Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
And as we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for value-focused users. Released back in 2020, it was once well-regarded for its strong performance and sleek design. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this once-flagship model perform today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
Still Stylish in 2025
The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its shiny exterior and compact form factor still feel high-end today, still turning heads in terms of overall aesthetics and materials.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and deep blacks, it's a noticeable leap from the LCD screens of earlier models and still a pleasure to use in 2025.
Capable Chip Even Today
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip remains fast for smooth and responsive performance for daily use, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
MagSafe Support
The addition of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a useful feature that remains compatible with a growing ecosystem.
Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind
Power That Drains Quickly
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was not great. In 2025, most used units will have seen some wear, making it a less-than-ideal choice for heavy users or those needing extended use.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an inconvenience, especially for users who take lots of photos. While larger storage variants exist, they often come with a price bump that reduces the model’s value proposition.
Outdated Camera System
The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography seen in recent iPhones, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Lightning Port Limitations
The continued use of the Lightning port is another con. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian retailer, features an extensive lineup of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, Campad Electronics provides an extensive collection of Lightning chargers compatible with iPhone models 5 to 14.
Is the iPhone 12 Worth Buying in 2025?
The iPhone 12 can still be a solid choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're transitioning from an older generation and you're on a limited budget, it offers good value with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics, a leading Australian company, offers a extensive range of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, created for individual lifestyles and preferences.
However, for those who can afford an upgrade, the iPhone 13 presents better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a slightly higher cost.
In short, the iPhone 12 still works well, but it's no longer the obvious pick it once was. Consider your priorities: if you're more concerned about price than having the latest tech, it's a practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.