Is The iPhone 12 Still Worth Buying in 2025?

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iPhone 12 Worth Buying


The iPhone 12 remains a good budget option for those who want a reliable Apple device without spending too much. It still receives iOS updates, has a high-quality OLED display, and performs well for daily tasks.

However, if you’re looking for a device that will last for many more years, offers better battery life, and supports newer camera and AI features, you might want to consider the iPhone 13, iPhone 14, or iPhone 15 instead.

So, should you buy the iPhone 12 in 2025? Let’s break it down.

Pros and Cons of Buying the iPhone 12 in 2025

Pros

1. Affordable Price

  • Refurbished/Used: $250–$400 (varies by storage and condition).

  • "New Old Stock" (unopened): $400–$500 (rare and may have aging components).

  • iPhone 12 Pro (Refurbished/Used): $300–$600 (higher due to premium features like LiDAR and a telephoto lens).

  • "New Old Stock" iPhone 12 Pro: $600–$700 (extremely rare).

2. 5G Connectivity

  • Supports sub-6GHz 5G (faster than 4G in most areas).

  • Lacks newer 5G advancements like mmWave and carrier aggregation found in the iPhone 15.

3. Solid A14 Bionic Chip Performance

  • Great for: Web browsing, social media, streaming, and light gaming.

  • Supports iOS 18/19 features, including AI-based photo enhancements and Siri improvements.

  • Limitations: Struggles with high-end gaming (e.g., Genshin Impact) and intensive tasks like 4K video editing.

4. iOS Updates Until ~2026

  • Expected to receive iOS 18 (2024) and iOS 19 (2025).

  • Security updates likely until 2026.

  • After 2026, apps (especially banking apps) may stop supporting it.

5. Refurbished Options Available

  • Apple-Certified Refurbished: New battery, fresh housing, and a 1-year warranty.

  • Third-Party Refurbished: More affordable, but quality varies (check seller ratings and part authenticity).

6. Compact and Lightweight Design

  • iPhone 12: 6.1-inch OLED display, 162g weight (lighter than most 2025 Android phones).

  • iPhone 12 Pro: Adds a stainless steel frame and a matte glass back for a premium feel.

7. Eco-Friendly Choice

  • Reduces e-waste and has a lower carbon footprint than buying new.

Cons

1. Limited Software Support

  • iOS updates may end by 2026.

  • Security risks and app incompatibilities will increase after support ends.

2. Outdated Hardware

  • Slower than newer iPhones: A14 Bionic is 30–40% slower than 2025 chips like the A18 Bionic.

  • Weaker GPU: 60 FPS in medium settings vs. 120 FPS on newer devices.

  • Limited RAM: 4GB (vs. 8GB in 2025 flagships), impacting multitasking.

  • No AI-based features (e.g., real-time translation, advanced photo editing).

3. No USB-C Port

  • Uses Lightning cable (inconvenient if most of your devices are USB-C).

  • Slower charging: 20W max (vs. 35W on newer iPhones).

  • No 4K video output to monitors (USB-C supports this).

4. Battery Degradation

  • Battery loses 3–5% capacity per year, so a 2020-made iPhone 12 may have ~80% battery health by 2025.

  • Refurbished models: Better if they have replaced batteries, but still smaller capacity (2,815mAh vs. 3,349mAh in iPhone 15).

5. Missing Modern Features

  • Display: 60Hz refresh rate (vs. 120Hz ProMotion in iPhone 13 Pro and newer models).

  • Notch instead of Dynamic Island, which enhances notifications.

  • Cameras: 12MP main sensor (vs. 48MP on iPhone 14/15).

  • Lacks: ProRes video, Photonic Engine, Night Mode portraits.

  • iPhone 12 Pro: No ProRAW support (added only in iPhone 12 Pro Max).

6. Repair and Replacement Issues

  • Genuine Apple parts (like screens) may be discontinued.

  • Third-party repairs could mean lower-quality parts (e.g., LCD instead of OLED displays).

Should You Buy the iPhone 12 in 2025?

Buy If:

  • You need an affordable iPhone for basic tasks (calls, texts, social media).

  • You prioritize refurbished/eco-friendly options.

  • You find an iPhone 12 Pro under $400 (great for photography fans).

Avoid If:

  • You want long-term software support (consider the iPhone SE 2025 or a newer model).

  • You need USB-C, 120Hz refresh rate, or better cameras.

Which Alternative Should You Choose?

For iOS Users:

  • Refurbished iPhone 13/14 → Better performance, battery life, and camera features.

  • Wait for iPhone SE 2025 → USB-C, A16 Bionic chip, and longer iOS support.

For Android Users:

  • Google Pixel 8a → Superior AI features and camera.

  • Samsung Galaxy A55 → Better battery life and display.

For Gamers & Performance Seekers:

  • OnePlus Nord 4 → Affordable with high refresh rate display.

  • Refurbished Galaxy S23 → Flagship performance at a lower price.

Final Advice

The iPhone 12 is outdated in 2025, especially compared to newer models. Unless you find it under $250 (refurbished), you're better off investing in an iPhone 13/14 or a mid-range Android phone like the Pixel 8a. You'll get better longevity, improved features, and a device that remains relevant for years to come.

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