The iPhone SE4 has finally been released as the iPhone 16e.
It seems appropriate to consider it as part of the new iPhone 16 lineup, rather than the iPhone SE series, given the name change.
While the upgrade from the iPhone SE3 is significant, the price has been set at $599 instead of the expected $499, resulting in a Korean launch price of a whopping 990,000 KRW. Considering the iPhone 16’s starting price is 1,250,000 KRW, there’s a gap of about 250,000 KRW. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you lose when choosing the iPhone 16e over the iPhone 16.
Front Design and Display
One of the most significant differences between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e is the front design and display. Instead of the Dynamic Island found on the iPhone 16, the iPhone 16e retains the notch from previous iPhones. This is a major distinguishing feature in the front design.
Beyond the design, there’s a clear distinction in display quality. Both phones feature OLED Super Retina XDR displays, but the maximum brightness differs. The iPhone 16e offers 800 nits of typical maximum brightness and 1200 nits for HDR, compared to the iPhone 16’s 1000 nits and 1600 nits, respectively. Additionally, the iPhone 16 supports an outdoor maximum brightness of 2000 nits and a minimum brightness of 1 nit.
Lastly, while the iPhone 16 features the latest Ceramic Shield, the iPhone 16e uses the previous generation Ceramic Shield from the iPhone 15.
It appears Dolby Vision is not supported on the iPhone 16e, but this requires further confirmation.
Rear Design and Camera
The second major difference between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e is the camera. As previously mentioned, the iPhone 16e features only one rear camera, which is well-known to those who’ve followed the iPhone SE4. Let’s explore the specific differences.
Both phones feature glass back panels, but the iPhone 16 uses Apple’s infused glass with embedded color, while the iPhone 16e uses standard glass. This might explain the limited color options for the iPhone 16e.
The camera setup on the iPhone 16e consists of a single wide-angle camera, without an ultra-wide option. While it does include a 48MP sensor, the lack of an additional camera means it doesn’t support macro photography, spatial photos, or video recording.
Furthermore, the iPhone 16e uses the same Portrait mode and Photographic Styles as the iPhone 15, missing out on the latest generation features introduced with the iPhone 16.
Additionally, it lacks sensor-shift OIS, which enhances video recording, as well as Action mode and Cinematic mode.
Side Design
Both phones use an aluminum frame. However, the iPhone 16 includes a Camera Control button, which is absent on the iPhone 16e. This is the most noticeable difference on the side profile, although it does feature an Action button.
Performance Differences
Fortunately, the performance difference between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e is expected to be minimal. Both feature 8GB of memory and the A18 chip. However, the iPhone 16’s A18 has a 5-core GPU, while the iPhone 16e’s A18 has a 4-core GPU, resulting in a slight performance reduction due to one less GPU core.
Further testing and benchmarks after the iPhone 16e’s release will reveal the exact performance differences and any other variations.
Battery and Charging Differences
One of the most significant differences is the lack of MagSafe support on the iPhone 16e, limiting accessory options. This is a personal disappointment.
While both phones support wireless charging, the iPhone 16e is limited to 7.5W, compared to the iPhone 16’s 15W, resulting in a noticeable charging speed difference.
On the bright side, the iPhone 16e boasts longer battery life. While the battery capacity is expected to be similar, the inclusion of Apple’s C1 modem chip instead of Qualcomm’s 5G modem chip results in a battery life increase from 22 hours to 26 hours.
Other Differences
Other differences include the lack of Wi-Fi 7 and UWB support on the iPhone 16e, but I’ve mainly focused on the key distinctions.
Personally, I find the differences between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e to be quite significant for a $250 price difference. I believe the price gap should be larger to justify choosing the iPhone 16e.
As the “e” model is set to be the most affordable iPhone, it seems like Apple’s strategy is to boost iPhone 16 sales. It also feels like they’re laying the groundwork for higher iPhone prices in the future.