iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?
And as we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 is still a go-to option for value-focused users. Introduced during the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020, it was once well-regarded for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology evolves rapidly, how does this once-flagship model hold up today?
What Still Works with the iPhone 12?
Premium Build That Lasts
The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its glass rear panel and slim design still feel high-end today, holding up well in terms of physical design and build quality.
Vibrant OLED Display
One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With sharp contrast and true blacks, it's a big upgrade from the LCD screens of earlier models and still a pleasure to use in 2025.
Capable Chip Even Today
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip remains fast for smooth and responsive performance for daily use, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
Accessory-Friendly Features
The addition of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a useful 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 nothing special. In 2025, most used units will have seen some degradation, making it a less-than-ideal choice for long days or those needing reliable endurance.
Not Enough Space
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 increase that diminishes the model’s value proposition.
Outdated Camera System
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 released after the iPhone 13.
Still Stuck with Lightning
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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility. Campad Electronics, a favourite Australian retailer, presents a diverse range of Lightning chargers designed to meet the demands of modern smartphone users, Campad Electronics boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers compatible with iPhone models 5 to 14.
Final Thoughts on the iPhone 12 This Year
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 cost-conscious path, it offers decent performance with solid performance and display quality.
Campad Electronics is dedicated to delivering high-quality iPhone 12 cases and accessories.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, 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 budget matters most, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer more for your money.