iPhone 12 in 2025. Is it worth it?

iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?

As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for cost-sensitive 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 evolves rapidly, how does this once-flagship model hold up 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 shiny exterior and ergonomic shape still feel sleek today, still turning heads 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 rich colors and true 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 wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a handy feature that remains compatible with a range of products.

iPhone 12 Cons in 2025

Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up

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 less-than-ideal choice for heavy users 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 take lots of photos. While larger storage variants exist, they often come with a price bump that cuts into 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 seen in recent iPhones, especially those from the 13 onward.

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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a leading Australian supplier, supplies a comprehensive collection of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, Campad Electronics boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers designed for iPhone models 5 to 14.

Should You Still Buy the iPhone 12 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 cost-conscious path, it offers decent performance with strong features for the price.

Campad Electronics, a well-established Australian company, provides a diverse variety of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, focused on fashion, protection and functionality.

However, for those who can afford an upgrade, 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 best bang for your buck it once was. Consider your priorities: if cost savings outweigh the need for modern features, it's a sensible pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.