Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016)
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Google Pixel 3
Starting at
£121.00
iPhone SE (2016)
Starting at
£192.40What's the difference between the Google Pixel 3 and iPhone SE (2016)?
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 starts at £121, £71.40 less than the iPhone SE (2016). The Google Pixel 3 is the newer model, released in 2018.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016).
- The Google Pixel 3 has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Google Pixel 3 has a bigger battery: 2915 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) specs
The Google Pixel 3 and the iPhone SE (2016) differ in several key areas that suit different users. The Pixel 3 offers a larger, higher-resolution P-OLED screen and a bigger battery, making it better for media and longer daily use. It has more RAM and a newer chipset, supporting smoother multitasking and performance. The iPhone SE is smaller and lighter with a simpler screen, ideal if you want a compact device for everyday tasks. Both phones run different operating systems, Android for the Pixel 3 and iOS for the iPhone SE, so your choice may depend on your preference for software. Each device has unlocked carrier compatibility, but the Pixel 3 supports eSIM alongside a physical SIM. Audio ports differ too, with the iPhone SE having both Lightning and a 3.5mm jack.
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- WhiteSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) battery life and software updates
Battery life and operating system are important durability factors. The Pixel 3 has a larger battery capacity which affects how long it will last between charges.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 3 has a 2915 mAh battery, which is almost twice the size of the iPhone SE (2016) battery at 1624 mAh. This means the Pixel 3 will generally provide longer use before needing a recharge, which suits users who spend more time on their phone away from a charger. The iPhone SE is better for those who prefer shorter screen time or carry a charger regularly.
Operating System
The Pixel 3 runs on Android, while the iPhone SE uses iOS. Your choice depends on which ecosystem you prefer and the apps you use most.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) performance
Performance is driven by chipset, RAM, and storage. The Pixel 3 has more RAM and a newer chipset, which suits users who need smoother multitasking and faster app performance.
Chipset and RAM
The Pixel 3 is powered by a Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 chipset and has 4 GB of RAM, while the iPhone SE (2016) uses the Apple A9 chipset with 2 GB RAM. More RAM on the Pixel 3 helps keep more apps open and running smoothly, which benefits users who multitask or use demanding apps. The iPhone SE is suitable for everyday use and basic tasks.
Storage Options
Both the Pixel 3 and the iPhone SE (2016) are available with 64GB of storage. This provides a good amount of space for apps, photos, and media for most users.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) screen
Screen size, resolution, and technology affect how you view content. The Pixel 3 offers a larger, sharper screen with a different display type, which suits users who watch videos or browse with more detail.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Pixel 3 features a 5.5 inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2160, giving it a larger and sharper display. The iPhone SE has a smaller 4 inch screen at 640 x 1136 resolution. The Pixel 3 is better for watching videos, reading, and multitasking on the screen, while the iPhone SE suits users who prefer a compact device that fits easily in one hand.
Screen Type
The Pixel 3 uses a P-OLED screen which can offer deeper blacks and more vibrant colours, whereas the iPhone SE has an IPS LCD screen. The Pixel 3's screen type may provide a more vivid viewing experience, while the iPhone SE offers consistent colour and brightness suited to everyday use.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) camera
Camera capabilities and front camera details influence how well you capture photos and video calls. Both phones have very similar main cameras but differ in front camera resolution.
Main Camera
The Pixel 3 has a 12.2 megapixel main camera, very close in resolution to the iPhone SE's 12 megapixels. Both cameras are suitable for everyday photography, capturing detail well for social media and memories.
Front Camera
The Pixel 3 features an 8 megapixel front camera, which offers higher resolution selfies and video calls compared to the iPhone SE's 1.2 megapixel front camera. This makes the Pixel 3 better suited for users who prioritise video calls or selfie quality.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) size and design
Other features like connectors, SIM options, size, and weight influence how you use and carry the phone. These factors help decide which phone fits your daily habits and preferences.
Connectors
The Pixel 3 uses a USB-C connector, which is common for many Android devices and accessories. The iPhone SE (2016) offers both a Lightning connector and a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing use of traditional wired headphones without an adapter.
SIM Card Compatibility
The Pixel 3 supports a physical SIM as well as an eSIM, giving more flexibility for dual SIM use or switching carriers. The iPhone SE (2016) supports only a physical SIM card.
Dimensions and Weight
The Pixel 3 measures 145.6 mm in height, 68.2 mm in width, and 7.9 mm depth, weighing 148 g. The iPhone SE (2016) is smaller and lighter at 123.8 mm height, 58.6 mm width, 7.6 mm depth, and 113 g weight. If pocketability and lightness matter most, the iPhone SE is well suited. The Pixel 3 offers a larger, heavier device.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 3 or iPhone SE (2016): which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 3 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £121, £71.40 less than the iPhone SE (2016)
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (2915 mAh vs 1624 mAh)
Buy the iPhone SE (2016) if
- you want a lighter build (113 g vs 148 g)
- you want a headphone jack
What our customers say
Customers say the Google Pixel 3 looks like new and is light and capable for daily use. Many praise its performance and condition, though some mention needing to watch the battery or encountering occasional issues with network compatibility. The screen is generally well regarded, though a few note a slight colour tint. Overall, users appreciate the Pixel 3's good price and reliable function.
For the iPhone SE (2016), customers highlight its value and compact size. Many are pleased with the smooth performance for everyday tasks and good battery life, with some using it as an affordable replacement phone. The condition is often described as clean with minor scratches. A few users mention the small screen, but most find it suitable for their needs and wallet.
The Pixel 3 suits users who want a larger, sharper screen and more power for multitasking and media. The iPhone SE is ideal for those wanting a smaller, lighter phone with straightforward use at a lower price point.
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) FAQs
Google Pixel 3 vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016). The Google Pixel 3 has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
The Google Pixel 3 is cheaper refurbished, from £121 compared with £192.40 for the iPhone SE (2016).
The Google Pixel 3 has a bigger battery: 2915 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
The Google Pixel 3 has 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone SE (2016) has 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 3 ended in Oct 2021. Its last version is Android 12. Updates for the iPhone SE (2016) ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 15.
Both come in 64GB refurbished.
