Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016)
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Google Pixel 3 XL
Starting at
£100.00
iPhone SE (2016)
Starting at
£192.40What's the difference between the Google Pixel 3 XL and iPhone SE (2016)?
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 XL starts at £100, £92.40 less than the iPhone SE (2016). The Google Pixel 3 XL 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 XL, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016).
- The Google Pixel 3 XL has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) specs
The Google Pixel 3 XL and iPhone SE (2016) differ in several ways that suit different users. The Pixel 3 XL offers a larger screen, more RAM, and a bigger battery, making it suitable for those who want more space for apps and media along with longer battery life. The iPhone SE (2016) has a smaller screen and less memory but is lighter and more compact, fitting well for users who prefer an easy-to-handle device. Both run different operating systems and have unlocked network compatibility. Your choice depends on whether you prefer Android or iOS and what screen size and performance level you need.
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- PinkSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
- 128GBSold out
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, and operating systems. These factors influence how long the device can be used comfortably and how it fits with your preferred software environment.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a battery capacity of 3430 mAh, which supports longer usage before needing a recharge. The iPhone SE (2016) offers 1624 mAh, suitable for lighter daily use or users who charge more frequently. If you rely on longer battery life without recharging, the Pixel 3 XL is more suited to that need.
Operating System
Google Pixel 3 XL runs on Android, while the iPhone SE (2016) uses iOS. Your choice depends on which operating system you prefer and are comfortable with, as it affects app availability and user experience.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) performance
Performance includes processing power, memory, and storage options. These influence how well the device handles apps, multitasking, and how much data or media you can store.
Processing Power
The Google Pixel 3 XL is equipped with a Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 chipset built on a 10 nm process, which offers efficient performance. The iPhone SE (2016) includes an Apple A9 chipset built on a 14 nm process. These chipsets cater to different processing needs, with the Pixel 3 XL handling more demanding tasks more smoothly.
Memory
With 4 GB of RAM, the Google Pixel 3 XL can keep more apps open and running smoothly at once. The iPhone SE (2016) has 2 GB of RAM, suitable for everyday use and lighter multitasking.
Storage Capacity
The Google Pixel 3 XL comes in 64GB and 128GB storage options, offering more space for apps, photos, and files. The iPhone SE (2016) is available with 64GB, appropriate for users with moderate storage needs.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) screen
Screen specifications affect how much you see and how clear it looks. These are important if you watch videos, browse the web, or work on your phone.
Screen Size
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a 6.3 inch screen, providing a large viewing area for media and apps. The iPhone SE (2016) features a 4 inch screen, making it a compact choice that fits easily in one hand or a pocket.
Resolution
The Pixel 3 XL offers a resolution of 1440 by 2960 pixels, delivering sharp and detailed images. The iPhone SE (2016) has a resolution of 640 by 1136 pixels, suitable for everyday tasks with less detail on screen.
Screen Technology
The Pixel 3 XL uses a P-OLED screen type, which provides vibrant colours and deep blacks. The iPhone SE (2016) features an IPS LCD screen, known for accurate colours and good viewing angles.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) camera
Camera quality influences photo detail and video calls. Front and main cameras serve different needs, from selfies to general photography.
Front Camera
The Google Pixel 3 XL has an 8 megapixel front camera, suitable for detailed selfies and video calls. The iPhone SE (2016) features a 1.2 megapixel front camera, designed for basic selfies and video chats.
Main Camera
The main camera on the Pixel 3 XL is 12.2 megapixels, capturing detailed photos. The iPhone SE (2016) offers a 12 megapixel main camera, providing good photo quality for everyday use.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) size and design
Miscellaneous features include physical size, weight, SIM options, and network compatibility, all of which affect how you carry and use the device daily.
Size and Weight
The Google Pixel 3 XL measures 158 mm in height, 76.7 mm in width, and 7.9 mm in depth, weighing 184 g. This makes it a larger and heavier device, suited to users comfortable with bigger phones. The iPhone SE (2016) is smaller at 123.8 mm height, 58.6 mm width, and 7.6 mm depth, weighing 113 g, ideal for those who want a compact and lighter phone.
SIM Card Options
The Google Pixel 3 XL supports a physical SIM plus an eSIM, giving flexibility to use two numbers or switch carriers more easily. The iPhone SE (2016) uses a physical SIM only.
Carrier and Network
Both phones are unlocked and compatible with 4G networks, so they can be used on a variety of UK carriers without restriction.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 3 XL or iPhone SE (2016): which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 3 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £100, £92.40 less than the iPhone SE (2016)
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3430 mAh vs 1624 mAh)
Buy the iPhone SE (2016) if
- you want a lighter build (113 g vs 184 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Google Pixel 3 XL say it looks and works like new, with many noting it meets their expectations for performance and condition. Some mention excellent camera quality and smooth operation, though a few highlight that battery life can be a concern. The device suits users who want a larger screen and more memory for multitasking and media. The Pixel's condition and performance receive praise, even from those familiar with other brands.
Users of the iPhone SE (2016) appreciate its compact size and smooth operation for everyday tasks. Many are satisfied with the value it offers for its price and note that battery life holds up well with normal use. Some mention light scratches or smaller screen size but find it fits their needs perfectly. The SE suits those who prefer a smaller, lighter phone with iOS and straightforward features.
Overall, the Pixel 3 XL fits buyers looking for a larger, more capable device with a detailed screen and stronger multitasking. The iPhone SE (2016) suits users who want a smaller, lighter phone for everyday use with good battery life and iOS experience.
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) FAQs
Google Pixel 3 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3 XL, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016). The Google Pixel 3 XL has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
The Google Pixel 3 XL is cheaper refurbished, from £100 compared with £192.40 for the iPhone SE (2016).
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
The Google Pixel 3 XL has 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone SE (2016) has 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 3 XL 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.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 XL comes in 64GB and 128GB, and the iPhone SE (2016) in 64GB.
