iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020)
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iPhone 17e
Starting at
£603.69
iPhone SE (2020)
Starting at
£75.11£289.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone 17e and iPhone SE (2020)?
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2020) starts at £75.11, £528.58 less than the iPhone 17e. The iPhone 17e is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Apple A19 on the iPhone 17e, Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020).
- The iPhone 17e has more RAM: 8 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPhone 17e has a bigger screen: 6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch.
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) specs
The iPhone 17e and the iPhone SE (2020) differ in screen size and quality, camera resolution, memory, and connectivity options. The iPhone 17e offers a larger, higher resolution OLED screen and more RAM, suited for users who want a spacious display and smoother multitasking. Its cameras have higher megapixel counts for more detailed photos. The iPhone SE (2020) has a smaller LCD screen and less RAM, making it a good choice for everyday use or as a first phone. It supports 4G networks and uses a Lightning connector, unlike the 17e's USB-C and 5G.
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) price
Colour
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) battery life and software updates
Durability covers the basic build and software support of each phone.
Software Updates
This means you can expect the current iOS features and security patches on either device.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) screen
Screen quality affects how you view content and interact with your phone. The iPhone 17e offers a larger and sharper display with OLED technology, while the iPhone SE (2020) has a smaller LCD screen with lower resolution.
Screen Size
The iPhone 17e has a 6.1 inch screen, providing more space for video, games, and browsing. The iPhone SE (2020) has a 4.7 inch screen, which is more compact and easier to hold with one hand.
Resolution
With a resolution of 2532 by 1170, the iPhone 17e delivers sharper images and text, making it suitable for users who want detailed visuals. The iPhone SE (2020) has a resolution of 750 by 1334, which is enough for everyday tasks but less sharp.
Screen Type
The iPhone 17e uses a Super Retina XDR OLED screen that offers deeper blacks and more vibrant colours, enhancing media viewing. The iPhone SE (2020) uses a Retina IPS LCD screen, which provides good colour accuracy and brightness for general use.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) camera
Camera quality is important for photography and video calls. The iPhone 17e has higher resolution front and main cameras, offering more detail for selfies and photos. The iPhone SE (2020) has fewer megapixels but still covers basic photo needs.
Front Camera
The iPhone 17e has a 12 megapixel front camera, which can capture sharper and more detailed selfies and video calls. The iPhone SE (2020) has a 7 megapixel front camera, suitable for everyday self-portraits and calls.
Main Camera
The iPhone 17e's main camera offers 48 megapixels, capturing photos with a higher level of detail that benefits users who take frequent or high-quality pictures. The iPhone SE (2020) has a 12 megapixel main camera that covers standard photography needs well.
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) size and design
Other features include connectivity, charging, network support, and physical attributes. The iPhone 17e supports 5G and uses a USB-C connector, while the iPhone SE (2020) supports 4G and has a Lightning connector. Both allow physical SIM and eSIM use and are unlocked.
Mobile Network
The iPhone 17e supports 5G networks for faster data speeds where available, making it suitable for users wanting the latest mobile connectivity. The iPhone SE (2020) supports 4G, which is reliable for everyday internet use.
Connector Type
The iPhone SE (2020) uses a Lightning connector, familiar to many Apple users.
SIM Options
Both phones support a physical SIM plus eSIM, providing flexibility if you want to use two phone numbers or switch carriers easily.
Weight
The iPhone 17e weighs 169 g, which might feel a bit heavier in the hand compared to the iPhone SE (2020) at 148 g. This could matter if you prefer a lighter phone for portability.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone 17e or iPhone SE (2020): which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone 17e if
- you want more RAM (8 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, £528.58 less than the iPhone 17e
- you want a lighter build (148 g vs 170 g)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the iPhone 17e describe it as feeling like a brand new phone with no marks or scratches and full battery lifespan. They note the phone is a nice size and works well, with setup described as quick and easy. Some say the phone is top quality and recommend it for its condition and performance. There is a mention of a dropped screen offer due to a scratch, but overall, users appreciate the phone's condition and quality.
Buyers of the iPhone SE (2020) often choose it as a first phone or a gift, appreciating its spotless condition and fair battery life. Customers mention it works perfectly and looks like new, with some noting small screen scratches that are not visible with a screen protector. The phone is described as suitable for everyday use, with several buyers happy with its reliability and value. Some mention issues with screen replacements or battery recognition but still find the phone a good buy.
The iPhone 17e suits users who want a larger, smoother experience with a phone that feels like new and offers higher camera detail. The iPhone SE (2020) fits those seeking a reliable, simpler phone for everyday use or as a first device, with good condition and practical features.
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) FAQs
iPhone 17e vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Chipset: Apple A19 on the iPhone 17e, Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020). The iPhone 17e has more RAM: 8 GB vs 3 GB.
The iPhone SE (2020) is cheaper refurbished, from £75.11 compared with £603.69 for the iPhone 17e.
The iPhone 17e has a higher-resolution main camera: 48 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
The iPhone 17e is still supported and can run iOS 27. The iPhone SE (2020) is still supported and can run iOS 27.
The iPhone 17e adds more RAM (8 GB vs 3 GB), a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch) and an OLED screen. Refurbished, it costs £528.58 more (from £603.69 vs £75.11).
Refurbished, the iPhone 17e comes in 256GB and 512GB, and the iPhone SE (2020) in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
