Skip to content
iPhone SE 2024 Review: Budget-Friendly but Powerful
The iPhone SE 2024 has arrived, and it continues Apple's tradition of offering a powerful, yet affordable smartphone option. For those who want the latest iPhone features without breaking the bank, the iPhone SE 2024 may be the perfect fit.
In this review, we’ll dive into the design, performance, camera capabilities, and more to help you decide if this budget-friendly powerhouse is the right choice for you.
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone SE 2024 maintains the classic design that fans of the SE series have come to love, but with a few modern enhancements:
- Compact and Lightweight: The iPhone SE 2024 is compact and easy to handle, making it ideal for users who prefer a smaller phone that fits comfortably in one hand.
- Durable Build: It features an aerospace-grade aluminum frame and a glass back, giving it a premium feel despite its budget-friendly price.
- Colors: The iPhone SE 2024 is available in three colors: Midnight, Starlight, and (PRODUCT)RED.
Comparison Table: Design and Build Quality
| Feature | iPhone SE 2022 | iPhone SE 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Weight | 144g | 140g |
| Thickness | 7.3mm | 7.2mm |
| Back Finish | Glass | Glass |
| Color Options | Midnight, Starlight, (PRODUCT)RED | Midnight, Starlight, (PRODUCT)RED |
Display
The iPhone SE 2024 may not have the large, edge-to-edge display of the Pro models, but it still offers a quality viewing experience:
- 4.7-Inch Retina HD Display: The iPhone SE 2024 features a 4.7-inch Retina HD display with True Tone, which adjusts the screen’s color temperature based on ambient lighting for a more natural viewing experience.
- LCD Technology: The LCD display provides vibrant colors and sharp details, making it ideal for everyday use, whether you’re watching videos or browsing the web.
- Haptic Touch: This feature allows for quick actions and previews with a simple press on the screen, enhancing the user experience.
Comparison Table: Display
| Feature | iPhone SE 2022 | iPhone SE 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 4.7 inches | 4.7 inches |
| Display Technology | Retina HD LCD | Retina HD LCD |
| True Tone | Yes | Yes |
| Haptic Touch | Yes | Yes |
Performance and Hardware
Despite its affordable price, the iPhone SE 2024 is no slouch when it comes to performance:
- A16 Bionic Chip: The iPhone SE 2024 is powered by the A16 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 14, making it incredibly fast and efficient.
- RAM and Storage: It comes with 4GB of RAM and is available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options.
- Battery Life: The battery life is slightly improved over the previous model, offering up to 15 hours of video playback on a single charge.
Comparison Table: Performance and Hardware
| Feature | iPhone SE 2022 | iPhone SE 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | A15 Bionic | A16 Bionic |
| RAM | 3GB | 4GB |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 13 hours video playback | Up to 15 hours video playback |
Camera System
The iPhone SE 2024 continues to deliver solid photography capabilities, making it a great choice for casual photographers:
- 12MP Rear Camera: The single 12MP wide camera offers Smart HDR 4, Deep Fusion, and improved computational photography features, ensuring great photos in various lighting conditions.
- Portrait Mode: Portrait Mode with advanced bokeh and Depth Control lets you take professional-looking portraits, even with a single camera.
- 4K Video Recording: The iPhone SE 2024 supports 4K video recording at 24, 30, or 60fps, making it a versatile tool for videography.
Comparison Table: Camera System
| Feature | iPhone SE 2022 | iPhone SE 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Portrait Mode | Yes | Yes (Improved) |
| Video Recording | 4K at 24/30/60fps | 4K at 24/30/60fps |
| Smart HDR | Smart HDR 4 | Smart HDR 4 |
Software and Features
The iPhone SE 2024 runs the latest version of iOS, offering all the software features you’d expect from Apple:
- iOS 17: The iPhone SE 2024 comes pre-installed with iOS 17, bringing new features like enhanced widgets, improved privacy settings, and more customization options.
- FaceTime and Messaging: Enjoy seamless FaceTime calls and iMessage conversations, with new features like SharePlay and richer message threads.
- Security and Privacy: Apple continues to prioritize user privacy, with features like App Tracking Transparency and on-device processing for Siri requests.
- Discover how iOS 17 enhances the iPhone experience with the iPhone SE 2024.
- Learn more about the iPhone SE's camera capabilities and how it compares to other models.
Is the iPhone SE 2024 Right for You?
The iPhone SE 2024 is an excellent choice for several types of users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: If you want a reliable, powerful iPhone without spending a fortune, the iPhone SE 2024 offers incredible value.
- Fans of Compact Phones: Its smaller size is perfect for those who prefer a phone that’s easy to use with one hand and fits comfortably in a pocket.
- Casual Photographers: With its capable 12MP camera and support for 4K video, the iPhone SE 2024 is a great option for those who enjoy photography but don’t need a multi-lens system.
For a more detailed comparison, you can check out our Best iPhone for Photography in 2024 guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the iPhone SE 2024 compare to the iPhone 15 in terms of performance?
The iPhone SE 2024 is powered by the A16 Bionic chip, offering similar performance to the iPhone 15 in a more compact and affordable package.
2. Is the iPhone SE 2024 camera good for everyday photography?
Yes, the 12MP rear camera is equipped with features like Smart HDR 4 and Deep Fusion, making it more than capable for everyday photography and capturing high-quality images in various conditions.
3. How long does the battery last on the iPhone SE 2024?
The iPhone SE 2024 offers up to 15 hours of video playback, which is an improvement over previous models and should be sufficient for a full day of typical use.
4. Should I upgrade to the iPhone SE 2024 if I have the iPhone SE 2022?
If you’re looking for better performance, improved battery life, and a more powerful camera, upgrading to the iPhone SE 2024 is worth considering.
Conclusion
The iPhone SE 2024 is a budget-friendly powerhouse that doesn’t compromise on performance or features. Whether you’re upgrading from an older iPhone or looking for a reliable and affordable smartphone, the iPhone SE 2024 is an excellent choice.
It offers the power of the A16 Bionic chip, a capable camera system, and the latest iOS features—all in a compact and durable design.
For more insights and comparisons, be sure to check out our articles on the iPhone 15 Mini Review and Best iPhone for Photography in 2024.
