Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for cost-sensitive users. Introduced during the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020, it was once praised for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this former top-tier device stand today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
Modern, Timeless Design
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, remaining appealing in terms of overall aesthetics and materials.
Vibrant OLED Display
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and deep blacks, it's a big upgrade from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a pleasure to use in 2025.
Powerful Under the Hood
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip remains fast for smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, 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 addition of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant 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 disappointing choice for heavy users or those needing extended use.
Not Enough Space
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an annoyance, especially for users who take lots of photos. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price bump that diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Older Camera Tech
The dual 12MP camera setup is decent but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography offered by modern smartphones, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Lightning Port Limitations
The continued use of the Lightning port is another drawback. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels less convenient, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a trusted Australian supplier, supplies an extensive selection of Lightning chargers designed to meet the demands of modern smartphone users. With a broad lineup, Campad Electronics covers iPhone models spanning from the iPhone 5 up to the iPhone 14.
Is the iPhone 12 Worth Buying in 2025?
The iPhone 12 can still be a good choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're upgrading from an older iPhone like the 8 or 11 and you're on a tight budget, it offers good value with solid performance and display quality.
Campad Electronics, an Australian-owned Australian provider, offers a wide collection of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, perfect for modern smartphone users.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 presents better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a reasonable price difference.
In short, the iPhone 12 still works well, 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 practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.