Tech Talk

Is the iPhone 12 Pro Worth Buying in 2025 (A Comprehensive Guide)

Feb 15, 2025 Jonathan Sizemore

Introduction

The iPhone 12 Pro, launched in October 2020, was a flagship device that introduced significant upgrades, including a LiDAR scanner, improved camera system, and a sleek stainless steel design. Fast forward to 2025, and many buyers are wondering whether the iPhone 12 Pro is still worth purchasing.

According to our UpTrade Price Tracker, a Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro now starts at $270+, making it an attractive deal compared to newer iPhones that cost hundreds more. While the latest iPhones boast more powerful processors and additional camera features, the iPhone 12 Pro still holds up well in terms of performance, design, and software support.

So, is it still a good buy in 2025? Let’s explore the key aspects to help you decide.

Why Consider a Used or Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro?

Buying a Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro instead of a new model has several advantages, including:

✅ Significant Cost Savings – The iPhone 12 Pro is now available for under $300, while the latest Pro model costs $1000 brand new.
✅ Premium Build Quality – Stainless steel frame and Ceramic Shield glass make it feel more premium than mid-range phones.
✅ Great Performance – The A14 Bionic chip still delivers fast, smooth performance for daily tasks and gaming.
✅ iOS Updates – Expected to receive software updates until at least 2027, ensuring longevity.
✅ Triple Camera System – Includes a LiDAR scanner for improved low-light photography and AR applications.
✅ 5G Connectivity – Future-proof for fast mobile data speeds.

For budget-conscious buyers looking for a premium iPhone experience without spending a fortune, the iPhone 12 Pro remains a solid choice.

Full Specs for iPhone 12 Pro

Feature	Details
Chipset	A14 Bionic (5nm)
Display	6.1-inch Super Retina XDR (OLED), HDR10, 1170 x 2532 pixels
Refresh Rate	60Hz
Rear Cameras	12MP (wide) + 12MP (telephoto, 2x optical) + 12MP (ultrawide) + LiDAR scanner
Front Camera	12MP TrueDepth with Night Mode and 4K recording
Storage Options	128GB, 256GB, 512GB (no microSD slot)
Battery Life	2,815mAh (up to 17 hours video playback)
Operating System	Launched with iOS 14, upgradable to the latest iOS
Weight	189 grams (6.66 ounces)
Dimensions	146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 mm (5.78 x 2.82 x 0.29 inches)
SIM	Nano-SIM and eSIM
Other Features	Face ID, MagSafe, Ceramic Shield Glass, 5G Connectivity, Dolby Vision

💡 UpTrade Price Tracker (2025): Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro starts at $270+, making it one of the best value iPhones available.

Is the iPhone 12 Pro Outdated?

While the iPhone 12 Pro is four years old in 2025, it remains a capable device thanks to:

🔹 iOS Updates – Still expected to receive major iOS updates until at least 2027, keeping it secure and up to date.
🔹 A14 Bionic Chip – Handles multitasking, gaming, and heavy apps efficiently.
🔹 Camera Performance – The triple-camera system and LiDAR scanner still provide excellent photography.
🔹 5G Connectivity – Ensures fast mobile data speeds, making it future-proof.

Compared to newer models like the iPhone 13 Pro or 14 Pro, the iPhone 12 Pro lacks ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate) and longer battery life, but it still delivers a flagship experience at a fraction of the cost.

💡 Verdict: The iPhone 12 Pro is not outdated in 2025. It remains a premium device with solid performance, great cameras, and modern features like 5G and MagSafe.

Performance – How Well Does the iPhone 12 Pro Hold Up in 2025?

✅ Everyday Performance – Runs apps smoothly, including social media, browsing, and streaming.
✅ Gaming – Handles demanding games like Call of Duty Mobile, Genshin Impact, and PUBG without lag.
✅ Multitasking – iOS optimizations ensure efficient RAM management.
✅ AI and Photography Processing – The A14 chip powers Night Mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 3 for stunning photos.

💡 Verdict: The A14 chip is still powerful enough for most users in 2025. Unless you need the latest chipset for professional video editing or extreme gaming, the iPhone 12 Pro remains a great performer.

Appearance and Design – Does It Still Look Modern?

The iPhone 12 Pro introduced the modern flat-edged design, which Apple still uses in newer models like the iPhone 13 Pro and 14 Pro.

✅ Premium Build – Features a surgical-grade stainless steel frame and Ceramic Shield glass for durability.
✅ Compact & Comfortable – At 6.1 inches, it’s easier to handle compared to larger iPhones.
✅ Available Colors – Pacific Blue, Gold, Silver, and Graphite.

💡 Verdict: The iPhone 12 Pro still looks premium and modern in 2025. Its design is nearly identical to newer Pro models, making it a stylish and durable choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Camera Capabilities – Is It Still a Good Camera Phone in 2025?

The iPhone 12 Pro’s camera system was one of the best in 2020, and it still competes well in 2025.

✅ Triple Camera Setup:

✔ 12MP Main Sensor – Great low-light performance, Deep Fusion for sharp details.
✔ 12MP Telephoto Lens (2x Optical Zoom) – Useful for portraits and zoom shots.
✔ 12MP Ultrawide Lens – Expands your frame for landscapes and group photos.
✔ LiDAR Scanner – Improves Night Mode and AR applications.

✅ Camera Features That Still Hold Up:

✔ Night Mode – Bright, noise-free low-light shots.
✔ Smart HDR 3 – Enhances color accuracy and contrast.
✔ Dolby Vision HDR Video – Shoots 4K at 60fps with high dynamic range.
✔ Deep Fusion – AI-powered detail enhancement for sharper images.

💡 Verdict: The iPhone 12 Pro remains a strong camera phone in 2025, especially for its $270+ price point. If you love mobile photography but don’t want to spend on a newer model, it’s still an excellent choice.

Connectivity and Battery Life

The iPhone 12 Pro offers solid connectivity and a reliable battery life, even in 2025.

✅ 5G Connectivity – One of the first iPhones to support 5G, ensuring fast internet speeds for years to come.
✅ Wi-Fi 6 & Bluetooth 5.0 – Faster and more stable wireless connections for streaming, gaming, and file transfers.
✅ MagSafe & Wireless Charging – Supports MagSafe accessories and Qi wireless charging for added convenience. 🔋 Battery Performance in 2025:

✔ 2,815mAh battery – Can last up to 17 hours of video playback.
✔ Fast Charging – 50% charge in 30 minutes with a 20W adapter.
✔ Power Efficiency – The A14 chip and iOS optimizations help extend battery life.

💡 Verdict: Despite having a smaller battery than newer models, the iPhone 12 Pro still delivers all-day battery life with moderate usage. Fast charging and MagSafe wireless charging make it a convenient and future-proof device.

Software Support and Longevity

One of the biggest advantages of buying an iPhone is Apple’s long-term software support.

✅ Launched with iOS 14, the iPhone 12 Pro is upgradable to the latest iOS version in 2025.
✅ Expected to receive iOS updates until at least 2027, ensuring security patches and new features.
✅ Access to Apple’s ecosystem, including FaceTime, iMessage, AirDrop, and Handoff.
✅ Privacy and Security – Apple’s regular security updates help protect user data.

💡 Verdict: The iPhone 12 Pro remains relevant in 2025, thanks to Apple’s industry-leading software support. Users can expect at least two more years of major iOS updates, making it a safe investment for those who want a phone that won’t feel outdated quickly.

Value Retention

Apple iPhones are known for holding their value better than most Android phones, and the iPhone 12 Pro is no exception.

✅ Originally priced at $999 (128GB), now available for $270+ in the refurbished market.
✅ Still in demand – The Pro lineup retains its value better than standard iPhones.
✅ Trade-in & Resale Value – Likely to remain valuable for resale through 2026.

💡 Verdict: The iPhone 12 Pro offers excellent value retention, meaning you can resell or trade it in later for a good price. Unlike many budget Android phones, it remains a worthwhile investment.

Environmental Considerations

Buying a Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro is not just about saving money—it’s also an eco-friendly decision.

♻️ Why Buying Refurbished Helps the Planet:

✅ Reduces electronic waste by keeping high-quality devices in circulation.
✅ Lowers demand for new phone production, reducing carbon emissions.
✅ Encourages sustainable shopping by choosing pre-owned but high-quality tech.

💡 Verdict: Choosing a refurbished iPhone 12 Pro helps reduce e-waste, making it a smart and sustainable choice for environmentally conscious buyers.

Where to Buy a Used or Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro

To ensure quality and reliability, always buy from trusted refurbished marketplaces:

Best Certified Refurbished Marketplaces (Recommended)

✅ UpTrade – Offers market-low prices from Certified Professional Resellers, ensuring quality and transparency.
✅ Apple Certified Refurbished – Higher prices, but comes with Apple’s official warranty and genuine parts.
✅ Amazon Renewed & Best Buy – Trusted platforms with limited availability.

Avoid Buying From These High-Risk Marketplaces

❌ eBay / Craigslist / Facebook Marketplace – No guarantee on battery health, performance, or warranty.
❌ Unauthorized Third-Party Sellers – Higher risk of scams, fakes, or missing accessories.

💡 Best Tip: For the lowest Certified Refurbished pricing, check UpTrade, where you can compare iPhone 12 Pro deals from trusted sellers.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the iPhone 12 Pro in 2025?

The iPhone 12 Pro is still one of the best refurbished iPhones under $300 in 2025, offering a premium design, powerful performance, and flagship cameras at a budget-friendly price.

✅ Why Buy It?

✔ A14 Bionic chip still delivers fast performance for everyday use and gaming.
✔ Pro-level cameras with Night Mode & LiDAR Scanner for great photography.
✔ Premium stainless steel build that still looks modern.
✔ 5G connectivity & MagSafe charging keep it future-proof.
✔ $270+ Certified Refurbished pricing makes it a steal.

❌ Who Should Skip It?

If you want longer iOS support, consider the iPhone 13 Pro or newer models.
If you prefer a bigger battery and 120Hz display, look at the iPhone 13 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro.

💡 Final Verdict: If you want a powerful, premium iPhone for under $300, the iPhone 12 Pro is still a fantastic deal in 2025.

🚀 For the best Certified Refurbished iPhone 12 Pro deals, check UpTrade today!