G’day, mate! Why a Pre‑Loved iPhone 12 Might Be Your Next Best Purchase
Pull up a chair, grab a cuppa, and let’s have a yarn about the iPhone 12 – but not brand new, the second‑hand version. In the land down under, we love a good bargain, especially when it comes with the same sleek design and powerful performance as a fresh‑off‑the‑shelf model. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about snagging a used iPhone 12, from spotting a top‑condition device to making sure it fits your Aussie lifestyle like a glove.
What Makes the iPhone 12 a Legend in the Apple Line‑up?
The iPhone 12 hit the market back in October 2020 and quickly became a fan favourite. It introduced a fresh flat‑edge design, a Super Retina XDR display, and Apple’s A14 Bionic chip – the first 5‑nm processor in a smartphone. Even after a few years, it still punches well above its weight in speed, camera quality, and battery life.
- Display: 6.1‑inch OLED, 2532 × 1170 px, HDR10, Dolby Vision.
- Processor: A14 Bionic with 6‑core CPU and 4‑core GPU.
- Camera: Dual‑lens 12 MP wide and ultra‑wide, Night mode, 4K 60 fps video.
- Battery: Up to 17 hours video playback, supports 20 W fast charging and MagSafe accessories.
- 5G: Ready for the next‑gen mobile networks across Australia.
All of these features mean the iPhone 12 still feels fresh, even when you’re buying it second‑hand.
Why Go Second‑Hand? The Aussie Advantage
There are a handful of solid reasons why a pre‑owned iPhone 12 can be a smarter choice than a brand‑new phone:
- Cost Savings: You can shave off $300‑$500 off the retail price, leaving more cash for a weekend getaway or a new surfboard.
- Environmental Impact: Buying used reduces electronic waste – a win for the Great Barrier Reef and the rest of our beautiful country.
- Feature Parity: The A14 chip still handles the latest iOS updates, so you won’t feel left behind.
- Resale Potential: iPhones hold value well; you can upgrade later and still fetch a decent price.
In short, a second‑hand iPhone 12 gives you the Apple experience without the premium price tag.
How to Spot a Quality Second‑Hand iPhone 12
Not every used phone is created equal. Here’s a quick checklist to make sure you’re getting a device that’s as good as new:
- Physical Inspection: Look for scratches, dents, or cracks on the screen and back glass. Minor wear is okay, but deep gouges could affect water resistance.
- Battery Health: Check the Battery Health setting in iOS (Settings > Battery > Battery Health). Aim for 85% + capacity for a healthy day‑long usage.
- IMEI & Serial Number: Verify the device isn’t blacklisted or reported stolen by entering the IMEI on Apple’s activation lock status page.
- Function Test: Test Face ID, cameras, speakers, microphones, and charging port. A quick call to a friend can confirm call quality.
- Original Accessories: Genuine Apple charger and cable are a plus, but not a deal‑breaker if you have a reliable third‑party charger.
When you shop through reputable sellers, you’ll often get a short warranty or a return window – a safety net that’s worth the peace of mind.
Where to Find Trusted Second‑Hand iPhone 12s in Australia
There are a few reliable avenues to explore:
- The Australian Store Home – Their curated “Best Australian store” section lists certified pre‑owned iPhones with a 30‑day guarantee.
- Apple’s Certified Refurbished program – Slightly pricier but comes with a full one‑year warranty.
- Local classifieds like Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace – Great bargains, but you need to be extra diligent about condition.
- Specialised phone resellers – Look for stores that provide a battery test report and a clean IMEI check.
For a hassle‑free experience, we recommend starting at Best Australian store. They handle the inspection, offer a short warranty, and ship across the country with tracking.
Pricing Guide: What Should You Expect to Pay?
Second‑hand prices fluctuate based on condition, storage capacity, and market demand. Here’s a rough ballpark for the Australian market as of 2025:
- 64 GB – $550 – $650 AUD
- 128 GB – $650 – $750 AUD
- 256 GB – $750 – $850 AUD
Devices with 85%+ battery health and no visible wear tend to sit at the higher end of the range. If you find a deal that looks too good to be true, double‑check the IMEI and battery health.
Warranty, Returns, and After‑Sales Support
One of the biggest concerns with used tech is what happens if something goes wrong. Here’s what to look for:
- Seller Warranty: Many reputable sellers, including The Australian Store, provide a 30‑day limited warranty covering major defects.
- Apple Warranty Transfer: If the original warranty is still active (usually up to a year from original purchase), it can be transferred to you via the serial number.
- Return Policy: A clear, no‑questions‑asked return window (ideally 7‑14 days) lets you test the phone at home.
Having a safety net means you can enjoy your new‑to‑you iPhone 12 without constantly worrying about hidden issues.
Battery Health – The Real Deal
Battery performance is the number one factor that separates a good second‑hand iPhone from a meh one. iOS shows the maximum capacity as a percentage. Anything above 90% is essentially “like new”. Below 80% you’ll notice shorter screen‑on time and slower charging.
If the battery is below 85%, ask the seller if they’re willing to replace it before shipping. A fresh battery replacement typically costs around $120‑$150 AUD through Apple, but many third‑party shops can do it for less.
Software Updates: Staying Current with iOS
The iPhone 12 is fully compatible with the latest iOS version (iOS 18 as of late 2025). This means you’ll get new features, security patches, and performance tweaks for several more years. Just make sure the device isn’t locked to an old carrier that could block future updates.
Security & Privacy – Keep Your Data Safe
When you buy a used iPhone, the first thing you should do is erase it and set it up as new. Here’s the quick routine:
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Erase All Content and Settings.
- During setup, sign in with your Apple ID and enable two‑factor authentication.
- Activate Find My iPhone – this adds a layer of theft protection.
These steps ensure the previous owner’s data is gone and your privacy is locked down.
Real‑World Aussie Scenarios: How a Second‑Hand iPhone 12 Fits In
Let’s paint a picture of everyday life Down Under with a pre‑owned iPhone 12 in the mix:
- Beach Day: Snap crystal‑clear photos of the sunrise at Bondi with the ultra‑wide lens, then instantly share to Instagram without lag.
- Outback Road Trip: 5G connectivity keeps you on Google Maps even in remote stretches of the Nullarbor, while the battery lasts through a full day of navigation.
- Work‑From‑Home: Join Zoom calls on the bright OLED screen, and multitask with Sidecar using your MacBook – the A14 handles it all.
- Weekend Barbecue: Use Apple Pay at the local market stall – quick, secure, and no need to fumble with cash.
In each case, the iPhone 12 delivers performance that feels current, while the second‑hand price keeps your wallet happy.
FAQs About Buying a Second‑Hand iPhone 12
- Is the iPhone 12 still receiving iOS updates? Yes – it supports iOS 18 and is expected to get updates for at least 4‑5 more years.
- Can I unlock the iPhone 12 for any carrier? Most unlocked models are sold as “SIM‑free”. If it’s carrier‑locked, you’ll need to contact the original carrier for an unlock code.
- What’s the difference between refurbished and used? Refurbished devices are professionally restored to like‑new condition and usually come with a warranty. Used phones may have varying wear and limited or no warranty.
- How do I check if the phone is iCloud‑locked? During setup, if it asks for the previous owner’s Apple ID, it’s still linked. Use the Activation Lock status tool on Apple’s website before purchasing.
- Is it safe to buy from an online marketplace? Yes, if you use reputable sellers, check reviews, and verify the IMEI. Platforms with buyer protection (e.g., eBay) add extra security.
- Will a second‑hand iPhone 12 support MagSafe accessories? Absolutely – the magnetic ring is built into the back, just like the brand‑new version.
- Can I trade in my old phone for a discount? Many retailers, including The Australian Store, offer trade‑in credits that can be applied toward a second‑hand iPhone 12 purchase.
Final Thoughts: Make the Smart Choice Today
Grabbing a second‑hand iPhone 12 is a win‑win for your budget, the environment, and your everyday tech needs. With a solid set of specs, long‑term software support, and a vibrant second‑hand market, you’ll be set for work, play, and everything in between.
If you’re ready to give your pocket some breathing room while still enjoying top‑tier Apple performance, head over to The Australian Store Home and explore their curated selection. Don’t forget to check out the Best Australian store page for exclusive deals and a hassle‑free buying experience.
Need more guidance? Our friends at Strategies Beer have a great guide on making smart tech purchases – give it a look for extra tips.
Happy hunting, and may your next iPhone 12 serve you as reliably as a good cuppa on a chilly morning!