Detailed Review:
The iPhone SE (2020), although released a few years ago, remains a remarkably capable and budget-friendly option for those seeking a compact iPhone with impressive performance. Let’s delve into what makes it stand out in 2024:
Design & Build: The iPhone SE (2020) embraces a classic iPhone design with a sleek aluminum frame and glass back. It’s available in three timeless colors: Black, White, and (PRODUCT)RED. While some may find its design dated with its thick bezels and home button, its compact size and sturdy build make it a joy to hold and use one-handed.
Display: The 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display might seem small compared to modern smartphones, but it’s still sharp, bright, and delivers accurate colors. While it lacks the deep blacks and high contrast of OLED displays, it’s perfectly adequate for everyday tasks, browsing, and watching videos.
Performance: Don’t be fooled by its size; the iPhone SE packs a punch with the A13 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 11 series. This means it can handle demanding tasks like gaming, photo editing, and multitasking without breaking a sweat. It’s surprisingly fast and responsive, even in 2024.
Camera: The iPhone SE features a single 12MP rear camera that consistently delivers impressive photos with sharp details, accurate colors, and wide dynamic range. It even supports Portrait Mode with adjustable depth control, which is a rare feature in this price range. While low-light performance isn’t on par with newer iPhones, it’s still respectable.
Battery Life: The iPhone SE’s battery life is adequate for most users, lasting a full day with moderate use. However, heavy users or those who spend a lot of time gaming or streaming video may need to top up by the end of the day. The phone supports fast charging (up to 18W) and Qi wireless charging, adding convenience to your daily routine.
Software & User Experience: Initially released with iOS 13, the iPhone SE (2020) is fully upgradable to iOS 17, giving you access to the latest features, performance improvements, and security patches. iOS is renowned for its smooth and intuitive interface, making the iPhone SE a pleasure to use.
Connectivity & Additional Features: The iPhone SE supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0. While it lacks 5G, it still offers fast and reliable connectivity for most users. It also features Touch ID for secure and convenient unlocking, stereo speakers, and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance.
Buying Recommendation:
Who’s it for? The iPhone SE (2020) is perfect for:
- Budget-minded individuals seeking an affordable entry into the Apple ecosystem.
- Users who prefer compact phones that are easy to handle and fit comfortably in pockets.
- Those who prioritize performance and reliability over the latest features like 5G and multiple camera lenses.
Pros:
- Powerful A13 Bionic chip
- Excellent camera quality for the price
- Compact and easy to handle
- Long-term software support from Apple
- Affordable price compared to other iPhones
Cons:
- No 5G support
- Average battery life
- Dated design with thick bezels
- Single rear camera
Overall: The iPhone SE (2020) continues to be a smart choice in 2024 for those seeking a compact, powerful, and affordable iPhone. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of newer models, its solid performance, good camera, and enduring software support make it a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers and fans of smaller phones.
Feature | Specification | Remarks |
---|---|---|
General | ||
Brand | Apple | |
Model | iPhone SE (2020) | |
Price | Varies (check current market prices) | |
Release Date | April 24, 2020 | |
Dimensions (mm) | 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm | Compact size |
Weight (g) | 148 | Lightweight |
Battery capacity (mAh) | 1821 | |
Colors | Black, White, (PRODUCT)RED | |
Display | ||
Screen size (inches) | 4.7 | |
Type | Retina IPS LCD | |
Resolution | 750 x 1334 pixels | |
Hardware | ||
Chipset | Apple A13 Bionic | Powerful performance |
CPU | Hexa-core (2×2.65 GHz Lightning + 4×1.8 GHz Thunder) | |
GPU | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) | |
RAM | 3GB | |
Internal storage | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | |
Camera | ||
Rear camera | 12MP (Wide) | f/1.8, 28mm (wide), 1/3″, 1.22µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS |
Front camera | 7MP | f/2.2 |
Video Recording | 4K@24/25/30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps | |
Software | ||
Operating system | iOS 13 (up to iOS 17) | |
Connectivity | ||
4G | LTE | |
Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | |
Bluetooth | 5.0 | |
GPS | Yes | |
NFC | Yes | |
SIM | ||
SIM Type | Nano-SIM | |
Sensors | ||
Touch ID | Yes |
Roshan Kumar Sahoo is a multifaceted journalist with expertise in entertainment-related news, sports , tech, and international relations. His ability to navigate these diverse fields allows him to provide readers with a rich blend of content, from the latest entertainment buzz to cutting-edge sports technology and insightful analysis of global affairs. Roshan’s writing is characterized by its depth, accuracy, and engaging style, making him a trusted voice across multiple domains.