Announced as the flagship device in Apple’s iPhone 12 lineup, the iPhone 12 Pro Max boasts the largest screen and the most impressive main camera among the new iPhones. With a wide 12 MP sensor, a 26 mm-equivalent f/1.6 lens, and sensor-based optical stabilization, this device offers impressive imaging capabilities. But how does it perform in real-world tests? Let’s find out!
Impressive Imaging Capabilities
The iPhone 12 Pro Max features a main wide camera with a 12 MP sensor and a 26 mm-equivalent f/1.6 lens. It also includes an ultra-wide camera with a 13 mm-equivalent lens and a tele-module with a 65 mm-equivalent lens for 2.5x zoom. Additionally, it comes with a LiDAR sensor for depth mapping.
Test Summary
In our DXOMARK Camera test, the iPhone 12 Pro Max achieved an impressive overall score of 130, making it one of the top performers in our database. With an excellent Photo sub-score of 138, this device delivers strong performance across most image quality attributes, rivaling even Huawei’s Mate 40 Pro.
Excellent Exposure and Color
The iPhone 12 Pro Max offers accurate exposure, especially in portraits and low-light situations. However, its dynamic range could be improved, as highlights and shadows tend to clip in scenes with high brightness range. Color rendering is generally pleasant, with a slightly warm tone indoors. In high dynamic range scenes, color accuracy may be less reliable.
Lightning-Fast Autofocus and Texture Preservation
Autofocus is a standout feature of the iPhone 12 Pro Max, setting a new high for this sub-score. It quickly and accurately locks onto subjects, even in challenging lighting conditions. The device also excels in texture preservation, maintaining detail in low-light environments.
Noise Reduction and Image Artifacts
The iPhone 12 Pro Max effectively balances texture and noise, resulting in lower noise levels compared to its predecessor. However, some competitors still outperform it in terms of noise reduction and detail preservation. Image artifacts, such as color quantization and ghosting, are fairly well controlled but could be improved.
Good Bokeh Simulation and Night Photography
The iPhone 12 Pro Max’s portrait mode produces pleasing results, with a natural-looking bokeh effect and good subject separation. However, like most devices, it may struggle with complex subjects like hair. Night photography is a strong suit, with accurate exposures and balanced noise and detail.
Zoom Capability and Video Performance
The iPhone 12 Pro Max offers a 2.5x zoom capability, outperforming its predecessor but falling behind other flagship devices with longer zoom ranges. The device excels in the wide camera department, providing good coverage and image quality. In terms of video performance, it achieves a Video score of 113, delivering wide dynamic range, accurate colors, low noise, and effective stabilization.
Conclusion
The iPhone 12 Pro Max is an impressive device with significant advances in image quality and video capabilities. While it may not have the longest zoom range compared to some competitors, its overall performance is outstanding. With its lightning-fast autofocus, excellent exposure, and pleasing colors, this device is a great choice for mobile photographers. Additionally, its video capabilities, including Dolby Vision HDR support, make it a compelling option for videography enthusiasts.
Please view our Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max gallery for sample images and videos captured with this device.
FAQs
Q: Does the iPhone 12 Pro Max have a night mode for photography?
A: Yes, the iPhone 12 Pro Max has a night mode that enhances low-light photography by capturing multiple images and combining them to reduce noise and improve detail.
Q: Can I shoot 4K videos with the iPhone 12 Pro Max?
A: Yes, the iPhone 12 Pro Max supports 4K video recording at 24, 30, and 60 fps. It also features Dolby Vision HDR for enhanced video quality.
Q: How does the iPhone 12 Pro Max compare to other flagship smartphones in terms of camera performance?
A: The iPhone 12 Pro Max ranks among the top performers in our camera test, with excellent imaging capabilities. While it may not have the longest zoom range, its overall performance, including exposure, color accuracy, and autofocus, is highly impressive.
Conclusion
The iPhone 12 Pro Max is a true powerhouse when it comes to photography and videography. With its top-notch camera system, lightning-fast autofocus, and excellent image quality, it offers a compelling choice for mobile photographers and videographers. Whether you’re capturing stunning landscapes or shooting high-quality videos, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is a device that won’t disappoint.
[DXOMARK Camera test protocol]: https://virtualtechvision.com/
[DXOMARK Camera test]: https://virtualtechvision.com/
*[DXOMARK]: https://virtualtechvision.com/
