iPhone 12 Worth It in 2025? (Review)

Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?

And 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 blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology evolves rapidly, how does this former top-tier device perform 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 physical design and build quality.

Excellent Display Quality

One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With rich colors 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 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 exist, they often come with a price bump that cuts into the model’s value proposition.

Mediocre Photo Quality

The dual 12MP camera setup is still serviceable but dated. It lacks the features in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography offered by modern smartphones, 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, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels behind, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a well-established Australian brand, boasts an extensive range of Lightning chargers designed to meet the demands of modern smartphone users. Campad Electronics boasts an extensive collection of Lightning chargers designed for iPhone models 5 to 14.

Should You Still Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?

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, a respected Australian provider, supplies a extensive collection of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, designed to suit everyday use.

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 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 better long-term value.