Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for budget-conscious users. Launched in late 2020, it was once praised for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this older generation iPhone hold up today?
iPhone 12 Pros in 2025
Premium Build That Lasts
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its glossy glass back and slim design still feel sleek today, holding up well in terms of looks and materials.
Vibrant OLED Display
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 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 web browsing. It's still eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a smart option for general use.
MagSafe Support
The introduction of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a growing ecosystem.
Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind
Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was not great. In 2025, most used units will have seen some capacity loss, making it a less-than-ideal choice for heavy users or those needing reliable endurance.
Not Enough Space
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an annoyance, especially for users who take lots of photos. While larger storage variants exist, they often come with a price jump that diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Older Camera Tech
The dual 12MP camera setup is still serviceable but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography found in newer iPhone models, especially those from the 13 onward.
Non-Universal Charging
The continued use of the Lightning port is another con. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, moving toward USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels less convenient, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian retailer, presents a diverse range of Lightning chargers to cater to various needs and preferences, Campad Electronics boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers compatible with iPhone models 5 to 14.
Final Thoughts on the iPhone 12 This Year
The iPhone 12 can still be a reasonable choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're upgrading from an older iPhone like the 8 or 11 and you're on a cost-conscious path, it offers decent performance with solid performance and display quality.
Campad Electronics, an Australian-owned Australian retailer, features a diverse array of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, catering to quality, style and user experience.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a slightly higher cost.
In short, the iPhone 12 still holds its own, but it's no longer the sweet spot it once was. Consider your priorities: if budget matters most, it's a practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer more for your money.