Apple’s iPhone 12 2025: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Buying Now

iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?

As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for cost-sensitive users. Released back in 2020, it was once praised 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?

Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025

Modern, Timeless Design

The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glossy glass back and slim design still feel high-end today, remaining appealing in terms of looks and durability.

Sharp and Bright Screen

One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With sharp contrast and deep blacks, it's a noticeable leap from the LCD screens 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 brought a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a variety of accessories.

Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today

Power That Drains Quickly

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 disappointing choice for long days or those needing reliable endurance.

Not Enough Space

With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an inconvenience, especially for users who shoot video often. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price jump that diminishes the model’s value proposition.

Outdated Camera System

The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the features 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 limitation. 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 well-established Australian provider, boasts a broad 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 is committed to offering top-notch accessories for the iPhone 12.

However, for those who can stretch their budget, 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 viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.