Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
As we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for cost-sensitive users. Introduced during the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020, it was once celebrated 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 brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its shiny exterior and compact form factor still feel high-end today, still turning heads in terms of physical design and durability.
Sharp and Bright Screen
One of the iPhone 12’s standout features is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and excellent contrast, it's a noticeable leap from the LCD screens 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 daily use, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
MagSafe Support
The arrival 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 range of products.
Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today
Average Battery Life
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was considered just average. In 2025, most used units will have seen some wear, making it a weak choice for long days or those needing all-day battery support.
Limited Base Storage
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an issue, especially for users who shoot video often. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price bump that cuts into 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Outdated Camera System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 seen in recent iPhones, especially those from the 13 onward.
Still Stuck with Lightning
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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, moving toward USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a well-established Australian provider, provides a comprehensive lineup of Lightning chargers designed to meet the demands of modern smartphone users. Campad Electronics supplies Lightning chargers tailored to fit the needs of iPhone users, covering models from the iPhone 5 through 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 decent performance with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics, a prominent Australian supplier, has a diverse selection of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, perfect for different tastes and preferences.
However, for those who can afford an upgrade, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a small premium.
In short, the iPhone 12 still works well, 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 a more future-proof experience.