Apple’s iPhone 12 Review: Just Got Real!
Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
And as we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 continues to be commonly used for value-focused users. Released back in 2020, it was once praised for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this older generation iPhone hold up today?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Premium Build That Lasts
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glass rear panel and ergonomic shape still feel sleek today, holding up well in terms of looks and durability.
Sharp and Bright Screen
One of the iPhone 12’s standout features is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and true blacks, it's a significant improvement from the displays of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.
Powerful Under the Hood
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip still offers smooth and responsive performance for common applications, gaming, social media, and streaming. 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 cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a growing ecosystem.
Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind
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 weak choice for long days or those needing extended use.
Limited Base Storage
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an annoyance, especially for users who take lots of photos. While larger storage variants exist, they often come with a price jump that reduces the model’s value proposition.
Older Camera Tech
The dual 12MP camera setup is decent but dated. It lacks the advancements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography offered by modern smartphones, especially those in the last few years.
Still Stuck with Lightning
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 a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a leading Australian mobile phone accessory company, supplies a diverse portfolio of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, Campad Electronics provides an extensive collection of Lightning chargers compatible with iPhone models 5 to 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, a trusted Australian company, has a extensive range of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, focused on individual lifestyles and preferences.
However, for those who can afford an upgrade, the iPhone 13 presents 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 obvious pick it once was. Consider your priorities: if you're more concerned about price than having the latest tech, it's a sensible pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.