It took two years, but it’s finally here – a new model in Apple’s affordable SE series. The iPhone SE (2022) has a starting price of $430, $30 higher than its predecessor, which is no longer available. This is also dangerously close to the iPhone 11, which goes for $500 (for the same 64GB storage). There are a couple of reason to get the new SE anyway, even if you have the extra $70.
The most obvious one is the chipset – the Apple A15 is two generations ahead and is both more powerful and more efficient. The iPhone SE (2022) will probably enjoy longer software support too, not that Apple is in any hurry to drop support for the iPhone 11. The A15 also offers faster 5G connectivity, while the iPhone 11 is 4G-limited.
Reasons to get an iPhone SE (2022)
Another reason is that the SE is smaller and lighter (194g vs. 144g). Yes, the iPhone minis are even smaller, but you’re looking at $600 if you get the 12 mini and $700 for the 13 mini.
There is also the matter of the fingerprint reader. We know that not everyone is happy with Face ID and, unfortunately, the SE is the only iPhone to offer a fingerprint reader. By the sound of it, even the iPhone 14 series won’t add back the FP reader (not even an under display one).
There are arguments in favor of the iPhone 11 too. It has a larger display, 6.1” vs. 4.7” (same pixel density), as it is a larger phone. It also offers better water resistance (IP68 vs. IP67) and 7000 series aluminum chassis.
The 11 has better cameras too, offering an ultrawide lens (120°) on the back and a 12MP selfie camera (vs. 7MP). Neither phone has MagSafe support, so there is that.
Most iPhone owners tend to stick to iPhone. Is it worth upgrading from the iPhone (2020)? Looking at the differences, you won’t be getting $430 in value. You should either get an iPhone 11 or wait for the next SE in a couple of years. Or maybe get an Android – some iPhone owners do make the switch.
What you can get for $430 in Android land depends on where you are. Apple’s core market is in the US and American’s will be looking at something like a Samsung Galaxy A52 5G for $500, a OnePlus 8T for $400 or a Motorola Edge (2021) for $450.
These are more modern phones with things like ultrawide cameras, high resolution main sensors (up to 108MP with the Moto), high refresh rate displays (up to 144Hz with the Moto again), AMOLED panels if you want them, fast charging too.
So why would you want an iPhone SE (2022)? If you’re outside the US then you have access to even more excellent Android alternatives at the same price. Well, if you’re used to an iPhone you may not want to switch. Especially since the integration of the Apple ecosystem is second to none.
And the SE will be getting the latest iOS update for years after the Androids have stopped getting even security patches. The Galaxy A-series promises 3 OS updates and 4 years of patches, but keep in mind that the original iPhone SE from 2016 is currently running the latest iOS. Finally, the resale value of iPhones is usually higher than that of Androids, perhaps in part due to the other reasons to want an iPhone.
Do you want an iPhone – an iPhone SE (2022) specifically? And are you upgrading from an old iPhone, switching away from Android or what?
PS. if you’re having trouble voting with the embedded widget above, try casting your vote here.