The iPhone 12 was Apple’s first 5G iPhone and is now an older model. On South African contracts it generally appears as a budget entry point into the iPhone range, sometimes as new stock and increasingly as certified pre-owned.
If you want a 5G iPhone at the lowest sensible monthly cost, the iPhone 12 is often the cheapest route. The thing to check is how much software-support life it has left relative to a 24-month contract.
Compare it against the iPhone 13 before committing — the gap is frequently smaller than expected.
Brand or model deal overview
The iPhone 12 launched in 2020 with a 6.1-inch OLED display, the A14 Bionic chip, a dual-camera system and 5G. It introduced the flat-edge design and MagSafe charging that Apple has carried forward since.
| Consideration | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.1-inch OLED, 60Hz |
| Chip | A14 Bionic — adequate for everyday use, showing its age on demanding apps |
| Cameras | Dual rear system; no telephoto |
| 5G | Supported — the first iPhone generation with it |
| Charging | Lightning, with MagSafe support |
| Storage | Sold in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB — 64GB fills quickly |
| Availability | Limited; may be new, certified pre-owned or discontinued |
| Software support | Approaching the end of Apple’s support window — verify current status |
Older-model stock and pricing change frequently. Confirm availability, handset condition and total contract cost with the provider before applying.
Compare by network
Network options
Availability is the first question with an older model — not every network still lists it. Where you find the iPhone 12, compare:
- whether the handset is new, refurbished or certified pre-owned;
- the storage size, and specifically whether it is the 64GB version;
- the monthly instalment and contract term;
- the data, minutes and SMS bundled;
- the warranty offered on the handset;
- any upfront charge;
- coverage at your usual locations.
The 64GB question matters more than it sounds. With iOS and apps installed, 64GB fills quickly, and it cannot be expanded.
Compare by budget
Budget options
Cheapest route to a 5G iPhone. This is the iPhone 12’s main argument. If 5G on an iPhone at the lowest monthly cost is the goal, it is usually the answer.
Certified pre-owned. Often meaningfully cheaper than new stock. Check the warranty length, any battery health disclosure and the returns policy.
Total contract cost. Multiply monthly by term and add upfront charges. A small monthly saving against an iPhone 13 can disappear over 24 months.
SIM-only with your own handset. If you already have a working phone, this avoids the handset instalment entirely and is worth pricing first.
Larger storage over cheapest price. Paying a little more monthly for 128GB over 64GB is usually worth it on a two-year contract.
Current and older alternatives
Alternative models
iPhone 13. One generation newer, with better battery life, a brighter display and a longer remaining support window. Often only slightly more per month, which makes it the stronger 24-month choice where both are listed. See iPhone 13 deals on MTN, Telkom or Vodacom.
iPhone 11. Older still and without 5G. Cheaper where available, but a shorter useful life. See iPhone 11 contract deals.
iPhone SE. Newer internals in an older body, with a smaller screen and single camera. A reasonable alternative if screen size is not a priority.
Mid-range Android. At the iPhone 12’s monthly price, current Android handsets will generally be more recent hardware with a longer support window.
The core trade-off: the iPhone 12 is the cheapest 5G iPhone, but it has the least support life remaining. On a 24-month contract, that matters.
What to check before applying
- Software support status — confirm the model still receives iOS updates, and for how long.
- Storage capacity — avoid 64GB if you can.
- Handset condition and the warranty that comes with it.
- Battery health on any refurbished or pre-owned handset.
- Total contract cost — monthly × term, plus upfront.
- Data allocation and out-of-bundle rates.
- Early cancellation terms and outstanding handset balance.
- Returns policy, particularly on pre-owned stock.
Contract applications are subject to the provider’s own checks. You may need identification, proof of address, banking details and RICA registration, and the application generally involves a credit and affordability assessment. Requirements vary. Approval is not guaranteed.
FAQs
Can you still get an iPhone 12 on contract in South Africa?
Availability is limited and varies by provider. Where it is listed, it may be certified pre-owned rather than new. Check current listings directly, as older-model stock moves quickly.
Will the iPhone 12 still receive iOS updates?
Apple supports iPhone models for a number of years after release, and the iPhone 12 is approaching the end of that window. Check Apple’s current compatibility list before committing to a 24-month contract on this model.
Is the iPhone 12 or iPhone 13 better value on contract?
Usually the iPhone 13, where the monthly difference is small. It has better battery life and more remaining support. Compare the total contract cost of both before deciding.
Is 64GB enough on an iPhone 12?
For most people, no — not comfortably over two years. iOS and apps consume a substantial portion, and storage cannot be expanded. The 128GB version is generally the better choice.
Does the iPhone 12 support 5G?
Yes. The iPhone 12 was Apple’s first 5G generation. Actual speeds depend on your network’s 5G coverage in your area and on your plan.
Is a refurbished iPhone 12 worth it on contract?
It can reduce cost, but check the details: warranty length, battery health disclosure, returns policy and who handles repairs. A documented certified pre-owned handset is a different proposition from a generic refurbished one.
Compare your options: see all iPhone contract deals, or browse contract deals South Africa.
Last updated: August 2026 — pricing, stock and availability can change.