensure the spectacle in the long term (more or less 20 minutes) to ensure that there is no throttling or – spoiler alert: there is a – to take the measure of variations in the performance of the chip.

This stress test, Who runs the same test sequence in loop, retains three elements: the best result obtained during the test, the less good, and, finally, a percentage of stability of the effort.

Two points seem to remember: one, the iPhone 13 and its A15 largely dominate the competition. Its highest performance is on average 50% higher than that of its above-mentioned opponents. Even more interesting: its less good score-the lowest performance-is between 88 and 111% higher than those of the above-mentioned Android smartphones. How is it possible ? Simply because it is able to maintain a high level of performance longer. He obtained a percentage of stability of 73.9%, where his opponents oscillate between 55 and 59.5%.

It is interesting to note an exception, the ROG Phone 5, which is also equipped with the Snapdragon 888 obtains a performance stability index of 90.8% – but let’s say that its design gamer And his design make him a smartphone apart.

In any case, even with better stability, the performance of ROG Phone 5, of Asus, are between 51.6 and 23.4% less good than those of the iPhone 13. The iPhone 12 is also better than the ROG Phone 5, and it even pays the luxury of being more stable (92%) in the performance that provides.

We can therefore conclude that the A15 is a brute, but that it nevertheless heats more than the A14. You have to pay at some point the power gain and the increased number of transistors for the same size of engraving, even if the SoC is certainly greater physically. Apple does not clearly communicate on this point, it will therefore be necessary to wait for the first disassembly.

Obviously, these results give only an overview of reality. On a daily basis, between HD/4K HDR video, games, multiple and varied applications, we have not encountered the slightest slowdown.

However, this power debauchery should not mask another asset of the A15. The SOC incorporates a brand new neural network, with 16 hearts, as on the A14. This part of the chip, dedicated to the application of machine learning, Sometimes coupled with the GPU part, is at the helm for a large part of the new features of the photo and video part of the iPhone 13.

Photos and videos: always two modules, but a lot of new features

Like the iPhone 12 last year, the iPhone 13 has two cameras modules: an ultra-angle, 13 mm equivalent, and a large angle, equivalent 26 mm-the difference being that the two objectives are set diagonally , and not vertically ..

But the real good news is that this great angle knows a welcome evolution. It is in fact a model equivalent to the one that was reserved last year for the pro Max model – for questions of congestion, a priori. The photodiodes of this sensor are therefore larger (1.7 micron), and stabilization is done by motion of the sensor, which reinforces the possibilities of shooting, in low light, mainly. Apple announces a gain of 47% more light, it is difficult to check, but one thing is certain, it is immediately perceived in the eye when you use the iPhone 12 simultaneously and the iPhone 13.

Ultra Grand Angle also benefits from a new sensor, which gets better out of low light situations, in particular by reducing digital noise.

But, the big effort is mainly due to the arrival of the new neural network, which strengthens the impact of computational photography, on existing or new functions.

Thus, we note that the night mode is now available on all the photo modules, front and rear, whether for a landscape photo, a portrait or a selfie. Let us specify by passing that on selfies, the results in low light are sometimes a little weak for the photo to be kept. Deep Fusion, which takes advantage of the A15 neural network to adjust exhibitions, improve the textures and details of the photographed elements is also present on all cameras modules now. Finally, the House Smart HDR 4 technology is capable of detecting different people in a shot, which allows, within the framework of a group photo for example, to ensure that each subject benefits from a good contrast, from a good exposure and colors that highlight it.

These improvements in the existing are sometimes discreet, mainly concern the clichés in low light, even if the flaws of the “watercolor” flattens are always there, and the clichés often lack a little bit. There is nevertheless progress compared to the iPhone 12.

The first of these functions is called photographic styles. It is possible to define at the first activation of the camera application, and then modify it, of course, a digital treatment for the shots you are going to take. You have the choice between standard, intense contrast, lively, hot, and cold.

This style will then be applied every time you take a photo. Via a new shortcut in the camera control interface, you can also quickly switch from one mode to another, before shooting. Finally, it is also possible to modify the two tone and temperature criteria systematically preset for each style. It is interesting to note that these styles do not apply to portrait, and only to “classic” photos.

Styles are a good way to get pictures that have more life, visual strength, without having to dive into temperature, contrast, brightness, clear tones, shine, etc. a posteriori.

The second function which is enormously rests on the computing power of the A15, its new image processor (ISP) and on the new encoders/decoders integrated material video is quite stunning, it is the kinematic mode.

Using object detection, people or movement detection algorithms, and an analysis of cinematographic practices, this mode allows you to automatically define where the focus is during the shooting of a video. A person stands alone in the left corner of the frame: they are clear and the rest a little blurred. Unless you decide that this cup of tea in front of it is much more important. When a second person enters the plan, the development is done automatically on her. It will suffice that she turns her head towards the first subject for the focus to change again.

In addition to the automatic nature of this function, which allows stories to tell, or to highlight subjects in a filmed sequence, the kinematic mode is a technical performance. Because, the iPhone 13 records the video in 30 images per second with the information of sharpness of all the plans. It is thus possible to change the development of one person to another, once the video has been recorded.

The kinematic mode has real potential, but it will especially speak to those who use the video mode of their iPhone for something other than to record a little moment to keep in memory. In addition, it must be recognized that he still has some progress to make. Thus, in addition to the crossing flaws that we know well with the portrait mode (hair, contours …), we see limits in the face of somewhat complex frames. So when a part of the plane is occupied by a glass surface, which will be detected as an object, the digital background blur will be applied around this surface, but the background visible through the window will remain clear. A special case, but which shows that there is still progress to make. For sure.

Furthermore, if these two areas of development of computational photography (and video) are interesting and hope to hope for many other things in the future, it would have been almost preferred that this computing power was used to compensate for some of the weaknesses of the sensors and optics. Apple’s historical flaws, in terms of flatness of colors, watercolor effects, are still there. The image diet always leaves something to be desired, especially if you want to enlarge your photo on the screen to crop it or print it to frame it.

Obviously, these faults, which make Apple is no longer the king of smartphones in photography, do not make iPhone of bad candidates for the capture of your daily lives. The iPhone 13 benefit like all their brothers from a very good color rendering, a fair and pleasant exhibition. Not to mention the autofocus speed, for which there remains a reference. Added to this is the balance and the maintenance of colors and exposure between the two photographic modules, the responsiveness during a passage from one to the other is also an important argument.

In short, if the iPhone 13 is not the best photo smartphone, it is far from being bad, especially since it maintains a solid advance in video, also.

Autonomy: the A15 effect ?

Since the iPhone 11 generation, Apple smartphones are no longer the poor parents of endurance. Not only do they hold the shock, but they even allow themselves to rank among the best in their range. The iPhone 13 Pro Max even allowed, during our versatile autonomy tests to dethrone the n ° 1 in our most enduring smartphones classification. A first.

Without being so good, the iPhone 13 is very nicely heading and has a higher autonomy than that of the iPhone 12. In versatile, which is an intensive simulation of varied daily uses (web surf, email, video, etc.), he reached 6:57 p.m., up 1 h 53 compared to the iPhone 12.

When we turn to autonomy in video streaming, the gain is much more important. We reach 4:39 p.m. against 12:13 p.m. for the iPhone 12. These additional 4 h 26 are certainly due to the arrival of a hardware acceleration for the processing of video (encoding/decoding) in the A15 Bionic chip.

In fact, the iPhone 13 should last quite a day quite a day, enough to go early in the morning, use it without holding back and getting calm at the end of the day, just on time to go to bed.

Technical sheet

Apple iPhone 13

System	iOS 15
Processor	Apple A15 Bionic
Size (diagonal)	6.1 “
Screen resolution	460 ppi

See the full file

• + The always pleasant design
• + The performance of the A15 Bionic
• + The brighter slab
• + No more storage or cheaper
• + The gain in autonomy
• + Improved cameras modules
• + The performance of the kinematic mode

• – The absence of pro motion technology
• – The lack of dive of the clichés
• – Where is the USB-C ?

The verdict of the test

Apple iPhone 13

The iPhone 13 has the same technical arguments as the 13 mini: A15 Bionic, Camera modules, quality of the OLED panel. However, it stands out on a point, linked to its size, the battery it embarks and which ensures better autonomy. A weight argument, if you are not a crazy smartphones.

If we do not necessarily recommend to those who cracked last year to take the plunge this year, it is much easier to advise him to those who fell for the iPhone 11 and older. The progress made in photo, the quality of the slab, the performances of the A15, both raw power, in optimization of autonomy, make it a very good vintage for those who do not want to take the financial step Pro models. The iPhone 13 is to iPhone 13 Pro, what iPad Air is to iPad Pro: the experience closest to what is best, for a much more affordable price.

Note
writing

IPhone 13 test: Should we always fall for him in 2023 ?

The iPhone 13 and the iPhone 13 Mini are the two new iPhones for the general public. Here is our full test.

Posted on January 17, 2023 at 5 h 29 min

As every year, the months of September and October are punctuated by the new Apple smartphones. At the end of 2021, it must be recognized that the new iPhone 13 family had not revolutionized the genre. Logic since the iPhone 12 marked a major evolution compared to their predecessors. This generation is therefore a slight evolution of the previous one.

Nevertheless, Apple improves certain key elements of its offer: screen, autonomy, performance, camera. And then there is now the time test. In 2023, Apple also offers iPhone 14s – but there is no longer any “mini” model, a role that remains provided by the iPhone 13 Mini. Apple also offers the iPhone 13 in the catalog again and again, even if “it is a little repetition” with the iPhone 14 Simple.

However, their price remains more interesting, for services ultimately quite close. So buying an iPhone 13 in 2023 is a good idea ? After several days of use, Discover our iPhone 13 test.

Note: the iPhone 13 and the iPhone 13 Mini on the same technologies, we bring together our impressions in one and the same test. A part dedicated to the iPhone 13 Mini will analyze what its small differences involve in daily use. For those who want to know more, you can consult our video comparison on YouTube below.

IPhone 13 price

The iPhone 13 and the iPhone 13 Mini are available in the same colors: pink, blue, midnight, stellar light and (product) Red. They are available in three capacities: 128, 256 and 512 GB. It will be necessary to opt for the pro version in order to benefit from a capacity up to 1 to storage.

The iPhone 13 is marketed from 909 euros on the official website. However, it has been found since 2023 under 800 euros in most resellers. The 256 GB and 512 GB models are available at the respective prices of 1,029 euros and 1,250 euros. Below, you have a real-time comparison with the prices made on the market.

iPhone 13 128 GB at the best price basic price: € 909

The iPhone 13 Mini is the most affordable of new iPhone. It is offered from 809 euros (128 GB). Here too, you can get a discount of around 100 euros compared to the original price at some resellers. The other two versions with higher storage capacities are marketed at the respective prices of 929 euros and 1159 euros.

iPhone 13 mini 128 GB at the best price basic price: € 809

iPhone 13 vs iPhone 12: What are the design differences ?

To say that the iPhone 13 changes little compared to its predecessor would be an understatement. In reality, Apple could have stuck an “s” behind the iPhone 12 that no one would have felt the slightest stir.

Should we be offended ? Absolutely not. First, because Tim Cook has already said that major aesthetic changes would now occur both or even three years. Then because the design of the iPhone 12 remains a model of aesthetics on the market.

The iPhone 13 is always dressed in a beautiful shiny glass dress (watch out for fingerprints) covered with a covering Ceramic Shield announced as the most resistant on the market (without more precision).

Always certified IP68 (Resistant to an immersion in water up to 6 meters deep for 3 hours), the iPhone 13 is a bit heavier than its predecessor. Rest assured, we did not feel this overweight during the iPhone 13 test. The grip remains pleasant.

The physical buttons are placed in the same locations and Apple is not determined to let go (Satané) Port Lightning. But then what changes ? At the risk of repeating ourselves: not much.

In reality, alone The layout of the diagonal photo sensors marks an aesthetic difference compared to the iPhone 12. We find it more pleasant to the eye than the two vertical optics of the model of last year. But tastes and colors, everyone will do their opinion on this choice.

The other distinctive element of this new iPhone is more discreet: Apple has indeed Reduces the width of the notch containing face ID by 20%. On the other hand, it is slightly thicker. During these few days of the iPhone 13 test, it is difficult to see a big difference with the naked eye but the technical feat remains admirable. When we know the multitude of sensors necessary for the proper functioning of this technology, we can only salute the work of engineers both in terms of miniaturization and optimization of space.

You will therefore understand, The iPhone 13 is almost the twin brother of the iPhone 12. It is therefore not its design that will weigh on the scale if you already have the model of last year. On the other hand, if you have an iPhone 11 or previous models, you will not be disappointed by the trip.

The iPhone 13 have a good screen ?

Like the iPhone 13 Pro, The iPhone 13 has a Super Retina XDR screen based on OLED technology. The whole is of course certified HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision. Apple promises an improvement in the brightness of around 28% to reach the 800 Nits outdoors and the 1200 Nits at the maximum. So it’s better than last year but always less good than the pro version … or its Samsung rival. Again, logical.

We will not dwell on the display quality of the 6.1 ’’ screen of the iPhone 13. Apple still improves a recipe that he masters perfectly, also the screen of the iPhone 13 will flatter the retina of all users as demanding as they.

Despite everything, we cannot help feeling a little disappointment, for a simple reason: unlike the two pro models, The iPhone 13 is amputated promotion.

This technology available for a long time on iPad Pro has been integrated into the iPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max. It allows you to vary the frequency of refreshment of the screen from 10 to 120 Hz. In this way, animations and scrollings are more fluid (practical on social networks or games), which provides significant comfort on a daily basis. This frequency being adaptive, it also consumes less energy. You will see it below in this test, but the iPhone 13 Pro responds to this.

As fantastic as it may be, this technology is reserved for the most expensive models. With the iPhone 13, sold 909 euros all the same, We must therefore limit ourselves to a refresh frequency of 60 Hz. For comparison, most Android smartphones sold around 500 euros (and even less) take screens of 90 or 120 Hz.

The autonomy of iPhone 13, what does it give ?

Like camels in the desert, the iPhone 13 is capable of deploying crazy energy for long hours before finding its strength. The new provision of the components and the Face ID reduction allow Apple to integrate a more imposing battery. According to the brand, this allows the iPhone 13 to improve the (very) good autonomy of its predecessor by around 1:30.

In reality, Apple does better than that. While we had to recharge the iPhone 12 at best after a day and a start of the morning, the iPhone 13 was able to overflow until the middle of the afternoon during our tests. We have obtained these estimates for standard use of a smartphone, without pushing on gourmet uses such as video, photography or even mobile games.

If you are one of the intensive users of your smartphone, Rather count on a good day of autonomy with a recharge around midnight. The iPhone 13 is certainly less good than pro models but it is still among the very good students on its niche. This feat is all the more remarkable since Apple was still 3 years ago among the worst on this point.

We would have liked to say as much about the charging system accompanying these excellent performance. But beyond not being up to expectations, Apple disappoints.

First of all because apple persists in integrating a Lightning port While the rest of its products adopted the USB-C, for some for a long time. Then because the iPhone 13 can only support a load power of 20 W which, in the best of cases, allows you to make a 0 to 100 in 1h30. Far too long from current competition, just like 0 to 50% in just 30 minutes.

These scores do not improve with a magsafe charger capped at 15 W and even less with a wireless charger Qi limited to 7.5 W. Apple is far from equaling its direct rivals, notably Oppo and Xiaomi, which are two references in this area (read our respective tests on the latest models of these manufacturers).

To what extent the A15 chip from iPhone 13 explodes performance ?

Like every year, the release of a new iPhone rhymes with the launch of a new generation chip. At the end of 2021, the A15 Bionic chip succeeds the A14 And promises a performance gain of around 50% for the CPU and 30% for the GPU (graphic part).

The A14 chip being the most powerful on the market before the arrival of the new generation, the A15 Bionic therefore logically delights this title and completely drops the competition which runs on Android. In the competition of kikalaplugrosse (On the benchmarks therefore) The four iPhone 13 win hands down.

Tell yourself that the power of this chip is such that you will never be able to come to the end, whatever your uses. The iPhone is more than ever a pocket computer and therefore meets the expectations of 100% of users, we experienced it during our iPhone 13 test.

This arsenal is accompanied by iOS 15, the latest version of Apple’s mobile OS. We have analyzed in the broad and across the main novelties of this vintage in a dedicated article as well as in the test of the iPhone 13 Pro. We will therefore avoid the repetition. Just remember thatiOS 15 gains in maturity while remaining as easy to use.

iPhone 13 256 GB at the best price basic price: € 1,029

Are the iPhone 13s good in photos ?

Like all, the biggest differences between iPhone 13 and pro versions are based on photographic equipment. While the 13 pro and the 13 Pro Max have three new sensors, the iPhone 13 and the 13 Mini must “satisfy” two old sensors. Yes, but beware: these are not just any.

The Grand-Angle module (f/1.6) is accompanied by the same main sensor as that of the iPhone 12 Pro Max. It is a 12 Mpxl sensor accompanied by the Sensor-Shift Stabilization, a technology that stabilizes the sensor itself a little like a gimbal.

The ultra-wide-angle module (f/2.4) does not change and is therefore accompanied by a 12 MPXL sensor. The front sensor Truedepth is also identical (12 mpxl – opening of the lens f/2.2). All are able to film in 4K at 60 I/S HDR Dolby Vision for the two dorsal modules.

The iPhone 13 with the same main sensor as the 12 Pro Max, it has the same photographic talents. In a word, it is excellent. Day and night, this sensor launched last year is still one of the most efficient on the market, even more with the improvement of digital treatment.

By day, the clichés always shine with their realism, the accuracy of colors and contrasts as well as their excellent dive. We have nothing to complain about either when the light is missing. The iPhone 13 does not have to be ashamed of its talents, quite the contrary. Night photos gain in detail and mastery of the dynamic beach is breathtaking. In short, a treat.

We are not dried up for praise either on The rendering of the ultra-wide-angle module, always as controlled in good light conditions. On the other hand, this optics show its limits in low light with a loss of obvious details compared to the Grand Angle. During our iPhone 13 test, the results are correct but suffer from the comparison with the main sensor.

Always comfortable in the portrait exercise, Apple still improves its copy. The integration of a larger photo sensor and a lens with a larger opening allows you to refine the bokeh and the cutting. The iPhone 13 stands out as one of the best in this exercise both day and night.

Finally, note that Photographic Styles are also available on standard models. These modes widely explained in our iPhone 13 test in “pro” version allow, basically, to choose other colorimetric profiles to capture photos with warmer or cold shades. What bring a personal touch to the whole, which is appreciated.

The iPhone 13 is also formidable on video, even more than its predecessor. The videos are more stabilized and the possibility of shooting 4K at 60 Im/s in HDR Dolby Vision Make all the difference. THE CINEMATIC MODE (sort of video portrait mode) is also available. If it has a real effect, it must still be improved. Like portrait mode during its beginnings.

Eventually, We will only regret the absence of telephoto lens, Optics always reserved for pro models. Too bad, because the copy could have been almost perfect for this iPhone 13.

And if the iPhone 13 Mini was made for you ?

The iPhone 13 Mini has exactly the same technologies as the iPhone 13 “standard”. Three elements change: more compact format, screen size (5.4 ’’) and battery capacity.

We largely discussed the first point during our iPhone 12 Mini test last year. The iPhone 13 Mini being an almost replica, we repeat our words. This model is undoubtedly the most pleasant to handle and transport daily. It is also unique on the market, making it a luxury choice for compact smartphones lovers.

Who says small format says small screen. And in our opinion, A 5.4 ’’ slab with a notch is not really suitable for the uses of 2023. Web navigation, the use of social networks, reading videos or games are all uses that require larger screens for better comfort.

As a bonus, the iPhone 13 Mini has a defect that its brothers have not: He lacks endurance. While the iPhone 13, 13 pro and 13 pro Max rise among the market references, the iPhone 13 Mini, it does not exceed the day in standard use. These performances were confirmed during our iPhone 13 tests.

Admittedly Apple improves its copy compared to last year, but going through the recharge box every evening remains compulsory. And for the most connected, we always advise to take a charger with you. It is starting to make a lot of small crippling defects in 2021.

Besides, if the iPhone 13 mini meets the same welcome as its predecessor, Apple may well not continue the adventure of the compact format. Wait and See.

iPhone 13 mini 128 GB at the best price basic price: € 809
iPhone 13 mini 256 GB at the best price basic price: € 929

IPhone 13 test: which model to choose ?

Like ours ours iphone 13, Apple refines a recipe that works. Always as elegant, this new generation is more efficient, more enduring but also better armed on the photo side. By the way, Apple improves the quality of the screen and increases storage capacity without touching at the price. Difficult not to recognize that this is a good point, especially when we take into account the complicated current context for manufacturers who add the supply costs, and the price in competition.

The fact remains that the changes compared to the iPhone 12 are minimal and that they do not justify a renewal this year if you are on this iteration. On the other hand, we can only advise this iPhone 13 to those on iPhone 11 or earlier. Indeed, with two generations of gap, there is really one better in all dimensions. The photos are much more beautiful with a better controlled colorimetry, the incredibly more “pro” and stable videos.

Difficult also to mention the few “more things” of the latest generations iPhone. For example, recently, the iPhone 12 and 13 have a faceid update that allows you to unlock the smartphone even when you wear a mask. Option that does not appear on iPhone 11. Other very good point: the size of the battery. These models all deliver better real on autonomy because Apple no longer seeks to only refine its devices … We would almost speak of a “revolution”.

Finally, going from an iPhone 11 and prior to an iPhone 13 is entering the 5G era – as long as your area is well covered and you have subscribed to an appropriate subscription. Beyond, another question arises: what variant to choose within the range ? Rather the pro models, marginally better in photo and video and with larger 120 Hz and slightly brighter screens ? Or the basic models, almost as capable but with a milder price ?

It all depends on obviously on your needs. That said, there is no doubt that most of our readers will turn away from the mini model. Because yes, it is an amazing smartphone by its format, but it accumulates too much defects. In 2023, in fact, going back to such a small screen made you want to go and have your sight checked. Furthermore, Apple failed to integrate battery sufficiently capable. Suddenly, the autonomy of the device is far too weak, which is really a shame, because with a leap on autonomy, the variant could be an audience.

Finally, the last real relevant question to ask itself: “Is an iPhone (just) for me in the face of what competition offers ?». It should be noted that Apple takes place on certain questionable choices despite repeated criticism of users and observers. We think in particular of this damn Port Lightning in place of a USB-C more universal or the integration of 60 Hz screens on part of the range, on devices at almost 1,000 euros. No one is perfect, even Apple.

IPhone 13 test: a sweet evolution in luxury

Should we still crack for the iPhone 13 at the end of 2022 ? Discover our iPhone 13 test below.

As at each start of the school year, Apple caused a sensation with a new iPhone vintage. In 2021, Apple presented the iPhone 13, once again available in four variants: simple iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.

They can be stored in two categories with on one side the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini, and on the other iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max. For what ? Simply because outside the screen size and the battery, the iPhone 13 mini are strictly identical to the simple iPhone 13. Likewise, iPhone 13 Pro are similar to iPhone 13 Pro Max.

So, this simple iPhone 13 is it just a kind of iPhone 12s that does not say its name or are we really dealing with a breaking generation ? We went around the news and we give you our opinion on the iPhone 13 after a little more than a week of daily use. Should we fall for the iPhone 13 simple end 2022 ? We tell you everything in our test.

Simple and iPhone 13 mini iPhone 13 Technical sheet

Before going into the detail of our iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini test, here is the technical sheet first. As you can see, Apple does not skimp on quality. We have the right to resolutely premium smartphones which integrate all the latest technological innovations. The A15 Bionic processor is the best illustration.

– Flash True Tone
– Smart HDR 4
– Photographic styles
– Portrait mode
– Night mode
– Panorama mode (63 MP)
– JPEG and Heif Format
– Apple Proraw
– Ultrahd video capture up to 60FPS
– 8MP photo during 4K recording
– Optical stabilization
– Slow down up to 240fps in 1080p

– Flash True Tone
– Smart HDR 4
– Photographic styles
– Portrait mode
– Night mode
– Panorama mode (63 MP)
– JPEG and Heif Format
– Apple Proraw
– Ultrahd video capture up to 60FPS
– 8MP photo during 4K recording
– Optical stabilization
– Slow down up to 240fps in 1080p

When it releases the price of iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini started € 909,809 € for the 128 GB version respectively. But they are clearly found below this price at the end of 2022.

iPhone 13 128 GB at the best price basic price: € 909
iPhone 13 mini 128 GB at the best price basic price: € 809

Design and screen

At first glance in our test, an iPhone 13 looks like it is mistaken for the same iPhone 12 model. We therefore always find this flat slices chassis launched with the previous generation which give it a look that recalls the iPhone 4 design. On our side, we find this design frankly successful, especially since these straight aluminum slices offer excellent grip.

There are still some perceptible differences between an iPhone 13 and an iPhone 12. At the back, if we always keep this shiny glass (watch out for fingerprints) and the Apple centered logo, the photo block has been modified and the two photo sensors are now placed on the diagonal. Previously, they were placed one above the other.

We imagine that this new configuration is due to the presence of a new Sensor Shift stabilization and the new sensors, but we will come back in more detail in the photo and video part of this iPhone 13 test.

The other difference is at the front, on the screen, or rather at the top of it. The famous notch that sits at the top of the iPhone from the iPhone X has indeed been reduced this year ! It is slightly less wide but extends a little lower.

To gain space, Apple re-aged its sensors, in particular by placing the speaker near the edge, and by shifting the selfie sensor on the left. Ultimately, we end up with a 20% smaller notch, but Face ID has not been improved however. The sensors remain identical.

Note that if the notch loses ground, the iPhone 13 takes a little overweight and is slightly thicker (7.4 to 7.7 mm) and 10 grams more than the iPhone 12 on the balance. In use, nothing really crippling, and we keep the same IP68 certification against water and dust.

As for the screen itself, it is always an OLED 6.1 ″ slab for the iPhone 13 and 5.4 ″ for the iPhone 13 mini. Unfortunately, it will be satisfied with a 60 Hz refresh rate, only pro models being entitled to promotion up to 120 Hz on this generation.

We saw it during our test, the iPhone 13 screen is really very good. The colors are perfectly correct, the angles of vision excellent, and the global experience is frankly satisfactory with a perfectly contrasting display.

Apple has still improved the brightness of this slab by pushing it up to 800 nits, announced 33% brighter than that of the iPhone 12. Indeed, the iPhone 13 remains perfectly readable in full sun, but the iPhone 12 does not have to be ashamed.

As for slices, we do not change a team that wins. We always find the volume buttons and the silent switch on the left and the unlocking button on the right. Note that they are now placed a little lower than on the iPhone 12. Finally, the lower edge accommodates the loudspeaker, the microphone and a Lightning port for recharging.

There is still no USB type C port on this generation and one wonders if Apple intends to have its owner port last until the iPhone could go completely from port with its magsafe magnetic recharge system ( of course present on this iPhone 13). Same observation on the side of the 3.5 mm jack, definitively disappeared from the iPhone.

iOS 15 iOS 16, performance and autonomy

The iPhone 13 was delivered initially with iOS 15, but it is compatible with the iOS 16 update. To find out all the innovations of the new version of Apple’s mobile operating system, we are redirecting you to our file just here. Apple supports its smartphones around 6 years for major updates. In theory, you can hope to receive all the next iOS version to “iOS 21” (however, we do not know at this stage if the naming convention will remain the same).

The real question here is how this iPhone 13 runs this operating system ? In short, he is under the hood ? The answer is obvious: yes, the iPhone 13 is a small monster of power. The device conceals an A15 Bionic chip engraved in 5nm+ and comprising four hearts (against five for the A15 of the iPhone 13 Pro).

This year again, Apple confirms its status as a leader in the SOC market. The A15 Bionic is a beast of power that knees all its competitors and makes the iPhone 13 (or rather the iPhone 13 Pro, with its A15 to five hearts) the most powerful smartphone on the hour where we write these lines.

Apple always promises more power and reduced energy consumption compared to its predecessor. Obviously, it is always compatible with 5G. This SOC works wonderfully and all the applications we launched have been particularly fluid. After all, this is the least of things for a smartphone that has just been launched. Here are the scores obtained on geekbench 5:

Performance is there. But after all, they were already last year. It is rather a guarantee of longevity: the iPhone 13 will be able to collect heavy uses to come for many more years.

Where the difference is more noticeable, it is on autonomy. Not only is the A15 Bionic chip more energy efficient, but there is in addition to a physically more imposing battery. On the iPhone 13, we finally go to more than 3,000 mAh. If it may seem little for users of Android smartphones, for which batteries from 4,000 to 5,000 mAh have become legion, Apple is lucky to be able to master both hardware and software and optimize its batteries onions.

Result ? The iPhone 13 is enduring. Very enduring. In use, we were amazed by its autonomy which does not descend. With heavy uses, we last the day widely. Using your smartphone a little less, in particular on a weekend, we were able to make the iPhone 13 two full days last by ending the second day around 15%. In short, we end up with an iPhone 13 practically as autonomous as the iPhone 12 Pro Max from last year, while retaining compact size. We let you imagine the autonomy of the iPhone 13 Pro Max !

This is both good news for those who used to take the big “pro” model for autonomy, but also for fans of the mini format. Autonomy was the main problem of the iPhone 12 Mini, but it will no longer be so much a problem on the iPhone 13 Mini.

On the other hand, if this new iPhone 13 is particularly autonomous, Apple has not deigned to offer it faster recharge. We always find a recharge at maximum 20W and 15W via Magsafe, and 7.5W in wireless qi. Like last year, the charger block is not included in the box.

Photo and video

On the photo side, the iPhone 13 does not revolutionize the recipe for its predecessor and always sports two sensors at the rear: a main large-angle of 12 Mp opening at f/1.6 and an ultra-angle of 12 Mp with an opening of f/2.4. At first glance, there is therefore a photo equipment similar to that embarked by the iPhone 12, with the visible difference that the sensors are now placed diagonally on the new model.

Nevertheless, a small detail changes the situation: the main sensor is larger than that of its predecessor. Its pixels now spend 1.7 microns, against 1.4 microns on the iPhone 12. It is not as well as the iPhone 13 Pro, the main sensor of which offers pixels of 1.9 microns, but the iPhone 13 is still a game equal to the old Apple flagship, the iPhone 12 pro max.

Direct consequence of the increase in the size of this sensor: better shots in low light. Thanks to its more imposing pixels, improvements in the night mode and the various optimizations allowed by the power of the A15 Bionic chip, the iPhone 13 manages to pull out of the game and is devilishly effective at night. There is still a little digital noise in certain places, but it remains very measured. By day, the shots produced by the iPhone 13 are really good, with a beautiful dive and just colors.

Speaking of colors, Apple takes advantage of this generation of iPhone to introduce photographic styles. These are not simple filters but rather recipes that allow a style to be given a photo, as soon as the snapshot is captured. It’s quite subtle but, for the most demanding, it brings additional control.

Finally, on the side of the ultra-angle, there is no significant improvement compared to the iPhone 12. His performances are rather good, but we would still have liked to see a more generous opening arriving but also the macro mode of the iPhone 13 Pro.

On the high-end model of Apple, the Ultra Grand Angle is indeed capable of capturing pictures of (very), without adding an additional dedicated sensor. Since the iPhone 13 is limited to two angles of vision-the Grand Angle and the Ultra Grand Angle-it could have been a welcome addition in order to multiply the creative possibilities. Next year, maybe !

As for the video, the iPhone remains one of the best smartphones on the market and this number 13 confirms this trend. The iPhone 13 will be generally more comfortable in low light conditions and this time offers support from Dolby Vision, i.e. HDR 10-bit. We also note the arrival of a Sensor Shift stabilization, previously present only on the iPhone 12 Pro Max, but now generalized to the whole range. The autofocus is still so good, and the iPhone 13 is devilishly effective in shooting images in motion.

Also, the arrival of the kinematic mode will make it possible to magnify certain videos by grafting a blur of synthetic background, a little like portrait mode in photo. For the moment, we are still limited in 1080p and the results are not always successful, but that adds a new creative possibility – and above all, simple to access – to the iPhone. The most professional will rather eye the prores of the iPhone 13 Pro, which, meanwhile, will allow much more advanced touch -ups.