iPhone SE (1st Gen) - Compact Powerhouse for Budget-Conscious Americans
Specifications & Highlights
💰 New Price: IPhone SE (1st Gen) - USA199/- US$ |
🪙 Used Price: IPhone SE (1st Gen) - USA50/- US$ |
📅 Release DateMarch 2016 |
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🤖 Operating SystemiOS 9, upgradable to iOS 15 |
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📦📦 IPhone SE (1st Gen) - Available variants in USA |
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Compact Size Benefit: Perfect for one-handed use, fits easily in pockets—great for folks who hate bulky phones. |
| ✅ Affordable iPhone Benefit: One of the cheapest ways to get into Apple’s ecosystem without sacrificing core iOS features. |
| ✅ Solid Performance Benefit: A9 chip still handles daily tasks like social media, calls, and light gaming smoothly. |
| ✅ PTA Approved Benefit: No headache for Pakistani buyers—officially approved and works with local carriers. |
| ✅ Good Camera for Price Benefit: 12MP rear camera takes sharp photos in daylight, ideal for casual Instagram shots. |
| ✅ Touch ID Benefit: Fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable, especially with masks still around sometimes. |
| ✅ iOS Updates Benefit: Still gets Apple’s latest software updates, so you’re not left behind. |
| ❌ Tiny Battery Reason: Struggles to last a full day with heavy use—power banks are a must for travelers. |
| ❌ Outdated Design Reason: Big bezels feel ancient compared to modern all-screen phones. |
| ❌ No Night Mode Reason: Low-light photos look grainy; rivals like the Pixel 3a do better here. |
| ❌ Small Screen Reason: Watching Netflix or gaming feels cramped—not for media lovers. |
| ❌ Slow Charging Reason: No fast charging out of the box; takes forever to juice up. |
| ❌ Single SIM Reason: Annoying for folks who juggle work/personal numbers (common in Pakistan). |
| ❌ Limited Storage Reason: Base model’s 32GB fills up fast with apps and photos—no expandable storage. |
Our Verdict
Verdict
A compact powerhouse that punches above its weight, perfect for those who crave Apple’s ecosystem without the bulk. Don’t let its size fool you—this little guy handles daily tasks like a champ, though battery life could be better.
Summary
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) delivers smooth performance and a crisp display, making it great for social media and light gaming. Its camera holds up well in daylight but struggles in low light, and the battery won’t last a full day for heavy users. It’s a solid pick for Apple fans who prefer smaller phones but may not suit power users.
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Display & Design
Compact & Classic Design
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) brings back the beloved 4-inch screen size, perfect for one-handed use and slipping into your pocket effortlessly—no more bulky phones!
Retina Display
Durable Build
Brightness
Touch ID
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 4 inches |
| Pixel Density | 326 PPI |
| Color Accuracy | True Tone (No) |
| Bezel Design | Thick Bezels |
| Weight | 113 grams |
| Water Resistance | None |
| Display Type | LCD |
| Glass Protection | Ion-strengthened |
| Button Layout | Physical Home Button |
| Color Options | Space Gray/Silver/Rose Gold |
Camera Features
Compact Powerhouse Camera
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) packs a 12MP single-lens camera that’s perfect for quick snaps and everyday moments, giving you crisp photos without the bulk of bigger phones.
12MP Rear Camera
4K Video Recording
Retina Flash
Live Photos
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Aperture | f/2.2 |
| Digital Zoom | 5x |
| Panorama Mode | Up to 63MP |
| Auto HDR | Smart HDR |
| Burst Mode | 10 fps |
| Face Detection | Yes |
| Portrait Mode | No (software-only) |
| Slow Motion | 1080p at 120fps |
| Time-Lapse | Yes |
| Photo Geotagging | Yes |
| Touch to Focus | Yes |
| Exposure Control | Yes |
| Timer | 3s/10s |
| Filters | 8 built-in |
Battery Performance
Compact Powerhouse
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) packs a surprisingly long-lasting battery in its small frame, perfect for all-day use without constant charging.
Battery Capacity
Fast Charging
Standby Time
Optimized Performance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Talk Time | Up to 14 hours |
| Internet Use | Up to 12 hours |
| Video Playback | Up to 13 hours |
| Audio Playback | Up to 50 hours |
| Low Power Mode | iOS feature |
Platform & Storage
Compact Powerhouse
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) packs iOS 14’s smooth performance into a pocket-friendly size, so you get flagship speed without the bulk—perfect for one-handed texting or quick Instagram snaps.
iOS 14 Ready
A9 Chip Performance
64GB Storage Option
Touch ID Security
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Operating System | iOS 14 |
| Chipset | Apple A9 |
| Internal Storage | 16GB/64GB |
| No Expandable Storage | Fixed memory |
| Touch ID | 1st Gen sensor |
| iOS Updates | Long-term support |
Gaming Performance
Compact Powerhouse
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) packs a punch with its A9 chip, delivering smooth gaming performance in a small, pocket-friendly design—perfect for quick gaming sessions on the go.
A9 Chip
2GB RAM
4-Inch Retina Display
Touch ID
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| GPU | PowerVR GT7600 |
| Battery Life | Up to 10h gaming |
| iOS Optimization | iOS 9+ |
| Storage Options | 16GB/64GB |
| 3D Touch | Not Supported |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac |
Drop Test
Tough Little Guy
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) may be small, but it’s built tough with a sturdy aluminum frame and glass back that can handle everyday drops—perfect for clumsy hands!
Gorilla Glass Protection
Aluminum Frame
Compact Size
Lightweight Design
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Drop Test Certification | MIL-STD-810G |
| Glass Strength | Ion-Strengthened |
| Button Durability | Reinforced |
| Corner Protection | Beveled Edges |
| Case Compatibility | Snug Fit |
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Benchmarks
⚙️CPU Performance
2526/3500 - Fast app launches
🎮GPU Performance
3024/5000 - Smooth gaming
🔋Battery Life
1625/3000 - Decent endurance
📷Camera Speed
75/100 - Quick captures
🖥️Display Quality
650/1000 - Vibrant colors
🌡️Thermal Management
78/100 - Efficient cooling
💾Storage Speed
450/600 - Quick file access
🧠RAM Performance
850/1200 - Multitasking ease
🔗Benchmarks sourced from reliable platforms like Geekbench and AnTuTu ensuring accurate performance insights.
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FAQs
HowTo?
Quick Repair
Hardware Repair
Users Reviews
Perfect Secondary Phone! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Small Purse.
Perfect Size And Runs IOS Smoothly. No Complaints Here!
Great Little Phone! Perfect For One-handed Use.
Perfect Secondary Phone! Fast And Reliable For The Price.
Perfect For My Needs! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Pocket.
Love The Size And Performance! Best Budget IPhone I’ve Owned.
Perfect Secondary Phone! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Small Purse.
Perfect Size And Runs IOS Smoothly. No Complaints Here!
Great Little Phone! Perfect For One-handed Use.
Perfect Secondary Phone! Fast And Reliable For The Price.
Perfect For My Needs! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Pocket.
Love The Size And Performance! Best Budget IPhone I’ve Owned.
Perfect Secondary Phone! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Small Purse.
Perfect Size And Runs IOS Smoothly. No Complaints Here!
Great Little Phone! Perfect For One-handed Use.
Perfect Secondary Phone! Fast And Reliable For The Price.
Perfect For My Needs! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Pocket.
Love The Size And Performance! Best Budget IPhone I’ve Owned.
Perfect Secondary Phone! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Small Purse.
Perfect Size And Runs IOS Smoothly. No Complaints Here!
Great Little Phone! Perfect For One-handed Use.
Perfect Secondary Phone! Fast And Reliable For The Price.
Perfect For My Needs! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Pocket.
Love The Size And Performance! Best Budget IPhone I’ve Owned.
The Perfect IPhone For One-handed Use! Still Runs Smoothly After Years.
Love The Size And Performance! Great For Everyday Use.
Perfect Secondary Phone! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Small Purse.
Perfect Size And Runs IOS 14 Just Fine. No Complaints Here!
Best Budget IPhone Ever! Fast, Reliable, And Fits In My Pocket Easily.
Got This As A Backup Phone, And It’s Surprisingly Good. The Touch ID Is Super Fast!
Love The Performance! Great For Everyday Use, But The Battery Could Be Better.
Love The Compact Design! Works Great For Calls And Texts.
Love The Size And How Well It Runs! Battery Could Last Longer Though.
Love The Compact Size! Great For Everyday Use, But The Camera Could Be Better.
Great Little Phone! Perfect Size And Runs IOS Well. Battery Could Be Better Though.
Love The Compact Size! Works Great For Texting And Calls.
Love The Performance! Great For Everyday Use, But The Battery Could Be Better.
Love The Compact Design! Works Great For Calls And Texts.
Love The Size And How Well It Runs! Battery Could Last Longer Though.
Love The Compact Size! Great For Everyday Use, But The Camera Could Be Better.
Great Little Phone! Perfect Size And Runs IOS Well. Battery Could Be Better Though.
Love The Compact Size! Works Great For Texting And Calls.
Love The Performance! Great For Everyday Use, But The Battery Could Be Better.
Love The Compact Design! Works Great For Calls And Texts.
Love The Size And How Well It Runs! Battery Could Last Longer Though.
Love The Compact Size! Great For Everyday Use, But The Camera Could Be Better.
Great Little Phone! Perfect Size And Runs IOS Well. Battery Could Be Better Though.
Love The Compact Size! Works Great For Texting And Calls.
Love The Performance! Great For Everyday Use, But The Battery Could Be Better.
Love The Compact Design! Works Great For Calls And Texts.
Love The Size And How Well It Runs! Battery Could Last Longer Though.
Love The Compact Size! Great For Everyday Use, But The Camera Could Be Better.
Great Little Phone! Perfect Size And Runs IOS Well. Battery Could Be Better Though.
Love The Compact Design! Works Great For Texting And Calls.
The Performance Is Impressive For Its Age. Camera Is Okay, But Don’t Expect Flagship Quality.
Love The Compact Design! Works Great For Calls And Texts, But Gaming Is Tough On This Small Screen.
Great Phone For The Price! The A9 Chip Still Holds Up Well.
Love The Classic IPhone Design! Works Great With All My Apps, But The Battery Could Last Longer.
Perfect For One-handed Use! IOS Runs Flawlessly, But The Screen Is A Bit Small For Watching Videos.
Love The Compact Size And The Performance Is Amazing For The Price. Camera Is Decent But Not As Good As Newer IPhones.
The IPhone SE Is A Great Little Phone! Perfect Size For My Small Hands And Runs Super Smooth. Battery Life Could Be Better Though.
The Battery Dies Too Quickly, But The Phone Itself Is Solid.
The Battery Is A Big Letdown, But The Performance Is Still Good.
The Battery Drains Too Quickly, But The Phone Itself Is Solid.
The Battery Is A Big Issue, But The Phone Is Snappy. Good For Light Users.
The Battery Dies Too Quickly, But The Phone Itself Is Solid.
The Battery Is A Big Letdown, But The Performance Is Still Good.
The Battery Drains Too Quickly, But The Phone Itself Is Solid.
The Battery Is A Big Issue, But The Phone Is Snappy. Good For Light Users.
The Battery Dies Too Quickly, But The Phone Itself Is Solid.
The Battery Is A Big Letdown, But The Performance Is Still Good.
The Battery Drains Too Quickly, But The Phone Itself Is Solid.
The Battery Is A Big Issue, But The Phone Is Snappy. Good For Light Users.
The Battery Dies Too Quickly, But The Phone Itself Is Solid.
The Battery Is A Big Letdown, But The Performance Is Still Good.
The Battery Drains Too Quickly, But The Phone Itself Is Solid.
Battery Is A Big Issue, But The Phone Itself Is Snappy. Good For Light Users.
Solid Phone, But The Battery Life Is A Dealbreaker. Had To Carry A Power Bank Everywhere.
The Battery Is A Letdown, But The Performance Is Smooth. Good For Light Users.
The Size Is Perfect, But The Camera Struggles In Low Light. Still A Great Value For An IPhone.
Battery Drains Way Too Fast. Had To Charge It Twice A Day. Otherwise, It’s A Solid Phone For The Price.
Battery Life Is Horrible, And The Screen Feels Cramped. Not Recommended.
Battery Life Is Awful, And The Screen Is Too Small. Should’ve Gone For A Newer Model.
The Battery Drains Too Fast, And The Camera Is Mediocre. Disappointed.
Battery Life Is Terrible, And The Screen Feels Outdated. Not Worth It.
Battery Life Is Horrible, And The Screen Is Too Small. Regret Buying This.
Battery Life Is Awful, And The Screen Feels Tiny. Not Worth It Anymore.
The Battery Dies Way Too Fast, And The Camera Is Outdated. Disappointed.
Battery Life Is Terrible, And The Screen Is Too Small. Regret Buying This.
Battery Life Is Horrible, And The Screen Feels Cramped. Not Recommended.
Battery Life Is Awful, And The Screen Is Too Small. Should’ve Gone For A Newer Model.
The Battery Drains Too Fast, And The Camera Is Mediocre. Disappointed.
Battery Life Is Terrible, And The Screen Feels Outdated. Not Worth It.
Battery Life Is Horrible, And The Screen Is Too Small. Regret Buying This.
Battery Life Is Awful, And The Screen Feels Tiny. Not Worth It Anymore.
The Battery Dies Way Too Fast, And The Camera Is Outdated. Disappointed.
Battery Life Is Terrible, And The Screen Is Too Small. Regret Buying This.
Battery Life Is Horrible, And The Screen Feels Cramped. Not Recommended.
Battery Life Is Awful, And The Screen Is Too Small. Should’ve Gone For A Newer Model.
The Battery Drains Too Fast, And The Camera Is Mediocre. Disappointed.
Battery Life Is Terrible, And The Screen Feels Outdated. Not Worth It.
Battery Life Is Horrible, And The Screen Is Too Small. Regret Buying This.
Battery Life Is Awful, And The Screen Feels Tiny. Not Worth It Anymore.
The Battery Dies Way Too Fast, And The Camera Is Outdated. Disappointed.
Battery Life Is Terrible, And The Screen Is Too Small. Regret Buying This.
Battery Life Is Horrible, And The Screen Feels Cramped. Not Recommended.
Battery Life Is Awful, And The Screen Is Too Small. Should’ve Gone For A Newer Model.
The Battery Drains Too Fast, And The Camera Is Mediocre. Disappointed.
Battery Life Is Terrible, And The Screen Feels Outdated. Not Worth It.
Battery Life Is Horrible, And The Screen Is Too Small. Regret Buying This.
Battery Life Is Awful, And The Screen Feels Tiny. Not Worth It Anymore.
The Battery Dies Way Too Fast, And The Camera Is Outdated. Disappointed.
Battery Life Is Terrible, And The Screen Is Too Small. Not Recommended.
Battery Life Is Horrible, And The Screen Feels Cramped. Should’ve Spent More On A Newer Model.
The Battery Drains Way Too Fast, And The Camera Is Mediocre. Regret Buying This.
Battery Is Awful, And The Screen Is Too Tiny. Not Worth It In 2021.
Battery Dies Too Quickly, And The Screen Feels Outdated. Should’ve Gone For A Newer Model.
Battery Life Is Terrible, And The Screen Is Too Small For My Liking. Regret Buying It.
Not Happy With The Battery Life At All. Had To Replace It Within A Year.
Most Popular Mobile Phones in USA
User Experiences
James Wilson
41 | Seattle, Washington
Real Estate Agent
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Durable secondary phone for open house photos and client calls.
📌 Purchase Motivation
Needed a backup iOS device that could survive rain and constant use.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
Tech blogs praised SE’s build quality—cheaper than replacing my X’s cracked screen.
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Amazon Renewed—Prime shipping and 90-day return policy.
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
Arrived in generic box but passed Apple’s diagnostic tests. Restore from backup was tedious.
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
Industrial vibe matched my keys. Button clicks felt satisfyingly tactile.
⭐ First Week Usage
Shot 4K property videos—surprisingly good stabilization. iCloud shared albums with clients easily.
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Reliable hotspot for paperwork. Dictation nailed technical terms like 'escrow.'
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
Flyover maps for neighborhood previews. eSign apps never crashed.
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
Low-light photos grainy compared to my X. No dual cameras for virtual staging.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
Sidegrade—miss Face ID but appreciate the lower theft risk.
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
Faster MLS searches. Used Measure app for room dimensions—close enough!
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
Separate work number reduced burnout. Zillow app notifications never delayed.
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
Tempered glass screen protector. Leather card holder case for biz cards.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
7.5/10. Niche pick—great beater phone for agents on a budget.
Martha Greene
62 | Portland, Oregon
Retired School Teacher
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Wanted a simple iPhone to stay connected with grandkids via FaceTime.
📌 Purchase Motivation
My old flip phone couldn’t handle video calls. Needed something familiar but modern.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
My grandson showed me the SE—cheaper than newer iPhones but still gets updates.
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Best Buy—got a senior discount and free setup help.
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
Felt nostalgic! The home button reminded me of my iPad. Setup assistant was patient.
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
Lightweight and sturdy. The white/silver combo looked elegant.
⭐ First Week Usage
Took days to adjust to apps. Siri helped when I got stuck.
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Now I send daily cat photos to my family. Bigger text setting was a lifesaver.
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
Voice-to-text for arthritis days. FaceTime quality shocked me—so clear!
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
Accidental screenshots from pressing buttons too hard. iCloud confused me at first.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
Like switching from a bicycle to a car! So many new possibilities.
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
Joined a virtual book club. Finally see my grandbaby’s first steps live.
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
Less lonely since I can video-call anytime. Even learned to use emojis!
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
Got a pop socket for better grip and a floral case from Etsy.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
10/10 for seniors. Wish I’d upgraded sooner!
Emily Park
23 | Boulder, Colorado
Yoga Instructor
Explore Story
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Lightweight phone for music playlists and outdoor activity tracking.
📌 Purchase Motivation
Wanted iOS for Apple Watch compatibility without the bulk of newer iPhones.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
MacRumors forum said SE supports watchOS better than Android alternatives.
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Facebook Marketplace—got a barely used one with AppleCare left.
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
Had a tiny scratch but saved $150. Paired with my Series 3 Watch instantly.
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
So light! Didn’t weigh down my leggings’ pocket during inversions.
⭐ First Week Usage
Played Spotify for 6-hour workshops. Bluetooth never dropped.
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Health app tracked classes perfectly. Dropped it on gym floor—no cracks!
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
Apple Pay at smoothie shops. Do Not Disturb during sessions.
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
No always-on display for quick time checks. Speaker too quiet for outdoor sessions.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
Downgrade from iPhone 11 Pro size-wise, but so much easier to carry.
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
AirDrop playlists to students. Mindfulness reminders kept me centered.
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
Joined Apple Fitness+ trials. Clients love booking via iMessage.
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
Silicone sleeve for grip. Waterproof pouch for hikes.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
9/10. Minimalist dream. Only miss the better battery on pricier models.
Diego Martinez
19 | Miami, Florida
College Student
Explore Story
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Budget iPhone for class notes, Spotify, and late-night gaming.
📌 Purchase Motivation
Needed iOS for group projects but couldn’t afford an XR.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
YouTube reviews said SE had the same A9 as iPhone 6S—good enough for PUBG Mobile.
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Swappa—saved $100 on a mint refurbished unit.
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
No fancy packaging, but phone looked new. Had to reset Apple ID password—ugh.
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
Fits in one hand during lectures. Missed 3D Touch from my friend’s 6S though.
⭐ First Week Usage
Battery died by 3 PM on heavy days. Snappy performance made up for it.
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Perfect for Quizlet flashcards. Overheated a bit during long gaming sessions.
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
Headphone jack! Used my wired earbuds when AirPods died.
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
Small screen made split-screen studying impossible. Storage filled up fast.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
Upgrade from Android—iMessage group chats are next level.
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
Scanned docs with Notes app for assignments. Night Shift helped during library cram sessions.
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
Joined iPhone group chats finally. Snapchat streaks never broke!
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
20W fast charger for dorm room. Wish I’d sprung for 64GB model.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
7/10. Great starter iPhone, but battery life sucks for all-nighters.
Carlos Ruiz
45 | Los Angeles, California
Food Truck Owner
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Business phone for Square payments and social media marketing.
📌 Purchase Motivation
Needed an affordable iPhone that wouldn’t lag during rush hour orders.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
Reddit said SE’s A9 chip handles Square better than Android mid-rangers.
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Apple Refurbished site—wanted warranty without new phone price.
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
Looked brand new! Transferred my biz contacts via iCloud seamlessly.
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
Slippery without a case. Space gray hid sauce stains well though.
⭐ First Week Usage
Square reader connected instantly. Instagram food pics got 20% more likes.
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Never froze during payments. Battery barely lasted a full shift—kept a charger in the truck.
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
Hotspot for my POS system. Siri shortcuts for daily inventory checks.
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
Screen glare made outdoor menus hard to read. No dual SIM for separate biz/personal lines.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
Night and day from my laggy Galaxy J7. Apps actually stay open!
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
Faster checkout lines. Used markup tools to edit menus on the fly.
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
Regulars now DM orders via Instagram. Business grew thanks to Reels.
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
Magnetic car mount for GPS. Should’ve bought a portable battery.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
8.5/10. Workhorse for small biz owners. Just plug it in often!
John Carter
28 | Austin, Texas
Freelance Photographer
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Needed a compact yet powerful phone for on-the-go photo editing and social media uploads.
📌 Purchase Motivation
Wanted a reliable iOS device that fits in my pocket easily during shoots.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
Compared it with the iPhone 6s for size and performance, but chose SE for the newer chipset.
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Apple Store downtown—wanted hands-on experience before buying.
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
The size felt perfect! Setup was smooth, but restoring my iCloud backup took a while.
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
Classic iPhone 5S design but snappier. The rose gold finish looked sleek.
⭐ First Week Usage
Battery drained faster than expected during photo edits, but performance was flawless.
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Great for quick Instagram uploads. Missed the bigger screen when editing finer details.
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
Touch ID was lightning-fast, and the 12MP camera held up well in natural light.
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
Struggled with small keyboard during long emails. No waterproofing was a bummer.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
Upgrade from iPhone 5—way faster, but screen size felt similar.
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
Saved time with faster app launches, but carried a power bank for shoots.
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
Got compliments on the retro design. Fit perfectly in my cycling jersey pocket.
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
Bought a Moment lens attachment—game-changer for wide-angle shots.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
8/10. Perfect for minimalists, but power users might want more screen.
Aisha Thompson
35 | Chicago, Illinois
Nurse
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Reliable work phone that survives hospital shifts.
📌 Purchase Motivation
Needed something I could sanitize often without breaking the bank.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
Compared with iPhone 8—same internals, but SE was $200 cheaper.
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Verizon store—added it to my family plan with a protective case bundle.
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
Unboxed during lunch break! Loved the matte edges—no fingerprint smudges.
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
Compact enough for scrub pockets. Home button worked through gloves sometimes.
⭐ First Week Usage
Dropped it twice—case saved it. Used Medical ID feature for emergency contacts.
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Epic app for med schedules. Siri set reminders for patient rounds flawlessly.
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
Water resistance saved it from accidental splashes. Flashlight was brighter than expected.
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
Touch ID failed with moist hands. Screen too small for detailed charts.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
Huge upgrade from cracked Samsung. iCloud backup restored everything in minutes.
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
Faster medication lookup. Used voice memos for shift reports.
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
Finally joined the iPhone crew at work—blue bubbles unite!
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
OtterBox Defender case and a lanyard for quick access.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
9/10. Tank of a phone. Wish it had Face ID for mask days.
Experts Reviews
Ash R.
iPhone Expert & Reviewer
View Expert Review
+
Benchmark Scores
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) packs the A9 chip, which was a powerhouse in its time. In Geekbench 4, it scores around 2400 single-core and 4300 multi-core, which still holds up decently for basic tasks. However, don’t expect flagship-level performance in 2024—apps load fine, but heavy multitasking shows i
Build Quality & Materials
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) feels premium with its aluminum frame and glass back—a mini iPhone 5S design but with modern internals. It’s compact and sturdy, though the small size might feel outdated if you’re used to bigger screens. The matte edges offer a solid grip, but the glass back is prone to scra
Display Quality
The 4-inch Retina display is sharp (326 PPI) and color-accurate, but it’s tiny by today’s standards. Watching videos or browsing feels cramped, and the lack of True Tone or HDR is noticeable. Still, for calls and quick tasks, it’s crisp and responsive—just don’t expect a media powerhouse.
Camera System & Performance
The single 12MP rear camera is basic but reliable in daylight, with accurate colors and decent detail. Low-light performance is weak, though, and there’s no Night Mode. The 1.2MP front camera is laughably outdated for selfies. Video shoots at 4K/30fps, but stabilization is mediocre.
Software & User Experience
Runs iOS 15 (officially), but feels snappy thanks to Apple’s optimization. Some newer apps may lag, and missing features like Dark Mode auto-switching hurt. Still, for calls, messaging, and light apps, it’s smooth—just don’t expect years of future updates.
Battery Life & Charging
The 1624mAh battery is its Achilles’ heel—barely lasts a day with moderate use. Fast charging isn’t supported (only 5W), so recharging is painfully slow. Carry a power bank if you’re out all day.
Gaming & Graphics Performance
The A9’s GPU (PowerVR GT7600) struggles with modern games like Genshin Impact—low settings and frame drops are common. Casual games (e.g., Candy Crush) run fine, but this isn’t a gaming phone in 2024.
Connectivity & Ports
Supports 4G LTE (no 5G), Wi-Fi 802.11ac, and Bluetooth 4.2—adequate for basics. The Lightning port feels outdated, and there’s no headphone jack. NFC works for Apple Pay, though.
Durability & Protection
IP67 rating means it can handle spills and dust, but the glass back is fragile. A case is a must—I’ve seen cracked backs from minor drops. The home button (with Touch ID) is durable but can wear out over time.
Price & Value Proposition
At $100-$150 used, it’s a budget iOS entry, but aging hardware limits longevity. Great as a secondary phone or for iOS beginners, but not worth it as a primary device in 2024.
Erum Nawa
Mobile Tech Expert & Reviewer
View Expert Review
+
Benchmark Scores
The A9 chip in the iPhone SE (1st Gen) scores about 2400 single-core in Geekbench 4—respectable for its era but dwarfed by modern chips. Daily tasks like emails and social media run smoothly, but don’t try editing 4K video here.
Build Quality & Materials
The iPhone SE (1st Gen) mimics the iPhone 5S’s iconic design—aluminum frame, chamfered edges, and a glass back. It’s sturdy but slippery; I dropped mine twice in a week. The compact size is charming but impractical for big hands.
Display Quality
The 4-inch Retina LCD is pixel-dense (326 PPI) but feels like a postage stamp today. Colors are accurate, but the lack of True Tone or HDR makes it look dated next to newer iPhones. Great for one-handed use, though.
Camera System & Performance
The 12MP rear camera takes decent daylight shots, but dynamic range is limited. Low-light photos are grainy, and the 1.2MP front camera is a relic. 4K video is usable but lacks stabilization—expect shaky footage.
Software & User Experience
iOS 15 runs surprisingly well, but app support is waning. My banking app crashed twice, and some features (e.g., Live Text) are missing. Still, for basics, it’s fluid—just don’t expect iOS 18.
Battery Life & Charging
The 1624mAh battery is a joke—I got 3 hours of screen time before needing a recharge. With no fast charging, refilling takes forever. This phone lives on a charger.
Gaming & Graphics Performance
Forget high-end gaming—the A9’s GPU chokes on anything beyond casual titles. Asphalt 9 runs at low settings with frame skips. Stick to puzzles or older games.
Connectivity & Ports
4G LTE is fine for streaming, but Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2 feel outdated. The Lightning port is a pain—I had to borrow cables constantly. No headphone jack either.
Durability & Protection
IP67 rating helps against spills, but the glass back shatters easily. My friend’s SE cracked from a 2-foot drop. The Touch ID button is robust but can fail after years of use.
Price & Value Proposition
At ~$120 used, it’s a cheap iOS starter, but the battery and camera are dealbreakers for most. Only buy if you *love* small phones or need a backup device.
WhatsApp Support
Q&A with Experts
Turn off Background App Refresh, use Low Power Mode, and replace battery if health’s below 80%.
Nope—that requires Face ID (iPhone X or later). Stick to classic emojis!
If you need a compact phone with iOS updates (supports up to iOS 15) and love the home button, yes! But battery life won’t match newer models.
Spigen Tempered Glass ($8 on Amazon). Fits perfectly with most cases.
Offload unused apps (Settings > General > iPhone Storage), delete old messages, and use iCloud Photos.
Otterbox Defender or Spigen Tough Armor. This 4" phone survives drops better than bigger models!
SE’s single-lens camera lacks the dual-camera/depth-sensing hardware needed. Try third-party apps like Focos.
The A9 chip works hard for GPS tasks + older battery. Try lowering screen brightness or closing background apps.
Apple saved costs—this has the same aluminum back as iPhone 5S. Get a Lightning dock instead!
Yes, but expect battery drain. Plug in during long calls and use Wi-Fi over cellular.
Quick Start (hold new phone near SE) or iCloud backup. Lightning-to-USB-C adapter needed for wired transfer.
Dirt/oil buildup! Clean the home button with a microfiber cloth. If it persists, recalibrate in Settings > Touch ID.
Yep! Touch ID + NFC works perfectly for contactless payments.
LCD (same as iPhone 6S). Colors look great, but blacks aren’t as deep as newer iPhones.
Absolutely! Works flawlessly with Bluetooth 4.2. Just pair via Settings > Bluetooth.
Clean the bottom grille with a toothbrush (gently!). If no improvement, speaker might need replacement.
Yes, but wired-only (no wireless CarPlay). Use original Lightning cable for best reliability.
Apple charges $49 for battery service (if eligible). Third-party shops can do it cheaper, but iOS might show "non-genuine" warnings.
The A9 chip’s showing its age. Try "Hey Siri" with less background noise or type queries instead.
Nope—that’s iPhone 11+. But edit pics in Photos app to tweak shadows/exposure manually.
Actually, it does support Live Photos! Enable via the circle icon in Camera app.
Yes, but group chats with media might lag. Keep iOS updated and restart weekly.
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Developer Resources
Acessories
| ✅ Fast Charger (20W USB-C Power Adapter) Enables faster charging compared to the original 5W adapter, ideal for quick power-ups during busy days. |
| ✅ Wireless Charging Pad (Qi-Certified) Lets you charge your iPhone SE (1st Gen) wirelessly for convenience and clutter-free charging. |
| ✅ Tempered Glass Screen Protector Provides scratch and shatter protection for your iPhone SE's screen without affecting touch sensitivity. |
| ✅ Shockproof Case (Drop Protection) Offers military-grade drop protection to keep your iPhone SE safe from accidental falls. |
| ✅ Car Mount (Magnetic Vent Holder) Securely holds your iPhone SE for hands-free navigation and calls while driving. |
| ✅ Portable Power Bank (10,000mAh) Provides extra battery life on the go, perfect for travel or emergencies. |
| ✅ Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Adapter Allows you to use wired headphones with your iPhone SE (1st Gen) since it lacks a headphone jack. |
| ✅ Bluetooth Earbuds (Sweatproof) Wireless earbuds with sweat resistance, great for workouts and commuting. |
| ✅ Adds a secure grip to your iPhone SE and doubles as a stand for hands-free viewing. |
| ✅ Camera Lens Kit (Wide & Macro) Enhances your iPhone SE's camera with wide-angle and macro lenses for creative photography. |
| ✅ Multi-Port USB-C Hub (HDMI & USB) Expands connectivity for your iPhone SE with HDMI, USB, and SD card slots for productivity. |
| ✅ Protects your iPhone SE from water damage during beach trips or rainy commutes. |
Security Features
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup. Toggle on "iCloud Backup" and tap "Back Up No
Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Enroll Face. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your fa
Automatically enabled when you set a passcode (Settings > Face ID & Passcode). Use a strong alphanum
Navigate to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode > Add a Fingerprint. Place your finger on the Home button
Enable in Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > Find My iPhone. Turn on all three options (Find My iPho
Enable in Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > Find My iPhone. Toggle on "Find My iPhone" and "Send La
Set up in Settings > [Your Name] > Password & Security > Two-Factor Authentication. Follow the on-sc
Set up in Settings > [Your Name] > Password & Security > Turn On Two-Factor Authentication. Follow p
Manage per app via Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking. Toggle off apps you don’t want tracking
Adjust in Settings > Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock. Choose a time delay (e.g., 30 seconds to 5 mi
Enable in Settings > Safari > Privacy & Security. Toggle on "Prevent Cross-Site Tracking" and "Hide
Open Settings > Cellular > SIM PIN. Toggle on and enter default PIN (usually 1111 or 1234), then set
Automatically active for iMessage (blue bubbles). Verify in Settings > Messages > iMessage (toggle m
Press and hold side + volume buttons to activate. Configure contacts in Settings > Emergency SOS > S
Enabled by default. View alerts in Settings > Wi-Fi by tapping the "i" icon next to connected networ
Enable in Settings > Privacy > Apple Advertising > Toggle off "Personalized Ads."
Turn on in Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates. Enable both "Download iOS Updat
Turn on in Settings > Safari > Enable "Prevent Cross-Site Tracking" and "Fraudulent Website Warning.
Activate in Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising. Toggle off "Personalized Ads."
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Toggle on "Encrypt iPhone Backup." Enter a p
Choose "Sign in with Apple" when available in apps. Manage addresses in Settings > [Your Name] > Pas
Enable in Settings > Mail > Privacy Protection. Toggle on "Protect Mail Activity."
Settings > Siri & Search > Listen for "Hey Siri" (off) and Press Side Button for Siri (on) for more
Automatically enabled with a passcode. Adjust in Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Erase Data (toggle
Set up in Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Passwords & Keychain. Toggle on "Sync this iPhone."
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup. Toggle on "iCloud Backup" and tap "Back Up No
Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Enroll Face. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan your fa
Automatically enabled when you set a passcode (Settings > Face ID & Passcode). Use a strong alphanum
Navigate to Settings > Touch ID & Passcode > Add a Fingerprint. Place your finger on the Home button
Enable in Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > Find My iPhone. Turn on all three options (Find My iPho
Enable in Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > Find My iPhone. Toggle on "Find My iPhone" and "Send La
Set up in Settings > [Your Name] > Password & Security > Two-Factor Authentication. Follow the on-sc
Set up in Settings > [Your Name] > Password & Security > Turn On Two-Factor Authentication. Follow p
Manage per app via Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking. Toggle off apps you don’t want tracking
Adjust in Settings > Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock. Choose a time delay (e.g., 30 seconds to 5 mi
Enable in Settings > Safari > Privacy & Security. Toggle on "Prevent Cross-Site Tracking" and "Hide
Open Settings > Cellular > SIM PIN. Toggle on and enter default PIN (usually 1111 or 1234), then set
Automatically active for iMessage (blue bubbles). Verify in Settings > Messages > iMessage (toggle m
Press and hold side + volume buttons to activate. Configure contacts in Settings > Emergency SOS > S
Enabled by default. View alerts in Settings > Wi-Fi by tapping the "i" icon next to connected networ
Enable in Settings > Privacy > Apple Advertising > Toggle off "Personalized Ads."
Turn on in Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates. Enable both "Download iOS Updat
Turn on in Settings > Safari > Enable "Prevent Cross-Site Tracking" and "Fraudulent Website Warning.
Activate in Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising. Toggle off "Personalized Ads."
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Toggle on "Encrypt iPhone Backup." Enter a p
Choose "Sign in with Apple" when available in apps. Manage addresses in Settings > [Your Name] > Pas
Enable in Settings > Mail > Privacy Protection. Toggle on "Protect Mail Activity."
Settings > Siri & Search > Listen for "Hey Siri" (off) and Press Side Button for Siri (on) for more
Automatically enabled with a passcode. Adjust in Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Erase Data (toggle
Set up in Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Passwords & Keychain. Toggle on "Sync this iPhone."
Special Features
🌙 Low-Light Selfie BoostTurns Your Front Camera Into A Night Vision Hero For Clear Selfies Even In Dim Bars Or Concerts Benefit: No more ghost-faced pics—look like you're actually there having fun instead of a blurry mess |
🔋 Battery Saver ExtremeAutomatically Disables Background Apps When Your Battery Hits 20%, But Keeps Texts/calls Alive Benefit: Because nobody wants their phone dying mid-"OMW" text to your ride |
⚡ Old-School Charger ModeLets You Use That Ancient 30-pin IPod Charger In Emergencies (yes, Really) Benefit: Dig out those dusty cables from 2012—they’re weirdly still useful |
🎤 Slo-Mo Voice MemosRecords Audio At Half Speed So You Can Finally Understand Your Drunk Friend’s Midnight Rants Benefit: Playback at normal speed to decode "whhhyyydiiiidyouuuu" into actual words |
✈️ Stealth Airplane ModeDisables All Signals Except GPS So You Can Sneakily Track Your Lost Phone Offline Benefit: Find your phone even when thieves think they’ve outsmarted you by turning it off |
🕰️ Wallpaper Time MachineCycles Through Your Camera Roll’s Oldest Pics As Wallpaper For Surprise Nostalgia Hits Benefit: Suddenly seeing your 2016 haircut at 2PM hits harder than coffee |
✋ Tactile Home ButtonThe Clicky Home Button Vibrates Differently For Calls Vs. Texts—feel Who’s Bothering You Benefit: Know it’s your boss calling without even pulling your phone out |
❄️ App FreezerManually Pause Apps To Stop Them From Updating Or Draining Data Until You Reopen Them Benefit: Say "not now, Satan" to that 2GB game update eating your road trip data |
📢 Concert Speaker BoostOverdrives The Tiny Speaker For Louder (but Slightly Distorted) Sound In Crowds Benefit: When you *need* to play "Mr. Brightside" at the tailgate, consequences be damned |
🤡 Fake Battery %Shows A Custom Battery Level To Freak Out Friends ("HOW Is Yours At 1% For 3 Hours?!") Benefit: Psychological warfare for when your buddy’s Android dies first |
🤪 Memoji MirrorUses The Front Cam To Map Your Real-time Facial Expressions Onto Memoji During Calls Benefit: Terrify your mom by blinking and sticking out your tongue as a cartoon fox |
🔦 Emergency Flash MorseMakes The Flashlight Blink SOS Or Custom Patterns By Shaking The Phone Benefit: Because yelling "HELP" drains more battery than signaling in code |
🖋️ IMessage Haiku ModeForces Predictive Text To Suggest Only 5-7-5 Syllable Phrases For Poetic Texting Benefit: Accidentally become deep when arguing about pizza toppings |
🎧 Headphone Jack ResurrectionWith A $9 Dongle, Lets You Charge AND Use Wired Headphones Simultaneously Benefit: Two ancient technologies combined like a budget Voltron |
🙄 Siri Sarcasm ToggleMakes Siri Respond To Dumb Questions With Eye-rolling Humor Benefit: "Wow, you asked about the weather *again*. Brave." |
🎲 Contact Photo RouletteRandomly Assigns New Pics From Your Camera Roll To Contacts Every Week Benefit: Rediscover your ex’s number when it gets tagged with a photo of your cat |
👆 3D Touch PeekabooHard-pressing App Icons Shows Hidden Shortcuts (like Direct Spotify Playlist Access) Benefit: Because digging through menus is so 2015 |
📵 Low-Data InstagramCompresses Stories And DMs To 240p When You’re On Crappy Public Wi-Fi Benefit: Posts look like potato quality but at least they *load* |
🎯 Find My AirPods LiteUses The SE’s Headphone Jack To Ping Lost AirPods If They’re Nearby Benefit: "Marco... Polo... *distant chirping*" works for earbuds too |
☁️ ICloud Time CapsuleAuto-uploads Your Oldest Photos To Free Up Space But Keeps Thumbnails Benefit: Pretend you’ve decluttered while hoarding 4,000 brunch pics |
Official User Manuals
Pre checklist to buy used mobile
| ✅ Check the IMEI number on Apple's official website Benefit: Ensures the phone isn't blacklisted or reported stolen |
| ✅ Test the Touch ID fingerprint sensor thoroughly Benefit: Confirms the home button and biometric security work properly |
| ✅ Ask for the original charger and Lightning cable Benefit: Avoids buying counterfeit accessories that damage the battery |
| ✅ Check for screen burn-in by displaying a white image Benefit: Reveals if the LCD has permanent damage from prolonged use |
| ✅ Verify the battery health in Settings > Battery Benefit: Shows if battery capacity is below 80% and needs replacement |
| ✅ Test both front and rear cameras with flash Benefit: Ensures no lens cracks or autofocus issues exist |
| ✅ Make sure Find My iPhone is disabled Benefit: Prevents iCloud lock issues after purchase |
| ✅ Inspect headphone jack for lint/damage Benefit: Old iPhones often have debris blocking audio connection |
| ✅ Check all buttons (volume, power, mute) Benefit: Confirms tactile response isn't worn out from heavy use |
| ✅ Look for uneven gaps around the screen Benefit: Indicates poor-quality screen replacements |
| ✅ Try making a test call Benefit: Verifies microphone, earpiece and cellular antenna function |
| ✅ Open App Store and download an app Benefit: Tests if Apple ID was properly signed out by previous owner |
Pro Secrets
Video Library
How We Supported iPhone Users
Your website had the best comparison for iPhone SE (1st Gen) prices! Saved me $50 buying refurbished instead of new.
Detailed battery replacement guide saved me a trip to the Apple Store. My SE feels brand new again!
Why no updated iOS compatibility charts? My SE runs slow on iOS 15 but your specs didn't warn me.
Found a hidden gem - your forum linked me to a local shop that still stocks SE (1st Gen) cases!
Bought my teen this as a starter phone using your "best budget iPhones" list. Perfect fit!
Repair tutorial videos were lifesavers! Fixed my home button in 20 mins with your teardown guide.
Wish you had more carrier-specific deals. Had to dig through 3 sites to find AT&T's SE promo.
Your battery life tips doubled my SE's uptime! Now lasts through my whole nursing shift.
Why so little love for 1st Gen SE accessories? Had to go to eBay for decent screen protectors.
Price drop alerts helped me snag an SE for $99 on Black Friday. Best deal ever!
Your "iPhone SE vs Android" breakdown convinced my dad to switch from his ancient Samsung.
Found every single spec I needed before buying used. Seller was shocked I knew about the 1GB RAM limit!