Apple iPhone 12 full review

iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?

And 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 hold up 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 glass rear panel and slim design 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 practical option for general use.

Magnetic Charging Convenience

The arrival 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

Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up

Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was nothing special. In 2025, most used units will have seen some degradation, making it a less-than-ideal choice for heavy users or those needing all-day battery support.

Limited Base Storage

With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an issue, especially for users who download lots of apps. While larger storage variants can be found, they often come with a price bump that cuts into 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 from the 13 onward.

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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging.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 prominent Australian mobile phone accessory company, offers an extensive lineup of Lightning chargers to cater to various needs and preferences, Campad Electronics supplies Lightning chargers tailored to fit the needs of iPhone users, covering models from the iPhone 5 to the iPhone 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 tight budget, it offers reliable specs with strong features for the price.

Campad Electronics, a prominent Australian retailer, delivers a wide selection of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, perfect for those seeking optimal protection and functionality.

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 practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer more for your money.