iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR
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iPhone SE (2022)
Starting at
£113.85£429.00 new
iPhone XR
Starting at
£130.30£399.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone SE (2022) and iPhone XR?
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2022) starts at £113.85, £16.45 less than the iPhone XR. The iPhone SE (2022) is the newer model, released in 2022.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Screen size
Screen type
Software updates
- Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022), Apple A12 Bionic (7 nm) on the iPhone XR.
- The iPhone SE (2022) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
- The iPhone XR has a bigger screen: 6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch.
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR specs
The iPhone SE (2022) is smaller and lighter, with a 4.7 inch screen and 4 GB of RAM, making it a good choice if you prefer compact phones and slightly more memory. It also supports 5G networks, which suits those wanting faster mobile connections. The iPhone XR offers a larger 6.1 inch display with higher resolution, and it comes in several storage sizes up to 256GB, which is ideal if you want more screen space and storage for media or apps. Both have 12 megapixel main cameras and 7 megapixel front cameras, so photo quality is similar.
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR price
Colour
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR battery life and software updates
Neither device is foldable, keeping their designs classic and straightforward.
Software Compatibility
This means you get access to current features and security improvements on either device. If staying up to date with iOS is important to you, both phones deliver that.
Design Simplicity
Neither the iPhone SE (2022) nor the iPhone XR is foldable. They have traditional smartphone shapes that suit users who prefer a classic, familiar form factor without hinges or folds.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR screen
Screen size and resolution differ between these iPhones, affecting how much content you see and how sharp it looks. Each screen type supports clear visuals and good colour accuracy.
Screen Size
The iPhone SE (2022) has a 4.7 inch screen, making it compact and easy to use with one hand. The iPhone XR offers a larger 6.1 inch screen, which gives you more room for videos, games, and browsing. If you prefer a phone that fits comfortably in one hand, the SE is a strong choice. For viewing more content at once, the XR is better suited.
Resolution and Clarity
The iPhone XR has a higher resolution of 828 by 1792 pixels compared to the SE (2022) at 750 by 1334 pixels. This means the XR's screen shows sharper images and more detail, especially noticeable when reading small text or watching high-definition videos.
Screen Technology
The iPhone SE (2022) uses a Retina IPS LCD screen, while the iPhone XR uses a Liquid Retina IPS LCD. Both offer good colour accuracy and brightness, so daily use and media viewing will be clear and vibrant on either device.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR camera
The main and front cameras on both phones have the same megapixel counts, so they capture a similar amount of detail for photos and selfies.
Camera Resolution
Both the iPhone SE (2022) and iPhone XR have 12 megapixel main cameras, ideal for everyday photography with good detail. The front cameras on both devices are 7 megapixels, suitable for selfies and video calls with clear image quality.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR size and design
Several physical and connectivity features differ, influencing how the phones feel in your hand and the networks they can access.
Size and Weight
The iPhone SE (2022) is smaller and lighter, measuring 130 mm tall, 60 mm wide, and weighing 144 g. The iPhone XR is larger at 150.9 mm tall, 75.7 mm wide, and heavier at 194 g. The SE suits those wanting a compact, pocket-friendly phone, while the XR fits users who prefer a bigger device.
Mobile Network
The iPhone SE (2022) supports 5G networks, offering faster data speeds where available. The iPhone XR supports 4G networks, which still provide reliable connectivity for everyday use but at lower maximum speeds.
Storage Options
The iPhone SE (2022) is stocked with 64GB of storage, suitable for typical daily use. The iPhone XR is available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options, giving you flexibility if you need more space for apps, photos, and media.
SIM and Connector
Both phones use a physical SIM plus eSIM for mobile connections and share the Lightning connector for charging and accessories. This means you can use similar SIM setups and cables with either device.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone SE (2022) or iPhone XR: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone SE (2022) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £113.85, £16.45 less than the iPhone XR
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Apr 2026, last iOS 18)
Buy the iPhone XR if
- you want a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 4.7 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the iPhone SE (2022) generally report that the phone looks and works as expected with smooth performance. Many find it easy to set up and appreciate the smaller size and 5G support. Some mention minor concerns about battery indicators or battery health accuracy but overall satisfaction with the condition and usability is high. The SE suits those upgrading from previous iPhones or wanting a compact device with current features.
Buyers of the iPhone XR praise its near-new condition and clear screen. They like the larger screen size and multiple storage options, which help with media and app use. Some note that replacement batteries might not be official Apple parts causing a warning message, but this does not affect overall performance. Users find the XR comfortable for everyday tasks and enjoy its value for the price.
Both phones suit different users: the iPhone SE (2022) fits those wanting a smaller, lighter phone with 5G, while the iPhone XR appeals to those preferring a larger display and more storage options.
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR FAQs
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XR comes down to the chipset, RAM and screen size. Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022), Apple A12 Bionic (7 nm) on the iPhone XR. The iPhone SE (2022) has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
The iPhone SE (2022) is cheaper refurbished, from £113.85 compared with £130.30 for the iPhone XR.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The iPhone SE (2022) is still supported and can run iOS 27. Updates for the iPhone XR ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
The iPhone SE (2022) adds more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB), longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Apr 2026, last iOS 18) and 5G. Refurbished, it costs £16.45 less (from £113.85 vs £130.30).
Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2022) comes in 64GB, and the iPhone XR in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
