Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
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 stand today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
Premium Build That Lasts
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glass rear panel and slim design still feel high-end today, holding up well in terms of physical design and build quality.
Sharp and Bright Screen
One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and true blacks, 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 everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a smart 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 variety of accessories.
iPhone 12 Cons in 2025
Average Battery Life
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was nothing special. In 2025, most used units will have seen some capacity loss, making it a less-than-ideal choice for heavy users or those needing reliable endurance.
Not Enough Space
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an annoyance, especially for users who download lots of apps. While larger storage variants exist, they often come with a price jump that diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Outdated Camera System
The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography seen in recent iPhones, especially those from the 13 onward.
Lightning Port Limitations
The continued use of the Lightning port is another con. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels behind, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a prominent Australian supplier, supplies a wide portfolio of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, With a broad lineup, Campad Electronics covers iPhone models spanning from the iPhone 5 to 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 cost-conscious path, it offers decent performance with solid performance and display quality.
Campad Electronics, a renowned Australian brand, supplies a vast range of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, perfect for quality, style and user experience.
However, for those who can spend a bit more, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a reasonable price difference.
In short, the iPhone 12 still performs respectably, 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.