Introduction: The SE Series — Small Size, Big Legacy
When Apple launched the first iPhone SE in 2016, it was more than just a cheaper alternative. It was a love letter to compact phone fans and a reminder that power doesn’t always need to come in a large body. Over the years, I’ve owned and used every version of the iPhone SE—from the original 2016 release to the 2022 model—and this journey gave me a unique perspective on what makes the SE line special, where it shines, and where it falls short.
In this article, I’ll walk you through my hands-on experience with each generation, provide real-world insights, performance breakdowns, and finally share whether the iPhone SE is still worth considering in 2025.
iPhone SE (2016): The Compact Beast That Surprised Everyone
Released in March 2016, the original iPhone SE was a unique product. Apple took the beloved 4-inch design of the iPhone 5s and packed it with the internals of the iPhone 6s.
My Experience: Small but Mighty
I remember holding it for the first time—it felt like going back in time, but with modern speed. Everything was snappy, from opening apps to switching between tasks. The device was shockingly capable for its size.
Specs Recap:
- Display: 4.0-inch Retina (1136x640)
- Processor: Apple A9 chip
- Camera: 12MP rear, 1.2MP front
- Storage: 16/32/64/128GB
- Touch ID: Yes
Highlights:
- Amazing performance in a compact body
- Flagship-level camera
- Great battery life for its size
Downsides:
- Screen too small for media or typing
- Front camera was weak, even for 2016
- Design felt dated by the end of 2017
iPhone SE (2020): Power Meets Familiarity
Four years later, Apple revived the SE line. But this time, they ditched the 4-inch form and instead used the iPhone 8's body. It came with the blazing-fast A13 Bionic chip—the same one used in the iPhone 11 series.
My Experience: Perfect Performance, Polarizing Design
I used the SE 2020 as my daily driver for over six months. It was incredibly fast, and handled gaming, photography, and multitasking with ease. But coming from edge-to-edge displays, the large bezels felt outdated.
Specs Recap:
- Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD
- Processor: Apple A13 Bionic
- Camera: 12MP single lens
- Touch ID: Yes (Home Button)
- Wireless Charging: Yes
Highlights:
- Flagship-level performance for half the price
- Excellent build quality
- iOS updates for years to come
Downsides:
- Large bezels felt ancient
- Single rear camera limited versatility
- Battery life was average
iPhone SE (2022): Power Upgrade, Same Old Shell
Apple followed the same formula in 2022—same body, same screen, same single rear camera—but this time with the A15 Bionic chip, the same used in the iPhone 13 series.
My Experience: A Missed Opportunity
This phone felt like déjà vu. It was lightning fast, yes. But it still looked and felt like a 2017 iPhone. Using it in 2022—and especially now in 2025—feels like carrying an antique with modern internals.
Specs Recap:
- Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD
- Processor: Apple A15 Bionic
- 5G Support: Yes
- Camera: 12MP rear, 7MP front
- Touch ID: Yes
Highlights:
- Super-fast and efficient processor
- Reliable camera in good lighting
- Compact and lightweight
Downsides:
- Same tired design
- Small battery, fast drain on 5G
- Poor low-light photography
- No Face ID
The iPhone SE Legacy: What Apple Got Right (and Wrong)
After using every SE, I can confidently say the line succeeded in delivering top-tier performance at mid-range prices, but compromised heavily on design and camera innovation.
Strengths Over the Years:
- Long-term iOS support
- Reliable build quality
- Great value for performance
- Ideal for seniors or first-time users
Weaknesses That Persisted:
- Outdated design language
- Limited camera capabilities
- Small screen and battery
- No Face ID or modern features
iPhone SE in 2025: Is It Still Worth Buying?
In 2025, the iPhone SE 2022 is still sold in some markets, and a rumored SE 4 may launch with a design based on the iPhone XR or 11. But unless that happens, the current SE line feels frozen in time.
You Should Buy SE 2022 If:
- You want the cheapest new iPhone with 5G
- You love Touch ID and smaller phones
- You don’t care about advanced cameras
You Should Skip It If:
- You want a modern design
- You care about low-light photos
- You’re used to big screens and Face ID
Final Verdict: A Series That Deserves a Fresh Start
I’ve loved and lived with every iPhone SE, and they all had their time and place. The original SE was revolutionary. The 2020 edition revived the spirit. The 2022 version refined performance. But now, in 2025, it’s time for Apple to rethink the SE line.
We need a modern SE—one that retains value, compactness, and power, but also embraces modern design and camera tech. If Apple can strike that balance, the SE line could become legendary once again.
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