Is The Iphone 12 Still Worth It In 2024 Or Is The Se 2020 Good Enough

In 2024, Apple’s iPhone lineup has evolved significantly, but many consumers are still considering older models like the iPhone 12 and iPhone SE (2020) due to their lower price points. Both phones remain available through third-party retailers and refurbished markets, making them tempting options for budget-conscious buyers. However, choosing between them isn’t just about cost—it’s about understanding how each device performs today, how long they’ll last, and whether they meet your daily needs.

The iPhone 12 brought 5G, a modern flat-edge design, and improved cameras, while the iPhone SE (2020) offered flagship-level processing power in an older, compact body. As we navigate 2024 with iOS 17 and the upcoming iOS 18, software support, hardware longevity, and real-world usability matter more than ever. Let’s break down which phone still makes sense—and for whom.

Performance: A14 Bionic vs. A14 Bionic—Same Chip, Different Experience

Surprisingly, both the iPhone 12 and iPhone SE (2020) are powered by Apple’s A14 Bionic chip—the same processor that debuted in the iPhone 12 series. This means raw computational performance is nearly identical. In benchmark tests, both devices handle multitasking, gaming, and app launches with ease, even in 2024.

However, real-world performance differs due to thermal management and memory constraints. The iPhone SE (2020) has only 3GB of RAM compared to the iPhone 12’s 4GB. While this doesn’t affect everyday tasks much, it can lead to more frequent app reloads when switching between apps. Users who keep multiple Safari tabs, social media apps, and productivity tools open may notice the SE reloading content more often.

Tip: If you frequently use multiple apps or rely on AR features, the extra RAM in the iPhone 12 provides smoother long-term usability.

Design and Display: Modern vs. Nostalgic

This is where the two phones diverge most dramatically. The iPhone 12 introduced Apple’s return to flat edges, a design language carried forward through the iPhone 15 series. It features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent outdoor visibility. The screen-to-body ratio is modern, and Face ID integration makes unlocking seamless.

In contrast, the iPhone SE (2020) uses the chassis of the iPhone 8—a design first released in 2017. It has a 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD screen, a thick bezel on top and bottom, and a physical Home button with Touch ID. While some users prefer the compact size and one-handed usability, the smaller screen feels limiting for video streaming, web browsing, and navigation.

For 2024 standards, the iPhone 12’s display is far more future-proof. OLED screens age better, consume less power, and deliver superior contrast. The SE’s LCD, while functional, shows its age in dim environments and under direct sunlight.

“Display quality directly impacts user satisfaction over time. Once you’ve used an OLED screen, going back to LCD feels like a downgrade.” — David Lin, Mobile UX Analyst at TechInsight Group

Camera Capabilities: One Lens vs. Two

Both phones feature a 12MP main rear camera, and thanks to Apple’s image signal processing, photos in daylight are impressively sharp and color-accurate on both devices. However, the iPhone 12 adds an ultra-wide lens (ƒ/2.4, 120° field of view), giving you flexibility for landscapes, architecture, and group shots.

The SE (2020) lacks this second lens, meaning all wide-angle shots are simulated via cropping, which reduces image quality. Low-light performance also favors the iPhone 12, thanks to Night mode on both the main and front cameras, along with Smart HDR 3 and Deep Fusion. The SE supports Night mode only on the rear camera and lacks advanced HDR improvements.

For selfie enthusiasts or social media users, the iPhone 12’s front-facing TrueDepth camera enables Portrait Mode selfies and better facial recognition accuracy. The SE’s front camera, while adequate, feels outdated by current standards.

Camera Comparison Table

Feature	iPhone 12	iPhone SE (2020)
Main Camera	12MP, ƒ/1.6, OIS, Night mode, Deep Fusion	12MP, ƒ/1.8, Night mode (rear only)
Ultra-Wide Camera	Yes (120°)	No
Front Camera	12MP, ƒ/2.2, Night mode, Portrait Mode	7MP, ƒ/2.2, no Portrait Mode
Video Recording	4K at 60fps, Dolby Vision HDR	4K at 30fps, no Dolby Vision

Battery Life and Charging: Practical Differences

The iPhone 12 offers noticeably better battery life despite having a modest 2,815mAh cell. Its OLED display, more efficient antenna design, and optimized power management allow for up to 17 hours of video playback. Most users get through a full day with moderate use.

The SE (2020), with its smaller 1,821mAh battery and less efficient LCD screen, struggles to last a full day under heavy usage. Real-world testing shows it often requires midday charging for active users. Additionally, neither phone includes a charger in the box, but the iPhone 12 supports MagSafe and Qi2 wireless charging, while the SE only supports basic Qi.

Tip: If you travel often or don’t have easy access to charging, the iPhone 12’s longer battery life is a significant advantage.

Software Support and Longevity Outlook

As of 2024, both devices run iOS 17 smoothly and are expected to receive iOS 18 later this year. Given Apple’s track record, the iPhone 12 will likely be supported through 2027, benefiting from five major OS updates since its 2020 release. The SE (2020), despite sharing the same chip, may see slightly earlier drop-off due to hardware limitations—possibly ending support by 2026.

Security updates are critical. Even if performance holds up, lack of patching leaves devices vulnerable. The iPhone 12’s additional sensors, updated architecture, and broader ecosystem compatibility make it a safer long-term bet.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah, a freelance writer in Chicago, needed a new phone in early 2023. She considered the SE (2020) for its $399 price tag but ultimately chose a refurbished iPhone 12 for $549. “I thought I’d save money with the SE,” she said, “but after using it for a week at a friend’s place, I realized how cramped the screen felt for editing documents and reading research.”

She upgraded to the iPhone 12 and now uses split-screen Safari, takes clearer low-light photos for her blog, and appreciates Face ID during morning routines. “It’s been over a year, and the battery still lasts all day. I think I’ll keep it until at least 2026.” Her experience reflects a growing trend: short-term savings often lead to premature replacement.

Checklist: Which iPhone Should You Choose?

• Choose the iPhone 12 if:
• You want a modern display and design
• You take photos regularly or care about camera variety
• You plan to keep the phone for 3+ years
• You stream videos or browse the web often
• You value battery life and wireless charging
• Choose the iPhone SE (2020) if:
• You prefer a compact, lightweight phone
• You rely on Touch ID (e.g., wear masks often)
• Your budget is under $400
• You use your phone lightly—calls, texts, light apps
• You need a secondary or backup device

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone SE (2020) handle iOS 18?

Preliminary reports suggest yes, but performance may degrade over time. Apple typically supports A-series chips for five years, so limited functionality is possible by 2025–2026.

Is 5G necessary on the iPhone 12?

While not essential for everyone, 5G improves download speeds and future-proofs your device. Carriers are phasing out LTE in some areas, making 5G increasingly relevant.

Does the iPhone 12 scratch easily?

The Ceramic Shield front offers excellent drop protection, but the aluminum frame can scuff. Using a case is recommended, especially since both phones lack water resistance ratings beyond IP67.

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It in 2024?

Yes—the iPhone 12 remains a compelling option in 2024 for anyone seeking a balance of performance, camera quality, and longevity. While the iPhone SE (2020) delivers exceptional value for minimalists and budget-focused users, its outdated design and smaller screen limit its appeal in a world increasingly built around multimedia and mobile productivity.

If you can stretch your budget to $500–$600 for a refurbished or used iPhone 12, the investment pays off in daily comfort, better visuals, and extended software support. For those strictly under $400 or needing a simple, durable communicator, the SE (2020) still functions reliably—but expect to upgrade sooner.

💬 Have you made the switch from SE to iPhone 12—or vice versa? Share your experience below and help others decide what’s truly worth it in 2024.