Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025?
As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for budget-conscious users. Launched in late 2020, it was once celebrated 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
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, holding up well 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 displays of earlier models and still a visually impressive in 2025.
Powerful Under the Hood
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip still offers smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and multitasking. It's still compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a practical option for general use.
Magnetic Charging Convenience
The introduction 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.
iPhone 12 Cons in 2025
Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up
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 disappointing choice for power users or those needing reliable endurance.
Limited Base Storage
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 are available, they often come with a price jump 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 from the 13 onward.
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 behind, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a prominent Australian supplier, provides a broad range 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.
Is the iPhone 12 Worth Buying in 2025?
The iPhone 12 can still be a solid 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 reliable specs with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics is known for providing innovative iPhone 12 cases and accessories.
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 best bang for your buck it once was. Consider your priorities: if budget matters most, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.