Iphone 12 Vs Iphone X Is Upgrading Really Worth It In 2024 2

For many iPhone X owners, the question isn’t whether they *can* upgrade—but whether they *should*. Released just four years apart, the iPhone X (2017) and iPhone 12 (2020) represent pivotal moments in Apple’s smartphone evolution. But in 2024, with both devices outside the latest generation, does making the switch still make sense? The answer depends on your usage, expectations, and how much longer you plan to keep your phone.

This isn’t just about faster processors or better cameras—it’s about longevity, software support, real-world usability, and whether the upgrade delivers meaningful improvements after years of solid performance from the iPhone X.

Design and Build: Subtle but Meaningful Changes

The iPhone X introduced a radical redesign—edge-to-edge OLED display, Face ID, and the elimination of the home button. It set the template for future iPhones. The iPhone 12 followed that same blueprint but refined it with flatter edges reminiscent of the iPhone 4 and 5, giving it a more modern, tactile feel.

Both phones are compact and well-built, but the iPhone 12 brings Ceramic Shield front cover glass, which Apple claims offers four times better drop protection. While durability is hard to quantify without lab testing, real-world feedback suggests the iPhone 12 holds up better against accidental drops.

Tip: If you're still using an iPhone X without a case, consider investing in one before upgrading—protection can extend its usable life by over a year.

The iPhone 12 is also slightly lighter despite having a larger 6.1-inch display compared to the iPhone X’s 5.8 inches. The bezels are thinner, offering more screen real estate without significantly increasing the footprint.

Performance: A Generational Leap That Still Matters

Under the hood, the difference is stark. The iPhone X runs on the A11 Bionic chip, while the iPhone 12 uses the A14 Bionic—the first 5nm processor in any smartphone at the time. This isn’t just a minor bump; it’s a leap in processing power, efficiency, and graphics capability.

In practical terms, apps launch faster, multitasking is smoother, and demanding games like *Genshin Impact* run at higher frame rates on the iPhone 12. More importantly, the A14 ensures better long-term software support. As iOS evolves with heavier AI features and augmented reality tools, the iPhone X struggles to keep pace.

“Devices with A12 chips or earlier are increasingly feeling the strain under iOS 17. The A14 in the iPhone 12 provides a much more sustainable platform through 2025.” — David Lin, Mobile Analyst at TechInsight Group

Apple typically supports iPhones with updates for five to six years. The iPhone X received its last major update with iOS 17, meaning it likely won’t get iOS 18. In contrast, the iPhone 12 is expected to receive updates through at least 2026, possibly 2027.

Camera Comparison: Night Mode and Computational Photography

The camera systems differ significantly. Both have dual 12MP rear cameras (wide and telephoto), but the iPhone 12 introduces Night mode across all lenses, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 3. These aren't just marketing terms—they translate into visibly better photos in low light and more natural color grading in complex lighting.

Feature	iPhone X	iPhone 12
Front Camera	7MP, f/2.2	12MP, f/2.2, Night Mode, 4K video
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP (Wide, Telephoto)	Dual 12MP + Night Mode, Deep Fusion
Video Recording	4K at 60fps	4K at 60fps + Dolby Vision HDR
Night Mode	No	Yes (all rear and front cameras)
Smart HDR	HDR1	Smart HDR 3

The ability to record Dolby Vision HDR video is another standout feature. While not essential for everyone, it future-proofs your content and enhances playback on compatible screens. For social media creators or those who value photo quality, this alone may justify the upgrade.

Battery Life and Charging: Real-World Gains

The iPhone 12 offers around 1–1.5 hours more screen-on time than the iPhone X, thanks to a larger battery and the energy-efficient A14 chip. Apple doesn’t publish exact mAh ratings, but user reports consistently show improved endurance, especially during mixed usage.

Charging has also evolved. Both support Fast Charging and Qi wireless charging, but the iPhone 12 adds MagSafe—a magnetic ecosystem that enables precise alignment and faster wireless charging (up to 15W with MagSafe chargers). While not revolutionary, it improves convenience and opens access to accessories like wallets and battery packs that snap on seamlessly.

Tip: If you’re holding onto your iPhone X, avoid third-party wireless chargers with poor alignment—they can degrade battery health over time.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision in 2024

Sarah has used her iPhone X since 2018. By early 2024, she noticed her phone struggling: apps crash more often, the battery dies by midday, and iOS updates take minutes to install. She considered buying a used iPhone 12 for $280 instead of a new flagship.

After switching, she found the difference immediate. Her morning commute no longer required a power bank. Photos of her toddler were brighter and clearer, even indoors. Most importantly, iOS 17 ran smoothly—no more frozen keyboards or delayed Face ID unlocks.

She extended her upgrade cycle by three years simply by moving from X to 12, proving that mid-tier upgrades can deliver disproportionate gains when timed right.

Is Upgrading Worth It in 2024? A Practical Checklist

Before deciding, ask yourself the following. Check off what applies:

• ✅ Does your iPhone X frequently run out of battery before bedtime?
• ✅ Do apps take noticeably longer to load or crash unexpectedly?
• ✅ Have you stopped receiving major iOS updates?
• ✅ Are you unable to use newer features like SharePlay or Live Text?
• ✅ Is your phone showing physical wear (cracked screen, swollen battery)?
• ✅ Do you want better photo quality, especially at night?

If you checked three or more, upgrading to the iPhone 12—or even a refurbished model—is likely worthwhile. The improvements compound in daily use, and the added software support offers peace of mind for the next few years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the iPhone X get iOS 18?

Based on Apple’s historical support pattern, it’s highly unlikely. The iPhone X was released with iOS 11 and received iOS 17 as its final major update. Devices with A11 chips or older are typically excluded from new OS versions.

Can the iPhone 12 still be bought new in 2024?

Apple discontinued the iPhone 12 in favor of newer models, but many authorized resellers and carriers still offer factory-refurbished units with warranties. You can also find sealed stock online, though prices may vary.

Is the iPhone 12 waterproof enough for daily use?

Yes. It has an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive submersion in up to 6 meters of water for 30 minutes. This makes it resilient against rain, spills, and accidental drops in sinks or toilets—though saltwater and prolonged exposure are not covered under warranty.

Conclusion: Future-Proofing Your Experience

Upgrading from the iPhone X to the iPhone 12 in 2024 isn’t about chasing the latest tech—it’s about reclaiming reliability, performance, and relevance. The iPhone X was groundbreaking in its time, but it’s now past its prime. The iPhone 12, even three years later, remains capable, supported, and surprisingly competitive.

You don’t need to buy the newest iPhone 15 to feel modern. Sometimes, the smartest upgrade is the one that balances cost, longevity, and real-world improvement. If your iPhone X is slowing down, holding you back, or nearing end-of-life, stepping up to the iPhone 12 is not only worth it—it might be the most practical decision you make this year.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Check certified refurbished options today and enjoy a smoother, faster, and better-supported iPhone experience—without paying flagship prices.