iPhone SE (2nd Gen) Review: Specs, Pros & Cons, FAQs & Should You Buy in 2024?
iPhone SE (2nd Generation) – A Classic Design with Modern Performance
Launched in April 2020, the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) merges a familiar compact design with the powerful A13 Bionic chip, delivering a smooth and efficient user experience. It features a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, offering sharp visuals while retaining the traditional Home button with Touch ID for secure authentication.
Performance & Camera
Designed to provide flagship-level performance at an affordable price, this model inherits the processing power of the iPhone 11 series, ensuring fast app launches and seamless multitasking. Its 12-megapixel rear camera supports Portrait mode, Smart HDR, and 4K video recording, allowing users to capture high-quality images and videos effortlessly. The 7-megapixel front camera ensures clear selfies and smooth video calls.
Battery & Connectivity
For added convenience, the device supports wireless charging and fast charging, reaching 50% battery in about 30 minutes with an 18W adapter. With dual SIM support (nano-SIM + eSIM), users can manage personal and work lines efficiently.
Durability & Software Updates
Available in Black, White, and (Product) RED, the iPhone SE (2nd Gen) is IP67-rated, meaning it can withstand dust and water exposure. Even in 2025, it remains fully compatible with the latest iOS updates, making it a reliable and future-proof choice for those who prefer a compact yet powerful iPhone.
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₹17,998Buy Now |
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Complete Specifications
General Information
Model: iPhone SE (2nd Generation)
Release Date: April 2020
Launch Status: Launched
Price in India: Starting at ₹42,500
Global Price: Starting at $399
Build & Design
Front & Back Protection: Ion-strengthened glass
Frame Type: Aluminum frame
Water & Dust Resistance: IP67-rated (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes)
Color Options: Black, White, (PRODUCT)RED
Display
Size: 4.7 inches
Resolution: 1334 x 750 pixels at 326 ppi
Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
Brightness Levels: 625 nits (typical)
Color Gamut: Wide color (P3)
HDR Support: Supports Dolby Vision and HDR10 playback
Touch Sensitivity: Haptic Touch
Performance & Hardware
CPU Cores & Speed: 6-core CPU (2 performance cores + 4 efficiency cores)
GPU: 4-core GPU
Neural Engine: 16-core Neural Engine
RAM Options: Not specified
Internal Storage Variants: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Camera System
Ultra-Wide Sensor: Not available
Telephoto Sensor: Not available
LiDAR Scanner: Not available
Optical Zoom Levels: Digital zoom up to 5x
Night Mode: Not available
Deep Fusion: Available
Smart HDR: Smart HDR 4
Cinematic Mode: Not available
ProRAW & ProRes Support: Not available
Front Camera
Portrait Mode Features: Portrait mode with Depth Control, Portrait Lighting (six effects)
Animoji & Memoji Support: Available
Cinematic Mode for Selfies: Not available
HDR & Night Mode: Smart HDR 4; Night mode not available
Video Recording
Slow Motion Support: Offers slow-motion video capture at 1080p resolution with frame rates of 120fps and 240fps.
Time-Lapse Mode: Includes time-lapse video recording with stabilization for smoother results.
HDR & Dolby Vision: Standard HDR video recording available, but Dolby Vision HDR support is not included.
Pro-Level Video Format: The device does not support ProRes video recording.
Stabilization Features: Optical image stabilization (OIS) is present for video recording, reducing unwanted shakes.
Security & Authentication
Encrypted Security: Includes a Secure Enclave processor to protect sensitive user data and biometric credentials.
Privacy Enhancements: Comes with Apple’s built-in privacy controls, such as App Tracking Transparency and data protection measures.
Battery & Charging
Wired Charging Speed: Supports fast charging via a 20W or higher power adapter, capable of reaching 50% charge in around 30 minutes (adapter sold separately).
Wireless Charging: Qi wireless charging compatible, allowing convenient cable-free power replenishment.
MagSafe Compatibility: MagSafe charging is not supported on this model.
Reverse Wireless Charging: Not available—the device does not support charging other devices wirelessly.
Connectivity & Network
4G LTE Bands: Offers extensive LTE support, including FDD-LTE and TD-LTE bands, ensuring reliable network performance.
Wi-Fi Standard: Equipped with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for faster wireless connectivity.
Bluetooth Version: Features Bluetooth 5.0, providing improved range and connectivity with supported accessories.
Ultra-Wideband (UWB): Does not include UWB technology for spatial awareness features.
NFC Support: Supports NFC with reader mode, enabling Apple Pay and other contactless interactions.
SIM Options: Offers dual SIM functionality, supporting one physical nano-SIM and one eSIM for added flexibility.
Gyroscope: Included; aids in precise motion tracking.
Proximity Sensor: Included; turns off the display during calls when the phone is near the ear.
Ambient Light Sensor: Included; adjusts screen brightness based on surrounding light conditions.
Barometer: Included; measures atmospheric pressure to assist in altitude determination.
LiDAR Sensor: Not available in this model; LiDAR technology is present in more recent iPhone models for enhanced depth sensing.
Audio & Multimedia
Dolby Atmos & Spatial Audio: This model does not support Dolby Atmos or Spatial Audio technologies; these features are available in newer iPhone models.
Noise Cancellation: Equipped with noise cancellation technology for phone calls, enhancing call clarity by reducing background noise.
Audio Zoom for Video: This feature is not supported on the iPhone SE (2nd Generation); it is available on more recent iPhone models.
Buttons & Controls
Volume Rocker: Consists of two separate buttons for increasing and decreasing volume.
Power Button: Located on the right side, used to wake or sleep the device and power it on or off.
Additional Features
Emergency SOS via Satellite: This model does not offer satellite-based Emergency SOS functionality; this feature is available in select newer iPhone models.
Crash Detection: Crash detection capabilities are not present in the iPhone SE (2nd Generation); this safety feature is included in more recent iPhone models.
Apple Pay Support: The device supports Apple Pay, enabling secure contactless payments using NFC technology.
Third-Party App Store Availability: Users can download and install applications exclusively through Apple's App Store; alternative app stores are not supported.
CarPlay & AirPlay: The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) supports both CarPlay and AirPlay, allowing seamless integration with compatible vehicles and wireless streaming to supported devices.
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₹39,900(Red, 64 GB) (Includes EarPods, Power Adapter) Buy Now |
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₹39,900(Black, 64 GB) (Includes EarPods, Power Adapter) Buy Now |
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₹39,900(White, 64 GB) (Includes EarPods, Power Adapter) Buy Now |
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₹44,900(Red, 128 GB) (Includes EarPods, Power Adapter) Buy Now |
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₹44,900(Black, 128 GB) (Includes EarPods, Power Adapter) Buy Now |
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₹44,900(White, 128 GB) (Includes EarPods, Power Adapter) Buy Now |
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₹54,900(Red, 256 GB) Buy Now |
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₹54,900(Black, 256 GB) (Includes EarPods, Power Adapter) Buy Now |
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₹54,900(White, 256 GB) (Includes EarPods, Power Adapter) Buy Now |
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Image Gallery
Performance & Features (In-Depth Review)
The **A13 Bionic chip** powers the iPhone SE (2nd Generation), delivering impressive speed and efficiency. Benchmarks show a high **single-core performance** score of around **1,670** and a **multi-core score of 3,033**, indicating robust processing capabilities for everyday tasks and more demanding apps.
With a built-in **4-core GPU**, the device ensures smooth rendering of graphics, making it suitable for both gaming and video content. **Geekbench scores** for **Metal graphics** come in at approximately **12,767**, ensuring an optimal experience when playing graphics-heavy games or watching videos.
The device is equipped with **3GB of RAM**, which helps in fluid multitasking. It offers storage options in **64GB**, **128GB**, and **256GB** variants, allowing users to choose the model that fits their storage needs.
The **12MP rear camera** delivers high-quality images, supporting features like **4K video recording**. However, it lacks **Night Mode**, which affects low-light image quality. Still, it captures well-lit pictures, especially in bright settings, making it a strong contender in its price range.
With **fast charging** support, the iPhone SE (2nd Gen) can reach **50% charge in about 30 minutes** when using an 18W adapter. While it offers **wireless charging**, heavy users may find themselves needing to recharge mid-day during intensive use.
The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) supports **4G LTE** connectivity, ensuring fast data speeds for browsing, video streaming, and social media, keeping you connected throughout the day.
Although it launched with **iOS 13**, the device is currently running the latest version of **iOS 18.3.2**, making sure it benefits from the most recent features and security patches available.
Pros & Cons
iPhone SE (2nd Generation) - The Compact Powerhouse
The iPhone SE (2020) is Apple's answer to users who love compact phones with flagship power at a budget-friendly price. But is it still a smart choice in 2024? Let’s dive into its strengths and weaknesses.
✅ Pros: What Makes It Great?
Despite its small size, the iPhone SE packs a punch with Apple’s A13 Bionic processor, ensuring smooth performance for gaming, apps, and iOS updates.
🔹 Classic & Compact Design
With a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, this phone fits perfectly in one hand, offering a lightweight and easy-to-carry experience.
🔹 Touch ID for Secure Unlocking
The physical Home Button with Touch ID is a rare find in modern iPhones, providing fast and secure authentication.
🔹 Capable 12MP Camera with 4K Video
The single 12MP rear camera delivers sharp, vibrant photos and records 4K videos, making it great for casual photography.
🔹 Wireless Charging & Water Resistance
Unlike many budget phones, the iPhone SE supports Qi wireless charging and comes with an IP67 water resistance rating—meaning it can survive spills and splashes.
❌ Cons: Where It Falls Short
The iPhone 8-like design with large bezels makes it look old-school compared to modern edge-to-edge displays.
⚠️ No 5G Support
While newer iPhones boast blazing-fast 5G connectivity, the SE (2020) is limited to 4G LTE, which could feel slow in the coming years.
⚠️ Average Battery Life
Its 1,821 mAh battery struggles to last a full day with heavy use, especially with gaming or video streaming.
⚠️ No Night Mode in the Camera
Unlike newer iPhones, low-light photography is a weak point as there’s no dedicated Night Mode.
⚠️ Limited Storage Options
The base model starts at 64GB, which might fill up fast if you store lots of apps, photos, or videos.
📌 Final Verdict: Should You Still Buy It?
The iPhone SE (2nd Gen) is perfect if you want a powerful yet affordable iPhone with a compact design and Touch ID. However, if you need modern features like 5G, all-day battery life, or advanced cameras, it might feel outdated.
If you’re on a budget and okay with a classic design, this phone still offers great value. Otherwise, consider newer options like the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) or iPhone 13 Mini.
📌 Conclusion: Is the iPhone SE (2nd Gen) Still Worth It?
The iPhone SE (2nd Generation) remains a budget-friendly powerhouse with a flagship A13 Bionic chip, compact design, and Touch ID. However, it lacks modern features like 5G support, all-day battery life, and Night Mode for photography.
✅ Who Should Buy It?
- Budget-conscious users looking for a reliable iPhone at an affordable price.
- Fans of compact phones who prefer one-handed usability over large displays.
- Users who love Touch ID and a classic iPhone design.
- Those upgrading from older models like the iPhone 6, 6s, or 7.
❌ Who Should Skip It?
- Heavy users who need a longer battery life and a modern display.
- Photography enthusiasts who want better low-light performance and multiple cameras.
- Users who need 5G connectivity for future-proofing.
- Gamers & power users who want a high-refresh-rate display and a larger battery.
⭐ Final Verdict
If you need an affordable iPhone with strong performance and a familiar design, the iPhone SE (2nd Gen) is still a solid choice in 2024. However, if you’re looking for modern features, you might want to consider the iPhone SE (3rd Gen), iPhone 13 Mini, or newer models.
👉 Buy Now at the Best Price!📌 iPhone SE (2nd Generation) – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
📅 When was the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) released?
A: Apple launched the iPhone SE (2nd Gen) on April 15, 2020. It became available for purchase later that month.
📱 What are the display specifications of the iPhone SE (2nd Generation)?
A: It features a 4.7-inch Retina HD display with a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels at 326 ppi. The display supports True Tone, Wide Color (P3), and has a maximum brightness of 625 nits.
⚡ What processor does the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) use?
A: This device is powered by the A13 Bionic chip, which includes a 6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, and an 8-core Neural Engine for AI-powered tasks.
📷 How is the camera system on the iPhone SE (2nd Generation)?
A: It has a single 12MP Wide camera with an f/1.8 aperture, Smart HDR, and 4K video recording at up to 60 fps. The front-facing camera is 7MP with an f/2.2 aperture, supporting 1080p video recording.
💧 Is the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) water-resistant?
A: Yes, it has an IP67 rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes and is resistant to dust.
📶 Does the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) support 5G?
A: No, it supports 4G LTE but does not have 5G capabilities.
🔋 How is the battery life on the iPhone SE (2nd Generation)?
A: The battery lasts up to 13 hours of video playback and supports fast charging, reaching 50% in about 30 minutes with an 18W adapter (sold separately).
🔑 Does the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) have Face ID?
A: No, it uses Touch ID for fingerprint authentication, built into the Home button.
⚡ Does the iPhone SE (2nd Generation) support wireless charging?
A: Yes, it is compatible