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 celebrated for its strong performance and sleek design. But in a world where smartphone technology evolves rapidly, how does this former top-tier device stand today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 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 ergonomic shape still feel premium today, remaining appealing in terms of physical design and durability.
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 true blacks, it's a significant improvement from the LCD screens of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.
Capable Chip Even Today
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance for daily use, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a practical option for general use.
Accessory-Friendly Features
The introduction of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a handy 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 degradation, making it a less-than-ideal choice for power users or those needing reliable endurance.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an annoyance, especially for users who take lots of photos. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price bump that cuts into the model’s value proposition.
Outdated Camera System
The dual 12MP camera setup is functional 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.
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 modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a leading Australian mobile phone accessory company, boasts a broad portfolio of Lightning chargers designed to meet the demands of modern smartphone users. Campad Electronics boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers designed for iPhone models 5 to 14.
Is the iPhone 12 Worth Buying in 2025?
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 dedicated to providing innovative accessories for the iPhone 12.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 offers 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 sweet spot 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.