Apple has released several cheaper smartphones alongside its premium smartphones in the past few years, with the most notable being the iPhone SE. Released earlier this year and priced at $399, the iPhone SE is currently the cheapest iPhone offered by Apple. While it is the newest budget iPhone, how does it compare to older and more expensive budget iPhone models, such as the 2018 iPhone XR?
The iPhone SE sports an older design that's very similar to the iPhone 8. With the iPhone SE using the same body and display as the iPhone 8, the main difference is based on the internal hardware with the iPhone SE using the new A13 Bionic chip. Apple created the iPhone SE for users who want a cheaper phone, but still want an iPhone. While it doesn't have nearly as many features as the iPhone 11, it does provide a solid user experience, especially at the price point.
The iPhone XR on the other hand is an older budget phone released in 2018 alongside the iPhone XS. The iPhone XR was released as a value version of the iPhone XS and was $250 cheaper. While it featured a display size similar to the iPhone XS, the XR still had a lower resolution display, fewer cameras, and did not have 3D touch. However, it did feature the same processor, Face ID, and was very similar to the XS overall, making it a good value version. Since its release, the price has dropped even further with the iPhone XR currently available for $599.
How The SE & XR Compare
While the iPhone SE and the iPhone XR are both budget phones they do have some significant differences. In terms of specs, the iPhone SE has one 12-megapixel camera, a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, and the A13 Bionic chip. The iPhone SE does not have Face ID, but does come with a fingerprint reader and wireless charging . The iPhone XR also has a 12-megapixel camera, along with a larger full 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display, and runs on an A12 Bionic chip. The iPhone XR does have Face ID and wireless charging.
Both phones have key differences in their processors and displays which will likely play into a decision between these phones. The iPhone SE is faster than the XR but has a significantly smaller screen with large bezels. The iPhone XR also rocks a larger battery giving it a longer battery life than the SE. Although the larger battery and display come at a $200 price difference. It comes down to the user's preference on how important the screen size is. If a large display matters then the XR is going to be the better choice. However, if size is not an issue, a newer phone with an upgraded processor and for $200 less, makes the iPhone SE the better option.
Source: Apple