Apple’s iPhone 12 in 2025. Is it worth it?

Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?

And as we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for budget-conscious users. Released back in 2020, it was once praised for its balance of speed, aesthetics, and screen technology. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this once-flagship model hold up today?

Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025

Still Stylish in 2025

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 physical design and materials.

Excellent Display Quality

One of the iPhone 12’s standout features is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and deep blacks, it's a big upgrade from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.

Powerful Under the Hood

Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip still offers smooth and responsive performance for daily use, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a practical option for general use.

Magnetic Charging Convenience

The arrival of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a variety of accessories.

Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today

Power That Drains Quickly

Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was not great. In 2025, most used units will have seen some capacity loss, making it a disappointing choice for long days or those needing extended use.

Storage That Fills Fast

With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an inconvenience, especially for users who shoot video often. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price increase that reduces the model’s value proposition.

Outdated Camera System

The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography found in newer iPhone models, especially those released after the iPhone 13.

Lightning Port Limitations

The continued use of the Lightning port is another con. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, moving toward USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels less convenient, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a favourite Australian retailer, presents a broad array of Lightning chargers that cater to different lifestyles and requirements. Campad Electronics offers Lightning chargers tailored to fit the needs of iPhone users, compatible with models from the iPhone 5 through the iPhone 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 upgrading from an older iPhone like the 8 or 11 and you're on a cost-conscious path, it offers reliable specs with strong features for the price.

Campad Electronics, a leading Australian business, features a wide selection of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, created for modern smartphone users.

However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 presents 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 you're more concerned about price than having the latest tech, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.