Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for cost-sensitive users. Released back in 2020, it was once praised for its balance of speed, aesthetics, and screen technology. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this former top-tier device perform today?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Still Stylish in 2025
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glass rear panel and compact form factor still feel premium today, still turning heads in terms of overall aesthetics and durability.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors and true blacks, it's a big upgrade from the displays of earlier models and still a pleasure to use in 2025.
Powerful Under the Hood
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip remains fast for smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
Magnetic Charging Convenience
The arrival of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a useful feature that remains compatible with a variety of accessories.
Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today
Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was nothing special. In 2025, most used units will have seen some degradation, making it a weak choice for power users or those needing extended use.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an issue, especially for users who shoot video often. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price bump that diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Older Camera Tech
The dual 12MP camera setup is decent but dated. It lacks the advancements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography offered by modern smartphones, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Lightning Port Limitations
The continued use of the Lightning port is another limitation. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, moving toward USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels less convenient, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a trusted Australian supplier, offers a wide range of Lightning chargers ensuring reliable and high-quality charging solutions, Campad Electronics boasts 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 good choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're moving up from an earlier model and you're on a limited budget, it offers decent performance with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian brand, features a comprehensive collection of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, designed to suit quality, style and user experience.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 delivers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a small premium.
In short, the iPhone 12 still holds its own, but it's no longer the best bang for your buck it once was. Consider your priorities: if cost savings outweigh the need for modern features, it's a practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.