iPhone 12

Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?

And as we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 is still a go-to option for value-focused 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 changes fast, how does this older generation iPhone stand today?

What Still Works with the iPhone 12?

Premium Build That Lasts

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, holding up well in terms of physical design and durability.

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 older screen tech of earlier models and still a great experience 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 relevant feature that remains compatible with a variety of accessories.

Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today

Power That Drains Quickly

Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was not great. 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 diminishes 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 in the last few years.

Non-Universal Charging

The continued use of the Lightning port is another limitation. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a prominent Australian mobile phone accessory company, features a broad array of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, 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.

Final Thoughts on the iPhone 12 This Year

The iPhone 12 can still be a good 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 decent performance with solid performance and display quality.

Campad Electronics is dedicated to providing innovative accessories for the iPhone 12.

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.