iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020)
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iPhone 15 Plus
Starting at
£439.65£799.00 new
iPhone SE (2020)
Starting at
£75.11£289.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 15 Plus and iPhone SE (2020)?
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2020) starts at £75.11, £364.54 less than the iPhone 15 Plus. The iPhone 15 Plus is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Apple A16 Bionic on the iPhone 15 Plus, Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020).
- The iPhone 15 Plus has more RAM: 6 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPhone 15 Plus has a bigger screen: 6.7 inch vs 4.7 inch.
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) specs
The iPhone 15 Plus suits those wanting a larger, higher resolution Super Retina XDR OLED screen and stronger cameras, plus more memory for multitasking. The iPhone SE (2020) is a good choice for users who prefer a smaller device with a Retina IPS LCD screen and simpler performance for everyday use. The 15 Plus offers 5G and USB-C connectivity, while the SE (2020) uses 4G and a Lightning connector. Weight also varies, with the 15 Plus being heavier at 201 g compared to 148 g for the SE (2020).
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) price
Colour
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) battery life and software updates
Neither device folds. Both come unlocked with physical SIM and eSIM support. Here is what these shared features mean for you.
Latest iOS Compatibility
This means you get current software features and security improvements on either phone, ensuring your device stays up to date with Apple's ecosystem.
SIM and Network Flexibility
Both phones support a physical SIM card and eSIM, giving you flexibility in choosing carriers or managing multiple lines. Being unlocked, you can use either device with a variety of UK networks without restrictions.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) screen
Screen quality varies significantly between the iPhone 15 Plus and the iPhone SE (2020). Screen size, resolution, and technology affect your viewing experience, especially for media, reading, and general use.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPhone 15 Plus features a 6.7 inch screen with a resolution of 1290 by 2796 pixels, providing a larger and sharper display. This suits users who want more space for watching videos, browsing, or reading. The iPhone SE (2020) has a 4.7 inch screen with 750 by 1334 pixels, making it more compact and easier to use one-handed.
Screen Technology
The iPhone 15 Plus uses Super Retina XDR OLED technology, which offers higher contrast and richer colours, enhancing video and photo viewing. The iPhone SE (2020) uses a Retina IPS LCD, which delivers clear and accurate colours but with less contrast than OLED screens. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise vibrant display quality or a smaller form factor.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) camera
Camera quality is a key difference between these two iPhones. The front and main cameras vary in megapixels, which affects photo detail and image clarity for selfies and general photography.
Front Camera Detail
The iPhone 15 Plus has a 12 megapixel front camera, offering higher resolution selfies and video calls. This is suitable for users who often take self-portraits or use video conferencing. The iPhone SE (2020) has a 7 megapixel front camera, which is sufficient for everyday use and casual selfies.
Main Camera Resolution
With a 48 megapixel main camera, the iPhone 15 Plus captures more detail and allows for sharper, more detailed photos. This makes it a good choice for photography enthusiasts or those who want higher quality images. The iPhone SE (2020) has a 12 megapixel main camera that performs well for everyday photos and straightforward shooting.
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) size and design
Connectivity, network support, and weight are practical differences to consider. These affect how you use your phone day to day, especially with charging, mobile data, and comfort in hand.
Network and Connector
The iPhone 15 Plus supports 5G networks, ideal if you want faster mobile internet speeds where available. It uses a USB-C connector, which may be more convenient if you use other modern devices with USB-C. The iPhone SE (2020) supports 4G and uses a Lightning connector, common in older Apple accessories.
Weight Considerations
Weighing 201 g, the iPhone 15 Plus is heavier and may feel more substantial in the hand or pocket. The iPhone SE (2020) weighs 148 g, making it lighter and potentially easier to carry for prolonged use or one-handed operation.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 15 Plus or iPhone SE (2020): which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 15 Plus if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (6.7 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, £364.54 less than the iPhone 15 Plus
- you want a lighter build (148 g vs 201 g)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the iPhone 15 Plus appreciate its large, clear screen and smooth performance. Many mention how the phone looks like new, often highlighting the excellent condition and battery life around 86%. Users enjoy the upgraded cameras and USB-C connector, noting improved audiovisual quality. Some find the phone heavier but value the screen size and overall quality. Transferring data can take a little time but works well. The device suits people who want a spacious display, good multitasking with 6 GB RAM, and 5G connectivity.
Buyers of the iPhone SE (2020) often choose it as a first phone for younger users or older relatives. They find the device spotless and reliable, with battery life that supports daily use. The smaller screen and simpler performance meet the needs of everyday use and basic apps. Customers note the phone feels like new and performs perfectly for its price. Some mention minor screen quality differences but overall satisfaction with the device's condition and value.
The iPhone 15 Plus suits those wanting a bigger, sharper screen and more detailed cameras, while the iPhone SE (2020) appeals to users who prefer a smaller, lighter device with straightforward performance for everyday tasks.
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) FAQs
iPhone 15 Plus vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Chipset: Apple A16 Bionic on the iPhone 15 Plus, Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020). The iPhone 15 Plus has more RAM: 6 GB vs 3 GB.
The iPhone SE (2020) is cheaper refurbished, from £75.11 compared with £439.65 for the iPhone 15 Plus.
The iPhone 15 Plus has a higher-resolution main camera: 48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 15 Plus is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone SE (2020) is still supported and can run iOS 27.
The iPhone 15 Plus adds more RAM (6 GB vs 3 GB), a bigger screen (6.7 inch vs 4.7 inch) and an OLED screen. Refurbished, it costs £364.54 more (from £439.65 vs £75.11).
Refurbished, the iPhone 15 Plus comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone SE (2020) in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
