Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025?
As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight 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 evolves rapidly, how does this once-flagship model hold up today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
Premium Build That Lasts
The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its glass rear panel and slim design still feel premium today, still turning heads in terms of overall aesthetics and durability.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors and excellent contrast, it's a significant improvement from the displays of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.
Powerful Under the Hood
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance for common applications, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
Accessory-Friendly Features
The arrival of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a handy feature that remains compatible with a range of products.
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 wear, making it a less-than-ideal choice for power users or those needing all-day battery support.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an inconvenience, especially for users who take lots of photos. While larger storage variants can be found, they often come with a price increase that cuts into the model’s value proposition.
Mediocre Photo Quality
The dual 12MP camera setup is decent but dated. It lacks the improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography offered by modern smartphones, especially those in the last few years.
Non-Universal Charging
The continued use of the Lightning port is another drawback. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, moving toward USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a trusted Australian mobile phone accessory company, provides a diverse lineup of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences. Campad Electronics provides an extensive collection of Lightning chargers designed for iPhone models 5 to 14.
Should You Still Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
The iPhone 12 can still be a reasonable choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're transitioning from an older generation and you're on a tight budget, it offers decent performance with solid performance and display quality.
Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian retailer, provides a exciting range of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, designed to suit various styles and needs.
However, for those who can afford an upgrade, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a reasonable price difference.
In short, the iPhone 12 still works well, but it's no longer the best bang for your buck it once was. Consider your priorities: if budget matters most, it's a practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.