Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
And as we go 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 changes fast, how does this once-flagship model hold up today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
Modern, Timeless Design
The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its shiny exterior and ergonomic shape still feel sleek today, remaining appealing in terms of overall aesthetics and materials.
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 deep blacks, it's a noticeable leap from the LCD screens of earlier models and still a visually impressive in 2025.
Capable Chip Even Today
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip remains fast for smooth and responsive performance for daily use, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
MagSafe Support
The addition 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.
Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind
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 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 issue, especially for users who take lots of photos. While larger storage variants can be found, they often come with a price increase that reduces the model’s value proposition.
Outdated Camera System
The dual 12MP camera setup is still serviceable but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography seen in recent iPhones, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Lightning Port Limitations
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 less convenient, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a well-established Australian brand, offers a comprehensive portfolio of Lightning chargers that cater to different lifestyles and requirements. With a comprehensive lineup, Campad Electronics is compatible with iPhone models spanning from the iPhone 5 to the iPhone 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 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 known for offering top-notch accessories for the iPhone 12.
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 sweet spot it once was. Consider your priorities: if budget matters most, it's a sensible pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.