iPhone 16E vs. iPhone SE (2022): How Has Apple Upgraded Its Budget Phone?

Understanding The Upgrades: iPhone SE to iPhone 16E
The gap between the third-generation iPhone SE and the new iPhone 16E is marked by significant advancements in technology and a notable increase in price. While the iPhone SE was launched in 2022 at a starting price of $429, the iPhone 16E debuts at $599, reflecting three years of innovation and inflation. Apple has discontinued the older SE model, leaving potential buyers to opt for secondhand or third-party sellers if they seek affordability. Preorders for the iPhone 16E opened with availability beginning February 28. The question remains: what improvements does the iPhone 16E bring, and how does it stack up against its predecessor?

Design and Display: A Step Forward
The iPhone 16E introduces a 6.1-inch OLED display, a considerable upgrade from the 4.7-inch LCD screen of the iPhone SE. While both devices maintain a 60Hz refresh rate, the larger and higher-quality display of the 16E is a notable enhancement. The new model also ditches the home button, embracing Face ID for biometric authentication, aligning it with Apple’s newer flagships. Another significant change is the shift from Lightning to USB-C, a move consistent with current industry trends. Both phones feature aluminum frames, though the 16E is slightly heavier at 167 grams compared to the SE’s 144 grams. The 16E also boasts an improved IP68 water-resistance rating, up from the SE’s IP67. Color options have been streamlined, with the 16E available in black and white, while the SE offered an additional Product RED variant.

Camera Enhancements: Quality Over Quantity
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the upgraded cameras on the iPhone 16E. The rear camera jumps from a 12-megapixel sensor on the SE to a 48-megapixel sensor on the 16E, while the front-facing camera improves from 7 megapixels to 12 megapixels. Both models support 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, ensuring high-quality video capture. The enhanced camera specifications suggest better image quality and versatility, making the 16E a more appealing choice for users seeking improved photography capabilities without the need for multiple lenses.

Battery and Performance: Power and Efficiency
Apple highlights the iPhone 16E’s enhanced battery life, with up to 26 hours of video playback compared to the SE’s 15 hours. This improvement is attributed to the inclusion of Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, the C1, which is touted as the most power-efficient modem in any iPhone. Both models support 20-watt wired and 7.5-watt wireless charging, ensuring fast and convenient charging options. The 16E is powered by the A18 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the flagship iPhone 16, offering superior performance and enabling features like Emergency SOS and satellite connectivity. In contrast, the SE runs on the older A15 Bionic chip, though it still delivers robust performance for everyday tasks.

Storage and Features: More Capacity and Capabilities
The iPhone 16E offers increased storage options, including a 512GB model, alongside 128GB and 256GB variants. The iPhone SE, while still functional, tops out at 256GB. Neither model supports expandable storage, which may be a drawback for users with large media libraries. The 16E introduces an Action button, adding quick access to frequently used features, a convenience not available on the SE. Additionally, the 16E supports Apple Intelligence, enhancing the user experience through advanced AI-driven features. For those invested in the Apple ecosystem, these enhancements provide a more seamless and integrated experience.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Device
The iPhone 16E represents a significant upgrade over the iPhone SE, with improvements in display quality, camera capabilities, battery life, and processing power. However, these advancements come at a higher price point, starting at $599. Users seeking the latest features and performance may find the 16E worth the investment, while those prioritizing affordability might explore secondhand options for the iPhone SE. As the smartphone market evolves, Apple continues to refine its budget offerings, ensuring that even its lower-priced models remain competitive and appealing to a broad audience.