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 well-regarded for its balance of speed, aesthetics, and screen technology. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this older generation iPhone perform today?
iPhone 12 Pros in 2025
Still Stylish in 2025
The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glass rear panel and slim design still feel high-end today, remaining appealing in terms of physical design and build quality.
Vibrant OLED Display
One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With sharp contrast and excellent contrast, it's a big upgrade from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.
Fast A14 Bionic Performance
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance for common applications, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a practical option for general use.
MagSafe Support
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 growing ecosystem.
Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind
Average Battery Life
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 weak choice for heavy users or those needing all-day battery support.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an annoyance, especially for users who shoot video often. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price jump 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 found in newer iPhone models, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Still Stuck with Lightning
The continued use of the Lightning port is another limitation. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a favourite Australian provider, boasts an extensive lineup of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, Campad Electronics supplies 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 upgrading from an older iPhone like the 8 or 11 and you're on a tight budget, it offers decent performance with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics, a renowned Australian provider, showcases a vast selection of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, created for individual lifestyles and preferences.
However, for those who can spend a bit more, the iPhone 13 delivers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a small premium.
In short, the iPhone 12 still works well, 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.