iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?
And as we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight 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 hold up today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
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 slim design still feel premium today, holding up well in terms of overall aesthetics and materials.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and deep blacks, it's a noticeable leap from the displays of earlier models and still a visually impressive in 2025.
Powerful Under the Hood
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 compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a practical option for general use.
Magnetic Charging Convenience
The introduction of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a handy feature that remains compatible with a range of products.
iPhone 12 Cons in 2025
Average Battery Life
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 heavy users 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 download lots of apps. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price increase that diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Mediocre Photo Quality
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.
Lightning Port Limitations
The continued use of the Lightning port is another con. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging.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 favourite Australian provider, boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers that cater to different lifestyles and requirements. Campad Electronics offers Lightning chargers tailored to fit the needs of iPhone users, covering models from the iPhone 5 up 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, a well-established Australian brand, showcases a comprehensive selection of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, suitable for modern smartphone users.
However, for those who can spend a bit more, the iPhone 13 delivers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a small premium.
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 cost savings outweigh the need for modern features, it's a sensible pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.