Is It Still Worth Buying an iPhone 12 in 2024?

The iPhone 12, released in 2020, has been a popular choice among smartphone users. With the imminent release of the iPhone 15 in September 2024, potential buyers may be wondering if it’s still worth purchasing the iPhone 12. This article aims to help readers make an informed decision by providing an in-depth analysis of the iPhone 12’s specifications, software, price and value proposition. 

iPhone 12 Overview

The iPhone 12 boasts several key specifications that make it a compelling choice. Its display, design and build are top-notch, featuring a sleek and modern aesthetic. The device is powered by a high-performance processor, ensuring smooth and fast operation. The camera capabilities of the iPhone 12 are impressive, delivering stunning photos and videos. Additionally, the battery life is reliable, lasting throughout the day with moderate usage. 

Software and Updates

When it comes to software, the iPhone 12 runs on the latest iOS version and is expected to receive updates for several years to come. However, concerns about planned obsolescence may arise, as newer models are released. It’s important to consider how long Apple will continue to support the iPhone 12 with software updates and new features.

Price and Availability

Currently, the iPhone 12 is available in the market at various price points, depending on the storage capacity and model. In 2024, as the iPhone 15 hits the shelves, the availability of the iPhone 12 may decrease. It’s worth considering the potential scarcity and potential impact on pricing when deciding to purchase the iPhone 12.

iPhone Model	Release Year	Starting Price (EUR)
iPhone 11	2019	€699
iPhone 12	2020	€799
iPhone 13	2021	€799

iPhone 12 vs. iPhone 11

Camera Specification	iPhone 11	iPhone 12	iPhone 13
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP (Wide, Ultra-Wide)	Dual 12MP (Wide, Ultra-Wide)	Dual 12MP (Wide, Ultra-Wide)
Front Camera	12MP	12MP	12MP
Optical Image Stabilization	Yes (Wide)	Yes (Wide)	Yes (Wide)
Night Mode	Yes (Wide and Ultra-Wide)	Yes (Wide and Ultra-Wide)	Yes (Wide and Ultra-Wide)
Deep Fusion	Yes (Wide)	Yes (Wide)	Yes (Wide)
Smart HDR	Yes	Yes	Yes
2x Optical Zoom	No	Yes	Yes
Night mode time-lapse	No	Yes	Yes
Sensor-Shift OIS (Wide)	No	Yes	Yes (Pro models only)
ProRAW and ProRes video	No	No	Yes (Pro models only)

Compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 11, the iPhone 12 offers several notable improvements. In terms of design and build, the iPhone 12 introduces a sleeker and more refined look, with a ceramic shield front cover and a flat-edge design. Performance-wise, the iPhone 12 benefits from a more advanced processor and offers increased RAM and storage options. 

The camera upgrades on the iPhone 12 provide enhanced features and improved photography capabilities. When it comes to software and updates, both models are expected to receive support for a similar duration, but the iPhone 12 may have access to newer features and improvements. In terms of pricing, the iPhone 12 is generally priced higher than the iPhone 11, but it offers a significant upgrade in terms of overall performance and features.

iPhone 12 vs. iPhone 13

Comparing the iPhone 12 to the iPhone 13, the differences are more subtle. Design and build-wise, the iPhone 13 retains a similar aesthetic to the iPhone 12, but it may introduce minor enhancements in materials and weight. 

Performance-wise, the iPhone 13 has more advanced processor and potentially offer increased RAM and storage options. Camera upgrades on the iPhone 13 may introduce new features and improvements, but the differences may not be significant enough to warrant the extra investment. 

Both models are likely to receive similar software support, but the iPhone 13 may have access to exclusive features. The pricing difference between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 should be considered when deciding whether the extra investment is worth it.

iPhone 12 vs. iPhone X

When comparing the iPhone 12 to the iPhone X, the differences are more pronounced. In terms of design and build, the iPhone 12 features a more modern look with a flat-edge design and improved materials. Performance-wise, the iPhone 12 benefits from a more advanced processor and offers increased RAM and storage options. 

Camera upgrades on the iPhone 12 provide enhanced features and improved photography capabilities compared to the iPhone X. Both models are expected to receive similar software support, but the iPhone 12 may have access to newer features and improvements.

The pricing difference between the iPhone 12 and iPhone X should be considered, as the iPhone 12 offers a significant upgrade in terms of overall performance and features.

In conclusion, the iPhone 12 remains a worthy choice in 2024, despite the release of the iPhone 15. Its key specifications, software support, and overall value proposition make it a reliable and powerful smartphone. When comparing it to the iPhone 11, iPhone 13, and iPhone X, the iPhone 12 offers significant upgrades in various aspects. However, individual needs, budget constraints, and long-term planning should be taken into account when making a decision.