iPhone SE (2nd Gen) - Compact Powerhouse for Busy Americans
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Specifications & Highlights
💰 New Price: IPhone SE (2nd Gen) - USA199/- US$ |
🪙 Used Price: IPhone SE (2nd Gen) - USA130/- US$ |
📅 Release DateMarch 2020 |
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🤖 Operating SystemiOS 13, upgradable |
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📦📦 IPhone SE (2nd Gen) - Available variants in USA |
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Compact Size Benefit: Perfect for one-handed use and fits easily in pockets, great for Americans always on the move. |
| ✅ Apple Ecosystem Benefit: Seamless integration with iMessage, FaceTime, and AirDrop—essential for US users glued to Apple services. |
| ✅ Powerful A13 Chip Benefit: Handles multitasking and gaming like a champ, even with heavy apps like TikTok or Call of Duty Mobile. |
| ✅ Affordable iPhone Benefit: A budget-friendly entry into the Apple world without sacrificing core performance—ideal for cost-conscious buyers. |
| ✅ Solid Camera Benefit: 12MP shooter delivers sharp photos and 4K video, great for capturing memories or social media content. |
| ✅ Wireless Charging Benefit: Works with Qi chargers, a must-have for tech-savvy users who hate dealing with cables. |
| ✅ Touch ID Benefit: Reliable fingerprint unlock, especially handy in a post-mask world where Face ID struggles. |
| ❌ Small Screen Reason: 4.7-inch display feels cramped for streaming Netflix or gaming compared to bigger iPhones. |
| ❌ Outdated Design Reason: Thick bezels and Home button look dated next to modern all-screen iPhones. |
| ❌ Mediocre Battery Life Reason: Struggles to last a full day with heavy use—bring a charger if you’re out all day. |
| ❌ Single Camera Reason: No ultra-wide or telephoto lens, limiting versatility for photography enthusiasts. |
| ❌ No 5G Reason: Stuck on 4G LTE, which might feel slow if you’re in a city with widespread 5G coverage. |
| ❌ Low Storage Base Model Reason: Starts at just 64GB, forcing you to pay extra for more space—annoying for app hoarders. |
| ❌ Fast Charger Not Included Reason: You’ll need to buy a 20W adapter separately to juice up quickly. |
Our Verdict
Verdict
A compact powerhouse that punches above its weight, perfect for Apple fans who crave flagship performance without the giant screen.
Summary
The iPhone SE (2nd Gen) delivers blazing-fast A13 Bionic performance in a nostalgic iPhone 8 design, making it ideal for one-handed use. Its single-lens camera surprises with great daylight shots, though low-light performance lags behind pricier iPhones. Battery life is decent for light users but struggles with heavy gaming or video streaming.
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Display & Design
Compact & Classic Design
The iPhone SE packs a nostalgic 4.7-inch Retina display in a sleek, pocket-friendly body—perfect for one-handed texting or swiping through Instagram without straining your thumb.
Retina HD Display
Touch ID
Glass & Aluminum Body
True Tone Display
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 1334x750 |
| Pixel Density | 326 PPI |
| Contrast Ratio | 1400:1 |
| Haptic Touch | Pressure-sensitive |
| Wide Color (P3) | Yes |
| Fingerprint-resistant | Oleophobic Coating |
Camera Features
Compact Powerhouse Camera
The iPhone SE packs a pro-level 12MP camera in a pocket-friendly size, so you can snap Instagram-worthy shots without carrying a bulky phone.
Smart HDR 3
4K Video Recording
Portrait Mode
QuickTake Videos
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Aperture | ƒ/1.8 |
| Optical Image Stabilization | Steady shots |
| 6-Element Lens | Reduced distortion |
| Retina Flash | True Tone flash |
| Burst Mode | 10 fps |
| Depth Control | Adjustable bokeh |
| Stereo Recording | Dual mics |
| Photo Geotagging | Location tags |
| Live Photos | 3-second clips |
Battery Performance
Compact Powerhouse
The iPhone SE packs a surprisingly long-lasting battery into its small frame, perfect for all-day use without feeling bulky in your pocket.
Fast Charging
Wireless Charging
Battery Life
Optimized Performance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 1821mAh |
| Low Power Mode | Auto-Trigger |
| Charging Port | Lightning |
| Standby Time | Up to 10 Days |
Platform & Storage
Compact Powerhouse
The iPhone SE packs the same A13 Bionic chip as the iPhone 11, so you’ll get flagship performance in a pocket-friendly size—perfect for quick app launches and smooth gaming.
Blazing-Fast Processor
Long-Term Software Support
Storage Options
Optimized Storage
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| OS | iOS |
| Chipset | A13 Bionic |
| RAM | 3GB |
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB/256GB |
| NVMe Storage | Apple’s Custom NVMe |
| iCloud Backup | Seamless Cloud Sync |
| App Optimization | iOS Ecosystem |
| Security Updates | Regular Patches |
| Storage Management | Built-in Tools |
Gaming Performance
A13 Bionic Beast
The iPhone SE packs Apple’s powerful A13 Bionic chip, so you’ll get buttery-smooth gameplay without lag—perfect for crushing Candy Crush or PUBG on the go.
High-Performance GPU
Fast Load Times
Optimized Cooling
Console-Quality Graphics
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| RAM | 3GB |
| Display Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Battery Efficiency | 1821mAh |
| Touch Response | 120Hz Sampling |
| Audio | Stereo Speakers |
| iOS Gaming Library | Arcade & App Store |
Drop Test
Military-Grade Durability
The iPhone SE (2nd Gen) is built tough with aerospace-grade aluminum and glass, so you can relax knowing it can handle accidental drops like a champ.
Gorilla Glass Protection
Water Resistance
Reinforced Frame
Drop Test Certified
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Glass Type | Ion-Strengthened |
| Edge Protection | Beveled Design |
| Weight Distribution | Balanced Build |
| Screen Coating | Oleophobic Layer |
| Button Durability | Solid-State |
| Internal Bracing | Reinforced Logic Board |
| Impact Absorption | Strategic Padding |
| Grip-Friendly Finish | Matte Edges |
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Benchmarks
⚙️CPU Performance
1330/2500 - Fast app launches
🎮GPU Performance
2100/3500 - Smooth gaming
⚡Battery Life
1825/5000 - Longer usage time
📷Camera Speed
85/100 - Quick snapshots
🖥️Display Quality
650/1000 - Vibrant colors
🌡️Thermal Management
78/100 - Efficient cooling
🔋Charging Speed
15/30 - Fast top-ups
🔊Audio Quality
72/100 - Clear sound
💾Storage Speed
450/600 - Quick file access
🧠RAM Performance
1100/2000 - 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
Great For Travel! Compact And Works With All My Apple Devices.
Perfect Size For My Tiny Hands! No More Dropping My Phone.
Perfect Size For My Tiny Hands! No More Dropping My Phone.
Works Great With My IPad. Handoff Is Seamless.
Works Great With My IPad. Handoff Is Seamless.
Works Flawlessly With My AirTag. Great For Keeping Track Of My Stuff.
Works Perfectly With My Apple Watch. No Syncing Issues.
Love The Touch ID! So Much Better Than Face ID With Masks.
Great For Travel! Compact And Works With All My Apple Devices.
Love The Touch ID! So Much Better Than Face ID With Masks.
Love The Compact Size! Fits In All My Small Purses.
Perfect Size For My Tiny Hands! No More Dropping My Phone.
Great For Travel! Compact And Works With All My Apple Devices.
Works Perfectly With My Apple Watch. No Syncing Issues.
The Home Button Feels Nostalgic! Great For Older Folks Who Don’t Like Swiping.
Works Great With My IPad. Handoff Is Seamless.
Love The Red Color! Stands Out And Gets Compliments.
Love The Touch ID! So Much Better Than Face ID With Masks.
Love The Red Color! Stands Out And Gets Compliments.
Works Flawlessly With My AirTag. Great For Keeping Track Of My Stuff.
Love The Compact Size! Fits In All My Small Purses.
Great For Travel! Compact And Works With All My Apple Devices.
Great For Travel! Compact And Works With All My Apple Devices.
Works Perfectly With CarPlay! No Lag Or Connection Issues.
Love The Red Color! Stands Out And Gets Compliments.
Perfect Size For My Tiny Hands! No More Dropping My Phone.
Love The Red Color! Stands Out And Gets Compliments.
Love The Red Color! Stands Out And Gets Compliments.
Got This As A Backup Phone. Works Great With My AirPods And Apple Watch. No Complaints!
Love The Touch ID! So Much Better Than Face ID With Masks.
Perfect Size For My Tiny Hands! No More Dropping My Phone.
Works Great With My HomePod! Siri Responds Quickly.
Works Flawlessly With My AirTag. Great For Keeping Track Of My Stuff.
Love The Compact Size! Fits In All My Small Purses.
Best Budget IPhone! Does Everything My Old IPhone 11 Did But In A Smaller Package.
Love The Touch ID! So Much Better Than Face ID With Masks.
Bought This For My Mom. She Loves The Simple Interface And Small Size.
Perfect Size For My Tiny Hands! No More Dropping My Phone.
Love The Compact Size! Fits In All My Jeans Pockets.
Works Flawlessly With My AirTag. Great For Keeping Track Of My Stuff.
Works Flawlessly With My AirTag. Great For Keeping Track Of My Stuff.
Love The Compact Size! Fits In All My Small Purses.
Great For Kids! Parental Controls Work Perfectly.
Works Perfectly With My Apple Watch. No Syncing Issues.
Works Great With My IPad. Handoff Is Seamless.
Love The Compact Size! Fits In All My Small Purses.
Works Perfectly With My Apple Watch. No Syncing Issues.
Love The Red Color! Stands Out And Gets Compliments.
Works Perfectly With My Apple Watch. No Syncing Issues.
Works Flawlessly With My AirTag. Great For Keeping Track Of My Stuff.
Works Great With Apple Pay! Super Convenient For Quick Purchases.
Perfect For My Kid’s First Phone. Parental Controls Are Easy To Set Up.
Perfect For My Elderly Dad. Big Enough Text And Simple To Use.
Perfect For My Kid’s First Phone. Parental Controls Are Easy To Set Up.
Perfect For My Kid’s First Phone. Parental Controls Are Easy To Set Up.
Perfect For My Kid’s First Phone. Parental Controls Are Easy To Set Up.
Love The Classic Design! Works Perfectly With All My Apple Subscriptions.
Works Great With My IPad. Handoff Is Seamless.
Perfect For My Kid’s First Phone. Parental Controls Are Easy To Set Up.
Love The Home Button And Touch ID! So Much Better Than Face ID. Camera Is Decent For The Price.
Switched From Android And Love How Seamless It Is With My MacBook.
Perfect For Workouts! Fits In My Armband And Doesn’t Weigh Me Down.
Perfect Size For One-handed Use. Camera Is Surprisingly Good In Daylight.
Perfect For One-handed Use. No More Dropping My Phone!
Perfect Secondary Phone For Work. Fits In My Small Crossbody Bag.
Perfect For Small Hands! Fits In All My Pockets. Wish It Had Night Mode For Photos Though.
Perfect For Workouts! Fits In My Armband And Doesn’t Weigh Me Down.
Perfect For One-handed Use. No More Dropping My Phone!
Fits Perfectly In My Running Armband. Lightweight And Durable.
Perfect For Workouts! Fits In My Armband And Doesn’t Weigh Me Down.
Perfect For One-handed Use. No More Dropping My Phone!
Perfect For One-handed Use. No More Dropping My Phone!
Battery Lasts All Day If You Don’t Use It Heavily. Perfect For Calls And Texts.
Perfect For One-handed Use. No More Dropping My Phone!
Battery Life Is Decent If You Turn Off Background App Refresh.
Perfect For Workouts! Fits In My Armband And Doesn’t Weigh Me Down.
Perfect For Workouts! Fits In My Armband And Doesn’t Weigh Me Down.
The IPhone SE Is A Great Little Phone! Perfect Size And The A13 Chip Is Still Fast. Battery Life Could Be Better Though.
Great Value For An IPhone! Does Everything I Need Without Breaking The Bank.
Low-light Photos Are Grainy. Should’ve Expected That At This Price Though.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is A Bummer. Had To Compromise.
Charging Is Slow With The Included 5W Adapter. Had To Buy A Faster One.
Speaker Quality Is Mediocre. Hard To Hear Calls In Noisy Places.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No ProMotion Display Is A Letdown. Scrolling Isn’t As Smooth.
No Headphone Jack Is Annoying, But The Adapter Works Fine.
No Telephoto Lens Is Disappointing. Portrait Mode Is Just Okay.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No 120Hz Display Feels Outdated. Everything Else Is Fine.
No Always-on Display Feels Outdated. Otherwise, Solid Phone.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No 120Hz Display Feels Outdated. Everything Else Is Fine.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is A Bummer. Had To Compromise.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is A Bummer. Had To Compromise.
Gets Warm During Video Calls. Not A Dealbreaker But Noticeable.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is A Bummer. Had To Compromise.
No Headphone Jack Is Annoying, But The Adapter Works Fine.
No Telephoto Lens Is Disappointing. Portrait Mode Is Just Okay.
No Telephoto Lens Is Disappointing. Portrait Mode Is Just Okay.
No 120Hz Display Feels Outdated. Everything Else Is Fine.
Gets Really Hot When Gaming. Performance Drops After 20 Minutes Of Heavy Use.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is Disappointing. Had To Compromise.
No 120Hz Display Feels Outdated. Everything Else Is Fine.
No Telephoto Lens Is Disappointing. Portrait Mode Is Just Okay.
No 120Hz Display Feels Outdated. Everything Else Is Fine.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is Disappointing. Had To Compromise.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is Disappointing. Had To Compromise.
No Headphone Jack Is Annoying, But The Adapter Works Fine.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is A Bummer. Had To Compromise.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is Disappointing. Had To Compromise.
No Headphone Jack Is Annoying, But The Adapter Works Fine.
No Telephoto Lens Is Disappointing. Portrait Mode Is Just Okay.
No Ultra-wide Camera Is Disappointing. Had To Compromise.
No USB-C Is Annoying In 2023. Still Stuck With Lightning Cables.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No Headphone Jack Is Annoying, But The Adapter Works Fine.
No Headphone Jack Is Annoying, But The Adapter Works Fine.
No USB-C Is Frustrating. Had To Buy Extra Lightning Cables.
No 120Hz Display Feels Outdated. Everything Else Is Fine.
Battery Drains Too Fast, Especially When Using 5G. Otherwise, Solid Performance For The Price.
Wi-Fi Drops Randomly. Had To Reset Network Settings Multiple Times.
No Expandable Storage Is Annoying. Should’ve Gotten The 128GB Version.
Battery Health Dropped To 87% In 6 Months. Not Great.
No Always-on Display Is A Bummer. Had To Switch Back To My Android For That.
No MagSafe Is Disappointing. Had To Buy A Separate Wallet.
Battery Health Dropped To 87% In 6 Months. Not Great.
Screen Is Too Small For Reading E-books Comfortably.
Battery Health Dropped To 85% In Just 8 Months. Not Impressed.
No Always-on Display Is A Bummer. Had To Switch Back To My Android For That.
No MagSafe Is Disappointing. Had To Buy A Separate Wallet.
No MagSafe Is Disappointing. Had To Buy A Separate Wallet.
No Always-on Display Is A Bummer. Had To Switch Back To My Android For That.
Battery Life Is Terrible If You Use Apps Like TikTok Or Instagram A Lot.
No MagSafe Is Disappointing. Had To Buy A Separate Wallet.
Battery Health Dropped To 87% In 6 Months. Not Great.
Screen Scratches Too Easily. Should’ve Included A Better Protector.
No MagSafe Is Disappointing. Had To Buy A Separate Wallet.
Battery Health Dropped To 87% In 6 Months. Not Great.
No Always-on Display Is A Bummer. Had To Switch Back To My Android For That.
The Screen Is Too Small For Watching Videos. Should’ve Gone With A Bigger Model.
No Always-on Display Is A Bummer. Had To Switch Back To My Android For That.
No Always-on Display Is A Bummer. Had To Switch Back To My Android For That.
Battery Health Dropped To 87% In 6 Months. Not Great.
Charging Port Is Loose After 6 Months. Apple Support Wasn’t Helpful. Disappointed.
No Night Mode Is A Dealbreaker For Me. Returning It.
No Night Mode Is A Dealbreaker For Me. Returning It.
No Night Mode Is A Dealbreaker For Me. Returning It.
No Night Mode Is A Dealbreaker For Me. Returning It.
No Night Mode Is A Dealbreaker For Me. Returning It.
No Night Mode Is A Dealbreaker For Me. Returning It.
Most Popular Mobile Phones in USA
User Experiences
Alex Carter
28 | Austin, Texas
Freelance Photographer
Explore Story
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Needed a compact yet powerful phone for on-the-go photo editing and social media management.
📌 Purchase Motivation
Wanted a reliable iOS device with a great camera that fits in my pocket easily during shoots.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
Compared it with the iPhone 11 but preferred the SE’s smaller size and Touch ID (since I often wear gloves during outdoor shoots).
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Apple’s online store—got a student discount and liked the free engraving option for personalization.
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
Unboxing felt premium, and setup was a breeze with iCloud backup from my old iPhone 7. Loved the familiar Home button!
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
Sleek and lightweight, but the glass back made me nervous—ordered a case immediately. Screen was crisp, though smaller than I’m used to.
⭐ First Week Usage
Battery life was shaky at first (died by 4 PM!), but optimized settings helped. Camera surprised me—portrait mode on my dog looked pro!
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Perfect for quick Instagram edits with Lightroom. Missed swipe-to-type at first, but now I’m used to the compact keyboard.
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
Touch ID (works with gloves), fast A13 chip for editing 4K videos, and wireless charging during coffee shop work sessions.
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
Battery anxiety on heavy shoot days. Had to carry a power bank. Also, no Night Mode for low-light shots was a bummer.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
Way faster than my iPhone 7! Miss the bigger screen sometimes, but one-handed use is a game-changer.
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
Clients love the quick previews I send via AirDrop. Personal win: Finally joined TikTok—SE handles trends without lag!
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
More active on Instagram Stories now. Friends tease me for ‘still using a tiny phone,’ but it’s my secret productivity tool.
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
Spigen rugged case, Anker power bank, and a cheap wireless charger from Amazon. Considering a lens attachment later.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
8/10—ideal for creatives who value portability. Wish it had better battery, but it’s my pocket powerhouse. Would recommend!
Maya Patel
19 | Chicago, Illinois
College Student
Explore Story
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Upgrading from an Android hand-me-down for better app compatibility and longevity.
📌 Purchase Motivation
Needed a budget-friendly iPhone to use Campus apps (some didn’t work well on Android) and for part-time food delivery gigs.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
Watched 20+ YouTube videos! Almost got the Pixel 4a but chose SE for iMessage (all my friends use it) and longer iOS updates.
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Best Buy—used my part-time savings and got an open-box deal. Salesperson threw in a free screen protector!
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
Felt so grown-up unboxing my first ‘new’ phone! Setup took forever because I’d never used iOS before—had to Google how to back up.
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
Retro design reminded me of my mom’s old iPhone. Keyboard felt tiny, but the haptic feedback was satisfying.
⭐ First Week Usage
Struggled with no back button—kept swiping randomly! But FaceTime with my grandma was crystal clear, and Uber Eats app ran smoother.
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Now I’m Team iPhone forever! Love how Snapchat filters actually look good. Hate that battery drains fast during lectures (always sit near outlets).
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
CarPlay for delivery gigs, Wallet for student ID, and Live Photos of my cat. Also, Memoji are my new addiction.
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
iCloud storage filled up fast—had to pay $0.99/month for extra space. Also, no headphone jack was annoying in my old car.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
Like going from a bicycle to a Tesla! My Samsung lagged with DoorDash, but SE multitasks like a champ.
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
Tips increased since I can respond to customers faster. Profs post slides as PDFs—SE’s markup tool saves me hours.
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
Finally in blue iMessage group chats! Got roasted for ‘green bubble’ before. Also, dating apps load 10x quicker now.
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
PopSocket for one-handed use, cheap AirPods knockoffs, and a clear case to show off my phone’s color.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
9/10—best $400 I’ve spent. Only con: battery. Perfect for broke students who want iOS without selling a kidney!
Carlos Rivera
42 | Miami, Florida
High School Teacher
Explore Story
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⭐ Reason for Purchase
Work-provided Android was glitchy during virtual classes—needed a dependable personal device.
📌 Purchase Motivation
Wanted something simple, durable, and compatible with school’s iPad cart for AirPlay lessons.
⭐ Research or Comparison Before Buying
Read Wirecutter’s ‘Best for Educators’ list. Almost chose the iPhone 11, but SE’s price and home button (gloves-friendly for whiteboard use) won me over.
⭐ Place of Purchase & Why
Apple Store—wanted in-person help transferring 8 years of parent-teacher contacts. Genius Bar guy was patient with my tech questions!
⭐ First Unboxing & Setup Reaction
Felt nostalgic—looks like my wife’s iPhone 8! Was relieved when all my Google Drive files synced easily.
⭐ Initial Impressions (Look & Feel)
Solid build, but slippery. Screen brightness was great for outdoor duty (I monitor recess).
⭐ First Week Usage
Battery barely lasted the school day until I turned off Background App Refresh. Kids noticed my new phone—‘Mr. R finally joined this century!’
🚀 Daily Usage Experience
Life-changing: scanning worksheets with Notes app instead of the broken copier. Also, recording student presentations in 4K is effortless.
⭐ Features Found Most Useful
Screen Time to limit my doomscrolling, Shared Albums for class projects, and Siri reminders for parent meetings.
⭐ Any Difficulties Faced
Had to buy a dongle to connect to the projector. Also, typing long emails on the small screen cramps my thumbs.
⭐ Experience Compared to Previous Device
My Pixel 3 had better battery, but SE’s reliability during Zoom calls is worth the trade-off.
⭐ Performance in Profession or Personal Life
Parents respond faster to Remind app messages now that I’m not a ‘green bubble.’ Personal win: finally using Apple Pay at the teacher lounge vending machine.
⭐ Social or Lifestyle Impact
Colleagues ask me for tech tips now—ironic since I’m the least techy teacher! Family loves the sharper vacation photos.
⭐ Any Accessories Used or Needed
OtterBox Defender (kids drop it constantly), stylus for grading PDFs, and a cheap Bluetooth speaker for classroom videos.
⭐ Overall Satisfaction & Personal Recommendation
7.5/10—does the job well but wish it had better battery. Great for teachers who need ‘set it and forget it’ simplicity.
Experts Reviews
Erum Nawa
Mobile Tech Expert & Reviewer
View Expert Review
+
Benchmark Scores
The A13 Bionic in the iPhone SE (2nd Gen) still impresses—scoring 1,328 single-core and 3,256 multi-core in Geekbench 5. That’s on par with 2021’s flagship Android chips! Real-world usage is buttery smooth, whether switching apps or editing 4K video. For a budget phone, this performance is unmatched
Build Quality & Materials
Classic iPhone 8 design with a glass back (hello, wireless charging!) and aerospace-grade aluminum frame. It’s sturdy but compact—perfect for small hands. The bezels are chunky by 2023 standards, but the tactile home button with Touch ID is nostalgic and functional.
Display Quality
The 4.7-inch LCD is sharp but dated—60Hz refresh rate and mediocre brightness (625 nits) show their age. Colors are accurate, but blacks lack depth compared to OLED. Fine for casual use, but media bingers might crave a bigger, brighter screen.
Camera System & Performance
The 12MP single camera shines in daylight, with Apple’s computational photography doing heavy lifting. Portrait Mode (with software-based bokeh) works surprisingly well. Low-light shots are noisy—no Night Mode is a bummer. The 7MP front camera is decent for Zoom calls but not glam selfies.
Software & User Experience
iOS 15 (and beyond) runs flawlessly—no lags, no bloatware. Touch ID is faster than Face ID with masks on! The small screen can feel cramped for productivity, but for pure iOS simplicity, it’s a joy. Guaranteed updates for years make it future-proof.
Battery Life & Charging
The 1,821mAh battery is tiny—4.5 hours of screen time max. Streaming video? Pack a charger. It supports 18W fast charging (adapter not included) and Qi wireless charging, but the battery is the biggest compromise here.
Gaming & Graphics Performance
Don’t let the size fool you—the A13 crushes games like PUBG at high settings (60fps). The small screen isn’t ideal, and the battery drains fast, but performance is flagship-level. Perfect for casual gamers who don’t marathon sessions.
Connectivity & Ports
LTE (no 5G), Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0—all solid. The Lightning port is outdated, and no headphone jack might irk some. eSIM support is handy for travelers. Call quality is crystal clear, a hallmark of iPhones.
Durability & Protection
IP67 rating means it’ll survive coffee spills, but the glass back cracks easily. Invest in a case! The aluminum frame hides minor scratches well. Not a rugged phone, but decent for everyday accidents.
Price & Value Proposition
At $429 (often $300-$350 on sale), it’s the cheapest ticket to iOS. You get flagship-tier performance but compromise on battery, camera, and modern design. Best for iOS die-hards or as a backup phone.
Ash R.
iPhone Expert & Reviewer
View Expert Review
+
Benchmark Scores
The iPhone SE (2nd Gen) packs the A13 Bionic chip, which still holds up impressively in benchmarks. In Geekbench 5, it scores around 1,330 for single-core and 3,400 for multi-core—comparable to much newer mid-range Android phones. Real-world performance is snappy, whether you're launching apps or mu
Build Quality & Materials
The iPhone SE (2nd Gen) reuses the iPhone 8’s classic design—glass back, aluminum frame, and a compact 4.7-inch form factor. It feels premium in hand, though the thick bezels are dated. The glass back enables wireless charging, a nice touch at this price. Build quality is solid, but the small size m
Display Quality
The 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD is sharp (326 PPI) and color-accurate, but it’s stuck at 60Hz. Side-by-side with OLED screens, blacks look grayer, and brightness could be better outdoors. That said, for everyday use—browsing, emails, YouTube—it’s perfectly fine. Just don’t expect the vibrancy of newer iP
Camera System & Performance
The single 12MP rear camera is surprisingly capable, thanks to the A13’s image processing. Daylight shots are crisp with good dynamic range, and Portrait Mode (despite no dedicated depth sensor) works well. Low-light performance is mediocre—no Night Mode hurts. The 7MP front camera is decent for sel
Software & User Experience
iOS runs flawlessly on the A13, with years of updates guaranteed. The small screen means some apps feel cramped (looking at you, Instagram), but the overall experience is smooth. Touch ID is fast and reliable—a welcome alternative to Face ID in a mask-heavy world. If you love iOS, this is the most a
Battery Life & Charging
Battery life is the Achilles’ heel—expect just 4-5 hours of screen time. Heavy users will need a midday top-up. It supports 18W fast charging (adapter sold separately) and Qi wireless charging, but the tiny 1,821mAh battery is a trade-off for the compact size.
Gaming & Graphics Performance
The A13 Bionic handles games like Genshin Impact and COD Mobile surprisingly well—medium to high settings at 60fps. The small screen isn’t ideal for immersive gaming, and the battery drains fast, but performance-wise, it’s a champ. Just keep a charger handy.
Connectivity & Ports
It’s got LTE (no 5G), Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0—solid for its price. The Lightning port feels outdated in 2023, and there’s no headphone jack. Call quality is excellent, and eSIM support is a plus for travelers.
Durability & Protection
IP67 rating means it can survive spills and dust, but the glass back is prone to cracks if dropped. A case is highly recommended. The aluminum frame hides scratches well, but this isn’t a rugged phone—handle with care.
Price & Value Proposition
At $429 (or often less on sale), it’s the cheapest way into the Apple ecosystem. You’re paying for the A13 and iOS, not cutting-edge features. Great for iOS loyalists or as a secondary phone, but budget Android phones offer more for the money.
WhatsApp Support
Q&A with Experts
Delete old fingerprints and re-scan at slightly different angles. Dry fingers work best!
Spigen Tough Armor or OtterBox Commuter—both under $25 and survive pavement drops!
64GB fills fast with apps/photos. Go 128GB if you keep music or games offline!
Yes! Same body size, but check if camera cutouts align—SE (2020) has a slightly bigger lens.
Press/release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold Side button until the Apple logo appears!
The A13 chip is powerful but packed in a small body—no surprise it heats up! Try closing background apps or lowering video quality.
Nope, the SE (2nd Gen) still uses Touch ID (the home button). Face ID is only on newer iPhones with the notch.
It’s there! Go to Display & Brightness → Night Shift. Maybe your iOS needs updating?
The A13 Bionic chip handles PUBG smoothly, but the smaller 4.7" screen might feel cramped for long sessions. Battery drains faster on high settings though!
SE (2nd Gen) only does Portrait Mode on the rear cam—it’s a hardware limitation.
Yes, but it eats storage (~10GB for 30 mins) and overheats fast. Stick to 1080p for longer clips.
It’s decent with Smart HDR but lacks Night Mode (that’s iPhone 11+). Use a tripod or steady hands for low light!
Technically yes, but it won’t magnetically attach—you’ll need to lay it flat. Works slower than wired charging too.
Only eSIM + physical SIM (not dual physical). Check carrier support for eSIM first!
Sorry, no Pencil support—that’s iPad-only! Try a cheap capacitive stylus instead.
Not really, but heat from cheap chargers might degrade it faster. Stick to Qi-certified pads.
Dirt or lotion on the home button? Clean it gently! If that fails, re-register fingerprints in Settings.
IP67 means it survives 1m for 30 mins—but Apple won’t cover water damage. Better safe than sorry!
The SE’s LCD isn’t as bright as OLED iPhones. Max brightness + disable Auto-Brightness helps a little.
Apple Stores or authorized providers do it for $49. Third-party shops are cheaper but might void water resistance.
Nope, still LTE-only. Apple saved 5G for the iPhone 12 and later models.
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Developer Resources
Acessories
| ✅ Fast Charger 20W USB-C Power Adapter Compact 20W adapter for quick charging your iPhone SE (2nd Gen) with USB-C to Lightning cable |
| ✅ Qi-certified pad for convenient cable-free charging at home or office |
| ✅ Screen Protector (Tempered Glass) Ultra-clear glass protector to prevent scratches and cracks on your iPhone SE display |
| ✅ Protective Case with Kickstand Durable case with built-in kickstand for hands-free viewing and added drop protection |
| ✅ Strong magnetic mount for secure phone placement while driving |
| ✅ Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Adapter Lets you use wired headphones with your iPhone SE (2nd Gen) |
| ✅ Compact battery pack for on-the-go charging with Lightning input |
| ✅ Wireless earbuds with great sound quality for calls and music |
| ✅ Expandable grip for better phone handling and stand functionality |
| ✅ Protects your iPhone SE from water during outdoor activities |
| ✅ Adds USB, HDMI, and SD card slots for expanded connectivity |
| ✅ Clip-on lenses for wide-angle and macro photography |
Security Features
Go to **Settings** > [Your Name] > **iCloud** > **iCloud Backup**, then toggle **iCloud Backup** on.
Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Enroll Face. Follow on-screen prompts to scan your face in a c
Built-in hardware feature—no setup needed. Automatically secures data when Face ID or passcode is en
Encryption is always active when a passcode is set. Go to **Settings** > **Face ID & Passcode** (or
Enable in Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > toggle on "Find My iPhone" and "Enable Offline Finding.
Go to Settings > General > Software Update > toggle on "Download iOS Updates" and "Install iOS Updat
Enable in **Settings** > [Your Name] > **Find My** > **Find My iPhone**, then toggle all options. Te
Press and hold side + volume buttons until SOS slider appears. Drag or continue holding to auto-call
Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking > toggle off "Allow Apps to Request to Track."
Go to **Settings** > **Privacy & Security** > **Tracking**, then toggle **Allow Apps to Request to T
Go to Settings > Cellular > SIM PIN > enable and set a 4–8 digit code.
Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising > toggle off "Personalized Ads."
Enable in **Settings** > [Your Name] > **iCloud** > **Passwords & Keychain**, then toggle **Sync thi
Enable in Settings > Privacy & Security > Lockdown Mode > tap "Turn On Lockdown Mode."
Built-in with Face ID—no setup needed. Just double-click side button to pay.
Go to **Settings** > **Safari** > **Privacy & Security**, then enable **Prevent Cross-Site Tracking*
Enable in **Settings** > [Your Name] > **Password & Security** > **Two-Factor Authentication**, then
Activate in **Settings** > **Privacy & Security** > **Lockdown Mode**, then tap **Turn On Lockdown M
Go to **Settings** > **Mail** > **Privacy Protection**, then toggle **Protect Mail Activity** on.
No setup needed! Encryption is automatic. Verify by checking for **"Secure"** under the contact name
Go to **Settings** > **Wi-Fi**, tap the **(!)** icon next to a network, and enable **Auto-Join Off**
Enable in **Settings** > **Privacy & Security** > **App Privacy Report**, then tap **Turn On App Pri
Go to **Settings** > **Siri & Search** > **Siri Responses**, then select **On Device** for preferred
Enable in **Settings** > **General** > **Software Update** > **Automatic Updates**, then toggle all
Go to **Settings** > **Face ID & Passcode**, scroll down, and toggle **Erase Data** under **Failed A
Go to **Settings** > [Your Name] > **iCloud** > **iCloud Backup**, then toggle **iCloud Backup** on.
Go to Settings > Face ID & Passcode > Enroll Face. Follow on-screen prompts to scan your face in a c
Built-in hardware feature—no setup needed. Automatically secures data when Face ID or passcode is en
Encryption is always active when a passcode is set. Go to **Settings** > **Face ID & Passcode** (or
Enable in Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > toggle on "Find My iPhone" and "Enable Offline Finding.
Go to Settings > General > Software Update > toggle on "Download iOS Updates" and "Install iOS Updat
Enable in **Settings** > [Your Name] > **Find My** > **Find My iPhone**, then toggle all options. Te
Press and hold side + volume buttons until SOS slider appears. Drag or continue holding to auto-call
Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Tracking > toggle off "Allow Apps to Request to Track."
Go to **Settings** > **Privacy & Security** > **Tracking**, then toggle **Allow Apps to Request to T
Go to Settings > Cellular > SIM PIN > enable and set a 4–8 digit code.
Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Apple Advertising > toggle off "Personalized Ads."
Enable in **Settings** > [Your Name] > **iCloud** > **Passwords & Keychain**, then toggle **Sync thi
Enable in Settings > Privacy & Security > Lockdown Mode > tap "Turn On Lockdown Mode."
Built-in with Face ID—no setup needed. Just double-click side button to pay.
Go to **Settings** > **Safari** > **Privacy & Security**, then enable **Prevent Cross-Site Tracking*
Enable in **Settings** > [Your Name] > **Password & Security** > **Two-Factor Authentication**, then
Activate in **Settings** > **Privacy & Security** > **Lockdown Mode**, then tap **Turn On Lockdown M
Go to **Settings** > **Mail** > **Privacy Protection**, then toggle **Protect Mail Activity** on.
No setup needed! Encryption is automatic. Verify by checking for **"Secure"** under the contact name
Go to **Settings** > **Wi-Fi**, tap the **(!)** icon next to a network, and enable **Auto-Join Off**
Enable in **Settings** > **Privacy & Security** > **App Privacy Report**, then tap **Turn On App Pri
Go to **Settings** > **Siri & Search** > **Siri Responses**, then select **On Device** for preferred
Enable in **Settings** > **General** > **Software Update** > **Automatic Updates**, then toggle all
Go to **Settings** > **Face ID & Passcode**, scroll down, and toggle **Erase Data** under **Failed A
Special Features
🔋 Battery Saver For Road TripsAutomatically Adjusts Screen Brightness And Background Apps When GPS Detects Long Drives Benefit: No more frantic charging stops—your phone lasts from Vegas to LA without dying on you! |
😜 Quick Memoji ReactionsInstantly Send Animated Memoji Stickers By Holding The Home Button During Texts Benefit: Spice up boring group chats with your face making ridiculous expressions in seconds. |
� Emergency SOS Via Side ButtonPress And Hold Power + Volume To Discreetly Alert Authorities With Your Location Benefit: Because sometimes you need help fast without fumbling through menus. |
🌙 Night Shift For Late ScrollersWarms Screen Colors After Sunset To Reduce Eye Strain During Endless TikTok Binges Benefit: Your eyeballs will thank you when you’re doomscrolling at 2AM. |
🍔 Wallet For Drive-ThrusDouble-click Home Button To Pull Up Apple Pay Before The Cashier Even Finishes Asking Benefit: Skip digging for cards with ketchup-stained hands—just tap and go. |
📱 Optimized Storage For HoardersAutomatically Offloads Unused Apps When Storage Fills Up (but Keeps Your 10,000 Memes Safe) Benefit: Never delete precious cat videos to make space for "important" work files again. |
📶 5G Auto-DowngradeSwitches To LTE In Areas With Spotty 5G To Save Battery Without Killing Your Stream Benefit: Watch playoff games buffer-free even if your carrier’s 5G is pretending to work. |
🎧 Find My AirPods HackUse The SE’s Find My App To Locate Lost AirPods—even If They’re Buried In Couch Cushions Benefit: Because losing one earbud is basically a national emergency. |
⌨️ Haptic Keyboard FeedbackGet Subtle Clicks When Typing To Feel Like You’re Using A Fancy Mechanical Keyboard Benefit: Fake productivity boost for typing angry tweets with ~*~*~vibes~*~*~. |
🚗 CarPlay For Old RidesWorks With Any Car Made After 2000—no Fancy Infotainment System Required Benefit: Turn your grandma’s Camry into a smart(ish) car for under $10. |
☕ Siri Shortcut For Coffee RunsSay “Hey Siri, Caffeine Emergency” To Open Starbucks App And Order Your Usual Benefit: Because articulating words is hard before that first cup. |
☔ Rain Mode For TextsAuto-enlarges Tap Targets When Sensors Detect Wet Fingers (poolside Margarita Proof) Benefit: No more accidentally sending “HEY” instead of “HELP” during water fights. |
📸 DIY Portrait LightingEdit Depth Effects Post-shot To Make Your Selfies Look Like A Pro Took Them Benefit: Turn bad lighting into ~*~aesthetic~*~ without paying for VSCO filters. |
🎭 Theater Mode TweakMutes Notifications And Dims Screen When It Senses You’re In A Dark Room Benefit: Avoid getting glared at for texting during Hamilton (again). |
🥢 Siri Translate For TakeoutAsk “How Do I Say ‘extra Spicy’ In Mandarin?” While Ordering Dumplings Benefit: Impress your local spot—or at least avoid bland food disasters. |
🤳 Back Tap For SelfiesDouble-tap The Rear Apple Logo To Snap Hands-free Pics Without Yelling “Hey Siri” Benefit: Perfect for group shots where everyone’s arms are too short. |
⏳ Optimized ChargingLearns Your Bedtime Routine To Stop Charging At 80% Until You Wake Up Benefit: Extend battery lifespan while you’re busy ignoring your alarm. |
🎤 Voice Memos To TextInstantly Transcribes Recordings Of Lectures/work Rants Into Searchable Notes Benefit: Finally understand what your professor mumbled in that 8AM class. |
📂 App Library Auto-SortHides Rarely Used Apps (looking At You, Stocks) But Keeps Them Searchable Benefit: Declutter your home screen without losing your 2018 Pokémon GO addiction. |
🌧️ Weather Alerts For Dog WalksNotifies You If Rain’s Coming Within 15 Mins Of Your Usual Walking Route Benefit: Save your doodle from becoming a soggy mop (and your floors from muddy paws). |
🅿️ Find My Parked CarDrops A Pin When Bluetooth Disconnects From Your Car Stereo At Walmart Benefit: Because wandering parking lots is America’s least favorite cardio. |
🧑🍳 Safari Reader For RecipesStrips Ads And Life Stories From Cooking Sites To Just Show Ingredients Benefit: Get to the damn instructions without reading about someone’s Italian grandma first. |
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 battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health Benefit: Avoid buying a phone with degraded battery (below 80%) |
| ✅ Inspect for scratches or dents on the body Benefit: Reveals if the phone was dropped or mishandled |
| ✅ Check if the Touch ID works properly Benefit: Confirms the home button and fingerprint sensor are functional |
| ✅ Test the rear and front cameras with photos and videos Benefit: Ensures no lens damage or focus issues |
| ✅ Verify Wi-Fi and cellular signal strength Benefit: Prevents buying a phone with antenna or modem problems |
| ✅ Check for water damage indicators (near SIM tray) Benefit: Red flags if exposed to moisture, which can cause future failures |
| ✅ Test all buttons (volume, power, mute switch) Benefit: Guarantees no sticky or unresponsive hardware |
| ✅ Ask if iCloud account is fully removed Benefit: Avoids activation lock making the phone unusable |
| ✅ Inspect screen for dead pixels or discoloration Benefit: Ensures display quality isn't compromised |
| ✅ Try charging with original cable Benefit: Reveals port damage or third-party part issues |
| ✅ Check microphone and speaker during a call Benefit: Prevents audio hardware defects affecting daily use |
Pro Secrets
Video Library
How We Supported iPhone Users
Your website helped me decide between the iPhone SE and newer models. The battery life comparison was super clear—saved me from buyer’s remorse!
Love how fast the site loads specs! Confirmed the SE’s A13 chip still holds up for my TikTok edits. No lag, no regrets.
Repair guide saved my life when my screen cracked. Found a cheap local shop through your links—back to Pokémon GO in 2 days!
Wish there were more deals listed. Got my SE refurbished but had to hunt elsewhere for coupons. Solid info though.
LOL at the “budget iPhone” meme—your camera samples convinced me! Night mode isn’t flagship level but hey, $200 less? Worth it.
Battery section needs updating. Mine drains faster than your review claims, especially on 5G. Otherwise, spot-on!
Your carrier compatibility chart = MVP. Switched to Mint Mobile without any headaches thanks to you guys.
Site crashed twice while checking storage options (128GB gang!). Fixed now, but add more server juice pls.
Used your trade-in calculator and got $50 extra at Apple. Pro tip: delete those cat pics first!
The “SE vs Android” breakdown was clutch. My Galaxy-loving dad finally switched after reading it.
Where’s the love for cases? Found a cute one via your affiliate link—drop more accessories recs!
Accurate repair cost estimates! Saved $80 fixing my home button vs. Apple Store quotes.