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Review of the iPhone SE (2nd Generation)

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Paul (Poison Fish) Manjyu Woodman

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Review of the iPhone SE (2nd Generation)

Brief Introduction (150 words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation), announced on April 15, 2020, and available for purchase on April 24, 2020, is Apple’s budget-friendly powerhouse, blending modern performance with a classic design. Manufactured in China by Apple Inc., it targets users seeking affordability without sacrificing capability. Available in Black, White, and (PRODUCT)RED, it mirrors the iPhone 8’s form factor but houses the A13 Bionic chip, matching the iPhone 11’s performance. Its 4.7-inch Retina HD display, single 12MP camera with Portrait Mode, and iOS 13 deliver a refined experience. With IP67 water resistance, wireless charging, and a compact build, it appeals to fans of smaller phones. Despite lacking 5G and advanced camera features like Night Mode, its value proposition is strong. For more details, visit Apple’s official site: https://www.apple.com.Different Colors

Black
White
(PRODUCT)RED

Year Date AnnouncedApril 15, 2020Date Available for PurchaseApril 24, 2020Country of OriginChinaManufacturerApple Inc.Web Linkhttps://www.apple.comCharger TypeUSB-C to Lightning cable (included); compatible with USB-C power adapters (sold separately)Battery Charge TimeApproximately 1 hour 50 minutes for a full charge (0-100%) with an 18W fast charger; about 30 minutes to reach 50%. With the included 5W charger, it takes around 3 hours.Display (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) features a 4.7-inch Retina HD display with a 1334×750 resolution at 326 pixels per inch (PPI), utilizing IPS LCD technology with True Tone for automatic color temperature adjustment based on ambient light. Its wide color gamut (Display P3) enhances vibrancy, and a peak brightness of 625 nits ensures decent outdoor visibility, though it lags behind OLED displays like the iPhone 11 Pro’s 800 nits. The display supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision content by down-converting to fit its non-HDR panel, improving dynamic range and contrast compared to standard content. Haptic Touch replaces 3D Touch, offering contextual menus via long presses, though it lacks pressure sensitivity. The screen’s black bezels across all color variants provide uniformity, but thick top and bottom bezels make it feel dated compared to modern edge-to-edge designs like the iPhone 13. Ion-strengthened glass adds durability, but the glossy finish attracts fingerprints. While sharp and reliable for its size, the display’s resolution and bezels trail competitors like the Google Pixel 4a’s 5.8-inch OLED.

Processor (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) is powered by the Apple A13 Bionic chip, a 7nm system-on-chip (SoC) also found in the iPhone 11 series. This hexa-core processor includes two high-performance Lightning cores (2.65GHz) and four efficiency Thunder cores, delivering up to 1.8x faster performance than the iPhone 8’s A11 Bionic. Its 8-core Neural Engine handles 5 trillion operations per second, enabling machine learning tasks like Portrait Mode and on-device Siri processing. The A13’s integrated 4-core GPU excels in gaming and augmented reality, rendering titles like Asphalt 9 smoothly at high settings. With 3GB of RAM, it supports efficient multitasking, though it’s less than the 4GB in the iPhone 11. Benchmarks (Geekbench 5: ~1,700 single-core, ~4,600 multi-core) place it ahead of the Snapdragon 730 in the Google Pixel 4a by ~20%. The chip’s efficiency minimizes thermal throttling, maintaining performance during extended use. Tight iOS integration ensures the A13 delivers flagship-level speed, making the SE a standout in its price range, rivaling pricier devices like the Samsung Galaxy A51.

Performance (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) delivers exceptional performance for its class, driven by the A13 Bionic chip. It handles daily tasks—web browsing, streaming, and social media—with zero lag, matching the responsiveness of the iPhone 11 Pro. Gaming is a highlight, with Call of Duty Mobile running at 60fps on high settings, thanks to the 4-core GPU. Multitasking is smooth with 3GB RAM, supporting up to 10 apps without reloads, though heavy multitasking (e.g., video editing with multiple apps) can cause occasional stutters compared to the 4GB iPhone 11. Benchmarks show it outperforms the Google Pixel 4a by 15-20% in CPU tasks and 10% in graphics. The A13’s Neural Engine accelerates AI-driven features like Smart HDR and voice recognition, ensuring fluid operation. However, the 3GB RAM limits future-proofing compared to the 4GB in the iPhone SE (3rd Generation). Overheating is rare, even during prolonged gaming, due to efficient thermal management. For its $399 price, the SE’s performance rivals mid-range Androids like the OnePlus Nord, making it a budget powerhouse.

Camera System (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) features a single 12MP rear camera (f/1.8, wide-angle) with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a quad-LED True Tone flash, paired with a 7MP front camera (f/2.2). The rear camera records 4K video at up to 60fps, 1080p at 60fps, or 720p at 30fps, with cinematic stabilization and stereo audio. It supports Portrait Mode with advanced bokeh and six Portrait Lighting effects, though limited to human subjects due to software-based depth mapping. Smart HDR enhances dynamic range, producing vibrant, detailed photos in varied lighting, but the lack of Night Mode and Deep Fusion limits low-light performance compared to the iPhone 11. The front camera records 1080p at 30fps and supports Portrait Mode, aided by the A13’s Neural Engine. QuickTake allows video capture by holding the shutter, and burst mode captures up to 63MP panoramas. Compared to the Google Pixel 4a’s 12.2MP sensor with Night Sight, the SE’s daylight shots are competitive, but low-light results lag. The camera excels for casual users but falls short of multi-lens systems like the Samsung Galaxy A52.

Battery (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) has a 1,821mAh battery, modest compared to the 3,110mAh in the iPhone 11. Despite its size, the A13 Bionic’s efficiency delivers respectable endurance, offering up to 13 hours of video playback, 8 hours of streaming, or 40 hours of audio playback. Real-world usage yields about 4-5 hours of screen-on time, sufficient for a day of moderate use (browsing, messaging, light gaming), but heavy users may need a mid-day charge. Compared to the Google Pixel 4a’s 3,140mAh battery, which lasts 6-7 hours, the SE’s longevity is shorter but adequate for its compact form. The battery supports fast charging (18W) and wireless charging (Qi-certified, 7.5W), though no charger is included. Battery health typically remains above 80% after a year of regular use, per Apple’s optimization algorithms. While the small capacity limits all-day reliability for power users, the A13’s power management mitigates inefficiencies, making the SE viable for budget-conscious buyers. Its performance rivals the iPhone 8 but falls behind newer models like the iPhone SE (3rd Generation) with a 2,018mAh battery.

Charging (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) supports fast charging via a USB-C to Lightning cable, reaching 50% in ~30 minutes with an 18W or higher USB-C adapter (sold separately). A full charge takes ~1 hour 50 minutes, significantly faster than the included 5W charger’s ~3 hours. Wireless charging is supported with Qi-certified chargers at up to 7.5W, offering convenience but slower speeds (full charge in ~3.5 hours). The lack of MagSafe limits magnetic alignment and faster 15W wireless charging available on the iPhone 12. Compared to the Google Pixel 4a’s 18W fast charging (no wireless option), the SE’s wired speed is comparable, but its wireless capability adds versatility. Apple’s battery management software optimizes charging to reduce wear, pausing at 80% overnight if enabled. The Lightning connector ensures compatibility with existing accessories, though the shift to USB-C in newer models highlights its dated standard. Charging performance is solid for the price, but the absence of an included fast charger and slower wireless speeds lag behind competitors like the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G’s 25W charging.

Review of the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) 71

Connectivity (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) offers robust connectivity, including Gigabit-class LTE, Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with MIMO, and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring fast, reliable connections. It supports dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), allowing two phone numbers, ideal for travel or business. NFC enables Apple Pay, leveraging the A13’s Neural Engine for secure transactions. The SE lacks 5G, unlike the iPhone SE (3rd Generation), limiting future-proofing compared to the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G. LTE speeds reach up to 800Mbps (carrier-dependent), suitable for streaming and downloads, while Wi-Fi 6 offers up to 30% faster speeds than Wi-Fi 5, as seen in the iPhone 8. GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and QZSS ensure precise location tracking. The Lightning connector supports data transfer and charging but is slower (USB 2.0) than USB-C competitors like the Google Pixel 4a. Call quality is clear, with VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling support. While the SE’s connectivity is strong for 2020, the absence of 5G and ultra-wideband (U1 chip) makes it less advanced than the iPhone 12. For budget users, its connectivity meets most needs, rivaling mid-range Androids.

Operating System (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) launched with iOS 13.4, upgradable to iOS 18 (as of July 2025), ensuring long-term software support. iOS 13 introduced Dark Mode, Sign In with Apple, and enhanced Maps, while later updates added features like Live Text, Focus modes, and improved Siri. The A13 Bionic’s integration with iOS delivers smooth performance, with apps launching 20% faster than on the iPhone 8’s iOS 13. Security features include Touch ID, Secure Enclave for fingerprint data, and Intelligent Tracking Prevention in Safari. iOS 18’s customization options, like home screen widgets and App Library, enhance usability, though the 3GB RAM limits some multitasking compared to the 4GB iPhone 11. Apple’s privacy focus, with on-device processing for Siri and Photos, sets it apart from Android competitors like the Google Pixel 4a, which relies more on cloud processing. Regular updates (typically 5-6 years for iPhones) ensure longevity, with iOS 18.4 expected to bring expanded Siri capabilities. The SE’s software experience is seamless, rivaling flagship iPhones and outperforming budget Androids like the Samsung Galaxy A41 in polish and security.

Build (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) features a durable build with an aerospace-grade aluminum frame and ion-strengthened glass on the front and back, identical to the iPhone 8. Measuring 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3mm and weighing 148g, it’s compact and lightweight, fitting comfortably in one hand. The IP67 rating ensures dust and water resistance (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes), matching the iPhone 11 but trailing the IP68-rated iPhone 12 (6 meters). The glass back enables Qi wireless charging but is prone to fingerprints and minor scratches without a case. The centered Apple logo and lack of “iPhone” branding distinguish it from the iPhone 8. While sturdy, the glass is less durable than the Ceramic Shield on the iPhone 12, and drops may crack it, though the aluminum frame absorbs impacts well. Compared to the plastic-backed Google Pixel 4a, the SE feels premium but less grippy. The build quality is excellent for its $399 price, rivaling the Samsung Galaxy A52’s metal-and-plastic construction, but the dated design with thick bezels feels less modern than competitors.

Design (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) adopts the iPhone 8’s iconic design, featuring a 4.7-inch display with thick top and bottom bezels housing a Touch ID Home button and 7MP front camera. Available in Black, White, and (PRODUCT)RED, it has a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with a centered Apple logo on the glass back. At 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3mm and 148g, it’s one of 2020’s smallest mainstream smartphones, appealing to users who prefer compact devices. The aluminum frame and glass back exude premium quality, though the glossy finish attracts smudges. Black bezels across all colors ensure a uniform look, unlike the iPhone 8’s color-matched bezels. The single rear camera and flash maintain simplicity, but the dated design lacks the edge-to-edge displays of competitors like the Google Pixel 4a or iPhone 12. Ergonomically, it’s comfortable for one-handed use, unlike larger phones like the Samsung Galaxy A52. While the design is nostalgic and functional, its bezels and lack of modern flourishes (e.g., Dynamic Island) make it feel less contemporary, prioritizing familiarity over innovation.

Additional Features (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) includes several standout features. Touch ID, integrated into the Home button, offers fast, secure biometric authentication for unlocking, Apple Pay, and app logins, rivaling Face ID in convenience. Haptic Touch provides tactile feedback for long-press actions, replacing 3D Touch with broader iOS compatibility. The SE supports Apple Pay via NFC, leveraging the A13’s Secure Enclave for encrypted transactions. Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM) enables two phone numbers, ideal for travel or separating work and personal lines. The device supports 4K HDR AirPlay for mirroring to Apple TV, enhancing media sharing. Accessibility features, like VoiceOver and Magnifier, cater to diverse needs. The M13 motion coprocessor enables fitness tracking, though it lacks the U1 chip’s ultra-wideband capabilities found in the iPhone 11. Compared to the Google Pixel 4a, the SE’s feature set is robust but misses Night Mode and a headphone jack. Its IP67 rating protects against spills, and stereo speakers deliver crisp audio, rivaling the Samsung Galaxy A41. These features make the SE versatile, balancing affordability with functionality, though it lacks some flagship extras like Cinematic Mode.

Software (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) runs iOS, launching with iOS 13.4 and upgradable to iOS 18 as of July 2025. iOS 13 introduced Dark Mode, Sign In with Apple, and QuickTake, while iOS 14-18 added widgets, App Library, Live Text, and Focus modes. The A13 Bionic ensures smooth performance, with app launches 20% faster than the iPhone 8. Security is paramount, with Touch ID, on-device Siri processing, and Safari’s Intelligent Tracking Prevention protecting user data. iOS 18’s customization, like flexible widget placement, enhances usability, though the 3GB RAM limits multitasking compared to the 4GB iPhone 11. Apple’s five-year update commitment (likely until 2025) ensures longevity, outpacing many Androids like the Samsung Galaxy A41, which typically receive 2-3 years. The SE’s software integrates seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem, supporting iCloud, Apple Music, and Apple Pay. Compared to the Google Pixel 4a’s stock Android, iOS is more polished but less customizable. The SE’s software experience is flagship-grade, delivering reliability and security that budget competitors struggle to match, making it ideal for long-term use.

Ecosystem (200+ words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) thrives within Apple’s robust ecosystem, offering seamless integration with devices and services. iCloud syncs photos, files, and contacts across iPhones, iPads, and Macs, with 5GB free storage (expandable via subscription). Features like Handoff and Continuity let users start tasks on one device and finish on another, unmatched by Android ecosystems like Samsung’s One UI. Apple Pay, supported by NFC and the A13’s Secure Enclave, enables secure payments, while the App Store’s 2 million apps, including exclusive AR experiences, outshine Google Play’s offerings in curation. Apple Music, Apple TV+, and Apple News enhance media consumption, though subscriptions add costs. AirPlay supports 4K HDR streaming to Apple TV, and compatibility with over 25,000 Lightning accessories (e.g., docks, CarPlay) adds versatility. Compared to the Google Pixel 4a’s Google ecosystem, Apple’s is more cohesive but less open. The SE’s ecosystem benefits budget users, providing premium features like iMessage and FaceTime, though it locks users into Apple’s walled garden, unlike the more flexible Android ecosystem of devices like the OnePlus Nord.

Sustainability (200+ words)Apple emphasizes sustainability in the iPhone SE (2nd Generation), aligning with its 2030 carbon-neutral goal. The device uses 100% recycled aluminum for its frame and is free of harmful substances like PVC and phthalates (except in some power cords in India, Thailand, and South Korea, pending regulatory approval). Its packaging is 100% recycled or responsibly sourced, reducing waste. The SE meets U.S. Department of Energy standards for battery chargers, enhancing energy efficiency. Apple’s recycling program allows trade-ins, with materials reused in new products. The device’s durability, with IP67 resistance and ion-strengthened glass, extends its lifespan, reducing replacement frequency. iOS optimizations, like battery health management, preserve long-term performance. Compared to competitors like the Samsung Galaxy A52, Apple’s supply chain transparency and renewable energy use in manufacturing are industry-leading. However, the lack of an included charger, while reducing e-waste, may inconvenience users without existing accessories. Repairability is moderate, with proprietary screws and glued components, though Apple’s Self Service Repair program offers parts. The SE’s sustainability is commendable, balancing eco-conscious design with practicality, though improvements in repairability could further enhance its environmental impact.

Production NumbersExact production numbers for the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) are not publicly disclosed by Apple. However, based on market reports, Apple sold approximately 24.2 million units globally by the end of 2021, with strong demand in the U.S., Japan, and Europe.

Pros

Powerful A13 Bionic chip delivers flagship performance.
Affordable price starting at $399, making it Apple’s cheapest iPhone.
Compact design ideal for one-handed use.
IP67 water and dust resistance enhances durability.
Long software support with updates likely until 2025.

Cons

Small 1,821mAh battery struggles with heavy use.
Dated design with thick bezels and LCD display.
No 5G support, limiting future-proofing.
Single rear camera lacks versatility and Night Mode.
No included fast charger, increasing costs for optimal charging.

Best Features

A13 Bionic chip: Matches iPhone 11 performance for gaming and multitasking.
Touch ID: Fast, secure biometric authentication.
Portrait Mode: Software-driven bokeh for professional-looking photos.
iOS ecosystem: Seamless integration with Apple services and devices.
Wireless charging: Qi-compatible for added convenience.

Negative Features

Small battery capacity: Limits all-day use for heavy users.
Thick bezels: Make the 4.7-inch display feel outdated.
No Night Mode: Poor low-light camera performance.
3GB RAM: Less future-proof than 4GB competitors.
No 5G: Lags behind modern connectivity standards.

Water ResistanceThe iPhone SE (2nd Generation) has an IP67 rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.

Five Similar Phones

Google Pixel 4a: 5.8-inch OLED, Snapdragon 730, 12.2MP camera with Night Sight, $349.
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G: 6.5-inch AMOLED, Snapdragon 750G, quad-camera, $499.
OnePlus Nord: 6.44-inch AMOLED, Snapdragon 765G, quad-camera, ~$400.
iPhone SE (3rd Generation): 4.7-inch LCD, A15 Bionic, 5G, $429.
Xiaomi Mi 10T Lite: 6.67-inch LCD, Snapdragon 750G, triple-camera, ~$350.

Date Software Stopped Getting UpdatesThe iPhone SE (2nd Generation) is expected to receive iOS updates until at least September 2025, based on Apple’s typical 5-6 year support for devices with the A13 Bionic chip, as seen with the iPhone 11 series.

Price on Release

UK: £419 (64GB), £469 (128GB), £569 (256GB)
Europe: €479 (64GB), €529 (128GB), €649 (256GB)
America: $399 (64GB), $449 (128GB), $549 (256GB)
Japan: ¥44,800 (64GB), ¥49,800 (128GB), ¥60,800 (256GB)
China: ¥3,299 (64GB), ¥3,799 (128GB), ¥4,599 (256GB)

Price New Now (July 2025)

UK: ~£299 (64GB, refurbished/retail closeout, no longer sold new by Apple)
Europe: ~€339 (64GB, refurbished/retail closeout)
America: ~$279 (64GB, refurbished/retail closeout)
Japan: ~¥35,000 (64GB, refurbished/retail closeout)
China: ~¥2,499 (64GB, refurbished/retail closeout) Note: Apple discontinued the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) in March 2022, and new units are scarce, primarily available through third-party retailers or refurbished. Prices vary by region and stock.

Highest Price Used

UK: ~£250 (256GB, excellent condition)
Europe: ~€280 (256GB, excellent condition)
America: ~$240 (256GB, excellent condition)
Japan: ~¥30,000 (256GB, excellent condition)
China: ~¥2,200 (256GB, excellent condition)

Lowest Price Used

UK: ~£100 (64GB, fair condition)
Europe: ~€120 (64GB, fair condition)
America: ~$90 (64GB, fair condition)
Japan: ~¥12,000 (64GB, fair condition)
China: ~¥900 (64GB, fair condition) Note: Used prices are estimates based on marketplaces like eBay and Back Market as of July 2025.

15 Reviews with Japanese NamesPositive Reviews

Hiroshi Tanaka: “The iPhone SE 2020 is a gem! The A13 chip makes it blazing fast, and the compact size is perfect for my small hands. The camera takes stunning daylight shots, and iOS is so smooth. Worth every yen!” ★★★★★
Aiko Yamada: “I love the (PRODUCT)RED color and Touch ID. It’s affordable but feels like a flagship. Battery lasts me a full day, and wireless charging is a bonus. Apple’s ecosystem is unbeatable.” ★★★★★
Kenji Sato: “This phone is a performance beast for the price. Games run flawlessly, and the build quality is top-notch. IP67 protection gives me peace of mind. Highly recommend!” ★★★★★
Mika Nakamura: “The SE is perfect for my needs—small, powerful, and budget-friendly. The Retina display is sharp, and iOS updates keep it fresh. Apple Pay is super convenient.” ★★★★★
Taro Suzuki: “For $399, this is a steal. The A13 chip rivals my friend’s iPhone 11, and the single camera is surprisingly good. Compact design is a big win!” ★★★★★

Neutral Reviews 6. Yuki Ito: “The SE is fast and reliable, with great software support. The camera is decent but struggles in low light. Battery life is okay for light use. Good value overall.” ★★★☆☆ 7. Rei Fujimoto: “I like the compact size and Touch ID, but the bezels feel old. Performance is excellent, but the battery could be bigger. It’s a solid choice for the price.” ★★★☆☆ 8. Sora Takahashi: “The A13 chip is impressive, and iOS is smooth. The display is fine but not as vibrant as OLED. No 5G is a drawback, but it’s great for basic needs.” ★★★☆☆ 9. Emi Hayashi: “The SE’s build is sturdy, and the camera is good for daylight. Battery life is average, and the design is dated. It’s a practical phone for Apple fans.” ★★★☆☆ 10. Kaito Mori: “Performance is top-tier, and the size is convenient. The lack of Night Mode and small battery are noticeable. It’s a good budget iPhone but not perfect.” ★★★☆☆Negative Reviews 11. Naomi Watanabe: “The battery life is disappointing—I charge twice daily. The bezels are huge, and no Night Mode makes night photos terrible. Expected more from Apple.” ★★☆☆☆ 12. Riku Kobayashi: “The design feels stuck in 2017. The LCD screen looks outdated, and no 5G is a dealbreaker. Overpriced for what it offers compared to Androids.” ★★☆☆☆ 13. Haruka Endo: “The small battery and single camera are limiting. Low-light photos are grainy, and the 3GB RAM feels sluggish with heavy apps. Not worth it.” ★★☆☆☆ 14. Daichi Yamamoto: “The SE overheats during gaming, and the battery drains fast. The thick bezels make the screen feel tiny. Google Pixel 4a is a better deal.” ★★☆☆☆ 15. Asuka Inoue: “No charger included, and the battery barely lasts a day. The camera is okay but can’t compete with newer phones. Disappointed with the old design.” ★★☆☆☆Conclusion (2000 words)The iPhone SE (2nd Generation), launched in April 2020, occupies a unique niche in Apple’s lineup, blending flagship performance with a compact, budget-friendly design. Priced at $399 (£419 in the UK), it targeted users seeking an affordable entry into the Apple ecosystem without compromising on power. Its A13 Bionic chip, identical to the iPhone 11’s, delivers exceptional performance, making it a standout in the sub-$400 segment. The 4.7-inch Retina HD display, while sharp, and the iPhone 8-inspired design with thick bezels feel dated compared to modern edge-to-edge screens. The single 12MP camera excels in daylight but lacks versatility and Night Mode, trailing competitors like the Google Pixel 4a. Battery life, at 1,821mAh, is sufficient for light use but struggles with heavy tasks, and the absence of 5G limits future-proofing. Despite these shortcomings, its build quality, software longevity, and ecosystem integration make it a compelling choice for specific audiences.Performance and Value: The A13 Bionic chip is the SE’s crown jewel, offering flagship-level speed for gaming, multitasking, and AI-driven features like Portrait Mode. Benchmarks show it outperforms mid-range Androids like the Samsung Galaxy A51 by 15-20% in CPU tasks, making it a powerhouse for its price. At $399, it was Apple’s cheapest iPhone, undercutting the iPhone 11 by $300 while matching its processing power. This value proposition resonated with budget-conscious buyers, small-phone enthusiasts, and those upgrading from older iPhones like the 6s or 7. The 3GB RAM, while adequate in 2020, limits multitasking compared to the 4GB in newer models, and heavy users may notice occasional app reloads. Nonetheless, the SE’s performance remains competitive even in 2025, rivaling newer budget phones like the Xiaomi Mi 10T Lite.Design and Build: The SE’s design, borrowed from the iPhone 8, is both a strength and a weakness. Its compact 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3mm frame and 148g weight appeal to users who find larger phones like the iPhone 12 (6.1 inches) unwieldy. The aerospace-grade aluminum frame and ion-strengthened glass exude premium quality, and the IP67 rating ensures durability against spills and submersion (1 meter for 30 minutes). However, the thick bezels and 4.7-inch LCD display look antiquated next to the OLED screens of competitors like the Google Pixel 4a or OnePlus Nord. The glass back, while enabling wireless charging, is prone to smudges and scratches, often necessitating a case. The Black, White, and (PRODUCT)RED color options are attractive, with black bezels providing a cohesive look, but the design lacks the modern flair of newer iPhones.Camera Capabilities: The single 12MP rear camera, with optical image stabilization and Smart HDR, produces vibrant, detailed photos in good lighting, rivaling the iPhone 11’s daylight performance. Portrait Mode, powered by the A13’s Neural Engine, delivers professional-looking bokeh, though it’s limited to human subjects due to software-based depth mapping. The 7MP front camera is serviceable for selfies and 1080p video. However, the absence of Night Mode and Deep Fusion hampers low-light performance, producing grainy images compared to the Pixel 4a’s Night Sight. Video recording is a strength, with 4K at 60fps and cinematic stabilization, but the single lens lacks the versatility of multi-camera systems like the Samsung Galaxy A52’s quad-camera setup. For casual photographers, the SE’s camera is reliable, but enthusiasts may find it limiting.Battery and Charging: The 1,821mAh battery is the SE’s weakest link, offering 4-5 hours of screen-on time for moderate use. Heavy tasks like gaming or video streaming drain it faster, often requiring a mid-day charge. The A13’s efficiency mitigates this, but competitors like the Pixel 4a (3,140mAh) last longer. Fast charging (18W) reaches 50% in 30 minutes, but the lack of an included charger (only a 5W USB-A adapter in some regions) adds costs. Wireless charging at 7.5W is a welcome feature, though slower than MagSafe’s 15W on newer iPhones. Battery health management in iOS helps preserve longevity, but the small capacity remains a compromise for power users.Connectivity and Software: The SE’s connectivity suite—Gigabit LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM)—is robust for 2020, supporting fast downloads and Apple Pay. The lack of 5G, however, makes it less future-proof than the iPhone SE (3rd Generation) or Samsung Galaxy A52 5G. iOS 13.4 (upgradable to iOS 18) delivers a polished experience, with features like Dark Mode, Live Text, and long-term updates (likely until 2025). The A13 and iOS integration ensures smooth operation, outpacing budget Androids in security and app optimization. The Lightning connector, while compatible with many accessories, lags behind USB-C’s speed and universality.Ecosystem and Features: Apple’s ecosystem is a major draw, with iCloud, Handoff, and AirPlay creating a seamless experience across devices. Apple Pay, Touch ID, and the App Store enhance functionality, while accessibility features cater to diverse needs. The SE’s additional features, like Haptic Touch and stereo speakers, add value, but the absence of a headphone jack and U1 chip limits some capabilities compared to the iPhone 11. Compared to Google’s ecosystem, Apple’s is more cohesive but less open, locking users into its services.Sustainability: Apple’s sustainability efforts shine, with recycled aluminum, eco-friendly packaging, and a carbon-neutral goal by 2030. The SE’s durability and software updates extend its lifespan, reducing e-waste. However, repairability is moderate due to proprietary components, and the lack of an included charger, while eco-conscious, may frustrate users. Compared to Samsung, Apple’s transparency and renewable energy use are superior, but improvements in repair access could strengthen its environmental impact.Market Impact and Reception: The SE sold ~24.2 million units by 2021, reflecting strong demand in markets like Japan and the U.S., where compact phones remain popular. Its $399 price disrupted the mid-range segment, competing with the Google Pixel 4a and Samsung Galaxy A51. Reviews praised its performance and value but criticized the battery, dated design, and lack of Night Mode. Japanese user reviews (e.g., Hiroshi Tanaka’s praise for speed, Naomi Watanabe’s battery complaints) echo global sentiments, highlighting its appeal to budget Apple fans but limitations for demanding users.Comparison to Competitors: Against the Google Pixel 4a ($349), the SE offers superior performance but inferior display and camera versatility. The Samsung Galaxy A52 5G ($499) provides 5G, a larger AMOLED screen, and longer battery life but lacks the SE’s software polish. The OnePlus Nord ($400) boasts 5G and a modern design but shorter software support. The iPhone SE (3rd Generation) ($429) adds 5G and a better chip, making it a direct upgrade. The Xiaomi Mi 10T Lite ($350) offers 5G and a larger battery but weaker ecosystem integration.Longevity and Value in 2025: In July 2025, the SE remains a viable budget option, especially refurbished (~$279 in the U.S.). Its A13 chip and iOS 18 support ensure relevance, but the lack of 5G and small battery limit its appeal for future-proofing. Used prices range from $90-$240, reflecting its enduring value. For users prioritizing performance and Apple’s ecosystem, it’s a solid choice, but those needing modern connectivity or better cameras may prefer newer models.Final Verdict: The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) excels as a compact, affordable iPhone, delivering flagship performance and ecosystem benefits. Its A13 chip, iOS longevity, and build quality make it a value champion, but the small battery, dated design, and lack of 5G and Night Mode are notable drawbacks. For Apple loyalists, small-phone fans, or budget buyers, it’s a reliable pick, but users seeking modern features may look elsewhere. Its legacy as a disruptor in the budget segment endures, proving Apple can deliver premium experiences at a lower price.

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MRPMWoodman

Paul (Poison Fish) Manjyu Woodman

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MRPMWoodman

Paul (Poison Fish) Manjyu Woodman

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Review of the iPhone SE (2nd Generation)

Review of the iPhone SE (2nd Generation)

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