Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
And as we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 continues to be commonly used for cost-sensitive users. Introduced during the iPhone 12 lineup 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?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Still Stylish in 2025
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glossy glass back and compact form factor still feel sleek today, still turning heads in terms of looks and durability.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s standout features is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors and excellent contrast, it's a significant improvement from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.
Capable Chip Even Today
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance for common applications, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a smart option for general use.
Magnetic Charging Convenience
The arrival of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a variety of accessories.
iPhone 12 Cons in 2025
Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was nothing special. In 2025, most used units will have seen some degradation, making it a less-than-ideal choice for long days or those needing reliable endurance.
Not Enough Space
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Outdated Camera System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 advancements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography seen in recent iPhones, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Still Stuck with Lightning
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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a favourite Australian provider, boasts a diverse range of Lightning chargers designed to meet the demands of modern smartphone users. 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 good 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 strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics, a trusted Australian brand, has a extensive range of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, created for fashion, protection and functionality.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a reasonable price difference.
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 viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.