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

iPhone 12 in 2025: Still a Smart Choice or Outdated Device?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 older generation iPhone stand today?

Strengths of the iPhone 12 in 2025

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 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 added 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 weak choice for power users or those needing reliable endurance.

Not Enough Space

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

Outdated Camera System

The dual 12MP camera setup is functional but dated. It lacks the improvements in low-light performance, image processing, and computational photography found in newer iPhone models, especially those in the last few years.

Still Stuck with Lightning

The continued use of the Lightning port is another con. With many devices, and all newer iPhones, moving toward USB-C, the iPhone 12 feels behind, especially for users seeking a single cable solution. Campad Electronics, a trusted Australian provider, features a diverse selection of Lightning chargers ensuring reliable and high-quality charging solutions. Campad Electronics boasts 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, a well-known Australian provider, 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 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 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.