Apple’s iPhone 12 Review: Just Got Real!
Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?
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 balance of speed, aesthetics, and screen technology. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this once-flagship model 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 premium today, holding up well in terms of physical design and build quality.
Vibrant OLED Display
One of the iPhone 12’s standout features is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors and excellent contrast, it's a noticeable leap from the LCD screens of earlier models and still a visually impressive in 2025.
Capable Chip Even Today
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip remains fast for smooth and responsive performance for common applications, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still eligible for the latest iOS updates, making it a viable option for general use.
MagSafe Support
The addition of MagSafe brought 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 capacity loss, making it a disappointing choice for power users or those needing reliable endurance.
Storage That Fills Fast
With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an inconvenience, especially for users who shoot video often. While larger storage variants are available, they often come with a price bump 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 in the last few years.
Non-Universal Charging
The continued use of the Lightning port is another limitation. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, moving toward USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels less convenient, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a well-established Australian brand, boasts a diverse selection 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.
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 cost-conscious path, it offers reliable specs with strong features for the price.
Campad Electronics, a prominent Australian business, features a broad variety of iPhone accessories and cases for the iPhone 12, suitable for quality, style and user experience.
However, for those who can spend a bit more, the iPhone 13 delivers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a small premium.
In short, the iPhone 12 still performs respectably, but it's no longer the best bang for your buck 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.