iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS
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iPhone SE (2016)
Starting at
£192.40
iPhone XS
Starting at
£138.35£559.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone SE (2016) and iPhone XS?
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone XS starts at £138.35, £54.05 less than the iPhone SE (2016). The iPhone XS is the newer model, released in 2018.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS.
- The iPhone XS has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
- The iPhone XS has a bigger battery: 2658 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS specs
The iPhone SE (2016) and iPhone XS differ in several key areas that suit different needs. The iPhone SE is smaller with a 4 inch IPS LCD screen and a battery capacity of 1624 mAh, making it a compact choice for everyday use and easy handling. It has a single rear camera and a 1.2 megapixel front camera, fitting basic photography needs. The iPhone XS has a larger 5.8 inch Super Retina OLED screen with higher resolution, plus a dual rear camera setup and a 7 megapixel front camera, making it better for detailed photos and media. It offers 4 GB RAM and a larger 2658 mAh battery for smoother multitasking and longer battery life. Choose the SE for simplicity and size, or the XS for more advanced features and screen quality.
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS price
Colour
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software updates, and key physical traits that impact how long the phone lasts and stays current. The iPhone XS has advantages that affect daily reliability and longevity.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone XS has a 2658 mAh battery which offers more capacity than the iPhone SE's 1624 mAh. This means the XS can typically last longer between charges, which suits users who need more screen time or use power-intensive apps. The SE may be better for lighter use or those who prefer a smaller phone.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS performance
Performance depends on the chipset, memory, and storage options, influencing speed, multitasking, and app capacity. The iPhone XS offers more power and storage versatility than the iPhone SE (2016).
Processor and RAM
The iPhone XS uses the Apple A12 Bionic chipset with 4 GB RAM, providing faster processing and smoother multitasking compared to the iPhone SE's Apple A9 chipset and 2 GB RAM. This suits users running multiple apps or demanding tasks. The SE is suitable for everyday use and simpler apps.
Storage Options
The iPhone XS is available in 64GB and 256GB storage options, offering more space for photos, apps, and files. The iPhone SE (2016) comes with 64GB storage only. Choose the XS if you need more room for media or files.
Chipset
RAM
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS screen
Screen quality affects viewing experience for videos, photos, and apps. The two iPhones have different screen sizes, resolutions, and technologies that cater to distinct preferences.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPhone XS has a larger 5.8 inch screen with a resolution of 1125 x 2436, providing more space and sharper images. The iPhone SE (2016) has a smaller 4 inch screen at 640 x 1136 resolution, which suits users who prefer compact phones or one-handed use.
Screen Type
The iPhone XS features a Super Retina OLED screen, delivering deeper blacks and more vibrant colours. The iPhone SE uses an IPS LCD screen which offers accurate colours and good brightness but less contrast. Choose the XS for a richer display experience.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS camera
Audiovisual features include cameras and front cameras that impact photo quality and video calls. These features differ in detail and versatility.
Rear Cameras
The iPhone XS has a dual rear camera setup, offering more photographic options such as improved depth effects. The iPhone SE (2016) has a single 12 megapixel rear camera, suitable for straightforward photography.
Front Camera
The iPhone XS has a 7 megapixel front camera providing higher detail and clarity for selfies and video calls compared to the iPhone SE's 1.2 megapixel front camera. Users valuing clearer front-facing photos will prefer the XS.
Main Camera Resolution
Both models have a 12 megapixel main rear camera, meaning photo resolution is equal, though the XS's dual camera adds extra functionality.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS size and design
Miscellaneous features include connectivity, size, and physical details that affect daily handling and compatibility.
SIM Card Options
The iPhone XS supports both a physical SIM and eSIM, giving more flexibility for multiple mobile plans. The iPhone SE (2016) uses a physical SIM only.
Connector Type
The iPhone SE (2016) includes a Lightning port plus a 3.5mm headphone jack for wired headphones, which suits users with traditional audio accessories. The iPhone XS has a Lightning port only.
Weight and Size
The iPhone SE (2016) is lighter at 113 g and more compact with dimensions of 123.8 mm height and 58.6 mm width. The iPhone XS weighs 177 g and measures 143.6 mm in height and 70.9 mm in width, offering a larger but heavier device.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone SE (2016) or iPhone XS: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone SE (2016) if
- you want a lighter build (113 g vs 177 g)
- you want a headphone jack
Buy the iPhone XS if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £138.35, £54.05 less than the iPhone SE (2016)
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (2658 mAh vs 1624 mAh)
What our customers say
Customers of the iPhone SE (2016) appreciate its compact size and value for money. Many mention the phone running smoothly for everyday tasks despite its age. Battery life is generally described as solid, although some note it may decline with heavier use or over time. The smaller screen is suitable for those who want a less bulky device or a phone for simpler needs. The inclusion of a headphone jack is welcomed by some users. While the SE is not the newest model, customers find it reliable and fitting for basic use or as a secondary phone.
Customers of the iPhone XS praise its condition, often describing it as looking like new and running smoothly. The larger screen and enhanced camera features are appreciated, especially for photography and media use. Battery life is reported as good enough for all-day use with regular charging. Some users note the phone feels compact despite its bigger screen compared to older models. The eSIM feature and higher storage options are advantages for those needing flexibility and space. The XS suits users wanting a more advanced iPhone experience with better performance and visuals.
Overall, the iPhone SE (2016) fits well for those seeking a smaller, simpler iPhone that handles everyday tasks reliably, while the iPhone XS meets the needs of users wanting a larger, more powerful device with enhanced camera and display quality.
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS FAQs
iPhone SE (2016) vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Apple A9 (14 nm) on the iPhone SE (2016), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS. The iPhone XS has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
The iPhone XS is cheaper refurbished, from £138.35 compared with £192.40 for the iPhone SE (2016).
The iPhone XS has a bigger battery: 2658 mAh vs 1624 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the iPhone SE (2016) ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 15. Updates for the iPhone XS ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
The iPhone XS adds more RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB), a bigger battery (2658 mAh vs 1624 mAh) and a bigger screen (5.8 inch vs 4 inch). Refurbished, it costs £54.05 less (from £138.35 vs £192.40).
Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2016) comes in 64GB, and the iPhone XS in 64GB and 256GB.
