iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max
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iPhone SE (2022)
Starting at
£113.85£429.00 new
iPhone XS Max
Starting at
£168.09£459.00 newWhat's the difference between the iPhone SE (2022) and iPhone XS Max?
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max comes down to the chipset, screen size and screen type. Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2022) starts at £113.85, £54.24 less than the iPhone XS Max. 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 Max.
- The iPhone XS Max has a bigger screen: 6.5 inch vs 4.7 inch.
- The iPhone XS Max has an OLED screen.
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max specs
The SE (2022) has a smaller 4.7 inch Retina IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 750 x 1334 pixels, suited for those who prefer a compact phone. The XS Max offers a larger 6.5 inch Super Retina OLED screen with a resolution of 1242 x 2688 pixels, better for watching videos or multitasking. The SE supports 5G, making it ready for faster mobile networks, while the XS Max supports 4G. Storage options also vary, with the XS Max available in larger capacities. Each phone suits buyers who prioritise either a smaller size and 5G or a bigger display and more storage choices.
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max price
Colour
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max battery life and software updates
Here you can see how their core software compatibility and physical design relate to everyday use.
Latest Software Updates
This means either model will run the newest features and security improvements Apple offers. You can count on both phones to stay current on software for now.
Physical Design
Neither device is foldable, so both have a traditional smartphone shape. This suits users looking for a straightforward phone design without hinges or folds.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max performance
Chipset
RAM
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max screen
Screen size, resolution and type differ notably between these phones. These differences affect how you view content, use apps, and carry the phone.
Screen Size
The iPhone SE (2022) has a 4.7 inch screen, which suits buyers wanting a smaller phone that fits easily in one hand or a pocket. The iPhone XS Max has a much larger 6.5 inch screen, offering more room for videos, gaming, and multitasking apps.
Screen Resolution
The XS Max provides a higher screen resolution at 1242 x 2688 pixels, delivering sharper images and more detail. The SE (2022) has 750 x 1334 pixels, which still offers a clear display but with fewer pixels overall. Those who watch a lot of video or edit photos may prefer the XS Max resolution.
Screen Type
The SE (2022) uses a Retina IPS LCD screen, which performs well in most lighting and shows accurate colours. The XS Max uses a Super Retina OLED screen, known for deeper blacks and higher contrast, which can enhance movies and photos for users who appreciate richer visuals.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max camera
Camera and front camera specs are the same on both devices, making them equal choices for everyday photos and selfies.
Camera Quality
Both the iPhone SE (2022) and the iPhone XS Max have 12 megapixels on the main camera and 7 megapixels on the front camera. This means you can expect similar photo detail and selfie quality from either device.
Front camera
Main camera
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max size and design
Several practical details differ between these phones, including size, weight, network compatibility, storage options, and connectivity. These affect how you use and carry the device day to day.
Size and Weight
The iPhone SE (2022) is smaller and lighter at 130 mm height, 60 mm width, and 144 g weight. The iPhone XS Max is larger and heavier, measuring 157.5 mm height, 77.4 mm width, and 208 g weight. Choose the SE for easier one-handed use and portability, or the XS Max for a bigger device that feels more substantial in hand.
Mobile Network
The iPhone SE (2022) supports 5G networks, offering access to faster mobile data where available. The iPhone XS Max supports 4G, which still provides reliable internet but at lower maximum speeds. If you want newer network technology, the SE is the choice.
Storage Options
The SE (2022) is stocked in 64GB capacity, suitable for users with moderate storage needs. The XS Max comes in 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB options, catering to those who want more space for apps, photos, and media.
Connector and SIM
Both phones use a Lightning connector and support a physical SIM plus eSIM, so connectivity options are the same. This means you can use standard Apple accessories and dual SIM setups with either device.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
iPhone SE (2022) or iPhone XS Max: which should you buy?
Buy the iPhone SE (2022) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £113.85, £54.24 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 5G
Buy the iPhone XS Max if
- you want a bigger screen (6.5 inch vs 4.7 inch)
- you want an OLED screen
What our customers say
Customers of the iPhone SE (2022) generally praise it for good condition and smooth performance. Many find setup easy and appreciate the smaller size compared to previous iPhones. The inclusion of 5G is noted as a positive for futureproofing. Some customers mention minor issues such as a battery indicator showing 100% incorrectly or a small scratch consistent with refurbishment grading. Overall, users are satisfied with the phone working like new and fitting well as an upgrade or gift.
Reviews for the iPhone XS Max highlight its excellent condition and attractive screen size. Customers value the larger display and good battery life, though a few mention issues like low call volume or battery needing replacement. The phone is seen as a good value for those not needing the latest model but wanting a quality smartphone. Setup time and occasional minor scratches are mentioned but generally do not detract from satisfaction.
In summary, the iPhone SE (2022) suits buyers looking for a compact 5G phone with solid performance, while the iPhone XS Max appeals to those preferring a larger display and more storage choices. Both have positive feedback for condition and reliability among refurbished buyers.
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max FAQs
iPhone SE (2022) vs iPhone XS Max 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 Max. The iPhone XS Max has a bigger screen: 6.5 inch vs 4.7 inch.
The iPhone SE (2022) is cheaper refurbished, from £113.85 compared with £168.09 for the iPhone XS Max.
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 Max 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 208 g). Refurbished, it costs £54.24 less (from £113.85 vs £168.09).
Refurbished, the iPhone SE (2022) comes in 64GB, and the iPhone XS Max in 64GB, 256GB and 512GB.
