Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016)
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 4 XL
Starting at
£149.99
iPhone SE (2016)
Starting at
£192.40What's the difference between the Google Pixel 4 XL and iPhone SE (2016)?
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 4 XL starts at £149.99, £42.41 less than the iPhone SE (2016). The Google Pixel 4 XL is the newer model, released in 2019.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 4 XL, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016).
- The Google Pixel 4 XL has more RAM: 6 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Google Pixel 4 XL has a bigger battery: 3700 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) specs
The Google Pixel 4 XL offers a larger, higher resolution screen and a stronger battery, suited for those who want more display space and longer usage between charges. It uses Android and has more RAM and a newer chipset, which will appeal if you want smoother multitasking and performance. The iPhone SE (2016) has a smaller screen and less RAM but features the iOS system and a compact size that fits easily in a pocket. It also includes a headphone jack alongside the Lightning connector, which suits users who prefer wired headphones. Both come unlocked with 64GB storage, making each suitable for different daily needs and preferences.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) price
Colour
- WhiteSold out
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system, and device compatibility with software updates. These factors affect how long the device lasts on a charge and what environment it fits into.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a 3700 mAh battery, which supports longer usage times between charges compared to the iPhone SE (2016), which has a 1624 mAh battery. If you regularly use your phone throughout the day without easy access to charging, the Pixel 4 XL's larger battery will suit you better.
Operating System
The Google Pixel 4 XL runs on Android, offering a different app environment and user experience than the iPhone SE (2016), which uses iOS. Your choice may depend on which operating system you prefer or already use.
Software Updates
This means both run older versions of their respective operating systems, which suits users comfortable with stable, established versions rather than the newest features.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) performance
Performance involves the chipset and RAM, which affect how smoothly the device runs apps and handles multitasking. Storage options are the same, so the difference lies mainly in speed and memory.
Chipset Technology
The Google Pixel 4 XL is powered by the Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 built on a 7 nm process, while the iPhone SE (2016) uses the Apple A9 built on a 14 nm process. The newer manufacturing process in the Pixel's chipset generally supports better efficiency and performance, making it suitable for users who want a faster device for demanding apps.
RAM Capacity
With 6 GB of RAM, the Google Pixel 4 XL can keep more apps open and handle multitasking more smoothly. The iPhone SE (2016) has 2 GB of RAM, which fits users with simpler app needs or those who prefer straightforward everyday use.
Storage Options
Both the Google Pixel 4 XL and iPhone SE (2016) come with 64GB of storage in the options stocked here. This amount suits users who store a moderate number of apps, photos, and media without needing extra space.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) screen
Screen quality affects viewing experience for videos, reading, and everyday use. Differences in size, resolution, and screen type influence how images appear and how much content fits on display.
Screen Size
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a 6.3 inch screen, offering a larger viewing area that is ideal for watching videos or browsing with more content visible at once. The iPhone SE (2016) has a 4 inch screen, which suits users who prefer a more compact device that fits easily in a hand or pocket.
Resolution
The Pixel 4 XL's screen resolution is 1440 x 3040, providing sharp and detailed images. The iPhone SE (2016) has a resolution of 640 x 1136, which is suitable for everyday tasks but will not display the same level of detail, making the Pixel better for those who value image clarity.
Screen Type
The Google Pixel 4 XL uses a P-OLED screen, known for vibrant colours and deep blacks. The iPhone SE (2016) has an IPS LCD screen, which delivers consistent colour and brightness but with a different visual character. Your preference may depend on how important rich colour or natural tones are to you.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) camera
Audiovisual features focus on the cameras and front-facing camera, important for photos and video calls.
Main Camera Detail
Both phones have main cameras with similar megapixels: 12.2 megapixels on the Google Pixel 4 XL and 12 megapixels on the iPhone SE (2016). This means both devices can capture photos with comparable detail, suitable for everyday photography.
Front Camera Quality
The Pixel 4 XL features an 8 megapixel front camera, which captures higher detail for selfies and video calls. The iPhone SE (2016) has a 1.2 megapixel front camera, which is suitable for basic video calls but offers less detail.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) size and design
Miscellaneous features include physical dimensions, connectors, and network compatibility, which affect how the device fits your lifestyle and accessories.
Connector Types
The Google Pixel 4 XL uses a USB-C connector, common for newer devices and accessories. The iPhone SE (2016) uses both a Lightning connector and a 3.5 mm headphone jack, which suits users who prefer wired headphones without needing an adapter.
SIM Card Options
The Google Pixel 4 XL supports a physical SIM card plus eSIM, allowing flexibility for dual numbers or easier switching between plans. The iPhone SE (2016) supports a physical SIM card only, which fits users with a single SIM setup.
Size and Weight
The Google Pixel 4 XL measures 160.4 mm in height, 75.1 mm in width, and weighs 193 g, making it larger and heavier. The iPhone SE (2016) is smaller at 123.8 mm height, 58.6 mm width, and lighter at 113 g. The iPhone suits users wanting a compact phone, while the Pixel offers more screen real estate in a bigger size.
Network Compatibility
Both devices support 4G mobile networks and come unlocked. This means you can use either phone with various UK carriers, giving you flexibility in your choice of service.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 4 XL or iPhone SE (2016): which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 4 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £149.99, £42.41 less than the iPhone SE (2016)
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3700 mAh vs 1624 mAh)
Buy the iPhone SE (2016) if
- you want a lighter build (113 g vs 193 g)
- you want a headphone jack
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Google Pixel 4 XL often highlight its good value and condition, with several noting the phone looks almost new or like it just came from a store. Some appreciate the high-resolution screen and the Android system, mentioning that apps feel more logical and less limiting. Battery performance has been mixed, with some customers experiencing faults while others have no issues. The device's size and features suit those who want a modern phone with a large screen and solid performance. Some users have found the Pixel 4 XL to work well for over a year, praising its overall condition and software cleanliness.
Owners of the iPhone SE (2016) appreciate its compact size and smooth operation for everyday use. Many reviews mention the device works well for basic needs and is good value for money. Customers note that the battery life is solid for normal use, though some mention it may require a power bank or eventual replacement. The iPhone SE suits users looking for a smaller phone with iOS, and the storage and performance meet their expectations. The device's condition is often described as clean with some minor scratches, matching what buyers expect for a refurbished phone.
Overall, the Google Pixel 4 XL fits users who prioritise a larger screen and higher performance with Android, while the iPhone SE (2016) is suitable for those who want a smaller, easier-to-handle phone running iOS with straightforward features.
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) FAQs
Google Pixel 4 XL vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 4 XL, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016). The Google Pixel 4 XL has more RAM: 6 GB vs 2 GB.
The Google Pixel 4 XL is cheaper refurbished, from £149.99 compared with £192.40 for the iPhone SE (2016).
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a bigger battery: 3700 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
The Google Pixel 4 XL has 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone SE (2016) has 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 4 XL ended in Oct 2022. Its last version is Android 13. Updates for the iPhone SE (2016) ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 15.
Both come in 64GB refurbished.
