The Apple iPhone SE (2020) is a smartphone that combines the classic design of the iPhone 8 with modern hardware. This device offers an affordable entry point into the Apple ecosystem while delivering the performance and features users expect from an iPhone. Released in April 2020, the iPhone SE is targeted at users who prefer a smaller, more compact phone but don't want to compromise on power.
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone SE retains the iconic design of the iPhone 8, featuring a glass front and back with an aluminum frame. The phone measures 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and weighs just 148 grams, making it one of the more compact and lightweight smartphones on the market. The device is available in three color options: Black, White, and (PRODUCT)RED.
The glass back supports wireless charging, and the phone is IP67 rated for water and dust resistance, meaning it can survive being submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The design is classic Apple, with a familiar home button that houses the Touch ID fingerprint sensor for secure authentication.
Display
The iPhone SE features a 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 326 PPI. While this isn't the most advanced display on the market, it is more than adequate for most users, providing sharp text, vibrant colors, and excellent brightness. The display supports True Tone, which adjusts the screen's color temperature based on ambient lighting conditions for a more natural viewing experience.
However, unlike the more expensive iPhones, the SE does not feature HDR support or the OLED panels found on the iPhone 11 Pro or later models. Still, the screen is sufficient for watching videos, playing games, and everyday tasks.
Performance
One of the standout features of the iPhone SE is its performance. The device is powered by the A13 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 11 series. This makes the iPhone SE one of the most powerful smartphones in its price range. The A13 Bionic chip, paired with 3GB of RAM, ensures smooth performance across all applications, from basic tasks like web browsing and social media to more demanding applications like gaming and video editing.
The iPhone SE handles iOS updates effortlessly and is expected to receive several years of software updates, just like other iPhones. This future-proofing is a significant advantage for those who want a phone that will remain relevant and functional for years to come.
Camera
The iPhone SE is equipped with a single 12-megapixel rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture, optical image stabilization, and a quad-LED True Tone flash. While it lacks the multiple lenses found on higher-end models, the camera is still highly capable. The A13 Bionic chip enables features like Smart HDR, which enhances dynamic range, and Portrait mode with advanced bokeh and Depth Control.
In well-lit conditions, the camera captures sharp, detailed photos with accurate colors. The iPhone SE also performs admirably in low-light situations, although it does not have a dedicated Night mode. The phone can record 4K video at 60fps, with extended dynamic range available at 30fps.
The front-facing camera is a 7-megapixel sensor with an f/2.2 aperture, supporting features like Portrait mode and 1080p video recording at 30fps. While not groundbreaking, the front camera is more than sufficient for selfies and video calls.
Battery Life
The iPhone SE is powered by a 1,821 mAh battery, which might seem small by today's standards. However, thanks to the efficiency of the A13 Bionic chip and iOS optimizations, the battery life is quite respectable. Apple claims up to 13 hours of video playback, and in real-world usage, the phone easily lasts a full day with moderate use.
The iPhone SE supports 18W fast charging, but only a 5W charger is included in the box. With an 18W charger (sold separately), the phone can charge up to 50% in just 30 minutes. The device also supports wireless charging, a feature that is rare at this price point.
Software and Features
The iPhone SE runs iOS, Apple's mobile operating system. As of its release, it came with iOS 13, but it is fully compatible with the latest versions of iOS. This ensures that users have access to the latest features, security updates, and app compatibility.
iOS is known for its user-friendly interface, seamless integration with other Apple devices, and access to the App Store's vast ecosystem. Features like FaceTime, iMessage, and Apple Pay are all present on the iPhone SE, making it a complete smartphone experience.
Connectivity and Other Features
The iPhone SE supports Gigabit-class LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC with reader mode for Apple Pay. It also features dual SIM support, with one physical SIM card and one eSIM, allowing users to have two phone numbers on the same device.
The phone lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, a common omission in modern smartphones, but it does come with a Lightning to USB cable for charging and data transfer. The speakers offer stereo sound, providing a decent audio experience for media consumption.
Pricing and Availability
The iPhone SE is one of the most affordable iPhones available, with pricing starting at $399 for the 64GB model. It is also available in 128GB and 256GB storage options, priced at $449 and $549, respectively. These prices make the iPhone SE an attractive option for those who want the iPhone experience without the premium price tag.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful A13 Bionic chip
- Compact and lightweight design
- Affordable pricing
- Wireless charging and IP67 water resistance
- Regular iOS updates
Cons:
- Single rear camera with no Night mode
- Limited battery capacity
- No Face ID, relying on Touch ID instead
- Older design compared to newer models
Conclusion
The iPhone SE (2020) is a fantastic option for users who want a powerful, compact smartphone without breaking the bank. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the flagship iPhones, it offers excellent performance, a solid camera, and the reliability of iOS. For those who value function over form and want a device that will last for years, the iPhone SE is an excellent choice.
If you’re in the market for a new smartphone that delivers high-end performance at a budget-friendly price, the iPhone SE is definitely worth considering.