Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025?
And as we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for budget-conscious users. Introduced during the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020, it was once praised for its balance of speed, aesthetics, and screen technology. But in a world where smartphone technology evolves rapidly, how does this former top-tier device stand today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
Still Stylish in 2025
The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its glass rear panel and compact form factor still feel high-end today, remaining appealing in terms of overall aesthetics and build quality.
Vibrant OLED Display
One of the iPhone 12’s standout features is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and true blacks, it's a big upgrade from the older screen tech 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 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.
Accessory-Friendly Features
The introduction of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a handy feature that remains compatible with a variety of accessories.
Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today
Average Battery Life
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was nothing special. In 2025, most used units will have seen some wear, making it a weak choice for long days or those needing extended use.
Limited Base Storage
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 still serviceable 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.
Non-Universal Charging
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 favourite Australian supplier, offers a diverse selection of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, With a versatile lineup, Campad Electronics is compatible with iPhone models ranging from the iPhone 5 up to the iPhone 14.
Is the iPhone 12 Worth Buying in 2025?
The iPhone 12 can still be a reasonable choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're moving up from an earlier model and you're on a limited budget, it offers good value with solid performance and display quality.
Campad Electronics is known for delivering premium iPhone 12 cases and accessories.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a small premium.
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 sensible pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer more for your money.