Okay, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Apple iPhone 13 mini and the Huawei nova Y90. These two phones represent very different approaches to the smartphone, so it’s going to be interesting to see where each one shines (and where they fall a bit short).
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the key specifications of each device, and their practical implications for real-world use:
| Feature | Apple iPhone 13 mini | Huawei nova Y90 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Dimensions | 131.5 × 64.2 × 7.7 mm | 163.3 × 74.7 × 8.4 mm | The iPhone 13 mini is significantly smaller and more pocketable, while the nova Y90 is much larger and can feel bulky. |
| Weight | 141g | 195g | The iPhone 13 mini is noticeably lighter, making it easier to handle for extended periods. |
| Build | Aluminum frame, glass back | Plastic frame and back | The iPhone 13 mini generally has a premium feel due to glass and aluminum, while the nova Y90 feels more basic, but may be more durable |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 5.4" | 6.7" | The nova Y90 offers a much larger screen which is great for media consumption, gaming. The iPhone 13 mini is ideal for those who prefer a truly compact form factor. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 1080 x 2388 | Both offer crisp Full HD displays, but the resolution differences are minimal in real-world use. |
| Pixel Density | 476 PPI | 391 PPI | The iPhone 13 mini has a significantly sharper display, with finer details due to the higher pixel density. |
| Technology | OLED | IPS LCD | The iPhone 13 mini's OLED display provides richer blacks, better contrast, and more vibrant colors than the nova Y90's IPS LCD. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | The nova Y90's 90Hz refresh rate offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations compared to the 60Hz on the iPhone. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 0 nits | The iPhone 13 mini will be significantly easier to view in direct sunlight due to it's significantly higher brightness. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Apple A15 Bionic | Snapdragon 680 4G | The A15 Bionic chip in the iPhone 13 mini is leagues more powerful than the Snapdragon 680, leading to much faster performance in all tasks, especially gaming and intensive apps. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,250,240 | 249,000 | The iPhone 13 mini's benchmark scores are over 400% higher, indicating dramatically superior overall performance. |
| GPU | Apple GPU (4-core) | Adreno 610 | The Apple GPU is far more capable, enabling advanced graphics processing for gaming and creative applications. |
| RAM | 4GB | 4/6/8GB | The nova Y90's options for more RAM could offer slightly better multitasking for some users, however the iPhone handles it's RAM efficiently due to iOS optimization. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 2438mAh | 5000mAh | The nova Y90 has a massive battery advantage, likely providing substantially longer battery life in real-world use. |
| Charging | 20W Fast Charging | 40W Fast Charging | The nova Y90 charges much faster which is useful for a quick top-up, though neither are at the top of current fast charging speeds. |
| Wireless Charging | MagSafe 15W, Qi 7.5W | None | The iPhone 13 mini offers wireless charging, and MagSafe capabilities for those in the Apple ecosystem |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.6) | 50MP (f/1.8) | The nova Y90 has a higher megapixel count, which allows for greater detail capture in ideal conditions. The iPhone has larger pixels which allows for better low-light. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP (f/2.4) | None | The iPhone 13 mini includes an ultra-wide lens for better scene capture. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.0) | The iPhone 13 mini’s front camera provides a higher resolution, although both will do fine for most social media purposes. |
| Additional Cameras | None | 2x 2MP (f/2.4) | The nova Y90 has 2 additional low quality cameras. |
| Video | Up to 4K 60FPS | 1080p 30FPS | The iPhone 13 mini offers significantly better video recording quality, with higher resolution and frame rate, as well as superior stabilization |
| DXOMark Score | 125 Mobile, 134 Selfie | Not tested | The iPhone has a known good performing camera, whereas the Huawei does not. |
| Additional Camera Features | Optical Zoom, OIS, Ultra Stable Video, RAW, Night Mode | Triple Camera, Digital zoom | The iPhone includes several advanced image processing capabilities, including a RAW mode. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | iOS 15 (upgradable to 18) | Android (details missing) | The iPhone 13 mini will have many years of software support, and a highly refined operating system. |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | The iPhone 13 mini has WiFi 6 which provides faster speeds and greater network reliability. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 (AAC) | 5.0 (EDR) | Both phones include similar bluetooth technology, but the iPhone has AAC codecs, which are used with wireless headphones. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | The nova Y90 offers more GPS options |
| SIM | Nano SIM + eSIM | Nano SIM + Nano SIM | The iPhone 13 mini offers eSIM for convenience. |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 128 GB | The iPhone 13 mini offers far greater internal storage options. |
| Expandable | None | None | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS / DTS X, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Basic audio features | The iPhone 13 mini has more comprehensive audio capabilities, for a better listening experience. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Features | Basic Security Features | Side-mounted fingerprint Sensor | The Nova Y90 has a fingerprint sensor, which can be more convenient for unlocking the device. |
| SENSORS | |||
| Motion | Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Accelerometer, Compass, Gravity | The iPhone has a Gyroscope for enhanced motion sensing, while the Huawei includes a compass for better orientation. |
| Proximity | Proximity, Barometer | Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Both phones include basic proximity sensors, while the iPhone includes a barometer which helps with altitude sensing. |
| ## 2. Key Insights |
- iPhone 13 mini Strengths:
- Pocketability: Its small size and light weight are unmatched in the current market.
- Performance: The A15 Bionic chip delivers top-tier performance, handling everything with ease.
- Display Quality: The OLED display offers excellent color accuracy, contrast, and brightness.
- Camera Quality: The camera system is known for its image quality and the ability to capture 4K video with advanced features.
- Software and Ecosystem: iOS provides long-term updates, a polished experience, and seamless integration within Apple’s ecosystem.
Huawei nova Y90 Strengths:
- Battery Life: The massive 5000mAh battery offers significantly extended usage time.
- Display Size: The large 6.7” screen is great for media consumption and gaming.
- Charging Speed: The 40W fast charging ensures minimal downtime.
- RAM: Having options for 6-8GB of RAM could provide better performance with demanding applications.
- Price: The Y90 will be more affordable than the iPhone 13 Mini.
iPhone 13 mini Trade-offs:
- Battery Life: The battery life is shorter compared to many other phones.
- Screen Size: The smaller screen might not appeal to those who prefer a larger display for media consumption or gaming.
- Huawei nova Y90 Trade-offs:
- Performance: The Snapdragon 680 is significantly less powerful than the A15 Bionic.
- Display Quality: The IPS LCD display lacks the vibrancy and contrast of OLED.
- Camera Quality: While the main camera has a higher megapixel count, it is outclassed by the iPhone's system in terms of color accuracy, low light, and dynamic range.
- Software: Lack of details regarding software support, and general polish, compared to Apple's iOS.
- No 5G: The lack of 5G may be an issue for some users.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Apple iPhone 13 mini:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize a small, lightweight, yet powerful device with a top-tier camera and seamless software. Best for single handed use.
- Use Cases: Content creators, photography enthusiasts, users deep in the Apple ecosystem who like compact devices and great performance.
- Considerations: Price-conscious buyers and those who need long battery life may find it less appealing.
- Huawei nova Y90:
- Ideal for: Users who want a big screen, long battery life, and a more budget friendly device for everyday tasks.
- Use Cases: Casual gamers, heavy media consumers, and users who need a device that can last a full day without frequent charging.
- Considerations: Users who prioritize top-tier performance, camera quality, and the premium experience that a high end device would bring.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions that will help a potential buyer decide:
- Prioritize Performance or Battery Life?
- If you need a very powerful phone for demanding tasks, gaming, or creative work, the iPhone 13 mini is the clear choice.
- If battery life is your primary concern, the nova Y90’s large battery wins.
- What Screen Size Do You Prefer?
- If you want a compact phone that fits easily in your hand and pocket, the iPhone 13 mini is unmatched.
- If you prioritize a large screen for media, gaming, and improved visibility, the nova Y90 is the better option.
- What Ecosystem Do You Prefer?
- If you prefer Apples iOS ecosystem, then the iPhone 13 mini would be the logical choice.
- If you prefer Android, and are comfortable with the software experience Huawei offers, then the Y90 would be a good option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Power User: You often use resource-intensive apps, play high-end games, and take a lot of pictures. The iPhone 13 mini’s A15 chip and high quality camera will provide a much better experience.
- The Media Enthusiast: You spend hours watching videos, playing games, and browsing social media. The nova Y90’s large screen and long battery life will keep you going all day long.
- The Casual User: You need a reliable phone for basic tasks, and prefer a compact, reliable device. The iPhone 13 mini is a great option, but you may not use the full potential of the phone, the Y90 would also be a great option.
- The Budget Conscious: You don't want to spend too much, but you need a phone with solid performance. The Huawei nova Y90 will be the cheaper option.
Which Would I Choose?
Personally, I would choose the iPhone 13 mini. While I do acknowledge the appeal of the Huawei Nova Y90's battery life, I value the overall performance, exceptional camera, and polished user experience provided by the iPhone 13 mini far more. The compact size is also a significant draw for me, as I prefer something that's easy to handle and pocket. Although it is more expensive, I would much prefer the premium experience and features provided by the iPhone 13 mini, given the choice.
