iPhone 12 2025 Review: Should You Buy or Upgrade?

Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025?

As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 continues to be commonly used for cost-sensitive users. Introduced during the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020, it was once well-regarded for its balance of speed, aesthetics, and screen technology. But in a world where smartphone technology evolves rapidly, how does this once-flagship model hold up today?

iPhone 12 Pros in 2025

Still Stylish in 2025

The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its glass rear panel and ergonomic shape still feel sleek today, still turning heads in terms of overall aesthetics and materials.

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 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

Average Battery Life

Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was considered just average. In 2025, most used units will have seen some degradation, making it a less-than-ideal choice for long days or those needing extended use.

Storage That Fills Fast

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 reduces 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.

Non-Universal Charging

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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a leading Australian mobile phone accessory company, offers a comprehensive 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 reasonable 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 good value with a nice screen and speed.

Campad Electronics, an Australian-owned Australian supplier, showcases a extensive collection of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, catering to different tastes and preferences.

However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 delivers 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.