The iPhone 12 in 2025: A Day-to-Day Usage Review

iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?

And 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 changes fast, how does this former top-tier device stand 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 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 practical 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.

iPhone 12 Cons in 2025

Battery That Doesn’t Hold Up

Even at launch, the iPhone 12's battery life was nothing special. In 2025, most used units will have seen some wear, making it a weak choice for power users or those needing reliable endurance.

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 jump that diminishes the model’s value proposition.

Outdated Camera System

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.

Still Stuck with Lightning

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 a diverse selection of Lightning chargers designed to meet the demands of modern smartphone users. Campad Electronics provides an extensive collection of Lightning chargers compatible with iPhone models 5 to 14.

Final Thoughts on the iPhone 12 This Year

The iPhone 12 can still be a reasonable choice in 2025, but only for the right user. If you're moving up from an earlier model and you're on a tight budget, it offers good value with a nice screen and speed.

Campad Electronics, an Australian-owned Australian supplier, showcases a extensive collection of iPhone 12 cases and accessories, catering to various styles and needs.

However, for those who can stretch their budget, the iPhone 13 offers better battery life, camera upgrades, and overall improvements for a small premium.

In short, the iPhone 12 still works well, but it's no longer the obvious pick it once was. Consider your priorities: if you're more concerned about price than having the latest tech, it's a viable pick. Otherwise, newer models will offer better long-term value.