Apple iPhone 12 Pro

Revisiting the iPhone 12 Pro: Still a Contender After All This Time?

I recently spent some quality time with the Apple iPhone 12 Pro, and it’s been a fascinating re-evaluation. While it’s no longer the latest and greatest from Cupertino, the 12 Pro occupies an interesting space in the current smartphone landscape. My testing involved using it as a daily driver, putting its camera through various scenarios, pushing its performance with demanding apps, and generally living with it to get a real feel for its strengths and weaknesses. At its initial price point, it was positioned as a premium flagship, and even now, on the secondary market, it commands a respectable sum. My initial impression? This phone still holds up remarkably well, offering a compelling blend of performance, photography prowess, and refined design.

A Look Back at its Market Position

Back in 2020, the iPhone 12 Pro was a significant statement from Apple. It signified their continued push into the premium segment, showcasing advancements in display technology, processing power, and particularly, camera capabilities. Apple’s strategy with the “Pro” line has always been about delivering a no-compromise experience for users who demand the best, and the 12 Pro was a prime example of this. Looking at the market then, it was competing head-to-head with other flagship Android devices, and its price point reflected that premium positioning. Now, while newer iPhones have taken the spotlight, the 12 Pro offers a more accessible entry point into Apple’s high-end ecosystem, making it a compelling option for those not needing the absolute latest features. In my opinion, the current pricing on the used market makes it a particularly attractive proposition for users prioritizing key flagship features without breaking the bank.

Design and Hardware: Premium Feel That Lasts

Picking up the iPhone 12 Pro, the immediate impression is one of quality. The surgical-grade stainless steel band and the textured matte glass back exude a premium feel that still rivals many contemporary devices. It feels solid and well-built in the hand, though I have to acknowledge the weight – at 189g, it’s definitely noticeable, especially during extended use. While some might prefer lighter phones, the heft lends a sense of durability and robustness. During my time with it, I didn't experience any concerns about its build integrity, and the flat edges, while a departure from the more rounded designs of previous iPhones, offer a secure grip. The quality of the materials is evident, and even after a few years, the design language remains sophisticated and timeless.

Display: Still a Visual Treat

The "Super Retina XDR OLED" display on the iPhone 12 Pro is, simply put, stunning. In my experience, the brightness and clarity are exceptional, making everything from browsing the web to watching HDR content a genuine pleasure. The vibrant colors and deep blacks make media consumption particularly immersive. I spent a good amount of time watching videos and the detail and contrast are truly impressive. Gaming is also a visual treat, with smooth animations and crisp visuals. Even under bright sunlight, the display remains remarkably legible, a testament to its excellent brightness capabilities. For daily use, this display is more than capable, providing a sharp and engaging viewing experience that still rivals many newer mid-range smartphones.

Performance: Power Where It Counts

Under the hood, the Apple A14 Bionic chip continues to impress. In my testing, the iPhone 12 Pro handled everything I threw at it with ease. Apps launch instantly, multitasking is seamless, and even demanding games run smoothly without any noticeable lag or stuttering. I spent a few hours immersed in graphically intensive games, and the performance was consistently fluid. While the phone can get slightly warm during sustained heavy usage, it's nothing alarming and doesn't impact performance. This level of performance ensures a consistently responsive and enjoyable user experience, making it a reliable daily driver even in 2024. It's clear that Apple's silicon continues to offer excellent longevity.

Camera System: A Legacy of Excellence

The camera system on the iPhone 12 Pro is where it truly shines. My experience taking photos across various scenarios was consistently positive. The images are sharp, detailed, and boast excellent color accuracy. That sunset shot I captured with it was genuinely breathtaking, with the dynamic range capturing the vibrant hues of the sky beautifully. Low-light performance is also remarkable, producing clear and usable images even in challenging conditions. The video recording capabilities are equally impressive, offering smooth, stabilized footage with excellent detail. Compared to other smartphones available at the time of its release, the iPhone 12 Pro's camera held its own, and even now, it delivers results that will satisfy most users. Whether it's capturing everyday moments or more artistic shots, the 12 Pro’s camera system is a genuine standout.

Battery & Charging: A Common Gripe

Battery life is perhaps the most significant area where the iPhone 12 Pro shows its age. In my daily use, while it generally gets me through a typical day, it often feels like it’s just scraping by. Pushing it with photography, gaming, or extended video watching definitely necessitates reaching for the charger sooner rather than later. Charging speeds are adequate with a 20W adapter (sold separately, of course), but they don’t compete with the faster charging solutions found in many Android devices. The continued use of the Lightning port, while familiar to long-time iPhone users, feels somewhat outdated in a world increasingly dominated by USB-C. Effective power management helps eke out as much life as possible, but it's an area where advancements in newer models are noticeable.

Software: The Familiar iOS Experience

Using the iPhone 12 Pro means experiencing the familiar and polished world of iOS. The interface is intuitive and user-friendly, and the ecosystem of apps and services remains a strong selling point for Apple devices. Features like Face ID are fast and reliable, adding an extra layer of security and convenience. Apple's commitment to software updates, even for older devices, is commendable, ensuring that the iPhone 12 Pro continues to receive the latest features and security patches. In my daily usage, the software experience is seamless and reliable, contributing to the overall positive impression of the device.

Value Analysis: Smart Buy in the Second-hand Market?

Assessing the value of the iPhone 12 Pro requires considering its current market position. At its original launch price, it was a premium investment. However, on the used market, it now offers a compelling price-to-feature ratio. For users deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem who don't necessarily need the absolute latest features, the 12 Pro represents a sweet spot. It offers flagship-level performance and camera capabilities at a more accessible price point than newer models. Those prioritizing cutting-edge battery life or the latest camera innovations might want to look at newer iPhones or competing Android devices. However, for a balance of performance, camera quality, and premium design within the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 12 Pro presents a strong argument.

Conclusion: A Resounding Yes, With Caveats

After spending considerable time with the iPhone 12 Pro, my recommendation is largely positive. It remains a powerful and capable smartphone that delivers a premium experience. The stunning display, robust performance, and excellent camera system are still major selling points. While the battery life and charging speed are areas where it shows its age, these may not be deal-breakers for all users. Ultimately, the iPhone 12 Pro is a compelling option for those seeking a high-quality iPhone experience without paying top dollar for the very latest model. If you prioritize camera quality and smooth performance within the Apple ecosystem and are comfortable with its battery life, the iPhone 12 Pro is definitely worth considering.