Apple iPhone 5 Pro Reviews

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gadgetreview‘s review Edit Like Unlike

It’s the smallest, lightest, and fastest smartphone in the world. It isn’t the best hardware, but it is the best package you can buy.

8.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Dec 13, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

There's no denying that the iPhone 5 has lost some of its appeal – after all, this handset has been around for a year now, and it's only expected that new high-end smartphones will be able to offer better tech. Such is the case with the camera of the Xperia Z1, for example. However, the iPhone 5 holds up surprisingly well after all this time. The device is just as snappy, if not even faster than the Xperia Z1, all the while offering a premium design and great screen, as well as better call quality and speaker. However, if 4” screens are starting to feel a bit small to you, then it's obviously time for you to consider an Android flagship such as the Xperia Z1. It'll offer you a great design, a large, 5” 1080p display and great performance, courtesy of the state-of-the-art Snapdragon 800 chipset. Still, there is one thing you shouldn't overlook and that's the bulkiness of the Xperia Z1. As highly-functional and good-looking as the Xperia Z1 can be, it's actually among the biggest handsets in its class. If that's an issue for you, you should probably take a look at some of the other Android flagships, such as the Samsung Galaxy S4, HTC One, or LG G2, which are all good alternatives.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Oct 02, 2013

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The Apple iPhone 5 - as any other iPhone - ages gracefully. Its aluminum evergreen monolithic design still feels more solid than that of the brand new LG G2, its display is great and its camera still looks very comparable to the one on LG’s new flagship. However one year is a lot of time in the tech world. The G2 brings better hardware by definition, but it’s also extremely frugal and has a record-breaking long-lasting 3000mAh battery. On its own, the G2 has a large 5.2-inch screen that is a beauty to behold, great ergonomics for its size, a mostly pleasant Android skin, and a stunning camera. Credit where credit is due, but if you don’t absolutely require the compactness of the iPhone 5, the LG’s new G2 is the better phone overall.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 13, 2013

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PC Advisor‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The main difference between the iPhone 5C and the iPhone 5 is the colourful plastic casing. It's cheaper than what Apple sold the iPhone 5 for and specs remain largely the same. Added 4G support might be a key upgrade.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 11, 2013

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

When the dust settles, it’s plainly obvious that these two flagship smartphones perform similarly to one another – with neither one having a dramatic advantage over the other in any particular category. Heck, even their on-contract prices are the same too, as their base configurations start at $200. Ultimately though, it’s the enhancements found with the Moto X’s platform experience that propels it over the iPhone 5. Needless to say, the iPhone 5 continues to be a strong all-around contender in the space, which isn’t all that surprising, but Moto’s offering has its own set of goodies to make it an admirable choice as well. You might say that we’re growing weary with what iOS has to offer. On the other hand, the Moto X is a fresh and exciting entrant to the space – both from a design and software standpoint.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Aug 13, 2013

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Let’s take a quick look at pricing, since it’s always a major factor for any buying decision. From the onset, the Lumia 1020 is sporting a pricey $300 on-contract cost, which might be a concern for some people. Yes, it’s an expensive price point, but when you think about how it’s sporting 32GB of internal storage, it’s actually the same price as the 32GB iPhone 5. Well, you still can pick up the 16GB model for less at $200. Besides cost, the second thing you need to ask yourself is whether or not photo quality is highest on your list. If that’s absolutely the case, then it’s a no-brainer decision to go with the Nokia Lumia 1020, as it’s undeniably the class leader in this particular space. However, the iPhone 5 still has that all-around appeal that we crave with a flagship device. Not only does it have a beautiful design and performs admirably in all areas, but iOS has that rich ecosystem that puts Windows Phone 8 to shame at the moment.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Jul 31, 2013

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PC Advisor‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 really is much more than a tall iPhone 4S with a new plug. The people may demand a revolution every upgrade season. But Apple may just have supplied what the people need, not what they say they want. And that's a powerful evolution on the theme of iPhone which is currently putting the competiton back on the starting blocks.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Jun 17, 2013

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PC Advisor‘s review Edit Like Unlike

In this three way battle, there is no clear winner; each smartphone has its strengths and weaknesses. We like the Galaxy S4's hardware and some of the software features but dislike its plastic build quality. The HTC One has great design and arguably the best screen on the market but the interface is an acquired taste and the camera isn't the best. Meanwhile, the iPhone 5 remains a desirable handset despite its relative old age, delivering well across the board.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Jun 07, 2013

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

If we were to go back and look at how the two performed against one another in all of the categories, you’ll probably be taken by surprise to know that they performed similarly to each other. To tell you the truth, it merely boils down to personal preference, as the platform experience is by far the biggest differentiator. Despite that, we can’t help but think about price, since you know, it’s a huge driving force for some. On one side of the ring, Verizon customers will have to fork over at least $200 to pick up the base model of the iPhone 5 – while the Nokia Lumia 928 jumps out from the get-go with its aggressive $100 on-contract price. Knowing that, if you’re tight on a budget and want to experiment, but don’t want to see any sacrifices in raw performance, we absolutely recommend scoping out Nokia’s latest entrant to the space. Oppositely, if money isn’t a concern, you still can’t go wrong with the iPhone 5 with its premium build and expansive ecosystem.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
May 21, 2013

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LAPTOP Magazine‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The decision between an iPhone 5 and Galaxy S4 comes down to a few factors. If you prefer a bigger screen, going with Samsung’s phone is an easy call, as it makes everything from surfing the Web and playing games more enjoyable. Plus, unlike Apple’s device, you can even run two apps on the display at once. The Galaxy S4 also trumps the iPhone 5 in the features department. Some of its capabilities come off as gimmicky, such as scrolling with your eyes, but others can come in quite handy, such as Air Gestures, S Health and TV remote functionality. We also love all of the fun camera features, even though we prefer the iPhone’s picture quality. The iPhone 5 has a lot of the same advantages now as when we did our last face-off between the iPhone 5 and Galaxy S III. Apple’s device offers a better design, a brighter display and snappier performance when navigating the device. There’s less lag here. The iPhone 5 also lasts longer on a charge (though it lacks a removable battery) and has a better selection of content and apps.

6.0 Rated at:

Published on:
May 17, 2013

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PC Magazine‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Finally, T-Mobile brings you an iPhone 5. And it's fast with great voice quality, as long as you're in a solid coverage area.

8.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Apr 29, 2013

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PC Advisor‘s review Edit Like Unlike

With the iPhone 5 and HTC One neck and neck in so many areas it's almost impossible to choose an outright winner. You get a little more for your money with the HTC One in storage, connectivity and screen. However, the ultimate decision is whether you want iOS or Android.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Apr 22, 2013

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The Galaxy S4 and iPhone 5 are two amazing smartphones. Interestingly, they manage to be amazing in their own, unique ways, which prevents us from choosing an ultimate winner. The Galaxy S4 is extremely versatile, has a ton of interesting features and a beautiful 5" display that is just perfect for video playback and gaming. Meanwhile, the iPhone 5 is almost as capable, thanks to the multitude of quality applications available for it, and there's just something special about the simplicity of iOS. It really just works. Many activities won't be as fun or as comfortable to do as on the GS4, due to the iPhone 5's smaller screen, but you'll be surprised at how polished and competent this phone feels. It all comes down to what type of user you are. Are you a geek or a tech-savvy person who demands a large screen and extreme control over their computing devices? Grab the Galaxy S4 and don't look back! Are you a user who's into technology, but values exquisite design, simplicity and fine-tuned experiences? Get an iPhone – it's still unbeatable in those areas.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Mar 27, 2013

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PC Advisor‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The Galaxy S4 is a step up from the iPhone 5 in terms of hardware so until the next iPhone, it's the winner in this area. However, at the same price, two excellent operating systems and quite different designs on offer the choice is not so straight forward. Keep a look out for our full Galaxy S4 review.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Mar 25, 2013

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The HTC One and Apple iPhone 5 bring out the best of modern smartphones. Both stand out with their distinctive, gorgeous design and solid aluminum build. Both have stunningly sharp, vivid, amazing displays. Despite all those similarities, though, there is an equally clear difference. The HTC One has a larger display with higher resolution and runs on Android, while the iPhone 5 is a small handset made for convenient one-handed use and living on Apple’s iOS ecosystem. The iPhone 5’s camera is the better all-around performer while the HTC One performs admirably in low-light videos because of its superior clarity and sound. It’s quite clear that you can’t go wrong with either of these amazing smartphones. At this point, picking one of the two all boils down to your personal priorities...

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Mar 21, 2013

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The Xperia Z is a truly impressive phone. It's one of hose few Android devices that manage to be exciting both on the inside and on the outside. It has some indisputable advantages over the iPhone 5 such as its way bigger screen and flexible operating system which allows the user to tweak the experience any way they want. We should also note, however, that the amount of detail that Apple has paid to pretty much everything in the iPhone 5 is simply mind-boggling. All the aspects of the device have been tweaked with much care, resulting in an especially well-rounded smarpthone. If a simple to use, reliable and capable handset is what you are after, iPhone 5 should be the way to go. On the other hand, if you desire a true multimedia powerhouse and something with more personalization options, the Xperia Z will be the better choice for you.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Feb 15, 2013

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PC Advisor‘s review Edit Like Unlike

We haven't reviewed the Xperia Z fully so we can't make a final verdict yet. At a similar price and closely contended specifications and features it's a hard one to call. We think the Xperia Z could be a major contender to the iPhone 5, and other Android phones for that matter.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Feb 11, 2013

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Pricing, of course, is a matter that’s very important to many people, and in this specific case, the two start of at the golden price of $200 with a 2-year contract. Talking about value and getting the most bang for the buck out of a device, there’s plenty of it behind the iPhone 5 – like its premium construction and better hardware performance in several key areas. In contrast, if we’re to look strictly at the platform experience, there’s no question which one is boasting that dreamy level of form, function, and depth of features. Heck, looking at the maps and voice control experiences might be enough for people to make a valid decision. Honestly folks, it’s a valiant effort on BlackBerry’s part with its brand spanking new platform, but when there’s a healthy ecosystem surrounding the iPhone, it’s going to be hard to pull people away from those comfortable confines and bring them to a new mobile operating system that hasn’t fully matured yet. On the surface, BlackBerry 10 is visually impressive over iOS, but it simply lacks that breadth of features we desperately want (and expect) in a mobile OS. For now, if you’re itching to experiment and give it a shot, the BlackBerry Z10 is definitely worth a look, but if you’re a power user and prefer an established foundation, stick with the iPhone 5.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Feb 07, 2013

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PC Advisor‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The BlackBerry Z10 is a good smartphone, but it can't quite match the iPhone 5. The iPhone has (and will always have) more apps to choose from - not just the big hitters, but also the less popular utilities that make your life easier. Given that the Z10 is no cheaper than the iPhone 5, there are few reasons to choose it over Apple's latest phone.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Feb 07, 2013

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PC Pro‘s review Edit Like Unlike

A taller screen and a sumptuous redesign for the iconic smartphone, but Apple’s latest iPhone falls tantalisingly short of a place on our A-List

8.3 Rated at:

Published on:
Jan 15, 2013

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expertreviews‘s review Edit Like Unlike

It's smaller, thinner and faster with a higher-resolution screen, but the new Maps app is a disappointment

10.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Jan 14, 2013

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PC Advisor‘s review Edit Like Unlike

As we wrote at the start of this comparison review, whether you should buy the Nexus 4 or iPhone 5 will largely come down to whether you're a member of Camp Android or Camp Apple: neither smartphone will prove a disappointment.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Jan 04, 2013

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Engadget‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 is a significant improvement over the iPhone 4S in nearly every regard, and in those areas that didn't see an upgrade over its predecessor -- camera, storage capacity -- one could make a strong case that the iPhone 4S was already ahead of the curve. Every area, that is, except for the OS. If anything, it's the operating system here that's beginning to feel a bit dated and beginning to show its age. Still, the iPhone 5 absolutely shines. Pick your benchmark and you'll find Apple's thin new weapon sitting at or near the top. Will it convince you to give up your Android or Windows Phone ways and join the iOS side? Maybe, maybe not. Will it wow you? Hold it in your hand -- you might be surprised. For the iOS faithful this is a no-brainer upgrade. This is without a doubt the best iPhone yet. This is a hallmark of design. This is the one you've been waiting for.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 18, 2012

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HotHardware‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The best part of the iPhone 5 is a combination of not only the hardware, but also the software. Though the hardware side of the iPhone 5 excellent, it's the software that may sway you or turn you off. And if you're already into iOS (assuming you are, if you're a 4S owner), just keep your existing handset and download iOS 6. You can take the next opportunity for an upgrade promotion with your carrier of choice or you might even be happy you waited when the iPhone 5S lands next year (if that's what it's called). Regardless, no matter how you slice it, the iPhone 5 puts Apple on much better footing with the top smartphones in the market from any camp and its performance, build quality, fit and finish are second to none.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 22, 2012

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ubergizmo‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Saying that the iPhone 5 is “the best iPhone yet” is technically true, it is also horribly unhelpful. It is obvious that a newly introduced product will be better than the one released last year. Depending on your point of view, I suppose that you may take away from this review that the iPhone 5 “is better, but not *that* much” better”. To me, this is mainly a performance upgrade (4G LTE, CPU, GPU) and while the new design is nice, its best feature is the much lighter weight.I find the WiFi issues to be a bit disturbing, but I’m not sure how widespread this is yet, so I’ll keep monitoring the support forums. If you have an iPhone 3GS or and iPhone 4, are happy with Apple, iTunes and iOS, and can get a carrier upgrade, this is a no-brainer: just do the upgrade and you will obtain a new iPhone 5 which feels like the old one, but better in every way. If you can get the carrier subsidy, just go for the iPhone 5 and don’t try to save $100 by getting an iPhone 4S. If you already have an iPhone 4S, I don’t think that it is worth breaking your contract ($250?) and paying for a new device ($200+), but ultimately, this is up to you.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 24, 2012

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TheVerge‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 is unquestionably the best iPhone ever made, and for the mass market, it's the best smartphone, period. Between the new design, blazing fast LTE, and excellent battery life, there's little to not like here. It's a competent, confident, slick package, certainly made better by most (but not all) of the updates and changes in iOS 6. Despite the Maps issues and some questions about whether Passbook will be a viable product, there's no doubt that Apple has crafted a beast of a phone — a fine machine that is a worthy new entry in the most innovative line of products the company has ever made. But there's also another segment of the market, of which I consider myself a part. That segment thinks that there's still a lot of work to be done in mobile devices; still a lot of innovation to come. And that's not innovation for the sake of innovation. I mean real innovation in the way we use our phones, in the flexibility of those operating systems, in how those devices become an extension of ourselves. For that segment, I think the iPhone 5 and iOS 6 fall short. There's a lot more work to be done, but right now Apple seems to be in a holding pattern, too comfortable or too scared to take real chances. I'll be eagerly awaiting the moment that Apple joins the messy fray again. I have no doubt it will happen. But until then, thank goodness for competition.

8.8 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 21, 2012

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brighthand‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Now comes the question: is the iPhone 5 worth upgrading to? That really depends on what you're upgrading from, and what your needs are. If you are using an iPhone 4 or are ready to leave Windows Mobile or Android... absolutely. If you have a 4S, you can probably still survive another year and you won't be missing out much except for LTE connectivity. But if you can afford paying full price for the iPhone 5, by all means, go for it! This is the best iPhone Apple has released so you won't regret your purchase. People will criticize that the phone is not as innovative as it should be, and iOS 6 is underwhelming when Google has made leaps with Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean), but then you have to go back and ask yourself, how can you improve something that already works very well? We can point out all the things that the Samsung Galaxy S III or any Android phone can do and the iPhone 5 lacks (iOS 6 specifically), but the fact remains that this is still the phone that sets the bar for the competition.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 25, 2012

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pocketnow‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 does everything well. It’s beautiful, super fast, has great battery life, is tied to the best app store out there, and it takes incredible photos and video. There’s no reason you wouldn’t want an iPhone 5, unless of course you desire the flexibility and choice that only an Android phone can provide. If you’re in the latter camp, we recommend the Galaxy S III which has a much larger screen, great hardware, and also-great camera, plus the terrific customizability of Android. We almost might be inclined to recommend a Windows Phone 8 device if you’re looking for a top-notch iPhone 5 alternative, but at the time of this writing, no Windows Phone 8 devices are available.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 25, 2012

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GSMArena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

There are many sides to the Apple iPhone 5's story. You can, for example, look at the progress it makes and compare it to the last major Apple release, the iPhone 4. That one was truly revolutionary - or, as the saying went back then, resolutionary. It had the most impressive screen on the market, a camera that few could beat, an incredibly attractive design, and processing power that equaled the most impressive droids at the time. In comparison, the iPhone 5 brings a modest screen update, which is nowhere near as impressive as a four-fold increase in resolution brought by the iPhone 4. The performance of the camera is basically identical to the one on the 4S, and while the phone looks nothing short of stunning, the finish threatens to deteriorate quite quickly if not looked after. Not to mention that it just lacks the wow factor of the iPhone 4. All we're left with is a surprisingly solid chipset - and we mean a surprise that most quad-cores will hardly call pleasant. But at the end of the day, Apple has failed to live up to its own upgrade standard set with the iPhone 4. What we mean is the iPhone 4S could get away with many things but not the iPhone 5 - not a second year in a row.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 28, 2012

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GSMArena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

It's up to you to go over the ones that matter to you and tally the score. And don't be swayed by popular opinion. The smartphone is probably the most personal thing you own (it knows your friends, has your photos, goes everywhere with you), so it's up to you to decide which one is best. Before you look at the price of either phone, there's one last thing to consider - how invested you are in either ecosystem already. For example, you may have iPhone accessories worth a few hundred dollars (though the iPhone 5 pretty much wiped the slate clean on this one), or maybe various apps you've bought and don't want to lose. That leads us to price and the difference is by no means negligible. SIM-free the iPhone 5 is probably the most expensive smartphone on the market right now, topping the Samsung Galaxy S III in Europe by almost 200 euros. But then, resale value is another thing you might want to look at, after all it won't be long before the next Galaxy S and iPhone generation is out, tempting you to upgrade. Of course, you can easily use the Galaxy S III and iPhone 5 for a couple of years and not feel too far behind the flagship du jour. Some would say that the most damning verdict for the iPhone 5 is that it's trading blows with a smartphone that came to the market 5 months before it, instead of wiping the floor with it. Others will point to the fact that the Galaxy S III took three months to achieve the sales numbers that the Apple flagship already has. In the end, the iPhone 5 vs. Galaxy S III argument comes down to portability vs. screen size, LCD vs. AMOLED, closed vs. open, Apple vs. Samsung. The latter have been in and out of court for a while now but this particular dispute won't be settled in a courtroom. You'll be the judge, so the winner doesn't have to be the one with the better lawyers.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Oct 25, 2012

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Phone Scoop‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 is an impressive smartphone, but it's not without its faults. Nothing in this world is perfect, not even stuff designed and made by Apple. The hardware is absolutely killer. You can't buy a more well-made smartphone than the iPhone 5. Everything about the iPhone 5 is leagues ahead of the competition in terms of materials, fit, and finish. The new, taller display provides extra room for content on the screen without pushing the iPhone 5 into the too-big-to-use category of devices. As for basic performance, battery life was excellent and call quality the best. I was disappointed with signal performance and the uneven HSPA+ speeds on AT&T's 3G network. Those crummy speeds were mitigated by AT&T's LTE network, but remember that AT&T's LTE footprint still only covers about 65 markets. The camera produces excellent still and video results, and the iPhone 5 is one of the best devices out there for listening to music, watching videos, playing games, and (gasp!) being productive when the time calls for it.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 23, 2012

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AnandTech‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The big question is of course whether or not you should upgrade to the iPhone 5. The move to LTE alone is a big enough reason to upgrade for any heavy user of mobile data. The larger/improved display, much faster SoC and 5GHz WiFi support are all icing on the cake - and this is one well iced cake. If you have a subsidized upgrade available via your carrier, I'd say the upgrade is a no brainer. If however you've got to pay full price you have to take into consideration what's coming on the horizon. A faster version will likely hit in late 2013, and we'll potentially see a move to 20nm silicon in late 2014 (paving the way for an improvement in power profile). If you're on a 2 year upgrade cycle, buying the 5 now and upgrading again in 2014 wouldn't be a bad idea.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Oct 16, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Simply put it folks, the outcome basically boils down to personal preference – even more when they perform similarly in nearly all departments. It’s Android or iOS, so you just have to pick your poison. Also, it’s a matter of big versus smaller in this comparison, which is another thing that might factor into your decision. With the two priced at $200 on-contract, some might see the value in the DROID DNA’s impressive specs sheet, but then again, the iPhone 5 matches its rival’s performance with hardware specs that don’t appear to be drool worthy amongst the masses. In the end, whichever you decide to go with, we’re certain they’re two hot devices that are going to be on the gift list of many people this holiday season.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Dec 06, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

On one hand, you’d have to sacrifice quite a bit of comfort picking the Lumia 920 before the iPhone 5. It is chunky and hefty, with shorter battery life, and you might find quite a bit of apps still missing from the WP Store, especially compared to the iOS ecosystem. On the other, the Lumia 920 offers some pretty unique features you can’t find not only in the iPhone 5, but in any other handset, for that matter. Things like shake-free video recording with outstanding sound, the ability to use the screen with gloves, and the free offline voice-guided navigation are not found on the iPhone, so if any of those is important to you, they might tip the scales in Nokia’s favor.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Dec 03, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

All things considered, we’ll hand it to the Nexus 4 for setting the bar for outright pricing. At $300 without a contract for the base 8GB version of the Nexus 4, it very well seems more attractive than the $650 tally of the base 16GB iPhone 5. Yet, when it comes to contract pricing, they’re nearly the same at the usual golden price of $200 with a 2-year agreement. Simply folks, there are many things that we like about both smartphones, as they’re filled with plenty of attractive features – so whichever you decide to go with, you can sleep knowing you’re getting some value in them. For the Nexus 4, its biggest selling point is the supreme Android 4.2 Jelly Bean experience it’s offering. Not only does it manhandle the iPhone 5 when it comes to personalization and visual allure with its interface, but it has some deep features that adhere to the stiff needs of today’s power users. From its useful widgets in the lock screen to the inviting presence of Google Now, the all-encompassing experience is what makes the Nexus 4 so darn lovable.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Nov 29, 2012

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PC Advisor‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 and Nexus 4 are similar in some respects like screen quality and cameras. However, they differ in design and storage options but mostly in software and price.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Nov 12, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The choice is clear cut here – if you can't live without a larger display and the associated supersize media consumption, the HTC One X+ offers a good HD screen, fast processor and copious amounts of internal storage with decent battery life. If a more compact designer handset with excellent display and battery life rocks your boat, or if you are heavily invested in the iOS ecosystem, the iPhone 5 is the best iPhone created so far, so it is an easy pick, hough a 64 GB version runs pretty steep if we are to compare apples to apples. It has one very notable advantage before the HTC One X+, too, and that is in photos and especially video capture.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Nov 08, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

All things considered, we have to admit that the Apple iPhone 5 has managed to out-perform the HTC Windows Phone 8X in most areas, although the latter doesn't lag behind too much. But this is if we're talking about their speed, screens and software capabilities. If we have to factor in their physical designs, there can be no argument at all, as there can be only one winner, and it's not an HTC. Despite the significant advancements made by Redmond, the Windows Phone 8 platform is yet to prove its worth. It found a very tough opponent in iOS 6, and if it weren't for some clever tricks like the Live Tiles, it may not have come out of this fight alive. Though, it will take much more than that to seriously challenge the two horses currently leading the race.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Nov 09, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

As we factor in price point, both of which start at $199.99 on-contract, some might gather that there’s going to be more bang for the buck with the LG Optimus G according to its beefier specs sheet. Needless to say, it definitely helps its cause in making it more prized, but in all fairness, they’re both wonderful devices that execute highly in a variety of fronts. Ultimately, it’s yet again going to come down to which platform experience you’ll want to side with – the straightforward and simple nature of iOS, or the extensive personalization and multimedia feature of LG’s custom Android experience. Whichever device you decide to go with, you can expect them to still be relevant devices in the coming months.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Oct 18, 2012

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PC Magazine‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Apple's elegant smartphone continues to be a winner, but Sprint needs to step up its 4G rollout.

8.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Oct 16, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

There are very few undecided voters who are on the fence when it comes to the iPhone 5 and the Note II. The phones are with such unmistakable individuality that considering one before the other would be either because of sheer curiosity, or because one serves your intended purposes better. If your aim is to have a “set it and forget it” phone, the iPhone 5 is your piece - it is light, with unique design, excellent display and battery life, good snappy camera, and very easy to handle and operate with one hand. This is perfect for the majority of people, who aim for style and convenience out of their handset the most, and getting some work done takes the backseat. Those who need a productive multitasker to be with them at all times and/or are consuming more video than is healthy by the FDA standards, should seriously consider the best large screen out there accompanied by a stylus - conveniently together in the Samsung Galaxy Note II.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Oct 11, 2012

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reghardware‘s review Edit Like Unlike

If you’re an iPhone user, you’ll want to move on up to what is surely the classiest handset from Apple yet. Though the 4S still has lots to offer, thanks to the arrival of iOS 6, the iPhone 5 hardware is nevertheless spectacular and deeply seductive. And when 4G arrives for EE customers, it will be an even more attractive package. Sure, there are other handsets which do as much as or more than the iPhone 5. But Apple’s ease of use, highly populated App Store and irresistibly sleek hardware design are enough to give it the edge.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 21, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

If we were to go down the list and find out which handset wins in each specific category, it would seem as though the iPhone 5 would be the one to hoist a golden trophy in the end – especially when it has the better design, camera quality, calling quality, and faster performance. Regardless of that, the HTC One X is still an admirable offering with its well-rounded performance and expansive platform experience. Taking age to consideration as well, there’s no denying that the iPhone 5 has the fresh factor attached to it – thus, making it the more appealing handset at the moment. We’re not saying to stay away from the HTC One X simply because it’s been available for many months now, as it’s still a powerhouse smartphone in the landscape, but when it’s being edged out by the iPhone 5 in all of the aforementioned key categories, it’s not going to be standing as high as it once did on the pedestal.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 28, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Pricing is always a major deciding factor for many things, as it can sprinkle the needed value for the dollar for each smartphone. Even though it’s been around for quite some time now, the $49.99 on-contract price of the Nokia Lumia 900 is without question an easier sell than the $200 on-contract starting cost of the iPhone 5. Therefore, if you’re limited by a budget, the Lumia 900 will be able to get you by – for now, that is. However, if you truly desire the more premium and overall better performer, the iPhone 5 is the way to go, despite its higher price point. Considering that it just became available very recently, there’s naturally going to be a premium attached to owning the iPhone 5, but surely, it’s worth every single penny earned.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 30, 2012

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PC Magazine‘s review Edit Like Unlike

AT&T's iPhone 5 takes a speedy, elegant, yet familiar phone and puts it on a LTE network that's super fast—if you can get it.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Oct 02, 2012

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TechRadar UK‘s review Edit Like Unlike

There's a lot to like about the iPhone 5 on Sprint, and a lot to dislike, especially if you live in the parts of the U.S. without its 4G service. We like that Sprint's plans are easy to understand, and that they come with unlimited data, text messaging and FaceTime over cellular. We don't like how limited Sprint's 4G coverage area is, and the fact that 3G customers will pay the same rate as those with 4G. You're basically choosing between unlimited data with Sprint, or 4G speeds with AT&T or Verizon, unless you live in those lucky parts of the U.S. with Sprint 4G, in which case you can have it all.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 26, 2012

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expertreviews‘s review Edit Like Unlike

If anything's missing from the iPhone 5, it's NFC. This technology has been in several Android handsets, but Apple so far hasn't bothered with it. We don't see this as a massive problem at the moment, as there isn't the infrastructure to use it, but it's still a slightly surprising omission. Overall, the iPhone 5 is a great bit of work. It's brilliantly made, and very fast with the an incredibly responsive mobile operating system. While previous iterations have been way ahead of the competition, the iPhone 5 just doesn't maintain the gap. In particular, Maps is a big step backwards, while iOS 6 feels more like a tweak than a genuine step forwards. The biggest threat to the iPhone 5 is that the competition has gotten a lot better and it's cheaper: the Samsung Galaxy S3 and the HTX One X have similar features and both are free on a contract. Don't get us wrong, the iPhone 5 is still a brilliant handset and iOS is still incredibly easy and smooth to use, it's just that the poor Maps app and comparatively high price mean that this model just misses out on an award.

10.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 27, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

As history tells us, Apple’s flagship will no doubt sell very healthily during its reign, even despite the horde of competition that’s always on the prowl. However, it’s coming after Samsung’s very own flagship in the Galaxy S III, which as we’ve witnessed, has proven itself to be a viable competitor in the landscape. From head to toe, there are plenty of remarkable elements that make us love both phones wholeheartedly. But when we combine all of the necessary aspects to make a device appealing to a geek's heart, like their specs, performance, wow factor, and software experience, it seems as though the Samsung Galaxy S III has the goods to stand out just a tad bit more. Even though its looks might pale in comparison to the chic styling of the iPhone 5, the Samsung Galaxy S III is able to closely match Apple’s pride and joy in many categories. Ultimately, it’s the TouchWiz Nature UX experience and its extensive set of functionality that makes the SGSIII the more productive and complete handset between the two. Meanwhile, though, the iPhone 5 remains the best device for users who just want a good-looking handset with great performance and a very easy-to-use mobile operating system.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 27, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Sharing many commonalities between one another, it’s mostly physical attributes that separate the two – especially when the core platform experiences are identical. Being the new kid on the block, we’re absolutely taking a liking to the iPhone 5’s larger display, rock solid industrial design, 4G LTE connectivity, and better calling quality. However, it’s going to be a tough call to move up to the iPhone 5 if you’re currently an iPhone 4S owner, since those aforementioned items seem to be the main draws worth switching over for. In addition, if you happen to love taking a majority of photos in low lighting conditions, it might be beneficial as well to switch to the iPhone 5. However, if you don’t fancy its new redesign, larger display, or not located in an area with LTE connectivity, there’s not much of a compelling reason to switch.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 26, 2012

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TechSpot‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 is the handset that many people have been waiting for. It's lighter, thinner, faster and more durable that previous versions. It may not be as open as Android and it doesn’t have the largest screen, but Apple has once again proved why it's among the most innovative consumer tech companies in the world. If you're coming from the 4S, it's worth evaluating how important things like a larger screen, more processing power and 4G LTE are to you. With iOS 6, the 4S gains features like FaceTime over cellular, panorama pictures, turn-by-turn GPS and Passbook. Conversely, iPhone 4 users have a lot more to gain as many iOS 6 features don't carry over and the speed increase will be more noticeable. Meanwhile, Android and Windows Phone user might be surprised at how well rounded the iPhone 5 is if they give it an honest try.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 27, 2012

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TechRadar UK‘s review Edit Like Unlike

As is, it's hard to recommend that AT&T users to stay put, but its one ace in the hole - the ability to maintain a voice call and surf the Internet at the same time - can't be dismissed. Even those with the greatest incentive to leave, i.e. the desire to conduct FaceTime over cellular without being forced into a shared plan, may still want to stay.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 26, 2012

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TechRadar UK‘s review Edit Like Unlike

In our initial days of using the iPhone 5 on Verizon's LTE network, we've come away pleased with the results, as it's been speedy and reliable in regular use. It's about on par with other Verizon LTE handsets we've tested in the same market, though for longtime Apple users, it's a late but appreciated revolution that dramatically enhances the iOS 6 experience.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 26, 2012

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PC Pro‘s review Edit Like Unlike

A taller screen and a sumptuous redesign for the iconic smartphone, but Apple’s latest iPhone falls tantalisingly short of a place on our A-List

8.3 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 27, 2012

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Notebookcheck‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The Apple iPhone 5 smartphone underwent the scrutiny of two reviewers during our in-depth test. The verdict was pretty much unanimous. Even though the device may divide opinions on the web, it ultimately remains a smartphone with both strengths and weaknesses. There is no "Killer Feature", but perhaps it does not really need one. Compared to the iPhone 4S, Apple has made improvements on many fronts. That said, we would have already expected some of the innovations in the previous generation. The completely redesigned case leaves a very good impression. It's stable, it's very slim measuring just 7.6 millimeters in thickness, and the workmanship is convincing as well, even though some users have complained of manufacturing problems (ScuffGate). The decreased total weight is also quickly felt in practice. The newly introduced Lightning Connector replaces the 30 pin connector after almost ten years, which means that many accessories now only work with an adapter, for which Apple charges a hefty premium. That's especially true for the Micro-USB adapter for the European market. The device can score further points with its improved camera modules, up to date wireless technologies, and iOS 6.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 25, 2012

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MacNN‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 has stepped forward with a long list of refinements and improvements, clearly surpassing its predecessor and the majority of its competitors. The screen stretch may not be enough to convince many Android owners to defect, and the phone lacks nascent tech such as NFC, Wi-Fi direct and water-resistant internal coating. Despite our frustration with Maps, which will likely be sorted out in the near future, the sixth-generation iPhone is hard to beat. The design is aesthetically pleasing and compact, the LTE radio promises fast downloads, the camera takes great pictures, and the battery life is great for most users. Is it the perfect phone? No—we haven't handled anything deserving of that title, but the iPhone 5 is pretty close. iPhone hardware has continued to advance in leaps and bounds, leaving us waiting for the operating system to move farther forward. Google's "open" platform is refreshing in this regard, however we have yet to see an Android device that has surpassed Apple's polish. This is still a two-horse race, running neck-and-neck for the foreseeable future.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 24, 2012

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PC Magazine‘s review Edit Like Unlike

With a sublime, but familiar design inside and out, a speedy new processor, fast LTE, and the best apps in the business, the new iPhone is like the old iPhone, just much better.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 22, 2012

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Digital Trends‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 has a lot to prove. While it’s definitely the best iPhone to date in most respects, a number of small issues hold it back from being the undisputed dominant phone this year. iOS app problems, awkward power button placement, a cramped screen (tall, but thin), a Lightning adapter delay, and unimpressive battery life are a few issues that haunt Apple’s sixth iPhone. But even with these issues, the gorgeous camera, beautiful “Retina” display, robust app ecosystem, and premium build quality make it a top contender and worthy of consideration by any smartphone buyer, Apple fan or not. With the Galaxy S3, a line of Razrs, the HTC One X/EVO 4G LTE, and many other top-notch phones hitting the market (including some Windows Phone 8), weigh your options. Those who use a lot of Google services should also be weary. We had a tough time importing our Google contacts and have yet to get all of our calendars synced up, among other things.

8.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 23, 2012

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Phone Arena‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Undeniably, the iPhone 5 is the most highly anticipated smartphone of the year – rightfully so considering that this sixth-generation sees one major design overhaul! For some time now, the competition has been leaping over the iPhone 4S’ specs sheet, but with the introduction of the iPhone 5, Apple has seemingly addressed many of the desires and wants of iPhone owners. Upgraded for the modern world, we appreciate the change to a larger 4-inch Retina Display, but even more impressive, is the reality that its overall footprint is still easy on the hands – as opposed to the overimposing stature of some of its rivals. And with that, the iPhone 5 continues to stand tall and proudly as being one of the classiest looking devices on the market – aided by its impeccable construction and quality choice of materials. In fact, it’s treated more like a piece of jewelry than anything else! Additionally, it’s nice to see that 4G LTE connectivity is now on board with the iPhone, which again brings it up to the modern world.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 22, 2012

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Pocket-lint‘s review Edit Like Unlike

What Apple has created with the iPhone 5 is an extremely polished smartphone that oozes appeal. It's incredibly well built, easy to use, features a beautiful screen, and comes packed with enough speed and power to service all your requirements. The hardware is just stunning. It really is impressive how much is crammed into such a tiny box. On the software front the story isn't as cut and dry. Apple's iOS operating system is clean and easy to use, but iOS 6 adds little to the story over iOS 5. It doesn't feel like it has taken the same leap forward as the hardware, and that this version of the OS has been more about filling gaps or replacing services rather than re-writing what's available from the ground up. There are some nice touches, but they are just that.

9.0 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 19, 2012

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SlashGear‘s review Edit Like Unlike

Competition between mobile platforms keeps the industry moving and innovating. That can often present itself as a surfeit of innovation: feature upon feature, piled high in an all-singing, all-dancing device. Right now, the iPhone 5 has the best balance of everyday usability and performance, without the distraction of functionality that is clever but unintuitive. It’s an area in which Apple excels, and it’s the reason the iPhone 5 is one of the best smartphones on the market today.

n/a Not rated

Published on:
Sep 18, 2012

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Cnet‘s review Edit Like Unlike

The iPhone 5 completely rebuilds the iPhone on a framework of new features and design, addressing its major previous shortcomings. It's absolutely the best iPhone to date, and it easily secures its place in the top tier of the smartphone universe.

8.7 Rated at:

Published on:
Sep 18, 2012

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The average pro reviews rating is 8.7 / 10, based on the 61 reviews.

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