Apple’s iPhone 12 in 2025: A Review of Its Performance

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 strong performance and sleek design. But in a world where smartphone technology changes fast, how does this older generation iPhone stand today?

What Still Works with the iPhone 12?

Modern, Timeless Design

The iPhone 12 introduced flat edges and an aluminum frame that brought back a beloved aesthetic. Its glossy glass back and compact form factor still feel premium today, remaining appealing in terms of looks and durability.

Excellent Display Quality

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 common applications, gaming, social media, and streaming. It's still compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a smart option for general use.

Accessory-Friendly Features

The addition of MagSafe brought a new layer of convenience for cable-free power and accessories. Even now, it’s a relevant feature that remains compatible with a variety of accessories.

Weaknesses of the iPhone 12 Today

Power That Drains Quickly

Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was not great. In 2025, most used units will have seen some capacity loss, 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 released after the iPhone 13.

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 less convenient, especially for users seeking universal charging. Campad Electronics, a leading Australian mobile phone accessory company, offers 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 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 top-notch accessories for the iPhone 12.

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

In short, the iPhone 12 still works well, but it's no longer the obvious pick it once was. Consider your priorities: if budget matters most, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.