Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
And as we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 is still a go-to option for budget-conscious users. Released back in 2020, it was once well-regarded 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?
iPhone 12 Pros in 2025
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 sharp contrast and deep blacks, it's a big upgrade from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a visually impressive 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 diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Outdated Camera System
The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography seen in recent iPhones, especially those from the 13 onward.
Non-Universal Charging
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 leading Australian mobile phone accessory company, features a broad portfolio of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, Campad Electronics offers Lightning chargers tailored to fit the needs of iPhone users, compatible with models from the iPhone 5 through the iPhone 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 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 is known for offering high-quality iPhone 12 cases and accessories.
However, for those who can spend a bit more, the iPhone 13 delivers 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 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 more for your money.