iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020)
Shop iPhone
iPhone 13
Starting at
£249.06£599.00 new
iPhone SE (2020)
Starting at
£75.11£289.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 13 and iPhone SE (2020)?
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2020) starts at £75.11, £173.95 less than the iPhone 13. The iPhone 13 is the newer model, released in 2021.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Front camera
- Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 13, Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020).
- The iPhone 13 has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPhone 13 has a bigger screen: 6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch.
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) specs
The iPhone 13 and iPhone SE (2020) differ in screen size, display type, front camera resolution, RAM, and mobile network support. The iPhone 13 has a larger 6.1 inch OLED screen with higher resolution, making it a better choice for watching videos or viewing detailed images. It also offers 4 GB RAM, useful for keeping more apps open. The front camera on the iPhone 13 captures sharper selfies at 12 megapixels. It supports 5G network for faster mobile data. The iPhone SE (2020) has a smaller 4.7 inch Retina IPS LCD screen and 3 GB RAM, suited for everyday use and easier handling. Its 7 megapixel front camera is adequate for video calls and selfies. Both have the same main camera resolution and offer unlocked models with physical SIM and eSIM support.
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) price
Colour
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) battery life and software updates
Durability covers the operating system version and release year of each device. These provide context for software and support without implying advantage.
Operating System
The iPhone 13 runs iOS 15. The iPhone SE (2020) runs iOS without a specified version.
Release Year
The iPhone 13 was released in 2021, while the iPhone SE (2020) was released in 2020.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) screen
Screen quality affects how you see content daily, from photos to apps. The iPhone 13 and iPhone SE (2020) differ in size, resolution, and display technology, which suits different viewing preferences.
Screen Size
The iPhone 13 has a 6.1 inch screen, offering more space for watching videos, browsing, and typing. The iPhone SE (2020) features a 4.7 inch screen, making it easier to handle with one hand and more pocket-friendly.
Resolution
With a resolution of 1170 x 2532, the iPhone 13 displays sharper images and text, enhancing clarity especially in detailed visuals. The iPhone SE (2020) has a resolution of 750 x 1334, suitable for everyday tasks and apps but with less detail visible.
Screen Type
The iPhone 13 uses an OLED screen, which generally offers better contrast and deeper blacks, enriching video and photo viewing. The iPhone SE (2020) uses Retina IPS LCD technology, which provides bright and accurate colours suitable for everyday use.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) camera
Audiovisual features influence photo quality and video calls. The two devices have the same main camera resolution but differ in their front cameras.
Front Camera
The iPhone 13 has a 12 megapixel front camera, capturing more detail in selfies and video calls. This suits users who prioritise higher quality front-facing images. The iPhone SE (2020) offers a 7 megapixel front camera, which works well for typical video calls and casual selfies.
Main Camera
Both devices have a 12 megapixel main camera, suitable for capturing photos with similar resolution. This means either phone can take detailed photos with its rear camera.
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) size and design
Other features include network support, weight, and storage options. These affect connectivity, portability, and how much content you can keep on your phone.
Mobile Network
The iPhone 13 supports 5G, allowing access to faster mobile data where available. This benefits users who want quicker downloads and streaming on the move. The iPhone SE (2020) supports 4G, which is suitable for everyday browsing and streaming with broad network coverage.
Weight
The iPhone 13 weighs 174 g, reflecting its larger screen size and build. The iPhone SE (2020) is lighter at 148 g, which may appeal if you prefer a lighter phone for ease of carrying.
Storage Options
The iPhone 13 is stocked in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB options, offering room for many apps, photos, and videos. The iPhone SE (2020) comes in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, which suits users with moderate storage needs or those who manage data carefully.
SIM and Connectivity
Both devices are unlocked and support physical SIM plus eSIM, giving flexibility in carrier choices. They also both use the Lightning connector for charging and accessories.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 13 or iPhone SE (2020): which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 13 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, £173.95 less than the iPhone 13
- you want a lighter build (148 g vs 173 g)
What our customers say
Customers who buy the iPhone 13 often highlight how the phone feels like new, even in fair condition. They appreciate the large, clear screen and the smooth performance supported by its 4 GB RAM. Many mention the battery health being strong, especially when a new battery is fitted, and find setup easy. The sharp front camera and overall appearance of the phone make it suitable for first-time iPhone users or those upgrading to a larger and more capable device. Some customers find the iPhone 13 reliable and praise its consistent performance across multiple purchases.
For the iPhone SE (2020), customers value its affordability and suitability as a first phone for younger users or older family members. The smaller screen size and lighter weight make it easy to handle for everyday tasks. Many buyers report the phone works perfectly and looks almost new, even in fair condition. The 7 megapixel front camera meets basic needs like video calls and casual selfies. The storage options suit those who prefer a simpler device without extensive media needs. Customers say it is a solid choice for users who want Apple's ecosystem with fewer features.
Overall, the iPhone 13 suits those who want a larger, higher resolution screen and 5G connectivity for more demanding use. The iPhone SE (2020) fits users who prefer a smaller, lighter phone with the essentials for everyday use at a lower price point.
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) FAQs
iPhone 13 vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) on the iPhone 13, Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020). The iPhone 13 has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
The iPhone SE (2020) is cheaper refurbished, from £75.11 compared with £249.06 for the iPhone 13.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 13 is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone SE (2020) is still supported and can run iOS 27.
The iPhone 13 adds more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB), a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch) and an OLED screen. Refurbished, it costs £173.95 more (from £249.06 vs £75.11).
Refurbished, the iPhone 13 comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone SE (2020) in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
