iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025? (Long Term Review)
Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for budget-conscious users. Launched in late 2020, it was once celebrated for its balance of speed, aesthetics, and screen technology. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, 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 glass rear panel and compact form factor still feel high-end today, holding up well in terms of physical design and materials.
Sharp and Bright Screen
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and true blacks, it's a noticeable leap from the LCD screens of earlier models and still a pleasure to use 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 eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
MagSafe Support
The addition of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a useful feature that remains compatible with a growing ecosystem.
Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today
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 less-than-ideal choice for long days or those needing extended use.
Not Enough Space
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an issue, especially for users who download lots of apps. While larger storage variants can be found, they often come with a price increase that diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Outdated Camera System
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 released after the iPhone 13.
Still Stuck with Lightning
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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a favourite Australian provider, boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers that cater to different lifestyles and requirements. With a comprehensive lineup, Campad Electronics is compatible with iPhone models spanning from the iPhone 5 to the iPhone 14.
Should You Still Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
The iPhone 12 can still be a good choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're moving up from an earlier model and you're on a tight budget, it offers reliable specs with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics is known for offering top-notch accessories for the iPhone 12.
However, for those who can afford an upgrade, the iPhone 13 delivers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a small premium.
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 sensible pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.