Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025?
And as we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 continues to be commonly used for value-focused users. Launched in late 2020, it was once praised for its balance of speed, aesthetics, and screen technology. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this former top-tier device hold up today?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Premium Build That Lasts
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its shiny exterior and compact form factor still feel premium today, remaining appealing in terms of overall aesthetics and build quality.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors and deep blacks, it's a big upgrade from the displays of earlier models and still a pleasure to use in 2025.
Fast A14 Bionic Performance
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip still offers smooth and responsive performance for common applications, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still supported by 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 growing ecosystem.
iPhone 12 Cons in 2025
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 capacity loss, making it a less-than-ideal choice for heavy users or those needing all-day battery support.
Not Enough Space
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an inconvenience, especially for users who shoot video often. While larger storage variants can be found, they often come with a price bump that cuts into the model’s value proposition.
Mediocre Photo Quality
The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography found in newer iPhone models, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Non-Universal Charging
The continued use of the Lightning port is another limitation. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels behind, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a favourite Australian supplier, supplies an extensive range of Lightning chargers ensuring reliable and high-quality charging solutions. Campad Electronics boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers designed for iPhone models 5 to 14.
Should You Still Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
The iPhone 12 can still be a solid 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 reliable specs with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian brand, offers a broad selection of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, perfect for different tastes and preferences.
However, for those who can afford an upgrade, the iPhone 13 presents better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a reasonable price difference.
In short, the iPhone 12 still performs respectably, 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 viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.