When Apple launched the iPhone 12 in October 2020, it marked a bold return to the flat-edge design reminiscent of the iconic iPhone 4 and 5 series. With improved performance, stunning display quality, and MagSafe integration, the iPhone 12 was a significant leap forward. But aside from all the flashy specs, many users ask a very practical question: How long is an iPhone 12?
Whether you’re trying to buy a case, check pocket fit, or compare it to older models, the length of the iPhone 12 plays an important role in user comfort and experience. This article explores the precise dimensions of the iPhone 12—focusing especially on its length—and compares it with other models, discusses real-world usability, and helps you understand why even a few millimeters can make a big difference.
Quick Answer: How Long Is the iPhone 12?
Let’s get straight to the point.
- Length (Height): 146.7 mm
That’s about 5.78 inches in height.
This is the vertical length of the iPhone 12 when held upright from the bottom edge to the top. While this may sound like just a number, it actually has a lot of significance in terms of everyday use.
iPhone 12: A Short Overview
Before we go deeper into the importance of its size, let’s take a quick look at what makes the iPhone 12 so special.
It was the first iPhone to feature:
- An OLED Super Retina XDR display across all models.
- The A14 Bionic chip, which was the fastest chip in a smartphone at the time.
- MagSafe technology for snap-on accessories and wireless charging.
- A new flat-edge design that gave it a sharper, more modern look.
The iPhone 12 was designed to be the perfect balance between power, elegance, and usability—something reflected in its overall form factor, including its length.
Full Dimensions of the iPhone 12
While the main question is about length, here are all the key physical dimensions:
- Length (Height): 146.7 mm (5.78 inches)
- Width: 71.5 mm (2.82 inches)
- Thickness: 7.4 mm (0.29 inches)
- Weight: 164 grams (5.78 ounces)
Compared to the iPhone 11, the iPhone 12 is slightly shorter, narrower, thinner, and lighter, even though both have a 6.1-inch screen. This is mainly because of the newer edge-to-edge display and minimized bezels.
Why Length Matters in a Smartphone
Many people focus on performance, cameras, and battery life when buying a phone. However, the length of a smartphone has a major effect on:
1. Portability
Will the phone stick out of your jeans or shirt pocket? A phone that’s too long can be inconvenient to carry, especially during workouts or travel.
2. Comfort in Hand
Length plays a role in how comfortably a phone fits in your hand, particularly for one-handed use. A taller phone can be hard to reach across without using both hands.
3. Accessory Fit
If you’re buying cases, screen protectors, or car mounts, even a 1–2 mm difference in length could mean incompatibility.
4. Visual Appeal
A longer phone may appear sleeker or more modern, depending on your aesthetic preferences. The iPhone 12 finds a sweet spot between style and usability.
Comparing iPhone 12 Length with Other iPhones
Here’s a comparison table showing the length of the iPhone 12 versus other popular models:
| iPhone Model | Length (mm) | Length (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone SE (2020) | 138.4 | 5.45 |
| iPhone XR | 150.9 | 5.94 |
| iPhone 11 | 150.9 | 5.94 |
| iPhone 12 | 146.7 | 5.78 |
| iPhone 12 Pro Max | 160.8 | 6.33 |
| iPhone 13 | 146.7 | 5.78 |
| iPhone 14 | 146.7 | 5.78 |
This chart shows that the iPhone 12 is shorter than the iPhone 11 and XR, but matches the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 in length. Apple seems to have found an ideal size with 146.7 mm, keeping it consistent across several generations.
What About the iPhone 12 Mini?
If the iPhone 12 is still too long for your preferences, Apple also released a smaller sibling—the iPhone 12 Mini.
- Length of iPhone 12 Mini: 131.5 mm (5.18 inches)
This compact device caters to users who prioritize pocketability and one-handed use over screen size. It’s a great choice if length is a major concern.
How Does Screen Size Relate to Length?
It’s easy to confuse screen size with physical length. The iPhone 12 has a 6.1-inch screen, but this refers to the diagonal measurement, not the vertical height of the device.
Thanks to edge-to-edge design and minimal bezels, Apple managed to pack a 6.1-inch screen into a phone that’s shorter and thinner than older models with the same screen size. That’s smart engineering in action.
Holding the iPhone 12: Real-World Feel
Despite being shorter than the iPhone 11, the iPhone 12 feels slightly more angular because of its flat edges. This can give the illusion that the phone is longer or more rigid, but it’s actually quite compact in real-world use.
For most people, the 146.7 mm length strikes a good balance. You won’t struggle to reach the top corners, and it still feels premium and solid in the hand.
Does the iPhone 12 Fit in Pockets?
Yes—most of the time.
With a length of 146.7 mm and a slim profile of 7.4 mm, the iPhone 12 fits comfortably in most pants, jacket, and handbag pockets. However, if you use a bulky protective case, the fit could be tighter.
It’s also not so long that it pokes out awkwardly while sitting or walking, a problem common with some of the larger Pro Max phones.
Length and Gaming/Media Experience
When watching videos or gaming, a longer phone can give you more screen space—but not always more comfort. The iPhone 12’s 146.7 mm body combined with its full-screen OLED display delivers an immersive experience without being unmanageable.
Its relatively shorter body compared to larger phones means less hand fatigue during extended use. Whether you’re binge-watching or playing games, the size works well.
Traveling with iPhone 12: A Practical Fit
Whether you’re hopping into an Uber or boarding a plane, your smartphone becomes your lifeline. The iPhone 12’s length makes it a great travel companion—easy to store, quick to pull out, and not too long to hold during long trips.
Even with airport tickets, maps, or music streaming apps open, the length helps maintain a great display area without making the device bulky.
Accessibility Features That Offset Length
If you’re worried about reaching the top of the screen due to the phone’s length, Apple offers Reachability—a feature that shifts the interface lower on the screen to allow one-handed access.
Combine this with Back Tap, one-handed keyboard, and AssistiveTouch, and the iPhone 12 becomes very user-friendly regardless of its size.
Is the iPhone 12 Too Long for Small Hands?
That depends. If you’re used to phones like the iPhone SE or iPhone 8, the iPhone 12 may initially feel long. However, many users report getting used to the length quickly due to its thin design and lightweight build.
Those with small hands may still prefer the iPhone 12 Mini, but the standard iPhone 12 is by no means excessively long.
Summary: Key Takeaways About iPhone 12’s Length
- Exact Length: 146.7 mm (5.78 inches)
- Shorter than: iPhone 11, iPhone XR
- Same length as: iPhone 13, iPhone 14
- Comfortable for most users: Yes
- Good for media & portability: Absolutely
- Alternatives if it feels too long: iPhone 12 Mini
Final Thoughts
So, how long is an iPhone 12? The answer—146.7 mm—might seem like just a number, but it tells a story of Apple’s evolving design philosophy. The iPhone 12 is a device that blends performance, portability, and elegance into a slim, sturdy package. Its length contributes to its usability, grip, and how well it fits into your lifestyle.
Whether you’re shopping for a case, comparing devices, or just curious, knowing the exact length of your smartphone is more valuable than you might think. And when it comes to the iPhone 12, that length feels just right.
Would you like a similar article on iPhone 12 Pro Max or iPhone 13?