Is The Iphone 12 Still Worth It Over A Used Lg G6 What Are You Actually Missing Out On

Choosing between an older flagship from another ecosystem and a slightly newer Apple device can be tricky—especially when budget is a factor. The iPhone 12 and the LG G6 were both released years apart (2020 vs. 2017), but today, they often sit at similar price points in the used market. On paper, that might make the LG G6 seem like a bargain. But in real-world usage, the decision isn’t so simple. What you’re actually missing by going with the LG G6 over the iPhone 12 goes beyond specs—it’s about longevity, ecosystem support, security, and daily usability.

Performance and Longevity: A Generational Gap

The iPhone 12 runs on Apple’s A14 Bionic chip, which was the first 5nm processor in any smartphone at its launch. Even by today’s standards, it remains remarkably capable. In contrast, the LG G6 uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 821—a solid chip in its time, but now severely outdated. The difference isn't just raw speed; it's sustained performance under load and efficiency.

Apple’s tight integration between hardware and software means iOS apps are optimized to run smoothly even on older devices. iPhones routinely receive five to six years of OS updates, while Android phones like the LG G6 rarely get more than two or three major updates. The G6 launched with Android 7 and topped out at Android 9. That means no security patches since 2020 and no access to modern app features that require newer APIs.

Tip: When buying a used phone, check not just current performance but future software support. A phone without updates is a security risk.

Camera Quality: Night Mode, Processing, and Consistency

On paper, both phones have dual rear cameras. The LG G6 features a 13MP standard and 13MP wide-angle lens. The iPhone 12 also has a 12MP main and 12MP ultra-wide setup. But megapixels don’t tell the full story.

Apple’s computational photography gives the iPhone 12 a massive edge. Features like Smart HDR 3, Deep Fusion, and Night mode dramatically improve low-light shots, dynamic range, and detail retention. The LG G6 lacks any kind of night mode, and its image processing feels flat and inconsistent by today’s standards. Video recording is another area where the gap widens: the iPhone 12 shoots 4K at 60fps with Dolby Vision HDR, while the G6 maxes out at 4K 30fps with no advanced stabilization or color grading.

Feature	iPhone 12	LG G6
Processor	A14 Bionic	Snapdragon 821
RAM	4GB	4GB
Rear Cameras	12MP + 12MP (Ultra-Wide)	13MP + 13MP (Wide-Angle)
Video Recording	4K@60fps, Dolby Vision	4K@30fps, no HDR
Software Support	iOS 17+, expected up to iOS 20	Android 9 (final update)
Security Updates	Active through 2025+	None since 2020
Battery Capacity	2,815 mAh	3,300 mAh
Charging	MagSafe, Qi wireless, 20W fast	Qi wireless, 18W fast

Ecosystem and Software Experience

If you're already invested in Apple’s ecosystem—using a Mac, iPad, AirPods, or Apple Watch—the iPhone 12 offers seamless integration. Features like Handoff, Universal Clipboard, iMessage syncing, and AirDrop work fluidly across devices. Even if you're not, iCloud, FaceTime, and Apple’s privacy-focused services provide a consistent user experience that the LG G6 simply can’t match.

Android has improved over the years, but LG exited the smartphone market in 2021. That means no firmware improvements, no new feature drops, and no manufacturer-backed repair support. The iPhone 12, meanwhile, still receives regular iOS updates with new features, bug fixes, and security patches.

“Long-term software support is the single biggest differentiator between Apple and most Android flagships from that era.” — David Kim, Mobile Analyst at TechPulse Insights

Real-World Example: Two Users, Two Paths

Consider two users: Alex buys a used LG G6 for $120, attracted by the lower price and clean screen. Jamie spends $220 on a used iPhone 12. At first, Alex feels smart—saving $100 while getting a phone that “does everything.” But within weeks, frustrations mount: apps crash on launch, Chrome takes 10 seconds to load, and WhatsApp won’t install because it requires Android 10.

Jamie, meanwhile, sets up Face ID in seconds, downloads all her apps, and starts using AirTag to track her keys. She gets iOS 17 features like StandBy mode and updated Maps. After six months, Alex is looking for another phone. Jamie’s iPhone 12 still feels responsive and secure.

This scenario plays out thousands of times in the secondhand market. The upfront savings of older Android flagships often lead to hidden costs in frustration, replacement frequency, and security exposure.

What You’re Actually Missing Out On

Choosing the LG G6 over the iPhone 12 means sacrificing more than just speed. Here’s what you’re giving up:

• Modern App Compatibility: Many apps now require iOS 14+ or Android 10+. The G6 can’t run them.
• Security: No security patches since 2020 mean higher vulnerability to malware and data leaks.
• Camera Flexibility: No Night mode, poor dynamic range, and limited video tools reduce creative potential.
• Future-Proofing: The iPhone 12 will likely remain usable into 2026. The G6 is already borderline obsolete.
• Resale Value: iPhones retain value far better. In a year, you could resell the iPhone 12 for 60% of your cost. The G6 may be unsellable.

Tip: Always check a used phone’s update history. A device stuck on an old OS version is a ticking clock.

Checklist: Before Buying a Used Phone

1. Verify the model number and original release year.
2. Check current OS version and update history.
3. Confirm if security patches are still being issued.
4. Test core functions: camera, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, charging.
5. Ensure the device isn’t locked to a carrier.
6. Look up average resale value in 12–18 months.
7. Determine ecosystem compatibility (iCloud, Google, etc.).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the LG G6 run modern apps?

Many modern apps either won’t install or will run poorly on the LG G6 due to its outdated Android version (max Android 9) and aging hardware. Apps like TikTok, Instagram, and banking apps increasingly require newer OS versions and faster processors.

Is the iPhone 12 waterproof?

Yes, the iPhone 12 has an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive submersion in up to 6 meters of water for 30 minutes. The LG G6 has an IP68 rating as well, but given its age, seals may have degraded over time.

Does the iPhone 12 support 5G?

Yes, the iPhone 12 supports 5G networks, which can offer faster download and upload speeds where coverage is available. The LG G6 is limited to 4G LTE.

Conclusion: Making the Smarter Long-Term Choice

The LG G6 was a well-designed phone in its day—slim bezels, solid build, great display. But technology moves fast. Choosing it over the iPhone 12 in 2024 means accepting limitations that will only grow more pronounced. You’re not just buying a phone; you’re buying into a support lifecycle, a software environment, and a level of daily reliability.

The iPhone 12 delivers a consistently smooth experience, strong camera performance, active software updates, and deep ecosystem integration. For most users, especially those who rely on their phone for work, communication, and media, the extra cost is justified by years of dependable use.

🚀 Ready to upgrade wisely? Don’t just look at price—look at longevity. Choose a device that will serve you well for years, not just weeks. Share your thoughts: have you made the switch from Android to iPhone (or vice versa)? We’d love to hear your story.