Samsung A12 Price & Availability in 2025: Is This Budget Phone Still Worth Buying?

Last updated on December 11, 2025

Thinking about picking up a Samsung Galaxy A12 in 2025? It’s a common thought, especially when you’re on a tight budget. This phone first hit the market in late 2020 as a reliable, entry-level smartphone designed to cover the basics without breaking the bank.

Fast forward to today, and while it’s no longer a new device, it still pops up in online marketplaces and refurbished stores.

For many, the appeal of the A12 today comes down to one thing: cost. You might be looking for a secondary phone, a device for a child, or simply the absolute cheapest smartphone that can still manage calls, texts, and a few essential apps. However, buying an older phone always comes with trade-offs.

Here’s what to expect from the A12 in 2025, from its current price and availability to its real-world performance and whether it truly meets today’s needs.

Samsung Galaxy A12 in 2025: An Overview

It’s easy to forget how quickly the smartphone market evolves. The Samsung Galaxy A12 was a solid contender in the budget segment when it launched. Like other models such as the Samsung Galaxy A31, it offered a large screen, a decent camera setup for its price point, and a substantial battery, all wrapped in a familiar Samsung design.

From Launch to Legacy: A Brief History

The Galaxy A12 made its debut in November 2020. At the time, it was a popular choice for those seeking an affordable Android experience with the reliability of the Samsung brand. It sold well globally, establishing itself as a go-to option for many first-time smartphone users or those on a strict budget.

Over the years, it received a couple of major Android updates, eventually reaching Android 12 or 13, depending on the region and carrier. However, like all budget phones, its official software support eventually concluded, marking its transition from a current model to a legacy device.

Why Users Still Search for the A12 Today

Even in 2025, people are still searching for the A12, primarily due to its rock-bottom price. It’s often considered for niche uses: a simple emergency phone, a device for a young child who doesn’t need the latest features, or perhaps a dedicated media player for music and podcasts. Its original reputation for reliability and battery life also contributes to its enduring, albeit limited, appeal.

Current Samsung A12 Price: Used & Refurbished Market (2025)

Since the Samsung A12 is no longer manufactured or sold new by official retailers, its price in 2025 is entirely dictated by the used and refurbished market. You won’t find it box-fresh on Amazon or at your local electronics store.

Average Refurbished Prices (e.g., $89.00)

When you look at reputable refurbished retailers, you can expect to find a Galaxy A12 somewhere in the range of $70 to $100. Sites like Back Market or Reebelo often have them listed, usually with a warranty and a promise of good working condition. For instance, a 64GB model in “good” condition might hover around $89.

This price reflects the effort taken to inspect, clean, and certify the device.

Second-Hand Market Value (e.g., $44-$92)

On peer-to-peer marketplaces like Swappa or eBay, the prices can vary significantly more. You might see devices listed from as low as $40 for a well-used unit with minor cosmetic flaws, up to $95 or so for a device in excellent condition. This is where you can potentially find the best deals, but it also carries the most risk.

Factors Influencing Price: Condition, Storage, Carrier

Several factors play a big role in how much you’ll pay. A phone in “mint” condition will always cost more than one with visible scratches or dents. The storage capacity also matters; a 64GB model will typically fetch a higher price than a 32GB version.

Finally, whether the phone is unlocked or tied to a specific carrier (like Verizon or AT&T) can influence its value, with unlocked devices generally being more desirable and thus slightly more expensive.

Where to Find a Samsung A12 Today (2025)

Finding a new Samsung A12 is virtually impossible, but the used and refurbished markets offer several avenues if you’re set on getting one.

Online Refurbished Retailers (e.g., Back Market, Reebelo, Best Buy)

These are often the safest bet for buying an older device. Companies like Back Market and Reebelo specialize in refurbished electronics, offering various grades of condition, warranties, and return policies. Even larger retailers like Best Buy sometimes carry refurbished units of older, popular models.

The prices might be slightly higher here, but you gain peace of mind from professional vetting and customer support.

Second-Hand Marketplaces (e.g., Swappa, eBay)

For potentially better deals, second-hand marketplaces are worth exploring. Swappa is known for its user-friendly interface and focus on consumer electronics, often having detailed listings and seller reviews. eBay, of course, has a vast selection, but it requires more careful vetting of sellers.

Always check seller ratings, read descriptions thoroughly, and look at actual photos of the device.

Local Sellers and Community Forums

Local options like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or even community buy/sell groups can sometimes yield a good find. The advantage here is the ability to inspect the phone in person before you buy. However, this method also comes with the highest risk, as transactions are typically cash-based and offer little to no buyer protection.

Always meet in a public place and bring a friend if possible.

Is the Samsung A12 Still a Good Buy in 2025?

This is the million-dollar question for many budget-conscious buyers. The short answer is: it depends entirely on your expectations and intended use. For most people seeking a primary smartphone in 2025, the A12 will likely disappoint.

Pros: Budget-Friendly, Large Battery, Basic Functionality

Let’s start with what the A12 still does well. Its biggest selling point is its price. For less than $100, you’re getting a functional smartphone.

The 5,000 mAh battery was a standout feature at launch, and it still holds up reasonably well today, often providing a full day of light to moderate use. For calls, texts, and basic browsing, it gets the job done.

Cons: Outdated Performance, No Updates, Limited Camera

Now for the reality check. The MediaTek Helio P35 processor was entry-level even in 2020, and by 2025, it struggles with almost anything beyond the most basic tasks. You’ll notice lag, especially when opening apps or multitasking.

More critically, the A12 is no longer receiving official Android version updates or security patches from Samsung. This leaves it vulnerable to new security threats over time. The camera, while decent in bright daylight, quickly falters in challenging lighting conditions, producing noisy and soft images.

Ideal Use Cases: Backup, Kids’ Phone, Light Use

So, who might still find value in an A12? Imagine a situation like this: a friend of mine, wanting to get their 8-year-old a first phone for emergencies and supervised communication, opted for a refurbished A12. It was cheap enough that a drop wouldn’t be a catastrophe, had good battery life for school days, and could handle basic messaging apps.

They weren’t expecting to play graphic-intensive games or take professional photos, and for that limited scope, it worked out. Similarly, it makes a decent backup phone to keep in the car, or a dedicated device for listening to podcasts while exercising.

Samsung A12 Performance & Software in 2025

Understanding the practical performance of an aging device is crucial. While the A12 was adequate for its time, today’s demands on a smartphone are much higher.

Processor Limitations: Helio P35 Struggles

The MediaTek Helio P35 chipset powering the A12 was designed for affordability, not speed. In 2025, this translates to noticeable slowdowns. Opening apps can take a few seconds, switching between them isn’t always smooth, and even simple tasks like scrolling through social media feeds can feel sluggish.

If you’re used to a modern smartphone, the A12’s performance will feel like a significant step backward.

Software Status: Android 12/13 & End-of-Life

The Samsung Galaxy A12 typically received its last major Android version update to Android 12 or 13, depending on the specific model and region. As of 2025, Samsung’s official software support for this device appears to have concluded. This means you won’t get any new features or performance enhancements from future Android versions.

Security Risks of Outdated Software

Perhaps the most significant concern with an older phone is security. Without ongoing security patches, the device becomes more vulnerable to newly discovered exploits and malware. While careful browsing habits can mitigate some risk, using an outdated operating system for sensitive tasks like banking or online shopping carries inherent dangers.

It’s a risk you should be aware of and factor into your decision.

Daily Usage Experience: Lag and Multitasking

In day-to-day use, expect the A12 to handle one task at a time reasonably well, provided it’s not too demanding. Checking email, making calls, sending texts, and light web browsing are generally fine. However, trying to juggle multiple apps, playing anything more than very casual games, or streaming high-definition video will push the phone to its limits, often resulting in frustrating lag and app crashes.

Key Specifications: A 2025 Perspective

While specifications don’t tell the whole story, they offer a snapshot of what the A12 brings to the table today. Many of its original features, while decent then, are now thoroughly outclassed.

Display and Design: Still Usable, Not Modern

The A12 features a 6.5-inch PLS TFT display with a 720p resolution. In 2025, this means a screen that’s perfectly functional for basic viewing, but it lacks the vibrant colors, deep blacks, and sharpness of modern AMOLED or higher-resolution LCD panels. The design itself is fairly standard for a budget phone from its era, with a plastic build and a teardrop notch for the front camera.

It feels sturdy enough, but it won’t turn any heads.

Camera Capabilities: Decent Daylight, Weak Otherwise

It comes with a quad-camera setup on the back, headlined by a 48MP main sensor. In bright, outdoor conditions, you can still snap some perfectly acceptable photos for social media. However, don’t expect much from the ultrawide, macro, or depth sensors, which are mostly there to pad the spec sheet.

Low-light performance is poor, and video recording is limited. The 8MP front camera is fine for video calls but not much more.

Battery Life: A Standout Feature (5,000 mAh)

One area where the A12 truly still shines is its battery. With a large 5,000 mAh capacity and a relatively inefficient processor and lower-resolution screen, it’s very power-efficient. You can comfortably get through a full day, and often two, of light to moderate usage without needing to reach for the charger.

This makes it a great option if battery longevity is your absolute top priority.

Top Alternatives to the Samsung A12 (2025 Budget Phones)

If you’re considering a Samsung A12 primarily for its low price, it’s crucial to look at what else is available. For a similar investment, you can often get a much more capable and future-proof device, such as a Samsung Galaxy A52 5G.

Newer Samsung A-Series Budget Options (e.g., Galaxy A14 4G)

Samsung continues to offer excellent budget phones in its A-series. The Galaxy A14 4G, for example, is a direct successor that offers improved performance, a more modern design, and most importantly, ongoing software and security support. Other notable options include the Samsung Galaxy A70 or the Galaxy A40s. While these might cost a little more than a used A12, the added longevity and smoother experience are well worth the extra investment.

Other Brands’ Entry-Level Devices (e.g., Redmi 14C, Moto G24 Power, Tecno Spark 30C)

The budget phone market is highly competitive. Brands like Xiaomi (with its Redmi series), Motorola (Moto G line), and Tecno offer compelling alternatives. Phones like the Redmi 14C, Moto G24 Power, or Tecno Spark 30C often come with more modern processors, better cameras, and guaranteed software updates for at least a couple of years, all while staying within a very affordable price bracket (often under $150 new).

Refurbished Mid-Range Phones for Better Value (e.g., Galaxy S21 FE, iPhone 11)

Sometimes, the smartest budget move isn’t buying a new entry-level phone, but a refurbished mid-range or even flagship device from a couple of years ago. For example, a refurbished Galaxy S21 FE or an iPhone 11 can often be found for around $150-$250. These phones offer significantly better processors, superior cameras, and a much more premium experience than any budget phone, new or old, for not much more than a top-end used A12.

Smart Buyer’s Guide for Used Smartphones (E-E-A-T)

Buying any used smartphone, not just the A12, requires a careful approach. You want to ensure you’re getting a functional device and not inheriting someone else’s problems. Here’s what to keep in mind:

What to Check Before Purchase (Screen, Ports, Battery Health)

If you can inspect the phone in person, check the screen for Solutions to software issues.s, dead pixels (tiny black dots), or burn-in (ghost images). Test all buttons, the charging port, and the headphone jack. Make a quick call to ensure the microphone and speaker work.

If possible, ask to check the battery health in the phone’s settings (though this isn’t always available on older Androids). Look for signs of water damage, often indicated by a red dot in the SIM tray or charging port.

Understanding Seller Ratings and Warranties

When buying online, always scrutinize seller ratings and reviews. Reputable refurbished sites typically offer a warranty (often 90 days to a year), which is a huge plus. On marketplaces like eBay or Swappa, a seller with a long history of positive feedback is generally more trustworthy.

Be wary of brand-new sellers with incredibly low prices.

Ensuring Data Wiping and Factory Reset

Before you take possession, confirm the phone has been factory reset and all personal data from the previous owner has been wiped. A proper factory reset will remove accounts, apps, and files, ensuring you start with a clean slate. If it hasn’t been done, ask the seller to do it while you’re present, or follow instructions to do it yourself immediately upon receiving the device.

Disclaimer: Exercise caution when buying used electronics.

While buying used can save you money, it’s not without risk. There are no guarantees, and sometimes issues might not appear until after a few days of use. Always consider the trade-offs and your comfort level with potential problems.

Samsung A12 FAQs for 2025 Buyers

Does the Samsung A12 support 5G connectivity?

No, the original Samsung Galaxy A12 is a 4G LTE device. It does not have the necessary hardware or modem to connect to 5G networks. If 5G is a must-have for you, you’ll need to look at newer smartphone models.

Can the A12 run modern apps smoothly?

It depends heavily on the app. Basic communication apps like WhatsApp, email clients, and light social media apps will generally run, though you might experience noticeable delays and occasional stutters. Demanding apps, graphic-intensive games, or heavy multitasking will