Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
And as we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 continues to be commonly used for cost-sensitive users. Released back in 2020, it was once praised for its strong performance and sleek design. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this once-flagship model hold up today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
Modern, Timeless Design
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its shiny exterior and ergonomic shape still feel high-end today, remaining appealing in terms of looks and durability.
Vibrant OLED Display
One of the iPhone 12’s standout features is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors and deep blacks, it's a significant improvement from the displays of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.
Powerful Under the Hood
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip still offers smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and multitasking. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a smart option for general use.
Accessory-Friendly Features
The arrival of MagSafe added 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 weak 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 shoot video often. While larger storage variants exist, they often come with a price jump that cuts into the model’s value proposition.
Mediocre Photo Quality
The dual 12MP camera setup is decent but dated. It lacks the improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography found in newer iPhone models, especially those in the last few years.
Non-Universal Charging
The continued use of the Lightning port is another drawback. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels less convenient, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a favourite Australian provider, presents a broad array of Lightning chargers ensuring reliable and high-quality charging solutions. Campad Electronics offers Lightning chargers tailored to fit the needs of iPhone users, covering models from the iPhone 5 to the iPhone 14.
Should You Still Buy the iPhone 12 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 tight budget, it offers reliable specs with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics, a well-established Australian brand, supplies a extensive range of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, created for fashion, protection and functionality.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 presents 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 viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.