iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022)
Shop iPhone
iPhone 16e
Starting at
£478.75£599.00 new
iPhone SE (2022)
Starting at
£113.85£429.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 16e and iPhone SE (2022)?
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2022) starts at £113.85, £364.90 less than the iPhone 16e. The iPhone 16e is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Apple A18 (3 nm) on the iPhone 16e, Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022).
- The iPhone 16e has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
- The iPhone 16e has a bigger screen: 6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch.
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) specs
The iPhone 16e and iPhone SE (2022) differ mainly in screen size and quality, memory, camera, and charging connector. The iPhone 16e has a larger, higher-resolution OLED screen that suits watching videos or browsing with more detail and colour depth. It also offers twice the RAM and several storage options, which helps keep more apps open and store more data. Its front camera captures higher-resolution selfies. The iPhone SE (2022) is smaller with a simpler LCD screen, making it easier to use one-handed and fit in a pocket. It uses the Lightning connector, while the iPhone 16e has USB-C. Both support 5G and unlocked networks. Choose the iPhone 16e for a roomier screen and more memory, and the iPhone SE (2022) if you prefer a compact phone with a familiar connector.
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) price
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) battery life and software updates
Both iPhones run iOS and are not foldable. Their durability and software environment will feel familiar to anyone used to Apple phones. The iPhone 16e came out in 2025 and the iPhone SE (2022) in 2022.
Operating System
Both the iPhone 16e and iPhone SE (2022) run iOS, offering a consistent experience in apps and updates. Users switching between these models will find the interface familiar and simple to use.
Design Style
Neither the iPhone 16e nor the iPhone SE (2022) are foldable. This means both have traditional smartphone designs that fit standard cases and accessories.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) performance
Memory and storage options influence how smoothly you can run apps and how much data you can keep on your phone.
RAM Capacity
The iPhone 16e has 8 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps running at once and supports smoother multitasking. The iPhone SE (2022) has 4 GB of RAM, suitable for everyday use and typical app needs.
Storage Options
The iPhone 16e is available with 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage, offering plenty of space for apps, photos, and media. The iPhone SE (2022) comes with 64GB, which fits everyday use but offers less room for large files.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) screen
Screen quality and size differ notably between these two iPhones. The iPhone 16e has a larger and sharper display with a different screen technology, which affects viewing comfort and image quality.
Screen Size
The iPhone 16e has a 6.1 inch screen, providing more room for videos, reading, and apps. The iPhone SE (2022) has a 4.7 inch screen that is easier to use with one hand and fits better in smaller pockets.
Resolution and Detail
The iPhone 16e offers a resolution of 2532 by 1170 pixels, delivering sharper images and more detail compared to the iPhone SE (2022)'s 750 by 1334 pixels. This higher resolution suits those who value crisp text and vibrant photos.
Screen Type
The iPhone 16e uses Super Retina XDR OLED technology, which tends to show deeper blacks and stronger contrast. The iPhone SE (2022) has a Retina IPS LCD screen, offering good colour accuracy and brightness but with a different visual feel.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) camera
Front cameras differ in resolution, which affects selfie and video call clarity.
Front Camera Resolution
The iPhone 16e has a 12MP TrueDepth front camera, capturing more detail and sharper images than the iPhone SE (2022)'s 7 megapixels front camera. This will suit anyone who often uses selfies or video calls.
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) size and design
Several practical differences affect daily use, including physical size, charging, and network features. These details help you choose based on your preferences for handling and accessories.
Charging Connector
The iPhone 16e uses a USB-C connector, which is common in many modern devices and allows for versatile charging and data transfer options. The iPhone SE (2022) uses Apple's Lightning connector, which fits older Apple accessories.
Physical Dimensions
The iPhone 16e measures 146.7 mm in height, 71.5 mm in width, and 7.8 mm in depth, making it larger and slightly thicker than the iPhone SE (2022), which is 130 mm tall, 60 mm wide, and 7.3 mm deep. The iPhone SE (2022) is lighter at 144 g versus 167 g for the iPhone 16e. These differences affect how each phone feels in hand and pocket.
Connectivity and Network
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks, giving you freedom to choose or switch carriers and access fast mobile data. Each supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM, offering flexibility in how you connect.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 16e or iPhone SE (2022): which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 16e if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (6.1 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, £364.90 less than the iPhone 16e
- you want a lighter build (144 g vs 167 g)
What our customers say
Customers say the iPhone 16e looks and works like new, often praising its excellent condition and battery health. Many find setup and data transfer straightforward, though some mention challenges with transferring data from Android phones or specific apps. The larger screen and improved camera are appreciated, as is the faster performance thanks to more RAM. Some customers upgraded from much older iPhones and notice a clear difference in speed, battery life, and screen quality. There are occasional reports of issues activating eSIM or with specific software, but overall satisfaction with the device is high.
Reviews of the iPhone SE (2022) highlight its good condition and smooth performance. Customers appreciate its smaller size and 5G capability, which they expect to keep it useful for longer. Data transfer from older iPhones is described as easy, and most users find the phone works well for everyday tasks. Some note battery health concerns and minor cosmetic marks consistent with refurbishment. The screen size and connector type suit users who prefer a compact phone with familiar features. Overall, buyers feel confident with this model and find it reliable for daily use.
The iPhone 16e suits those who want a larger, sharper screen and more memory for multitasking or media. The iPhone SE (2022) is a good choice for users who prefer a smaller device and a Lightning connector, with enough power for regular apps and phone tasks.
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) FAQs
iPhone 16e vs iPhone SE (2022) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Chipset: Apple A18 (3 nm) on the iPhone 16e, Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022). The iPhone 16e has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
The iPhone SE (2022) is cheaper refurbished, from £113.85 compared with £478.75 for the iPhone 16e.
The iPhone 16e has a higher-resolution main camera: 48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 16e is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone SE (2022) is still supported and can run iOS 27.
The iPhone 16e adds more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB), a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch) and an OLED screen. Refurbished, it costs £364.90 more (from £478.75 vs £113.85).
Refurbished, the iPhone 16e comes in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone SE (2022) in 64GB.
