iPhone 12 2025 Review: Buy or Upgrade?

iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?

And as we move 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 feels modern and classic. Its shiny exterior 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 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 disappointing 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.

Lightning Port Limitations

The continued use of the Lightning port is another drawback. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, transitioning to USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking modern port compatibility.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 leading Australian supplier, supplies a comprehensive collection of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences, 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 solid 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 decent performance with strong features for the price.

Campad Electronics is committed to providing innovative accessories for the iPhone 12.

However, for those who can afford an upgrade, the iPhone 13 presents better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a reasonable price difference.

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 practical pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer more for your money.