Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025?
As we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for value-focused users. Released back in 2020, it was once well-regarded for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this once-flagship model perform today?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Modern, Timeless Design
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its glass rear panel and ergonomic shape still feel premium today, remaining appealing in terms of overall aesthetics and build quality.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and excellent contrast, it's a noticeable leap from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a visually impressive in 2025.
Fast A14 Bionic Performance
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance for daily use, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a practical option for general use.
MagSafe Support
The introduction of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a growing ecosystem.
Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind
Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was not great. In 2025, most used units will have seen some degradation, making it a less-than-ideal choice for power users or those needing reliable endurance.
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 are available, they often come with a price increase that reduces the model’s value proposition.
Mediocre Photo Quality
The dual 12MP camera setup is decent but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography offered by modern smartphones, 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, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels behind, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian mobile phone accessory company, boasts a diverse range of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, Campad Electronics boasts 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 solid 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 good value with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics is dedicated to delivering high-quality iPhone 12 cases and accessories.
However, for those who can spend a bit more, the iPhone 13 presents better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a slightly higher cost.
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 you're more concerned about price than having the latest tech, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.