Why I haven't reviewed the Apple iPhone 12.... yet - Mini + Pro Max First Impressions

This video presents Linus and the team comparing the iPhone 12 Mini and the iPhone 12 Pro Max as part of a broader look at the iPhone 12 family, while also explaining why a full review hasn’t arrived yet. The host explains that historically Linus Tech Tips posts only one video per major iPhone launch until the full family is explored, and that the two devices in hand might replace the iPhone 12 Pro in his pocket, depending on how they fit his usage patterns. He contrasts the two sizes against his prior experience with larger foldable displays and highlights the practical tradeoffs between one-handed usability and media consumption. The section also frames the video as first impressions rather than a formal review, with hints that a future, more in-depth assessment will follow after more hands-on time and testing. Throughout, he notes that the devices were provided by Dbrand for update context and teases future content including a quick comparison and potential daily-driver testing across the Mini versus the Pro Max. The goal of the video is to set expectations, show first-hand feel, and outline initial likes and reservations before delivering a full review later on. In the middle portion, the hosts dive into real-world usability and ergonomic considerations. They examine the physical presence of the Pro Max’s camera bump, the perceived heft, and the squared-off edge design, while acknowledging the tradeoffs in comfort for larger screens. They discuss Face ID performance in a world of mask-wearing, the absence of a fingerprint sensor in the power button, and the friction of unlocking with a passcode in public settings as a notable drawback in everyday use. The team also explores software UX concerns such as the control center customization and app organization, critiquing the current layout and headerless grouping of settings as less intuitive. Demonstrations of media watching on the big screen reveal a standout display experience, even as the notch and bezel behavior generate humorous debate about aspect ratios and content framing. The conversation remains balanced, noting that while there are compromises relative to the Pro, the smaller iPhone 12 still offers strong value, solid performance, and future-proofing due to shared internals with the rest of the lineup. The closing segment compares the 12 Mini to the Pro Max in terms of one-handed comfort, screen usability, and portability. The Mini is praised for its hand feel and lighter weight, with caveats about the slightly smaller battery and the need to decide which size best fits personal consumption habits. They remind viewers that the iPhone 12 lineup retains core performance without crippling differences across the family, and suggest that for most users the 12 (not the Pro) could be the better balance of size, price, and capability. The video ends with a quick call to action to subscribe for more first impressions and to wait for the forthcoming full review, which will dig deeper into camera performance, battery life, and day-to-day practicality. Overall, the impressions emphasize design philosophy, size perception, and real-world usage as the foundation for a comprehensive future review.

Topics · technology · smartphones · product reviews · consumer electronics