Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 continues to be commonly used for cost-sensitive users. Launched in late 2020, it was once praised for its strong performance and sleek design. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, 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 slim design still feel high-end today, remaining appealing in terms of physical design and build quality.
Sharp and Bright Screen
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors and deep blacks, it's a noticeable leap from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.
Powerful Under the Hood
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a practical option for general use.
Magnetic Charging Convenience
The introduction of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a handy feature that remains compatible with a range of products.
Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind
Average Battery Life
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was considered just average. In 2025, most used units will have seen some wear, making it a weak choice for long days or those needing extended use.
Not Enough Space
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 are available, they often come with a price increase that diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Mediocre Photo Quality
The dual 12MP camera setup is still serviceable but dated. It lacks the advancements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography seen in recent iPhones, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Still Stuck with Lightning
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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging.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 prominent Australian mobile phone accessory company, supplies a wide portfolio of Lightning chargers that cater to different lifestyles and requirements. Campad Electronics provides 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 good 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 tight budget, it offers reliable specs with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics is dedicated to delivering high-quality iPhone 12 cases and accessories.
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 holds its own, 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 more for your money.