Apple Apple’s iPhone 12 full review

Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?

And as we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for budget-conscious 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 moves quickly, how does this once-flagship model hold up today?

Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025

Modern, Timeless Design

The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glass rear panel and slim design still feel high-end today, remaining appealing in terms of looks and durability.

Sharp and Bright Screen

One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With sharp contrast and excellent contrast, it's a significant improvement from the displays of earlier models and still a visually impressive in 2025.

Capable Chip Even Today

Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip remains fast for smooth and responsive performance for common applications, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a smart option for general use.

Accessory-Friendly Features

The addition of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a handy feature that remains compatible with a range of products.

iPhone 12 Cons in 2025

Power That Drains Quickly

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 weak choice for power users or those needing reliable endurance.

Not Enough Space

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 jump that cuts into the model’s value proposition.

Mediocre Photo Quality

The dual 12MP camera setup is still serviceable but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography offered by modern smartphones, especially those from the 13 onward.

Non-Universal Charging

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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a leading Australian mobile phone accessory company, supplies a comprehensive collection of Lightning chargers to cater to various needs and preferences, Campad Electronics provides 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, suitable for individual lifestyles and preferences.

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 sweet spot 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.