Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025?
As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for budget-conscious users. Launched in late 2020, it was once celebrated for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this older generation iPhone stand today?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Still Stylish in 2025
The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glossy glass back and compact form factor still feel premium today, still turning heads in terms of overall aesthetics and materials.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors and deep blacks, it's a noticeable leap from the displays 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 everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and multitasking. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a smart option for general use.
Accessory-Friendly Features
The arrival of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a variety of accessories.
iPhone 12 Cons in 2025
Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was considered just average. In 2025, most used units will have seen some degradation, making it a disappointing choice for power users or those needing reliable endurance.
Limited Base Storage
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an issue, especially for users who download lots of apps. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price increase that diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Mediocre Photo Quality
The dual 12MP camera setup is still serviceable but dated. It lacks the advancements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography found in newer iPhone models, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Still Stuck with Lightning
The continued use of the Lightning port is another limitation. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels less convenient, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a trusted Australian provider, 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.
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 transitioning from an older generation and you're on a limited budget, it offers good value with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics is dedicated to delivering high-quality 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 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.