iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022)
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iPhone 15 Pro Max
Starting at
£577.65£1,199.00 new
iPhone SE (2022)
Starting at
£113.85£429.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone SE (2022)?
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2022) starts at £113.85, £463.80 less than the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the newer model, released in 2023.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Apple A17 Pro (3 nm) on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022).
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a bigger screen: 6.7 inch vs 4.7 inch.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) specs
The iPhone 15 Pro Max and iPhone SE (2022) differ mainly in size, screen quality, camera resolution, memory, and storage options. The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers a much larger, higher resolution OLED screen and more RAM, which suits users who want a spacious display and smoother multitasking. It also has higher megapixel cameras for detailed photos and videos. The iPhone SE (2022) features a smaller screen and simpler LCD display, making it suitable for those who prefer a compact phone for everyday use. Storage choices vary, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max available in larger capacities.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) price
Colour
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) battery life and software updates
Durability covers software compatibility and design features that affect daily reliability.
Software Compatibility
This means you can expect up-to-date software features and security on either device, which is important if you want a phone that stays current with Apple's ecosystem.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) screen
Screen quality affects how you experience video, apps, and general use. The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a larger, higher resolution OLED screen, while the iPhone SE (2022) has a smaller LCD screen with lower resolution. This shapes how much content you see and the visual detail you get.
Screen Size
The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 6.7 inch screen, providing a lot of room for watching videos, gaming, or multitasking. The iPhone SE (2022) has a 4.7 inch screen, which suits users looking for a compact phone that fits easily in one hand or a pocket.
Screen Resolution
With a resolution of 1290 x 2796, the iPhone 15 Pro Max shows sharper, more detailed images and text. The iPhone SE (2022) has a resolution of 750 x 1334, which is clear for everyday use but less detailed, especially noticeable when viewing high-definition content.
Screen Technology
The iPhone 15 Pro Max uses an LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED screen, which typically offers deeper blacks and more vibrant colours. The iPhone SE (2022) uses a Retina IPS LCD screen, which provides bright and accurate colour but with less contrast than OLED. The choice depends on whether you prioritise screen quality or size.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) camera
Camera quality is a key difference. The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers higher megapixel counts on both front and main cameras, which affects photo and video detail. These differences matter if you use your phone often for selfies, video calls, or photography.
Front Camera Resolution
The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a 12 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail for selfies and video calls. The iPhone SE (2022) has a 7 megapixel front camera, suitable for everyday use but with less detail in images.
Main Camera Resolution
The iPhone 15 Pro Max features a 48 megapixel main camera, allowing for very detailed photos and videos. The iPhone SE (2022) has a 12 megapixel main camera, which works well for general photography but captures fewer details compared to the 15 Pro Max.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) size and design
Other practical differences include physical size, weight, connector type, and storage options. These affect how you carry the phone, what accessories you use, and how much data you can keep.
Physical Size and Weight
The iPhone 15 Pro Max measures 159.9 mm in height, 76.7 mm in width, and is 8.3 mm deep, weighing 221 g. This makes it a larger and heavier phone, suited for those who prefer a bigger device. The iPhone SE (2022) is more compact at 130 mm tall, 60 mm wide, and 7.3 mm deep, weighing 144 g, which makes it easier to handle with one hand and carry in smaller pockets.
Connector Type
The iPhone 15 Pro Max uses a USB-C connector, which is a common standard for many devices and accessories. The iPhone SE (2022) uses a Lightning connector, which is specific to certain Apple devices. Your choice may depend on the cables and chargers you already own.
Storage Options
The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers multiple storage options at 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, which suits users who need a lot of space for apps, photos, and media. The iPhone SE (2022) is stocked with 64GB, which is adequate for everyday use but may require more frequent management of storage.
Network and SIM
Both phones support 5G networks and offer physical SIM plus eSIM options. This ensures fast mobile data and flexibility with carrier choices on either device.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 15 Pro Max or iPhone SE (2022): which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 15 Pro Max if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (6.7 inch vs 4.7 inch)
- you want an OLED screen
Buy the iPhone SE (2022) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £113.85, £463.80 less than the iPhone 15 Pro Max
- you want a lighter build (144 g vs 221 g)
What our customers say
Customers say refurbished iPhone 15 Pro Max devices look almost like new with no scratches or dents and very good battery health, often in the mid to high 80s or above. Several mention that the phone feels perfect and matches expectations for quality, with a clear screen and excellent camera performance. Some customers upgraded to the iPhone 15 Pro Max from other models and appreciate the large screen and smooth performance. Many confirm the battery lasts well throughout the day and the device runs apps smoothly, with some noting the phone got warm briefly during initial use but then cooled down.
For the iPhone SE (2022), customers report smooth setup and operation with good condition phones that meet descriptions. The smaller size appeals to those wanting a compact phone, and 5G support is noted as a positive for longevity. Some mention small cosmetic marks which align with refurbishment grading. Battery health reports vary, with some concerns about accuracy of battery indicators, but overall users find the phone reliable for everyday use. The iPhone SE (2022) is often chosen for its ease of use and as an upgrade from previous models.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max suits users who want a larger, high-resolution screen and powerful cameras for detailed photos and video. The iPhone SE (2022) fits those who prefer a smaller, simpler phone for everyday tasks with good connectivity and straightforward performance.
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) FAQs
iPhone 15 Pro Max vs iPhone SE (2022) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Chipset: Apple A17 Pro (3 nm) on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022). The iPhone 15 Pro Max has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
The iPhone SE (2022) is cheaper refurbished, from £113.85 compared with £577.65 for the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max has a higher-resolution main camera: 48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone SE (2022) is still supported and can run iOS 27.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max adds more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB), a bigger screen (6.7 inch vs 4.7 inch) and an OLED screen. Refurbished, it costs £463.80 more (from £577.65 vs £113.85).
Refurbished, the iPhone 15 Pro Max comes in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the iPhone SE (2022) in 64GB.
