The iPhone SE line has a new entry: the iPhone 16e. This isn’t just a refresh; it’s a significant leap forward. While we haven’t had hands-on time yet, the specs speak volumes. If you’re rocking an iPhone SE 3, this comparison will help you decide if an upgrade is worthwhile (spoiler alert: it probably is).
iPhone 16e vs. iPhone SE 3: Specifications Compared
Here’s a head-to-head look at the key specs:
| Feature | iPhone 16e | iPhone SE 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8 mm | 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm |
| Weight | 167 grams | 144 grams |
| Display | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR | 4.7-inch Liquid Retina |
| Resolution | 2532 x 1170 pixels (460 ppi) | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) |
| Brightness | 800 nits (typical), 1200 nits (HDR) | 625 nits (typical) |
| Operating System | iOS 18 | iOS 15 |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Processor | Apple A18 | Apple A15 Bionic |
| RAM | 8GB | 4GB |
| Camera | 48MP Main, 12MP TrueDepth Front | 12MP Main, 7MP FaceTime Front |
| AI Capabilities | Apple Intelligence | No |
| Action Button | Yes | No |
| Port | USB-C | Lightning |
| Authentication | Face ID | Touch ID |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP67 |
| Battery Life | Up to 26 hours video playback | Up to 15 hours video playback |
| Wireless Charging | Qi (up to 7.5W) | Qi (up to 7.5W) |
| Colors | White, Black | Midnight, Starlight, Product Red |
| Price | From $600 | From $429 |
Design and Display: A Modern Makeover
The iPhone 16e, while the most affordable iPhone, boasts a modern design. The aluminum frame and Ceramic Shield glass elevate its aesthetic. A standout feature is the Action Button, carried over from the rest of the iPhone 16 lineup, offering customizable functionality in place of the mute switch. The adoption of USB-C also marks a welcome shift to the industry standard.
The biggest upgrade is the display. The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, a substantial upgrade from the iPhone SE 3’s 4.7-inch LCD. Face ID replaces Touch ID, integrating the now-familiar notch.
Performance: Powered by the A18 Chip
The A18 chip, shared with the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, powers the 16e. This translates to exceptional speed and efficiency for everyday tasks and demanding applications. The performance jump from the SE 3’s A15 Bionic is significant. The A18’s improved CPU architecture, higher clock speeds, and enhanced GPU deliver a smoother, more responsive experience.
Camera: A 48MP Leap Forward
The iPhone 16e’s 48MP main camera dwarfs the SE 3’s 12MP sensor. This upgrade translates to greater detail, improved low-light performance, and a 2x telephoto option. Advanced image processing further enhances dynamic range and color accuracy. The front-facing camera also gets a boost, moving from 7MP to 12MP for sharper selfies.
Battery and Charging: Powering Up
Battery life sees a major improvement, with the 16e offering up to 26 hours of video playback compared to the SE 3’s 15 hours. The inclusion of USB-C allows for faster charging and aligns with current industry standards. While the SE 3 supported fast charging via Lightning, the 16e’s USB-C implementation is expected to offer superior speeds.
Software and Support: iOS 18 and Beyond
Both phones support iOS 18, but the 16e benefits from Apple Intelligence. This leverages machine learning for smarter recommendations, enhanced photography features, and improved Siri integration. The SE 3, lacking the necessary hardware and software optimizations, can’t fully utilize these advancements.
The iPhone 16e is expected to receive five to six years of iOS updates, while support for the SE 3 is likely nearing its end.
Availability: Pre-order Now
The iPhone 16e is available for pre-order starting February 21st, with an official launch on February 28th. Prices begin at $599 for the 128GB model, with 256GB and 512GB options available. Color choices are limited to black and white.
Upgrade Verdict: A Resounding Yes
For iPhone SE 3 owners, the 16e is a compelling upgrade. The larger, more vibrant display, the powerful A18 chip, the enhanced camera system, the extended battery life, and the modern design with USB-C make it a worthwhile investment. We’ll have a full review soon, but based on the specs, the iPhone 16e is a significant step up from its predecessor.
