Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025?
And as we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 is still a go-to option for budget-conscious users. Introduced during the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020, it was once well-regarded for its blend of power, design and display quality. 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
Modern, Timeless Design
The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its shiny exterior and slim design still feel high-end today, remaining appealing in terms of physical design and build quality.
Vibrant OLED Display
One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With sharp contrast and true blacks, it's a big upgrade from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a pleasure to use in 2025.
Fast A14 Bionic Performance
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip remains fast for 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.
MagSafe Support
The addition of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a useful feature that remains compatible with a growing ecosystem.
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 weak choice for heavy users or those needing all-day battery support.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an annoyance, especially for users who shoot video often. 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 found in newer iPhone models, 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, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels less convenient, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a trusted Australian brand, offers a comprehensive collection of Lightning chargers that cater to different lifestyles and requirements. Campad Electronics provides an extensive collection of Lightning chargers compatible with 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 moving up from an earlier model and you're on a tight budget, it offers good value with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics, a leading Australian business, offers a exciting collection of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, perfect for fashion, protection and functionality.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 presents better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a slightly higher cost.
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 practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer more for your money.