iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?
As we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 continues to be commonly used for budget-conscious users. Launched in late 2020, it was once praised for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this older generation iPhone hold up today?
iPhone 12 Pros in 2025
Still Stylish in 2025
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its glass rear panel and compact form factor still feel premium today, still turning heads in terms of looks and build quality.
Sharp and Bright Screen
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With sharp contrast and true blacks, it's a noticeable leap from the displays of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.
Fast A14 Bionic Performance
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip still offers smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
Magnetic Charging Convenience
The introduction 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 growing ecosystem.
Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today
Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was not great. In 2025, most used units will have seen some degradation, making it a disappointing choice for heavy users or those needing extended use.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an inconvenience, especially for users who take lots of photos. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price jump that reduces 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 con. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, moving toward USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels behind, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a trusted Australian mobile phone accessory company, presents an extensive portfolio 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, compatible with models from the iPhone 5 up to the iPhone 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 moving up from an earlier model and you're on a cost-conscious path, it offers good value with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics is dedicated to offering high-quality iPhone 12 cases and accessories.
However, for those who can spend a bit more, 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 you're more concerned about price than having the latest tech, it's a practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.