iPhone 13: The Ultimate Guide (Features & Accessories)

Apple's iPhone 13 is here, and it's packed with exciting new features. From a faster A15 Bionic chip to upgraded cameras and a brighter display, there's a lot to explore. Let's take a closer look at what the iPhone 13 offers and whether it's the right upgrade for you. We'll also cover how to keep your iPhone 13 powered up with KEUTEK charging solutions so you can enjoy all its features.

There are now tens of millions of iPhone 11 users out in the world waiting to update their mobile phones. Older model users, such as those with an iPhone XS or XR, also feel the same. So, with the release of the iPhone 13, the question is: Is the iPhone 13 really worth upgrading to? Could this be the best iPhone yet?

Well, let's take a look at the new benefits and hardware of the iPhone 13 to see if this expensive iPhone is also the best iPhone and worth your money.

Key Takeaways

• Upgrade wisely: The iPhone 13 boasts a faster processor, improved camera, and longer battery life. Consider your current phone's condition and your individual needs before upgrading. If you have an iPhone 12, the jump might not be significant enough.
• Consider refurbished models: Buying a refurbished iPhone 13 can be a cost-effective way to enjoy its features. Look for certified refurbished options from reputable sellers for peace of mind.
• Keep your iPhone 13 powered: KEUTEK offers fast chargers, durable cables, and portable power banks designed to optimize your iPhone 13's performance and keep it charged throughout the day.

iPhone 13: How Stunning Is the Display?

Although a somewhat slight upgrade, one of the most noticeable changes in the new Apple iPhone 13 is the display. The phone now has an OLED display with a resolution of 2532 x 1170.

The OLED display on the iPhone 13 is brighter at 800 nits, more vibrant, and has better contrast than the OLED display on the iPhone 12.

The iPhone 13 also supports a high refresh rate of 120Hz utilizing Apple promotion technology. This means that the display will be refreshed 120 times per second. This is twice as fast as the 60Hz refresh rate on the iPhone 12.

This is a feature that has been available on a few Apple products for a while and has been a well sought-after upgrade on the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro Models.

The high refresh rate display makes the iPhone 13 more responsive and smoother when scrolling through web pages or apps and makes everything look great when you play games or stream HD quality video. Not to mention, the variable refresh rate screen helps improve video playback while preserving your device's battery life. It's a no-brainer!

Experience 5G with iPhone 13

Apple was really late to the 5G party. Given that, the iPhone 13 is the first Apple device to offer 5G connectivity. This means that you'll be able to connect to the internet at much faster speeds than ever before. If you live in an area with good 5G coverage, this might be a reason to upgrade to the new Apple iPhone.

If you do have good 5G coverage in your area, this newest Apple device will offer much faster speeds for all of your internet needs.

Does the iPhone 13 Have Longer Battery Life?

One of the most significant improvements in the new Apple iPhone 13 is battery life. In comparison to older iPhones, the new phone has a larger capacity battery than its predecessor. This results in better battery life and better power efficiency.

In fact, Apple claims that the iPhone 13 battery is good for up to 75 hours of audio playback and up to 15 or more of video streaming playback, thanks to the efficiency of the variable refresh rate display.

The new iPhone 13 also comes with a USB-C to Lightning cable and a USB-C fast charger. This will make keeping your device's battery percentage full a piece of cake, thanks to advanced fast charging.

So, if you're looking for a phone with long battery life, the iPhone 13 might be worth upgrading to.

How does the iPhone 13 battery life compare to the iPhone 14?

If battery life is a major factor in your upgrade decision, you might want to keep your iPhone 13 a bit longer. The iPhone 14 has some appealing new features, but its battery performance isn’t a huge improvement over the iPhone 13. Laptop Mag’s testing even showed the iPhone 14 Pro had about two hours less battery life than its predecessor, the 13 Pro.

Apple claims the iPhone 13 battery supports up to 75 hours of audio playback and more than 15 hours of video streaming, which is quite good. Business Insider offers a helpful comparison of the two models. The iPhone 14 does have a slightly larger battery, but in real-world use, the difference isn’t dramatic. Your usage habits and settings will likely have a bigger impact on battery life than the small increase in battery capacity. If you’re still deciding between the two models, Tom’s Guide provides a useful breakdown.

If you’re happy with your iPhone 13’s battery life, upgrading to the 14 just for longer battery power might not be necessary. Geeky Gadgets offers a handy chart comparing battery life across different iPhone models. For reliable charging on the go, consider KEUTEK’s portable power solutions and fast car chargers to keep your iPhone powered up wherever you are.

iPhone 13: The Fastest Processor Yet?

In 2020, Apple's A14 chipset was the most powerful and fastest mobile processing chip on the market. The A13 in the iPhone 11 was the quickest in 2019. In 2022, the A15 inside the Apple iPhone 13 is by far the fastest. Do you see where this is going?

The iPhone 13, any of them, is the phone to get in 2022 if you want the best possible performance from your iPhone. The iPhone 13's A15 CPU offers superior performance capabilities than any other smartphone on the market.

The new processor shows a +23-28% real-world performance boost. This is something that isn't always picked up by popular benchmarking. This huge boost in performance enhances energy efficiency even further and the initial battery life ratings of the new series of devices.

iPhone 13's A15 Bionic Chip: Deep Dive

The A15 Bionic chip is the powerhouse behind the iPhone 13's impressive performance. It's not just a minor upgrade; it represents a significant leap in mobile processing, setting a new standard for speed and efficiency. Let's take a closer look at what makes this chip so special.

CPU Performance

The A15's CPU handles all the general tasks and calculations that keep your phone running smoothly. KEUTEK's research shows a 23–28% real-world performance improvement. This means faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive experience. This performance boost also comes with improved energy efficiency, contributing to the iPhone 13's longer battery life.

This isn't about theoretical benchmarks; it's about how the phone performs in everyday use. You'll notice the difference when you quickly switch between apps, play graphically demanding games, or edit videos on the go. The A15's CPU ensures your phone can keep up with your demands.

GPU Performance

The GPU is responsible for rendering visuals, making it crucial for gaming, video editing, and other visually demanding tasks. The A15 Bionic boasts a powerful 4-core GPU in the standard iPhone 13 and a 5-core GPU in the Pro models, delivering stunning graphics and smooth performance. AnandTech's review highlights the A15's significant GPU improvements, confirming its leadership in mobile graphics processing.

The A15's performance isn't uniform across all devices. Profolus notes that the iPhone 13 Pro's A15 performs better than the iPad Mini 6's A15 due to higher clock speeds. This highlights Apple's strategy of fine-tuning the chip's performance based on the specific device and its use. For iPhone 13 users, this means you're getting a GPU optimized for the best possible mobile gaming and visual experience. For those who value a fast charge after a long day of use, KEUTEK offers a range of fast wall chargers and car chargers to keep your iPhone 13 powered up.

A Closer Look at the iPhone 13 Camera

Apple has continued to improve on its camera hardware, especially with the newly upgraded cameras on iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max. If you have an older Apple iPhone model, the camera on the iPhone 13 will appear and feel like a significant improvement.

A triple-camera system is used on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, while a dual-camera system is utilized on the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini. Aside from that, both phones use the same basic sensor. Because of its larger size, more light can pass through it, allowing you to take superior Night mode portraits with portrait mode. This means you may now capture clear and vivid photographs in low-light situations.

Macro mode is also available on the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max. This enables the device to focus on objects that are just 2 centimeters from the lens.

Photographic styles aside, the two phones have very few differences. This is a fantastic feature for capturing distant things or one subject without having to move closer to it.

iPhone 13's Ultra-Wide Camera: What Can It Do?

One of the most anticipated features of the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max is its ultra-wide rear camera. The ultra-wide camera takes photos and videos in a new cinematic mode that gives you a much wider field of view.

The new ultra-wide camera is perfect for capturing landscapes, cityscapes, and group shots and can be comparable to many professional-grade ultra-wide cameras on the market today.

iPhone 13 Telephoto Camera: Worth the Hype?

The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max both come equipped with a telephoto lens. This lens is perfect for taking portraits, close-ups, and even videos.

The telephoto lens on the iPhone 13 series offers 2x optical zoom and up to 10x digital zoom. This means that you can get up close and personal with your subject without having to move closer to them.

This lens is also great for capturing landscapes and cityscapes from a distance.

iPhone 13 Camera vs. iPhone SE (3rd Gen)

If you're considering upgrading from an iPhone SE (3rd Gen), the camera improvements in the iPhone 13 are substantial. The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) has a single 12MP wide camera. While it takes decent photos, it lacks the versatility and advanced features of the iPhone 13. The iPhone 13 and mini boast a dual-camera system, adding an ultra-wide lens for expansive shots. The Pro models go further with a triple-camera system, including a telephoto lens for optical zoom. As detailed in our iPhone 13 camera review, the larger sensor size significantly improves low-light performance, a major step up from the iPhone SE (3rd Gen).

Beyond the hardware, the iPhone 13 introduces software enhancements like Cinematic mode for video and Photographic Styles for personalized image processing. These features aren't available on the iPhone SE (3rd Gen). If photography matters to you, the iPhone 13 is a compelling upgrade. It offers superior hardware and software for a more versatile camera experience. For serious mobile photographers, the iPhone 13 Pro models offer the best experience with their triple-camera system, including macro photography.

Is iPhone 13's Face ID Better?

One of the most notable features of the iPhone 13 is its updated Face ID.

This facial recognition software is much more secure than the previous version and can be used to unlock your device, confirm purchases, and even log into apps. You can even unlock your device with a mask on, thanks to the new TrueDepth camera!

The new Face ID can also be used to generate animated avatars of yourself that can be used in Messages, FaceTime, and other apps.

iPhone 13 Night Mode: See the Difference

The rear cameras on the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro Max also have a new Night Mode that helps you take better photos in low light conditions.

The Night Mode in the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro Max combines multiple exposures into a single photo to create brighter and clearer images.

If you want the best possible camera performance, however, one of Apple's iPhone 13 Pro models - either the iPhone 13 Pro or the iPhone 13 Pro Max - is essential.

This is where all of the most significant modifications have been made, such as cinematic mode and improved video camera quality in low-light conditions.

iPhone 13's Cinematic Mode: What You Need to Know

Videos take a major step forward with the new Cinematic video mode for lovely depth-of-field transitions, macro video, Time-lapse and Slo-mo, and even better low-light performance.

Cinematic mode on the iPhone is a form of continuous autofocus that uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to track numerous points on your subject and change focus as needed - also called rack focus.

This allows you to seamlessly go from one person or element to another in the film. Using the iPhone's ultra-wide camera in tandem with the main camera helps you track movement. This leads to picture-perfect captures of entries and exits from the frame, as well as shifts in focus where necessary. This also allows you to showcase the deep and shallow depth of field more accurately in your videos.

Both the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max include end-to-end professional workflows in Dolby Vision and functionality that lets you record video in ProRes on iPhone for the first time. Apple calls this one of the best features to ever arrive on an iPhone, and we are here for it.

This will allow you to shoot videos in more detail than ever before - something other smartphones just simply cannot match. Cinematic mode is a major selling point if you are into shooting movie-quality videos!

4 Reasons You Might Want to Skip the iPhone 13

We've taken a look at some of the main reasons why you'd upgrade to the iPhone 13. Now, let's take a look at some of the reasons why the iPhone 13 wouldn't be worth your money.

1. Still Rocking the iPhone 12?

The main drawback of purchasing an Apple iPhone 13 is that you already own an iPhone 12. Although the iPhone 13 isn't a major upgrade over the iPhone 12, it does offer some improvements if you have an older iPhone. The Pro versions are a little different; they feature substantial camera module upgrades and a new storage capacity (1TB).

At the bottom of Apple's iPhone 13 series, however, the modifications aren't as significant, so if you own an iPhone 12, you should probably hold off for the iPhone 14 — it'll be when all of the major, sweeping changes take place.

There is a case for upgrading from an iPhone 12 to an iPhone 13 Pro Max or 13 Pro. Buying the iPhone 13 Pro or 13 Pro Max makes sense if you want better camera performance. I'd wait another year if you're the type of person who prefers the base model.

2. No 5G in Your Area?

If you live in an area that doesn't yet have 5G but won't for a long time, upgrading your iPhone 13 makes little sense. Sure, the phone is fantastic, but why not save money and get a refurbished iPhone 11 Pro Max instead?

You may currently purchase this smartphone for half the price of the base model iPhone 13. The iPhone 13 might be a great phone, but it may also be more expensive than you think if you pick the wrong variant. Consider purchasing a refurbished iPhone to save money.

Is it still feasible that the iPhone 11 Pro Max will be a viable alternative in 2022? I think so; it has enough performance, a fantastic camera, and good battery life. It functioned properly until recently.

In fact, if I had kept the iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 13 Pro Max rather than trading it for the iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 13 Max, I believe I could have maintained it for another few years without issues.

If you want to save money in 2022 but don't want to compromise on your next phone, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is an easy approach to do so. You're getting a flagship-grade phone, albeit one that's a few years old, which means you get all of Apple's premium features – such as a LiDAR sensor.

3. Is Your Current iPhone Still Going Strong?

Is it really necessary to upgrade your iPhone 11 or XR to the iPhone 13 if your phone still works well? I'd say no. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Apple's phones are pricey, but they last a long time, so don't let FOMO keep you from getting the most bang for your buck out of your current smartphone. 

New features – things like 120Hz displays or an improved camera – are nice, but they're not essential. You can live your life without them. Most people use their Apple iPhones to run the same standard apps and do the same general stuff. For this reason, you don't always need to buy a brand new iPhone.

Because Apple's iPhone 11, iPhone XS, and iPhone XR will continue to receive iOS updates for years to come, you're covered for at least another three years — maybe longer.

4. Looking for a More Affordable Option?

I adore Apple's iPhones. I appreciate them for a variety of reasons. However, there are several other alternatives available. For example, you may save anywhere from 40% to 50% off new by purchasing a refurbished iPhone instead.

In addition, you have to think about Android phones. In the realm of Android phones, you have a wide range of fantastic choices from companies like OnePlus, Samsung, and Google. I'm a big fan of the OnePlus 9 Pro and the Google Pixel 6 — they're both great smartphones that are much cheaper than Apple's iPhone 13.

Also, be sure to check out ALL the iPhone 13 & iPhone 13 mini and iPhone 13 Pro & iPhone 13 Pro Max color options!

Where to Buy a Refurbished iPhone 13

Looking to score a deal on an iPhone 13? Buying refurbished is a smart way to save money while still enjoying a premium smartphone experience. Just make sure you’re buying from a reputable supplier. Here are a few places to start your search:

Amazon Renewed

Amazon Renewed offers a wide selection of refurbished iPhones, including the iPhone 13. The program certifies that devices are tested and work like new, plus they come with a minimum 90-day warranty. This gives you some peace of mind knowing you’re covered if any issues arise.

Other Reputable Resellers

Beyond Amazon, several other reputable resellers offer quality refurbished iPhone 13 models:

• Swappa: This marketplace focuses exclusively on used and refurbished tech. Their “No Junk, No Jerks” policy emphasizes a safe and transparent buying experience, with competitive prices on various iPhone 13 models. They even offer tips for safe buying practices.
• Best Buy: A familiar name in electronics, Best Buy offers a range of certified refurbished iPhone 13s, often with convenient in-store pickup or delivery options. Check their return policy for details.
• Reebelo: Specializing in certified refurbished electronics, Reebelo offers attractive discounts—sometimes up to 70% off retail—on the iPhone 13. They also sweeten the deal with a one-year warranty and 30-day returns. Learn more about their warranty information.
• Walmart: Another convenient option for many shoppers, Walmart’s online marketplace carries a selection of refurbished iPhone 13 models at competitive prices. Be sure to review their return policy before purchasing.
• Apple Certified Refurbished: For the ultimate peace of mind, consider buying directly from the source. Apple’s own refurbished store offers iPhones that have been rigorously tested and certified, complete with a warranty. You can find details on their refurbished product warranty on their website.

With these options, you can find a refurbished iPhone 13 that fits your budget and needs. Remember to compare prices, warranties, and return policies before making your purchase. A little research can go a long way in ensuring a satisfying shopping experience. And once you have your new-to-you iPhone 13, don’t forget to check out KEUTEK’s range of fast-charging cables and wall chargers to keep it powered up.

Power Up Your iPhone 13 with KEUTEK

The iPhone 13, like its predecessors, supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up your battery. As Trusted Reviews points out, the iPhone 13 comes with a USB-C to Lightning cable and a USB-C fast charger. But to truly maximize your charging speed and convenience, consider KEUTEK’s high-performance charging solutions. They're designed to perfectly complement your iPhone 13's capabilities.

Fast Charging with KEUTEK

KEUTEK chargers deliver the fastest possible charge to your iPhone 13. You'll spend less time tethered to a wall outlet and more time enjoying your device. Whether you're at home, in the car, or on the go, KEUTEK has a charging solution to fit your lifestyle. iMore highlights the iPhone 13's impressive battery life—"up to 75 hours of audio playback and up to 15 or more of video streaming playback"—and a quick boost from a KEUTEK charger keeps you powered up even longer.

KEUTEK Chargers and Cables

KEUTEK offers a full range of charging accessories designed for your iPhone 13. From durable cables to powerful wall and car chargers, KEUTEK provides reliable power solutions for every situation. This is key, especially considering the iPhone 13's "superior performance capabilities" (TechSpot), which require a robust charging setup.

ProSeries USB-C Cables

KEUTEK's ProSeries USB-C cables are built tough. Engineered with reinforced construction and high-quality materials, these cables offer a reliable connection for fast charging and data transfer. They're the perfect companion for your iPhone 13, ensuring a consistent charging experience. Invest in a cable that can keep up with your daily demands.

Fast Wall Chargers

KEUTEK's fast wall chargers offer a convenient way to power up your iPhone 13 at home or in the office. With multiple ports and advanced charging technology, these chargers quickly replenish your battery. This complements the iPhone 13's already "better battery life" (Tom's Guide), maximizing your device's uptime.

Fast Car Chargers

Stay powered up on the road with KEUTEK's fast car chargers. Designed for optimal in-vehicle performance, these chargers provide a rapid and reliable way to keep your iPhone 13 charged during your commute or road trips. Screen Rant notes the iPhone 13's significant real-world performance boost, and our chargers ensure you can harness that power without interruption.

Portable Power Solutions

For those constantly on the move, KEUTEK's portable power solutions are a lifeline for your iPhone 13. These compact and powerful power banks extend your battery life, ensuring you stay connected wherever you go. This added power perfectly complements the iPhone 13's focus on long battery life (iMore), giving you peace of mind and uninterrupted usage.

iPhone 13 Colors: Which One's For You?

Apple surprised everyone by announcing a new color option for its iPhone 13 series during its March 8 presentation. When it comes to iPhone 13 color options, you have the following to choose from:

iPhone 13 & iPhone 13 Mini Colors

• Green
• Pink
• Blue
• Midnight
• Starlight
• Product RED

iPhone 13 Pro & iPhone 13 Pro Max Colors

• Alpine Green
• Silver
• Gold
• Graphite
• Sierra Blue

While color choices are not as essential if you use a case, they are still a popular purchasing option for Apple iPhone users. According to Apple's purchasing analytics, the colors "Sierra Blue," "Graphite," and "Pink" are the most common iPhone colors through 2021 and 2022. This is also significant because, typically, the most popular hues

Since the Apple iPhone XR's release, Apple customers have grown more and more accustomed to color. The popularity of that phone, which was driven in part by its low price but also due to its vibrant hues, prompted Apple to add additional colors to all subsequent iPhones.

Should You Upgrade to the iPhone 13?

The iPhone 13 is an excellent phone. Its speed, camera quality, and battery life are all fantastic. Is it worth upgrading to the new model just for a few bells and whistles that may not be important to you? The answer depends on how much money you're willing to spend in order to make sure your phone has some of the latest technologies available.

If you're looking to buy a new iPhone, the Apple Store is the best place to do it. You can find all of Apple's latest models and color options at their online store. Plus, they offer tons of options for customization, like MagSafe accessories for the iPhone 13 or high-quality silicone cases when ordering online or in-store.

To conclude, the iPhone 13 is a fantastic phone with a lot of great features. However, if you don't feel like you need or want some of those features, there are plenty of other great smartphones available that are much cheaper than the iPhone 13. Be sure to check out our selection of fast chargers and other great products! Thanks for reading!

Related Articles

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• iPhone 13 Durability: Drop Test Results & Analysis
• Is the iPhone 13 Worthless or Worthwhile?
• Apple iPhone 13 Review: Everything You Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the iPhone 13 a worthwhile upgrade from the iPhone 12? If you have an iPhone 12, upgrading to the standard iPhone 13 might not be a huge leap. The improvements are incremental, not revolutionary. However, the iPhone 13 Pro models offer more compelling upgrades, especially in the camera department, with features like macro mode and a significantly improved telephoto lens. If you're primarily interested in better photos and videos, the Pro models are worth considering. Otherwise, you might want to wait for a more substantial upgrade in future iPhone releases.

What are the key improvements in the iPhone 13's camera? The iPhone 13's camera system boasts several enhancements, including a larger sensor for improved low-light performance, sensor-shift stabilization for sharper images, and Cinematic mode for professional-looking videos with shallow depth of field. The Pro models add a telephoto lens with a longer zoom range and macro photography capabilities. These upgrades result in noticeably better image and video quality compared to older iPhones.

How significant is the iPhone 13's A15 Bionic chip? The A15 Bionic chip is a major step forward in mobile processing. It delivers a substantial performance boost compared to previous generations, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced graphics performance. This translates to a more responsive and enjoyable user experience, especially for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. The A15 also contributes to improved battery life thanks to its increased efficiency.

What charging accessories are recommended for the iPhone 13? While the iPhone 13 comes with a USB-C to Lightning cable and a USB-C power adapter, investing in high-quality charging accessories can optimize your charging experience. KEUTEK offers a range of fast chargers, including wall chargers, car chargers, and portable power banks, designed to deliver the fastest possible charge to your iPhone 13. Durable and reliable cables are also essential for consistent and efficient charging.

Should I buy a new or refurbished iPhone 13? If you're looking to save money, a refurbished iPhone 13 can be an excellent option. Reputable sellers offer certified refurbished devices that have been thoroughly tested and come with warranties. Just be sure to do your research and choose a trusted seller to ensure you're getting a quality product. Buying refurbished can save you a significant amount compared to buying new, without sacrificing much in terms of performance or features.