Okay, let's break down the Apple iPhone 13 Pro and Nokia G42. This is a classic case of a high-end flagship versus a budget-friendly workhorse, and the differences are significant. Here’s a detailed comparison aimed at helping you understand which phone might be the right fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a side-by-side comparison of the key specifications, focusing on what they mean for everyday use:
| Feature | Apple iPhone 13 Pro | Nokia G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 146.7 × 71.5 × 7.7 mm | 165 × 75.8 × 8.6 mm | iPhone 13 Pro is noticeably smaller and thinner, feels more compact and premium in hand. The G42 is larger, offering more screen real estate but may feel bulky. |
| Weight | 204g | 193.8g | Despite its smaller size, the iPhone 13 Pro is slightly heavier, which can give it a solid feel. The G42 is lighter, which might be preferable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.1" | 6.56" | The G42’s larger screen is better for media consumption. The iPhone’s is more comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1170x2532 | 720x1612 | iPhone 13 Pro's display is much sharper and clearer. You’ll notice the difference in text clarity, image quality, and overall visual experience. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 460 | 269 | The iPhone’s higher pixel density results in sharper images and smoother text, particularly noticeable when browsing or reading small text. |
| Technology | OLED | IPS LCD | OLED offers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors compared to the G42's LCD panel. The iPhone display provides a much better visual experience overall. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | iPhone's slightly higher refresh rate results in smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 0 nits (data missing) | The iPhone has a much brighter screen, essential for visibility in sunlight, whereas the missing data from the G42 makes the real world implication unclear but will likely be far inferior to the iPhone 13 Pro. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ (8 nm) | The iPhone’s A15 chip is dramatically faster and more efficient. Expect snappier performance and better graphics for gaming and demanding apps. The G42 is suitable for basic tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,325,768 | 380,000 | The iPhone's benchmark score is more than three times higher. This means significantly better app loading, multitasking, and overall system fluidity. |
| GPU | Apple GPU (5-core) | Adreno 619 | The iPhone's GPU is vastly more powerful, resulting in superior graphics performance for gaming, video editing, and other graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 3125 mAh | 5000 mAh | The G42 has a much larger battery, which should theoretically provide much longer battery life. Actual results will depend on usage patterns. |
| Charging | 20W fast charging, wireless charging | 20W fast charging, No charger in box | Both support 20W fast charging. iPhone has additional MagSafe and Qi wireless charging options. The G42 ships without a charger, which may require additional purchase. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.5 | 50MP, f/1.8 | The iPhone has a lower resolution main sensor, but larger pixel size. The iPhone has a wider aperture and higher quality sensor leading to better images in low-light conditions and more detail despite the lower megapixels. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.0 | The iPhone has higher resolution and superior processing of selfie images. The slightly wider aperture on the G42 might help in low light, but will likely be inferior. |
| Telephoto Lens | Yes | No | The iPhone's telephoto lens offers optical zoom, allowing you to zoom without losing image quality, the G42 only offers digital zoom, which leads to a reduction in image quality. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Yes | No | The iPhone allows you to capture expansive scenes in one photo. The G42 does not provide a wide angle lens for this. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | Yes | No | The iPhone’s ToF sensor enhances depth perception for better portrait mode and AR experiences. The G42 lacks this. |
| Portrait Mode | No | Yes | The G42 does have a dedicated depth camera for portrait mode, although the iPhone delivers far better results using software processing. |
| Macro Lens | No | Yes | The G42 can get closer to subjects for macro photography but this is likely to be of lower quality than the iPhone. |
| Video Quality | Up to 4K/60fps w/ HDR | 1080p/30fps | The iPhone offers significantly superior video recording with higher resolutions, frame rates, HDR, and great stabilisation features compared to the G42 which only supports 1080p. |
| DxOMark Score | 141 (Mobile), 134 (Selfie) | Not Tested | The iPhone boasts high ratings from DxOMark, a measure of image quality, The G42 was not tested and will likely perform much worse. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | iOS 15 (upgradable to iOS 18) | Android 13 (upgradable to 14) | The iPhone provides seamless integration with Apple’s ecosystem. The G42 runs Android, giving you more customisation and open-source app possibilities. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ax (WiFi 6), MIMO | 802.11ax (WiFi 6), Direct, Display | Both are comparable in standard WiFi, The iPhone has MIMO and the G42 has Direct and Display support. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE, AAC | 5.1 LE | The G42 has a newer Bluetooth version, but both are capable for normal use cases. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Both are comparable, the iPhone supports QZSS and the G42 supports Beidou. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Single SIM (Nano) | The iPhone offers more flexibility with dual SIM capabilities and eSIM support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB to 1 TB (multiple variants) | 128 GB | The iPhone offers significantly more internal storage options. This might matter more if you shoot 4K video and store a lot of photos and apps. |
| RAM | 6 GB | 4GB or 6 GB | Adequate for most users, the RAM on the iPhone is more than enough for all tasks. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers microSD card support. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | 2 microphones | The iPhone offers much more comprehensive audio support for music, movies, and voice recording. |
| Security | |||
| Biometrics | Basic Security Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | The G42 offers a convenient side-mounted fingerprint reader, which offers improved biometric security and is easier to use in everyday scenarios. The iPhone relies on Face ID which can be annoying when wearing a mask. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | The G42 offers a screen protection which will help with scratches and day to day use while the iPhone 13 Pro is unknown. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Barometer | Biometric, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Both have a standard sensor suite, the iPhone has a barometer and the G42 has a fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Apple iPhone 13 Pro Strengths:
- Stunning Display: The OLED display with its high resolution, pixel density, refresh rate, and brightness is in a different league from the Nokia’s LCD.
- Blazing Performance: The A15 Bionic chip ensures extremely smooth and responsive performance across all tasks.
- Superior Camera System: The triple-lens camera setup with features like optical zoom, HDR video, and excellent low-light performance is a powerhouse.
- Premium Build and Features: MagSafe charging, advanced audio, and seamless iOS integration add to the premium user experience.
- Software Ecosystem: iOS offers great apps, updates, and tight integration with other Apple devices.
Nokia G42 Strengths:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers potentially much longer battery life for extended use, particularly if you do not use power intensive tasks.
- Budget-Friendly: The Nokia G42 is designed to be very affordable, ideal for users who do not wish to spend the high price of an iPhone.
- Decent Main Camera: The 50MP main camera is decent for everyday shots, although it lacks the image quality and features of the iPhone.
- Expandable storage: Has support for external Micro SD card.
- Biometric Security: Includes a convenient and easy-to-use side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Trade-offs:
- iPhone 13 Pro: Smaller display, higher price.
- Nokia G42: Lower screen resolution, LCD display, weaker processing performance, inferior camera, lacks premium features.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
iPhone 13 Pro is best for:
- Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for demanding tasks, content creation, and gaming.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want the best image and video quality from their smartphone.
- Apple Ecosystem Users: Anyone heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem and who enjoy the seamless experience with other Apple devices.
- Users Who Value High Quality and a Premium Feel: Those willing to pay a premium for a top-end build quality, powerful processor, and seamless experience.
Nokia G42 is best for:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who need a functional phone for basic tasks and don’t want to spend a fortune.
- Long Battery Life Seekers: Users who prioritize longer battery life and don't mind a less powerful processor.
- General Everyday Use: Those who primarily use their phone for browsing, social media, calls, and casual photography.
- Users Who Prefer Android: For users that are used to Android phones and do not wish to be stuck in the Apple ecosystem.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
What's Your Primary Use Case?
- If it's high-performance tasks, top-end photography, and a premium feel, the iPhone is the better choice.
- If it's general use, long battery life, and affordability, the Nokia is the better option.
How Important is Display Quality?
- If an excellent display is a must-have, the iPhone’s OLED screen is a significant advantage.
- If you’re okay with a decent display, the Nokia’s LCD screen is acceptable.
What is your budget?
- If your budget is flexible, then the iPhone is the better choice.
- If you have a tight budget, then the Nokia is the better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Professional Photographer/Videographer: The iPhone 13 Pro's powerful camera system and video capabilities are essential.
- For the Casual User on a Budget: The Nokia G42 offers a practical and affordable option for daily tasks and basic photography.
- For the Mobile Gamer: The iPhone 13 Pro’s powerful processor and GPU offer a far superior gaming experience.
- For the Long-Haul Traveler: The Nokia’s battery life is its main advantage here.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two, I would personally choose the Apple iPhone 13 Pro. Here’s why:
As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, my primary use case includes heavy app usage, photo and video creation, and a need for responsive performance. The iPhone 13 Pro’s superior display, vastly more powerful processor, and exceptional camera system make it the clear winner for my needs. The higher price is a worthwhile trade-off for the level of performance and overall user experience that it provides. Furthermore, while the G42 may have a larger battery, I often am close to a power source so this is a non issue for me, and the wireless charging of the iPhone is very useful.
