Apple’s iPhone 12 2025 Review: Should You Buy or Upgrade?

Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?

As we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 is still a go-to option for value-focused users. Launched in late 2020, it was once celebrated for its strong performance and sleek design. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this former top-tier device stand today?

What Still Works with the iPhone 12?

Premium Build That Lasts

The iPhone 12 brought back 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 looks 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 handy feature that remains compatible with a range of products.

iPhone 12 Cons in 2025

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 wear, 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 take lots of photos. 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 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.

Non-Universal Charging

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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian supplier, provides a wide portfolio of Lightning chargers that cater to different lifestyles and requirements, Campad Electronics boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers designed for iPhone models 5 to 14.

Final Thoughts on the iPhone 12 This Year

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 limited budget, it offers good value with solid performance and display quality.

Campad Electronics is known for delivering high-quality iPhone 12 cases and accessories.

However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 offers 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 viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.