iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016)
Shop iPhone
iPhone 16
Starting at
£577.65£699.00 new
iPhone SE (2016)
Starting at
£192.40What's the difference between the iPhone 16 and iPhone SE (2016)?
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2016) starts at £192.40, £385.25 less than the iPhone 16. The iPhone 16 is the newer model, released in 2024.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Apple A18 (3 nm) on the iPhone 16, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016).
- The iPhone 16 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 2 GB.
- The iPhone 16 has a bigger battery: 3561 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) specs
The iPhone 16 and the iPhone SE (2016) offer distinct experiences suited to different needs. The iPhone 16 provides a larger, higher-resolution Super Retina XDR OLED screen ideal for vibrant video and detailed images, along with a powerful Apple A18 chipset and 8 GB RAM for smooth multitasking. The iPhone SE (2016) has a smaller 4 inch IPS LCD screen and a simpler Apple A9 chipset with 2 GB RAM, fitting for those who prefer a compact device focused on basic tasks. Its single camera system and 4G connectivity suit everyday use without advanced features.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) price
Colour
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software updates, and physical design. These affect how long you can use the phone between charges and whether your device stays current with software improvements.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 16 has a 3561 mAh battery, which provides more capacity for longer usage between charges. This benefits users who rely heavily on their phone throughout the day. The iPhone SE (2016) has a 1624 mAh battery, which may suit those with lighter daily use or less demand on battery life.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) performance
Performance relates to the processor, RAM, and storage options. These determine how smoothly the phone handles apps, multitasking, and storage of files or apps.
Processor Technology
The iPhone 16 uses the Apple A18 chipset built on a 3 nm process, which offers modern efficiency and speed for demanding apps and multitasking. The iPhone SE (2016) features the Apple A9 chipset built on 14 nm technology, suitable for everyday tasks but with less processing power.
Memory Capacity
With 8 GB of RAM, the iPhone 16 keeps multiple apps open and running smoothly, ideal for users who switch between tasks frequently. The iPhone SE (2016) has 2 GB RAM, fitting for basic app use and lighter multitasking.
Storage Options
The iPhone 16 is available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage variants, allowing users to choose according to their needs for apps, photos, and media. The iPhone SE (2016) comes with 64GB storage, which suits users with simpler storage needs.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) screen
Screen quality affects how you view content and interact with the device. Size, resolution, and screen type influence clarity, colour, and comfort for reading or watching videos.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPhone 16 has a 6.1 inch screen with a resolution of 1179 by 2556 pixels, offering a spacious and sharp display well suited for media and detailed work. The iPhone SE (2016) features a smaller 4 inch screen with 640 by 1136 pixels resolution, making it compact and easy to use with one hand.
Screen Technology
The iPhone 16 uses a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, which delivers deep blacks and vibrant colours, enhancing video and photo viewing. The iPhone SE (2016) has an IPS LCD screen, which provides clear and consistent colour but with less contrast compared to OLED.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) camera
Audiovisual features cover cameras and front-facing cameras. These determine photo and video quality as well as video calling experience.
Main Camera
The iPhone 16 has a 48 megapixel dual camera system, allowing for more detailed photos and versatile shooting options. This suits users who take a lot of photos or want higher image quality. The iPhone SE (2016) has a single 12 megapixel camera, which works well for everyday snapshots.
Front Camera
With a 12 megapixel front camera, the iPhone 16 is ideal for clearer selfies and higher quality video calls. The iPhone SE (2016) has a 1.2 megapixel front camera, which is functional for basic video chatting.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) size and design
Miscellaneous specs include connectivity, physical dimensions, and ports, which impact compatibility with networks, accessories, and comfort of use.
Network Compatibility
The iPhone 16 supports 5G networks, offering faster mobile data speeds where available. It uses both physical SIM and eSIM for flexible connectivity. The iPhone SE (2016) supports 4G and uses a physical SIM card.
Connector and Audio Jack
The iPhone SE (2016) has a Lightning connector and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, useful for wired headphones without adapters.
Physical Size and Weight
The iPhone 16 measures 147.6 mm in height, 71.6 mm in width, and 7.8 mm in depth, weighing 170 g. This size suits users who prefer a larger, more substantial phone. The iPhone SE (2016) is smaller at 123.8 mm tall, 58.6 mm wide, and 7.6 mm deep, weighing 113 g, fitting those looking for a compact, lightweight device.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 16 or iPhone SE (2016): which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 16 if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3561 mAh vs 1624 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 4 inch)
Buy the iPhone SE (2016) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £192.40, £385.25 less than the iPhone 16
- you want a lighter build (113 g vs 170 g)
- you want a headphone jack
What our customers say
Customers purchasing the iPhone 16 frequently highlight its like-new condition and strong battery health, with many noting the battery holds a full charge well throughout the day. Users appreciate the smooth performance and modern features, describing the phone as perfect for upgrading from earlier models. The larger screen and camera improvements are also praised, with customers enjoying the detailed images and vibrant display. Several reviews mention satisfaction with the device's build quality and storage options, making it suitable for those wanting a capable, current iPhone.
Buyers of the iPhone SE (2016) value its compact size and straightforward functionality. Reviews often mention that the phone performs well for everyday use and offers good battery life for its age. The device suits users seeking a simple phone mainly for calls, texts, and light app use. Customers also appreciate its affordable price and clean condition, making it a practical choice for those who do not require the latest features or a large screen.
Overall, the iPhone 16 is well suited for users who want a modern, powerful phone with a spacious screen and advanced camera system. The iPhone SE (2016) fits those who prefer a smaller, lighter phone with essential features and reliable performance for basic use.
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) FAQs
iPhone 16 vs iPhone SE (2016) comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Apple A18 (3 nm) on the iPhone 16, Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016). The iPhone 16 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 2 GB.
The iPhone SE (2016) is cheaper refurbished, from £192.40 compared with £577.65 for the iPhone 16.
The iPhone 16 has a bigger battery: 3561 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
The iPhone 16 has a higher-resolution main camera: 48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 16 is still supported and can run iOS 27. Updates for the iPhone SE (2016) ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 15.
The iPhone 16 adds more RAM (8 GB vs 2 GB), a bigger battery (3561 mAh vs 1624 mAh) and a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 4 inch). Refurbished, it costs £385.25 more (from £577.65 vs £192.40).
Refurbished, the iPhone 16 comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone SE (2016) in 64GB.
