iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?
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 celebrated for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology evolves rapidly, how does this once-flagship model 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 feels modern and classic. Its glass rear panel and compact form factor still feel sleek today, holding up well in terms of looks 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 excellent contrast, it's a noticeable leap from the LCD screens of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.
Capable Chip Even Today
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip still offers smooth and responsive performance for common applications, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
MagSafe Support
The arrival 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
Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up
Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was not great. In 2025, most used units will have seen some capacity loss, making it a less-than-ideal choice for power users or those needing reliable endurance.
Limited Base Storage
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an inconvenience, 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.
Mediocre Photo Quality
The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography seen in recent iPhones, especially those released after the iPhone 13.
Non-Universal Charging
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 behind, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a prominent Australian supplier, presents an extensive array of Lightning chargers ensuring reliable and high-quality charging solutions, With a comprehensive lineup, Campad Electronics covers iPhone models spanning from the iPhone 5 through 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 transitioning from an older generation and you're on a tight budget, it offers good value with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics, a well-established Australian business, presents a extensive array of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, perfect for quality, style and user experience.
However, for those who can afford an upgrade, the iPhone 13 presents better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a slightly higher cost.
In short, the iPhone 12 still performs respectably, but it's no longer the best bang for your buck it once was. Consider your priorities: if budget matters most, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer more for your money.