Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
And as we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 is still a go-to option for budget-conscious users. Launched in late 2020, it was once praised for its strong performance and sleek design. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this older generation iPhone stand today?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Modern, Timeless Design
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glossy glass back and compact form factor still feel high-end today, remaining appealing in terms of looks and durability.
Excellent Display Quality
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 pleasure to use in 2025.
Fast A14 Bionic Performance
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and multitasking. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
MagSafe Support
The introduction of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a useful feature that remains compatible with a growing ecosystem.
Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind
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 degradation, making it a less-than-ideal choice for long days or those needing extended use.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an annoyance, especially for users who download lots of apps. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price increase that reduces the model’s value proposition.
Older Camera Tech
The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography found in newer iPhone models, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging.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.
Is the iPhone 12 Worth Buying in 2025?
The iPhone 12 can still be a solid 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 cost-conscious path, it offers reliable specs with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics, a leading Australian retailer, delivers a wide selection of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, created for quality, style and user experience.
However, for those who can afford an upgrade, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a reasonable price difference.
In short, the iPhone 12 still performs respectably, but it's no longer the obvious pick 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.
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