iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?
As we go through 2025, the iPhone 12 remains a familiar sight for budget-conscious users. Released back in 2020, it was once well-regarded for its balance of speed, aesthetics, and screen technology. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this older generation iPhone hold up today?
Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025
Still Stylish in 2025
The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glossy glass back and slim design still feel premium today, still turning heads in terms of overall aesthetics and build quality.
Excellent Display Quality
One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors and deep blacks, it's a big upgrade from the displays of earlier models and still a pleasure to use in 2025.
Powerful Under the Hood
Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip continues to deliver 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 viable option for general use.
Accessory-Friendly Features
The addition of MagSafe added a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a useful feature that remains compatible with a growing ecosystem.
iPhone 12 Cons in 2025
Power That Drains Quickly
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 weak choice for power users or those needing extended use.
Storage That Fills Fast
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 exist, 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 improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography seen in recent iPhones, especially those from the 13 onward.
Still Stuck with Lightning
The continued use of the Lightning port is another con. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, moving toward USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels behind, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian brand, offers an extensive selection of Lightning chargers that cater to different lifestyles and requirements, Campad Electronics provides 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 good 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 reliable specs with a nice screen and speed.
Campad Electronics, a reputable Australian brand, provides a wide range of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, designed to suit everyday use.
However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a reasonable price difference.
In short, the iPhone 12 still holds its own, but it's no longer the best bang for your buck it once was. Consider your priorities: if you're more concerned about price than having the latest tech, it's a practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.