iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max
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iPhone SE (2020)
Starting at
£75.11£289.00 new
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone SE (2020) and iPhone XS Max?
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2020) starts at £75.11, £92.98 less than the iPhone XS Max. The iPhone SE (2020) is the newer model, released in 2020.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Software updates
- Chipset: Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max.
- The iPhone XS Max has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPhone XS Max has a bigger screen: 6.5 inch vs 4.7 inch.
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max specs
The iPhone SE (2020) offers a smaller 4.7 inch Retina IPS LCD screen suited for those who prefer a compact device, while the iPhone XS Max has a larger 6.5 inch Super Retina OLED display that enhances video and photo viewing. With 3 GB RAM, the SE (2020) handles everyday tasks well, but the XS Max's 4 GB RAM allows more apps to stay open. Storage options vary with the XS Max reaching up to 512GB and the SE (2020) topping at 256GB. Weight is lighter on the SE (2020), making it easier to carry. Both have similar cameras and network features, so your choice depends on screen size, memory needs, and storage preferences.
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers software support and basic device features.
Latest Software Updates
This means you can expect current apps and security features on either device, which is important if you want your phone to stay up to date over time.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen quality affects viewing experience, size, and detail. The two iPhones differ significantly in screen technology, size, and resolution, which suits different preferences and uses.
Screen Size and Viewing
The iPhone SE (2020) has a 4.7 inch screen, making it easier to use with one hand and more pocket-friendly. The iPhone XS Max offers a much larger 6.5 inch screen, providing more space for watching videos, browsing, and reading.
Screen Resolution and Detail
The XS Max features a higher resolution of 1242 by 2688, offering sharper images and more detail on its bigger screen. The SE (2020) has a resolution of 750 by 1334, which suits its smaller size and provides clear text and images.
Display Type and Colour
The iPhone SE (2020) uses Retina IPS LCD, giving accurate colours and brightness suited for everyday use. The iPhone XS Max has a Super Retina OLED screen, which can display deeper blacks and more vivid colours, enhancing media viewing.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max camera
Camera quality influences photo and video capture. Both devices share the same front and main camera megapixels, delivering similar detail levels for everyday photography.
Camera Megapixels
Both the iPhone SE (2020) and iPhone XS Max have a 7 megapixel front camera and a 12 megapixel main camera. This means you can expect similar photo resolution and selfie quality from either phone.
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Other features include carrier compatibility, connectors, network support, SIM options, and weight. These aspects affect daily convenience and device handling.
Carrier and Network
Both phones are unlocked and support 4G networks, so you can use them with a wide range of UK carriers without restriction.
SIM Card Options
The iPhone SE (2020) and iPhone XS Max both support a physical SIM and eSIM, offering flexibility for personal and work numbers or travel.
Weight and Portability
The iPhone SE (2020) weighs 148 grams, making it lighter and easier to carry. The iPhone XS Max is heavier at 208 grams, reflecting its larger size and screen.
Connector Type
Each device uses the Lightning connector, so charging and accessories will be the same between the two.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone SE (2020) or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone SE (2020) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £75.11, £92.98 less than the iPhone XS Max
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Apr 2026, last iOS 18)
- you want a lighter build (148 g vs 208 g)
Buy the iPhone XS Max if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (6.5 inch vs 4.7 inch)
- you want an OLED screen
What our customers say
Customers who chose the iPhone SE (2020) appreciate its condition and reliability, often noting that it feels like a new device. Many mention it as a suitable phone for family members such as children or older adults, highlighting its size and price as advantages. Users also report satisfaction with its performance and battery life, and many express confidence in buying refurbished phones from this range.
Reviews of the iPhone XS Max show that customers value its large screen and quality condition, often finding it to be a good value for the price paid. Some note minor issues with battery life or specific features like call volume, but overall it is seen as a capable device with a clear and sharp display. The size and screen quality suit those who want a larger phone for media and multitasking.
The iPhone SE (2020) is well suited to buyers wanting a smaller, lighter phone with solid performance for everyday use. The iPhone XS Max fits those who prefer a larger, more immersive screen and extra memory, especially if storage and multitasking are priorities.
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Chipset: Apple A13 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2020), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS Max. The iPhone XS Max has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
The iPhone SE (2020) is cheaper refurbished, from £75.11 compared with £168.09 for the iPhone XS Max.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The iPhone SE (2020) is still supported and can run iOS 27. Updates for the iPhone XS Max ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
The iPhone SE (2020) adds longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Apr 2026, last iOS 18) and a lighter build (148 g vs 208 g). Refurbished, it costs £92.98 less (from £75.11 vs £168.09).
Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2020) comes in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
