iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020)
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iPhone SE (2016)
Starting at
£192.40
iPhone SE (2020)
Starting at
£75.11£289.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone SE (2016) and iPhone SE (2020)?
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2020) starts at £75.11, £117.29 less than the iPhone SE (2016). The iPhone SE (2020) is the newer model, released in 2020.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Front camera
- Chipset: Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016), Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020).
- The iPhone SE (2020) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB.
- The iPhone SE (2020) has a bigger screen: 4.7 inch vs 4 inch.
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) specs
The iPhone SE 2016 and iPhone SE 2020 differ in screen size, camera quality, and software compatibility. The 2016 model has a smaller 4-inch screen and a 1.2-megapixel front camera, making it suitable for everyday use and those who prefer a compact phone. The 2020 model offers a larger 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD and a 7-megapixel front camera, better for users who want a roomier screen and enhanced selfies. Storage options vary too, with the 2020 SE available in larger capacities. Choose the 2016 SE for simplicity and compactness, and the 2020 SE for more features and current software support.
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) price
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) battery life and software updates
Durability covers software updates and how well the devices keep working over time. These aspects can affect how long your phone stays current and usable.
Software Updates
If staying current with software is important to you, the 2020 model suits better.
Build and OS
Both devices run iOS and are not foldable, so they share a similar operating system experience and form factor in that regard.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) screen
Screen quality is key for viewing comfort and clarity. Differences in size, resolution and screen type influence how you experience media and use your phone daily.
Screen Size
The iPhone SE 2016 has a 4-inch screen, which makes it very compact and easy to hold with one hand. The iPhone SE 2020 offers a larger 4.7-inch screen, providing more room for reading, browsing, and watching videos. Choose the smaller screen if you prefer a pocket-friendly phone, or the larger one for more display space.
Resolution and Display
The 2020 SE has a higher resolution of 750 x 1334 pixels on a Retina IPS LCD, which means sharper images and text compared to the 2016 SE's 640 x 1136 resolution on an IPS LCD. This makes the 2020 model better suited for users who value screen clarity for photos and videos.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) camera
Camera capabilities affect your photos and video calls. Front and main camera differences matter depending on how much you use these features.
Front Camera Quality
The iPhone SE 2020 features a 7-megapixel front camera, which captures more detail for selfies and video calls than the 2016 SE's 1.2-megapixel front camera. If you take many selfies or use video chat often, the 2020 SE offers a clearer image.
Main Camera Similarity
Both phones have a 12-megapixel main camera, so they offer similar photo resolution for everyday photography. This suits users who want good photo quality without needing extra camera features.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) size and design
Other features like connectors, network compatibility and SIM options impact how you use your phone day to day and connect with accessories.
Audio Connector
The iPhone SE 2016 includes both a Lightning port and a 3.5mm headphone jack, so you can use standard headphones without an adapter. The 2020 SE has only a Lightning connector, which may require wireless or Lightning-compatible headphones.
SIM Options
The 2016 SE uses a physical SIM card only. The 2020 SE supports a physical SIM plus eSIM, giving you more flexibility with mobile plans and the option to use two numbers on one device.
Weight Differences
The iPhone SE 2016 weighs 113 g, making it lighter and easier to carry. The 2020 SE weighs 148 g, reflecting its larger size and components. If a lightweight phone is a priority, the 2016 model suits you.
Mobile Network
Both phones support 4G for mobile connectivity, so you get similar network speeds for calls and data.
Storage Options
The iPhone SE 2016 is available with 64GB storage. The 2020 SE offers 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options, so you can choose more space if you keep many apps, photos or files.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone SE (2016) or iPhone SE (2020): which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone SE (2016) if
- you want a lighter build (113 g vs 148 g)
- you want a headphone jack
Buy the iPhone SE (2020) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £75.11, £117.29 less than the iPhone SE (2016)
- you want more RAM (3 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (4.7 inch vs 4 inch)
What our customers say
Customers of the iPhone SE 2016 appreciate its compact size and good value. Many mention how well it works for everyday needs like messaging and calls. Some note the phone runs smoothly after updating and has solid battery life for its class. A few customers highlight minor wear like scratches or battery aging but find it acceptable for the price. This device suits those wanting a simple, pocket-friendly phone that covers basics reliably.
Users of the iPhone SE 2020 report it feels like a nearly new device with excellent condition and battery life. They like its performance for a first phone for children or older family members. The larger screen and better front camera are appreciated for everyday use and video calls. Some mention the phone looks spotless and works perfectly for their needs. This model fits well for those wanting a phone with more features, storage options and current software support.
Overall, the 2016 SE appeals to buyers who want a smaller, straightforward phone with decent performance. The 2020 SE suits those who prefer a bigger screen, improved front camera, and longer software updates. Both attract customers looking for affordable, refurbished iPhones that do what they need.
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) FAQs
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone SE (2020) comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Chipset: Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016), Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020). The iPhone SE (2020) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB.
The iPhone SE (2020) is cheaper refurbished, from £75.11 compared with £192.40 for the iPhone SE (2016).
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the iPhone SE (2016) ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 15. The iPhone SE (2020) is still supported and can run iOS 27.
The iPhone SE (2020) adds more RAM (3 GB vs 2 GB), a bigger screen (4.7 inch vs 4 inch) and a higher-resolution front camera (7 megapixels vs 1.2 megapixels). Refurbished, it costs £117.29 less (from £75.11 vs £192.40).
Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2016) comes in 64GB, and the iPhone SE (2020) in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
