iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS
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iPhone SE (2022)
Starting at
£113.85£429.00 new
iPhone XS
Starting at
£138.35£559.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone SE (2022) and iPhone XS?
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2022) starts at £113.85, £24.50 less than the iPhone XS. The iPhone SE (2022) is the newer model, released in 2022.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Screen size
Screen type
Software updates
Mobile network
- Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS.
- The iPhone XS has a bigger screen: 5.8 inch vs 4.7 inch.
- The iPhone XS has an OLED screen.
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS specs
The iPhone SE (2022) has a smaller 4.7 inch Retina IPS LCD screen and supports 5G, making it suitable for those who want a compact phone with newer mobile connectivity. The iPhone XS has a larger 5.8 inch Super Retina OLED screen and offers up to 256GB of storage, which suits users who prefer a more spacious display and more storage for apps and media. Both have 4GB of RAM and similar camera resolutions, so they handle everyday tasks and photography similarly.
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS price
Colour
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS battery life and software updates
Durability covers software updates and design features that affect how long a phone stays current and usable.
Software Updates
This means you can keep either device up to date with Apple's newest features and security patches, which helps maintain smooth performance and app compatibility over time.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS screen
Screen quality affects how you view content like videos, photos, and apps. The two phones differ in size, resolution, and screen technology, which shapes the viewing experience.
Screen Size
The iPhone SE (2022) has a 4.7 inch screen, making it easier to use with one hand and more pocket-friendly. The iPhone XS has a larger 5.8 inch screen, giving more room for watching videos, browsing, or multitasking.
Screen Resolution
With a resolution of 1125 x 2436, the iPhone XS offers a sharper and more detailed display compared to the iPhone SE (2022) at 750 x 1334. This means text and images appear crisper on the iPhone XS, which suits users who prioritise image clarity.
Screen Type
The iPhone XS uses a Super Retina OLED screen, delivering deeper blacks and more vibrant colours. The iPhone SE (2022) has a Retina IPS LCD screen, which provides consistent colours and brightness. If you prefer vivid visuals and contrast, the iPhone XS is a good fit, while the SE suits those comfortable with a classic LCD display.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS camera
The cameras on each phone are important for everyday photos and video calls. Both devices share the same megapixel counts for their front and main cameras, offering similar photographic detail.
Camera Resolution
Both the iPhone SE (2022) and the iPhone XS feature a 7 megapixel front camera and a 12 megapixel main camera. This means you can expect comparable photo quality and video call clarity from either device, suitable for casual photography and selfies.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS size and design
Other factors influence daily use, including network compatibility, size, weight, storage options, and connectivity. These differences affect how each device fits your lifestyle and preferences.
Mobile Network
The iPhone SE (2022) supports 5G networks, offering faster data speeds where available. The iPhone XS supports 4G, which still provides reliable internet access but at lower maximum speeds. If mobile data speed is important, the iPhone SE (2022) may be the better choice.
Storage Options
The iPhone SE (2022) comes with 64GB of storage while the iPhone XS is available with 64GB or 256GB. If you need more space for apps, photos, and files, the iPhone XS with 256GB suits those needs better.
Size and Weight
The iPhone SE (2022) measures 130 mm tall, 60 mm wide, and weighs 144 g, making it smaller and lighter to hold and carry. The iPhone XS is larger at 143.6 mm tall, 70.9 mm wide, and weighs 177 g. Users who prefer a compact phone will find the SE easier to manage, while those who like a bigger device may prefer the XS.
Connector and SIM
Both phones use a Lightning connector and support a physical SIM plus eSIM, so you can use dual SIM functionality on either device. This is useful for separating work and personal numbers or using local SIMs when travelling.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone SE (2022) or iPhone XS: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone SE (2022) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £113.85, £24.50 less than the iPhone XS
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Apr 2026, last iOS 18)
- you want 5G
Buy the iPhone XS if
- you want a bigger screen (5.8 inch vs 4.7 inch)
- you want an OLED screen
What our customers say
Customers who bought the iPhone SE (2022) report it is in good condition and matches its description well. Many find it easy to set up and appreciate that it runs smoothly with the latest operating system features. The smaller size appeals to users who prefer a compact phone, and 5G connectivity is noted as a benefit for longer-term use. Some users mention minor issues with battery health readings but overall satisfaction with performance and condition is high.
For the iPhone XS, customers often say the phone looks like new and runs smoothly. The larger screen and available 256GB storage are appreciated by those who want more space for apps and media. Battery life is generally good though some users charge regularly. The camera is praised but a few report minor marks or hardware issues. Most are pleased with the device's condition and performance.
In summary, the iPhone SE (2022) suits those who want a smaller, lighter phone with 5G support and solid performance, while the iPhone XS is a fit for users who prefer a larger, sharper screen and more storage options.
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS FAQs
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, screen size and screen type. Chipset: Apple A15 Bionic on the iPhone SE (2022), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS. The iPhone XS has a bigger screen: 5.8 inch vs 4.7 inch.
The iPhone SE (2022) is cheaper refurbished, from £113.85 compared with £138.35 for the iPhone XS.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
The iPhone SE (2022) is still supported and can run iOS 27. Updates for the iPhone XS ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
The iPhone SE (2022) adds longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Apr 2026, last iOS 18), 5G and a lighter build (144 g vs 177 g). Refurbished, it costs £24.50 less (from £113.85 vs £138.35).
Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2022) comes in 64GB, and the iPhone XS in 64GB and 256GB.
