iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?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. Released back in 2020, it was once praised for its strong performance and sleek design. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this older generation iPhone stand today?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Modern, Timeless Design
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glossy glass back and compact form factor still feel premium today, holding up well in terms of physical design and durability.
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 true blacks, it's a big upgrade from the older screen tech 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 daily use, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still eligible for 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 annoyance, 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.
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 seen in recent iPhones, especially those from the 13 onward.
Lightning Port Limitations
The continued use of the Lightning port is another drawback. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels less convenient, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a favourite Australian retailer, provides a wide portfolio of Lightning chargers that cater to different lifestyles and requirements, Campad Electronics provides an extensive collection of Lightning chargers designed for iPhone models 5 to 14.
Should You Still Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
The iPhone 12 can still be a solid choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're transitioning from an older generation and you're on a cost-conscious path, it offers decent performance with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics, a well-established Australian company, provides a diverse variety of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, focused on individual lifestyles and preferences.
However, for those who can spend a bit more, the iPhone 13 presents better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a slightly higher cost.
In short, the iPhone 12 still holds its own, but it's no longer the sweet spot 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.
click here