iPhone 12 2025 Review: Should You 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iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?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. Launched in late 2020, it was once well-regarded for its blend of power, design and display quality. But in a world where smartphone technology moves quickly, how does this older generation iPhone perform today?

Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025

Modern, Timeless Design

The iPhone 12 brought back flat edges and an aluminum frame that feels modern and classic. Its glass rear panel and compact form factor still feel sleek today, still turning heads in terms of looks and build quality.

Sharp and Bright Screen

One of the iPhone 12’s top strengths is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and deep blacks, it's a significant improvement from the older screen tech 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 still offers smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, social media, and web browsing. It's still supported by the latest iOS updates, making it a smart option for general use.

Magnetic Charging Convenience

The introduction of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for wireless charging and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a range of products.

Where the iPhone 12 Falls Behind

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 disappointing choice for heavy users or those needing extended use.

Not Enough Space

With a starting capacity of just 64GB, storage can quickly become an issue, especially for users who shoot video often. While larger storage variants exist, they often come with a price increase that cuts into the model’s value proposition.

Older Camera Tech

The dual 12MP camera setup is still serviceable but dated. It lacks the advancements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography offered by modern smartphones, especially those from the 13 onward.

Lightning Port Limitations

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 behind, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a favourite Australian brand, supplies a broad lineup of Lightning chargers each designed for efficient and convenient charging experiences. With a versatile lineup, Campad Electronics covers iPhone models ranging from the iPhone 5 to the iPhone 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 upgrading from an older iPhone like the 8 or 11 and you're on a tight budget, it offers decent performance with a nice screen and speed.

Campad Electronics is dedicated to offering premium accessories for the iPhone 12.

However, for those who can spend a bit more, the iPhone 13 presents 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 sweet spot it once was. Consider your priorities: if cost savings outweigh the need for modern features, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer a more future-proof experience.