iPhone 12 review

Design and Colors: A Flat-Edge Reboot — iPhone 12

Apple took a noticeable step back in time with the iPhone 12, reviving the flat-edged silhouette last seen on the iPhone 5 series. Instead of the rounded curves that defined recent models, this phone sits flush with squared-off sides made of aerospace-grade aluminum. The front uses a Ceramic Shield glass that Apple claims offers better drop protection, while the back still relies on a single sheet of glass.

At just 164 grams, the iPhone 12 feels light and nimble in hand, and its IP68 rating means it can survive a dip in up to six meters of water for 30 minutes. The color palette is broad and playful, ranging from staid Black and White to punchier hues like Red, Green, Blue, and a soft Purple. This is the same phone that introduced MagSafe to the iPhone line, a ring of magnets inside the rear glass that snaps on chargers, wallets, and other accessories with a satisfying click.

Whether you choose a subtle or vivid shade, the design is notable without being flashy, and the flat edges make the phone feel more compact than its 6.1-inch display suggests. That squared-off look is not just about aesthetics; it also helps the phone sit more securely on flat surfaces and makes one-handed use a bit easier. Overall, this is a fresh, carefully considered exterior that pairs modern materials with a classic shape. For a device that launched in 2020, it still feels contemporary next to newer models.

If you want to compare it with other options, check out our full collection of phone reviews from various brands.

Display: The Jump to OLED — iPhone 12

Its 6.1-inch OLED, 60Hz display works with the Apple A14 Bionic and Not officially stated by Apple of memory. Storage choices are 64GB–256GB, so buyers should leave enough room for apps, photos, and system updates.

Performance: A14 Bionic and 5G — iPhone 12

The rear camera hardware is 12MP main + 12MP ultrawide. That list explains the available lenses, but reliable results still depend on light, subject movement, processing, and the condition of an older unit.

Camera: Two Lenses, Familiar Results — iPhone 12

The dual cameras on the back—a 12MP main lens and a 12MP ultrawide—largely mirror what Apple offered on the iPhone 11. In daylight, shots come out well balanced, with natural colors and decent dynamic range. The ultrawide lets you fit more into the frame, though it lacks a telephoto lens for optical zoom. Night mode works on both cameras, helping in low light, but the results aren't dramatically different from the previous generation.

HDR video recording is present and works smoothly, and the front-facing TrueDepth camera also gets Night mode for selfies. If you're coming from an older iPhone, the camera improvements will feel subtle; if you're new to the iPhone line, these are reliable and easy to use. For a deeper look at how the camera stacks up against other models, check out our phone finder tool.

Battery and Charging: MagSafe Arrives — iPhone 12

Battery life on the iPhone 12 handles a full day of typical use—web browsing, streaming, and messaging—without needing a top-up before bedtime. Apple rates it for up to 17 hours of video playback. The real story here is charging. Apple removed the wired EarPods and the USB power adapter from the box, leaving just a USB‑C to Lightning cable. That means you'll likely need to buy a 20W charger separately for fast charging.

As a trade-off, Apple introduced MagSafe: a ring of magnets inside the phone that snaps onto compatible chargers and accessories. The 15W MagSafe wireless charging is faster than standard Qi charging and makes alignment effortless. You can also attach cases, wallets, and other magnetic add-ons. It's a clever system, though the lack of an included charger remains a sticking point for some buyers. If you're trying to decide between the regular model and the mini, a side-by-side comparison can help you weigh the differences in battery and size.

Is the iPhone 12 right for you?

Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It?

Released in 2020, the iPhone 12 stands as a solid mainstream pick even a couple of years later. It brings key features that many buyers still care about: an OLED display with deeper blacks and better contrast than the LCD on the iPhone 11, 5G support that continues to become more useful as networks expand, and a fresh flat-edged design that feels modern and comes in several lively colors (Black, White, Red, Green, Blue, Purple). Weighing just 164 grams, it's noticeably lighter than many current flagships.

The A14 Bionic chip remains fast enough for everyday tasks and games, and the phone still receives iOS updates. On the downside, the 60Hz display refresh rate lags behind some Android competitors that offer smoother scrolling, and there is no telephoto camera for zoom. The missing charger in the box also means you'll have to spend extra if you don't already own a compatible power brick.

For someone looking for a well-rounded iPhone without paying Pro-model prices, the iPhone 12 remains a compelling option—especially if you can find it at a discount. It doesn't break new ground, but it brings together most of the features that matter.