Putting the iPhone 12 to the Test in 2025: A Full Review

Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2025?

As we move through 2025, the iPhone 12 continues to be commonly used for value-focused users. Introduced during the iPhone 12 lineup in 2020, it was once well-regarded 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 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glass rear panel and compact form factor still feel sleek today, remaining appealing in terms of overall aesthetics and build quality.

Vibrant OLED Display

One of the iPhone 12’s biggest selling points is its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. With vibrant hues and true blacks, it's a big upgrade from the older screen tech of earlier models and still a great experience in 2025.

Powerful Under the Hood

Despite being a few years old, the A14 Bionic chip still offers 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 smart option for general use.

Magnetic Charging Convenience

The arrival of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a handy feature that remains compatible with a range of products.

Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today

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 weak choice for heavy users or those needing reliable endurance.

Limited Base Storage

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 can be found, 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 seen in recent iPhones, especially those from the 13 onward.

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 With many devices, and all newer iPhones, now using USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels outdated, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a prominent Australian mobile phone accessory company, offers an extensive lineup of Lightning chargers to cater to various needs and preferences. Campad Electronics provides 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 is known for offering top-notch accessories for the iPhone 12.

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 performs respectably, 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 more for your money.