Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016)
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy Note8
Starting at
£139.32
iPhone SE (2016)
Starting at
£192.40What's the difference between the Galaxy Note8 and iPhone SE (2016)?
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy Note8 starts at £139.32, £53.08 less than the iPhone SE (2016). The Galaxy Note8 is the newer model, released in 2017.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 8895, Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 on the Galaxy Note8, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016).
- The Galaxy Note8 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Galaxy Note8 has a bigger battery: 3300 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) specs
The Galaxy Note8 and iPhone SE (2016) differ in several key areas that suit different needs. The Galaxy Note8 offers a larger, higher resolution screen with more RAM and a bigger battery, making it suitable if you want a spacious display and multitasking potential. Its cameras provide higher-resolution front photos and a more versatile connector setup. The iPhone SE (2016) has a smaller screen and simpler specs but is lighter and more compact, fitting well for everyday use or those preferring a smaller phone.
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) price
Colour
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, operating system, and software updates. These impact how long the device runs and the platform you use.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Note8 has a 3300 mAh battery, which can support longer use between charges. This suits users who need extended battery life for activities like media or work. The iPhone SE (2016) has a 1624 mAh battery, which fits everyday use without heavy demands on battery endurance.
Operating System
The Galaxy Note8 runs Android, offering access to apps and customisation typical of that ecosystem. The iPhone SE (2016) uses iOS, known for its integration and simplicity. Your choice depends on which operating system you prefer for daily use.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage. These affect how smoothly the device handles apps and multitasking, as well as available space for your files.
Processor and RAM
The Galaxy Note8 features either an Exynos 8895 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 chipset with 6 GB of RAM. This combination supports running multiple apps and demanding tasks with ease. The iPhone SE (2016) has an Apple A9 chipset with 2 GB of RAM, suitable for everyday use and basic multitasking.
Storage
Both devices are stocked with 64GB of internal storage. This capacity offers space for apps, photos, and media, fitting typical user needs.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) screen
Screen quality involves size, resolution, and display type. These determine how much you see at once and how vivid the visuals appear, important for video, reading, and general use.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy Note8 has a 6.3 inch screen with a resolution of 1440 x 2960. This large, high-definition display gives a spacious view for videos and multitasking. The iPhone SE (2016) has a smaller 4 inch screen at 640 x 1136 resolution, which suits users who prefer a compact device that fits easily in one hand.
Screen Type
The Galaxy Note8 uses a Super AMOLED display, known for vibrant colours and deep blacks, enhancing media and gaming experiences. The iPhone SE (2016) features an IPS LCD screen, which provides consistent colours and good viewing angles in a smaller form.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) camera
Audiovisual specs cover cameras and front-facing photo capabilities. These matter if you take selfies, video calls, or photos regularly.
Front Camera
The Galaxy Note8 has an 8 megapixel front camera, capturing detailed selfies and clear video calls. The iPhone SE (2016) has a 1.2 megapixel front camera, which works well for basic selfies and video chats.
Main Camera
Both devices have a 12 megapixel main camera, suitable for everyday photography and capturing moments with good detail.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) size and design
Miscellaneous features include physical dimensions, connectors, network compatibility, and expandability. These affect how the phone feels, connects, and fits your needs.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy Note8 measures 162.5 mm in height, 74.8 mm in width, and 8.6 mm in depth, weighing 195 g. Its larger size suits users who want a roomy screen and don't mind a heavier device. The iPhone SE (2016) is smaller at 123.8 mm height, 58.6 mm width, and 7.6 mm depth, weighing 113 g, making it easier to hold and carry.
Connectors
The Galaxy Note8 offers USB-C and a 3.5 mm headphone jack, giving flexible charging and audio options. The iPhone SE (2016) has a Lightning connector alongside a 3.5 mm jack, fitting users familiar with Apple accessories.
Expandability
The Galaxy Note8 includes a microSDXC card slot, allowing you to increase storage with a memory card. The iPhone SE (2016) does not have this feature.
Network and SIM
Both phones are unlocked and support 4G networks with a physical SIM card, providing compatibility with a range of carriers and good mobile data speeds.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy Note8 or iPhone SE (2016): which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Note8 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £139.32, £53.08 less than the iPhone SE (2016)
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3300 mAh vs 1624 mAh)
Buy the iPhone SE (2016) if
- you want a lighter build (113 g vs 195 g)
What our customers say
Customers of the Galaxy Note8 appreciate its appearance and performance, often noting it looks like new and runs well for their needs. Many enjoy its large screen and find it a bargain. Some mention battery life as a concern, with a few needing to recharge more frequently. Users value the phone for its multitasking and media capabilities, although a few have experienced issues with battery or unlocking. Overall, the Galaxy Note8 suits users who want a powerful phone with a roomy display.
iPhone SE (2016) customers highlight its value and smaller size, finding it fits well for everyday use without being bulky. Many report smooth performance for basic tasks and good battery life for their needs. The phone suits those who want a simple, compact device that handles calls, messaging, and apps reliably. Some mention minor scratches or battery wear but find these acceptable given the price. The iPhone SE (2016) is popular among users who prefer iOS and a lighter phone.
The Galaxy Note8 fits users prioritising screen size and multitasking, while the iPhone SE (2016) is ideal for those wanting a straightforward, smaller device that covers everyday essentials.
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) FAQs
Galaxy Note8 vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 8895, Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 on the Galaxy Note8, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016). The Galaxy Note8 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 2 GB.
The Galaxy Note8 is cheaper refurbished, from £139.32 compared with £192.40 for the iPhone SE (2016).
The Galaxy Note8 has a bigger battery: 3300 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy Note8 ended in Nov 2021. Updates for the iPhone SE (2016) ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 15.
Both come in 64GB refurbished.
