The iPhone 12, launched in October 2020, was a major leap in Apple’s smartphone lineup. It introduced 5G connectivity, OLED displays across the board, and a refreshed flat-edge design reminiscent of the iPhone 4 era. It also marked the start of Apple’s MagSafe ecosystem and delivered strong performance through the A14 Bionic chip.
Now in 2025, the iPhone 12 price has dropped significantly, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious Apple fans. But is it still worth purchasing five years after its release?
iPhone 12 Overview
Though it’s no longer among Apple’s newest offerings, the iPhone 12 remains a capable smartphone, especially for users who want to enter the Apple ecosystem without breaking the bank.
Key Specifications:
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Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 2532×1170, HDR10, Dolby Vision
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Chipset: A14 Bionic
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RAM: 4GB
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Storage Options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
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Rear Cameras:
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12MP wide (f/1.6)
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12MP ultrawide (f/2.4)
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Front Camera: 12MP TrueDepth with Face ID
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Battery: 2,815mAh with 20W wired, 15W MagSafe wireless charging
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Build: Ceramic Shield front, aluminum frame, IP68 water resistance
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OS: iOS 14 at launch, upgradable to iOS 17+ in 2025
iPhone 12 Price in 2025 (U.S. Market)
As of 2025, Apple has officially discontinued selling the iPhone 12 through its own website, but it remains widely available via third-party retailers, refurbishers, and resale marketplaces.
| Storage | New (Old Stock) | Refurbished | Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| 64GB | $349–$399 | $280–$320 | $220–$270 |
| 128GB | $399–$449 | $320–$360 | $250–$300 |
| 256GB | $449–$499 | $360–$420 | $300–$350 |
These prices make the iPhone 12 a compelling entry point into the Apple ecosystem for under $400.
Why the iPhone 12 Is Still Relevant in 2025
Despite being five years old, the iPhone 12 still delivers a balanced performance and remains one of the most popular refurbished and used iPhones in the market.
1. Strong A14 Bionic Performance
The A14 Bionic chip, built on a 5nm process, still handles most tasks efficiently in 2025. Whether it’s gaming, multitasking, or running the latest iOS version, performance remains smooth.
2. OLED Display with HDR
The iPhone 12 was the first standard (non-Pro) model to get a Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and Dolby Vision HDR—still impressive by today’s standards.
3. 5G Connectivity
The iPhone 12 was Apple’s first 5G phone. While it lacks mmWave in some models, Sub-6GHz 5G is still well-supported and fast in most global networks in 2025.
4. MagSafe Compatibility
Thanks to MagSafe, the iPhone 12 works seamlessly with magnetic accessories such as wallets, chargers, and cases—many of which are still being released in 2025.
5. iOS Updates
Apple typically supports its devices for 6–7 years, meaning the iPhone 12 will likely receive updates through 2026 or 2027, including security patches and major iOS versions.
How It Compares to Other iPhones in 2025
If you’re considering an older iPhone in 2025, here’s how the iPhone 12 compares:
| Model | iPhone 12 | iPhone 13 | iPhone 11 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | A14 Bionic | A15 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| Display | OLED 6.1″ | OLED 6.1″ | LCD 6.1″ |
| 5G Support | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| MagSafe | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Price (2025) | $250–$400 | $350–$500 | $180–$280 |
The iPhone 12 stands as the sweet spot between features, design, and pricing.
Ideal Users for the iPhone 12 in 2025
| User Type | Suitability |
|---|---|
| First-Time iPhone User | ✅ Easy to use and affordable |
| Student or Teenager | ✅ Durable and compatible with latest apps |
| Budget-Conscious Buyer | ✅ Excellent value under $400 |
| Mobile Photographer | ✅ Decent dual-camera, especially in daylight |
| Power User or Creator | ❌ Might want newer camera and battery tech |
Limitations to Consider
Though still relevant, the iPhone 12 does have a few caveats in 2025:
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Battery Life: The battery capacity is small by modern standards, and used units may experience battery health degradation
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No ProMotion (120Hz): Unlike newer iPhones, the iPhone 12 is limited to 60Hz refresh rate
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No Telephoto Lens: Only wide and ultrawide cameras
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Limited Night Mode: Night photography is decent, but not as refined as iPhone 13 and newer
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No Always-On Display: A feature now common in recent iPhones (14 Pro and up)
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 12 price in 2025 makes it one of the best-value options for those who want a reliable, fast, and future-proof iPhone without paying flagship prices. It balances performance, design, camera, and features in a way that still feels modern—despite its age.
For under $400, the iPhone 12 continues to serve as a great daily driver for students, budget-conscious professionals, or anyone looking for a secondary device that still gets iOS updates and full App Store compatibility.