iPhone 7 Vs iPhone SE (2016)

iPhone 7
iPhone 7
Starting at

£62.48

£179.00 new

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iPhone SE (2016)
iPhone SE (2016)
Starting at

£33.00

£149.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone SE (2016) and iPhone 7 (2016) were both released in the same year, offering distinct experiences within Apple's smartphone lineup. While the iPhone SE focused on a compact design with familiar features, the iPhone 7 introduced a larger display, updated camera technology, and a redesigned home button, alongside water resistance. Both devices run on the iOS operating system, though their hardware capabilities lead to different user experiences.

Scores

Durability

These two models, released in 2016, have reached the end of their official software update cycle, with iOS 15 being their final supported version. This impacts their practical lifespan for modern applications.

  • Software Longevity: Both the iPhone SE (2016) and iPhone 7 no longer receive the latest iOS updates, meaning newer apps may eventually cease to function optimally or be supported.
  • Repairability: Both models are older, and while parts are generally available for refurbishment, the iPhone 7 introduced IP67 water and dust resistance, offering a slight edge in protection against accidental spills compared to the iPhone SE (2016), which lacks this feature.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users can expect these devices to handle basic communication, web browsing, and older applications, but their utility for demanding tasks or future software will be limited.

Year of Release

2016

2016

Compatible with latest Update

No

No

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance differences between these two devices stem from their respective processors, influencing how smoothly they handle daily tasks and applications.

  • Processor Capabilities: The iPhone 7 features a more advanced processor compared to the iPhone SE (2016). This translates to faster app loading times, smoother navigation, and better handling of multiple applications simultaneously on the iPhone 7.
  • System Responsiveness: While the iPhone SE (2016) can manage basic tasks, the iPhone 7 offers a noticeably more responsive experience, especially when switching between apps or running slightly more demanding software.
  • Storage Options: Both models were available with various storage capacities, allowing users to choose based on their needs for apps, photos, and media. However, neither supports expandable storage.

Memory

2 GB

2 GB

Screen quality

The display experience differs primarily in size and resolution, impacting media consumption and general interaction.

  • Display Technology: Both devices feature LCD Retina displays, known for their natural color reproduction and good viewing angles.
  • Screen Size and Clarity: The iPhone SE (2016) has a compact 4.0-inch display, while the iPhone 7 offers a larger 4.7-inch screen. The iPhone 7's display also has a higher resolution, resulting in a slightly sharper image and more screen real estate for content.
  • Brightness Levels: The iPhone 7's display generally achieves higher brightness levels, which can improve visibility in bright outdoor conditions compared to the iPhone SE (2016).

Resolution

750 x 1334

640 x 1136

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities see a significant upgrade with the iPhone 7, particularly in front-facing photography and overall image quality.

  • Rear Camera System: Both phones feature a 12-megapixel rear camera. However, the iPhone 7 includes optical image stabilization (OIS), which helps reduce blur in photos and videos, especially in lower light conditions, a feature absent from the iPhone SE (2016).
  • Front Camera Performance: The iPhone 7 has a 7-megapixel front camera, offering significantly higher resolution and better image quality for selfies and video calls compared to the 1.2-megapixel front camera on the iPhone SE (2016).
  • Audio Experience: The iPhone 7 introduced stereo speakers, providing a richer audio experience for media playback compared to the mono speaker on the iPhone SE (2016). The iPhone SE (2016) retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, which the iPhone 7 removed.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

7 megapixels

1.2 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements distinguish these two models, from connectivity to physical design.

  • Connectivity Options: Both devices support 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, and Bluetooth 4.2, providing reliable wireless connections for internet and accessories.
  • Port Types: The iPhone SE (2016) includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack alongside its Lightning port. The iPhone 7 removed the headphone jack, relying solely on the Lightning port for charging, data, and audio via adapters or compatible accessories.
  • Physical Design: The iPhone SE (2016) is notably smaller and lighter, making it easier for one-handed use and pocketability. The iPhone 7 is larger and heavier, offering a more expansive screen experience. The iPhone 7 also features a solid-state home button with Taptic Engine feedback, a departure from the physical button on the iPhone SE (2016).

Weight

138 g

113 g

Width

6,71 cm

5,86 cm

Height

13,83 cm

12,38 cm

Depth

0,71 cm

0,76 cm

Screen size (in)

4.7

4

Network

4G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

User sentiment for the iPhone SE (2016) often praises its compact form factor, making it ideal for those who prefer a smaller phone that is easy to handle and pocket. Its main criticism, even at the time of release, was its aging design and front camera. The iPhone 7, on the other hand, was generally well-received for its improved camera, water resistance, and stereo speakers, though the removal of the headphone jack was a point of contention for some users.

Users prioritizing a highly portable device with a traditional headphone jack for basic communication and light app usage may find the iPhone SE (2016) suitable. Conversely, users seeking a slightly larger screen, better camera capabilities, water resistance, and a more responsive overall experience will likely lean towards the iPhone 7. Both devices are now considered older models, best suited for users with minimal demands or as a secondary device. Opting for a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can be an eco-friendly alternative, extending the life of these devices and providing a sustainable choice for budget-conscious consumers.