iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020)
Shop iPhone
iPhone 12
Starting at
£170.00£649.00 new
iPhone SE (2020)
Starting at
£75.11£289.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 12 and iPhone SE (2020)?
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2020) starts at £75.11, £94.89 less than the iPhone 12.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Front camera
- Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12, Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020).
- The iPhone 12 has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPhone 12 has a bigger screen: 6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch.
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) specs
The iPhone 12 offers a larger and higher resolution OLED screen, more RAM, and 5G connectivity, making it suitable for users who want a roomier display and faster mobile networks. The iPhone SE (2020) has a smaller LCD screen and 4G support, making it a good choice for those who prefer a compact phone with familiar features. Both have the same main camera resolution but the iPhone 12 has a higher resolution front camera, which benefits video calls and selfies. Weight and other features like carrier unlocking and SIM options are similar, so the decision depends mainly on screen size, network speed, and front camera detail.
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) price
Colour
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) battery life and software updates
They are similar in basic durability features, so your choice here depends on what else you need from the phone.
Latest Update Compatibility
This ensures your phone stays supported for the foreseeable future.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) screen
Screen quality differs notably between the iPhone 12 and iPhone SE (2020). This affects how you experience videos, photos, and daily use, especially if you value screen size and clarity.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPhone 12 has a 6.1 inch screen with 1170 x 2532 resolution, providing a larger and sharper display. It suits users who prefer more space for video watching, browsing, and multitasking. The iPhone SE (2020) offers a smaller 4.7 inch screen at 750 x 1334 resolution, fitting well for those who want a compact device that fits easily in one hand.
Screen Type
With a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, the iPhone 12 delivers deeper blacks and more vibrant colours, enhancing media and photo viewing. The iPhone SE (2020) uses a Retina IPS LCD screen, which is bright and clear but less vivid than OLED. This suits users comfortable with a traditional LCD display.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) camera
Camera features differ mainly in the front camera, which affects selfies and video calls. Both phones have the same main camera resolution, so photo quality in standard use will be similar.
Front Camera Detail
The iPhone 12 has a 12 megapixel front camera, capturing more detail for selfies and video chats. This is useful if you often use your phone for video calls or portrait selfies. The iPhone SE (2020) has a 7 megapixel front camera, suitable for everyday video and photo use but with less resolution.
Main Camera Consistency
Both phones have a 12 megapixel main camera, so standard photos and videos will have comparable resolution. This means either device can handle everyday photography tasks well.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) size and design
Other features like network compatibility, connectors, and weight vary between the two models and can influence your daily experience and convenience.
Mobile Network Support
The iPhone 12 supports 5G mobile networks, offering faster download and streaming speeds where 5G is available. This suits users who want the latest network technology. The iPhone SE (2020) supports 4G, providing reliable and widespread coverage for everyday use.
Weight and Portability
Weighing 164 g, the iPhone 12 is slightly heavier than the iPhone SE (2020), which weighs 148 g. The lighter weight and smaller size of the SE may appeal if you prefer a phone that feels lighter in your hand or pocket.
SIM and Connector Features
Both iPhones are unlocked and support a physical SIM and eSIM, giving flexibility in network options. Both use the Lightning connector for charging and accessories, so existing cables and chargers will work with either phone.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 12 or iPhone SE (2020): which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 12 if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch)
- you want an OLED screen
Buy the iPhone SE (2020) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £75.11, £94.89 less than the iPhone 12
- you want a lighter build (148 g vs 162 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the iPhone 12 often highlight how the phone looks and works like new, praising its clean glass, perfect frame, and smooth performance. Many appreciate the large screen and fast operation, mentioning that apps open instantly and multitasking is smooth. Several customers note that a new battery and updates make the refurbished iPhone 12 feel like a premium device at a reasonable price. The larger screen size and front camera quality are frequently appreciated for everyday use and media viewing.
Reviews for the iPhone SE (2020) show it is a popular choice for first phones or gifts, especially when sticking with Apple is important. Customers find the phone spotless and working perfectly, with many saying it feels like new. The SE is praised for its good price and reliability for everyday use. Some users mention the smaller screen and simpler front camera as fitting well for straightforward tasks like calls and basic photos. A few note the battery health popup but still find the phone works well for their needs.
Overall, the iPhone 12 suits users wanting a larger, sharper screen, faster network support, and higher front camera resolution. The iPhone SE (2020) is well suited for those who want a compact phone with solid performance and a familiar Apple experience at a lower price point.
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) FAQs
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Chipset: Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 12, Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020). The iPhone 12 has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
The iPhone SE (2020) is cheaper refurbished, from £75.11 compared with £170 for the iPhone 12.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 12 is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone SE (2020) is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Both come in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB refurbished.
