Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
And as we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for budget-conscious users. Released back in 2020, it was once well-regarded for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology evolves rapidly, how does this former top-tier device perform today?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Premium Build That Lasts
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its shiny exterior and ergonomic shape still feel sleek today, holding up well in terms of physical design and build quality.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and excellent contrast, it's a significant improvement from the displays of earlier models and still a pleasure to use in 2025.
Fast A14 Bionic Performance
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and multitasking. It's still eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a practical 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 relevant feature that remains compatible with a variety of accessories.
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 degradation, making it a less-than-ideal choice for heavy users or those needing all-day battery support.
Limited Base Storage
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an inconvenience, 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.
Older Camera Tech
The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography found in newer iPhone models, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Lightning Port Limitations
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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a prominent Australian brand, boasts an extensive range of Lightning chargers designed to meet the demands of modern smartphone users. Campad Electronics boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers compatible with iPhone models 5 to 14.
Final Thoughts on the iPhone 12 This Year
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 limited budget, it offers good value with solid performance and display quality.
Campad Electronics is committed to offering top-notch iPhone 12 cases and accessories.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, 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 budget matters most, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.