iPhone SE (2022) in 2025 – Still Worth It? A Real User Experience

Published: May 2025.

Back in early 2022, Apple launched the third-generation iPhone SE with a promise: flagship power in a nostalgic, compact body. It was Apple’s answer to budget-conscious users who wanted performance over flash. Now, in 2025, after three years of software updates, evolving user expectations, and fierce competition in the budget phone market — is the iPhone SE (2022) still worth buying or holding onto?

I’ve used the iPhone SE (2022) extensively over the past year alongside more modern devices like the Galaxy A55 and Pixel 8a. What follows is a brutally honest, real-world review based on how the SE holds up in 2025.

Classic Design That Feels… Dated?

The iPhone SE (2022) was already controversial in 2022 for keeping the old iPhone 8 chassis. Fast forward to 2025, and this design feels like a throwback — and not always in a good way.

• 4.7-inch LCD display with thick bezels
• Home button with Touch ID — still snappy and reliable
• Single rear camera, no night mode

Compared to phones like the Galaxy Z Fold 4 or even mid-range devices like the Redmi Note 13, the SE looks tiny and outdated. But I’ll be honest — there's a certain charm to its compactness. It's one of the last phones you can fully use one-handed without stretching or struggling.

Display: Not for 2025 Eyes

The Retina HD LCD panel still produces decent colors and sharpness for everyday use. But in 2025, 60Hz refresh rate and thick bezels are a hard pill to swallow. Watching YouTube, browsing Instagram, or even reading articles just isn’t as immersive anymore.

If display quality and modern aesthetics matter to you, the SE (2022) will disappoint — especially when similarly priced Android phones now offer OLED panels with 120Hz refresh rates.

Performance: How the iPhone SE (2022) Holds Up in 2025

Apple packed the iPhone SE (2022) with the same A15 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 13 series, making it an impressive performer for its time. Fast-forward to 2025, and while the A15 is no longer cutting-edge, it still holds up well for day-to-day tasks.

• Apps open quickly, multitasking is smooth for most uses
• Gaming performance is still respectable, handling titles like Call of Duty Mobile and Genshin Impact on medium settings
• iOS updates (currently iOS 17) keep the phone running smoothly

However, as we see phones with the A17 chip and beyond, it becomes clear that the SE (2022) isn't a powerhouse compared to newer models. But if you’re just browsing the web, chatting, and enjoying basic apps, this phone still feels responsive. It's not ideal for heavy multitasking or gaming at high settings, though — it’s definitely not made for the latest AR apps or intense gaming experiences.

Battery Life: Just Enough for a Day

Battery life is a big talking point for any phone in 2025. While the iPhone SE (2022) had a relatively small battery back in 2022, it wasn’t exactly bad for a compact device. However, in 2025, the phone's small size and limited battery capacity are more noticeable, especially compared to newer budget phones with much larger batteries.

• With moderate use (social media, emails, browsing), you can squeeze through a full day
• Heavy usage? You’ll likely need a charger by mid-evening
• Fast charging is a plus (20W), but there’s no wireless charging, which feels like a missed opportunity

It’s certainly not the worst, but you’ll want to make sure you charge it nightly. Apple has certainly kept its software optimization on point, but the physical limitations of the battery are clear when compared to modern rivals.

Camera: Simple Yet Effective, But Behind the Times

Back in 2022, the iPhone SE (2022) was praised for offering solid photo quality despite being a budget model. Now, in 2025, the single 12MP rear camera still produces good results in well-lit conditions, but it's showing its age.

• Daytime photos are bright and sharp, with good dynamic range
• Portrait mode still works well, despite not having the advanced computational photography of newer models
• Low-light performance? Not great. The lack of Night Mode really hurts it in dim settings

Compared to phones like the Pixel 6a or even the latest Galaxy A-series, the SE (2022) camera feels very basic. It’s fine for casual users who aren’t obsessed with camera quality, but if you're into mobile photography or shooting in low-light conditions, this phone will likely frustrate you.

Comparing the iPhone SE (2022) with 2025 Budget Phones

In 2025, there are plenty of budget phones to choose from, many of which outclass the iPhone SE (2022) in certain areas. Here are a few quick comparisons:

• Pixel 8a: With a more advanced camera setup, OLED screen, and Google’s AI-powered features, the Pixel 8a offers a much more modern experience. It’s also priced similarly to the SE (2022).
• Galaxy A55: With a larger screen, bigger battery, and a more versatile camera, the A55 offers better value for the price. Its 120Hz AMOLED display is a big advantage over the iPhone SE (2022).
• Redmi Note 13: Offering an even larger screen and a huge battery, the Redmi Note 13 is a solid alternative for users who want more screen real estate and longer battery life.

Is the iPhone SE (2022) Still Worth It in 2025?

After using the iPhone SE (2022) for an extended period, it's clear that this phone has aged in several key areas. While it was a fantastic choice for budget-conscious users in 2022, by 2025, it falls behind in certain aspects, particularly when compared to newer models. The design feels outdated, the camera is basic, and the display lacks the immersive experience many modern phones offer.

However, the iPhone SE (2022) still has its merits:

• Performance: The A15 Bionic chip is still fast for most tasks, making the phone feel responsive for daily use.
• Software Support: Apple’s software updates keep it running smoothly, so you can expect at least a few more years of iOS support.
• Compact Form Factor: If you prefer smaller phones that fit easily in one hand, the SE (2022) remains one of the few options left on the market.

Should You Buy the iPhone SE (2022) in 2025?

If you’re in the market for a phone that delivers solid performance at a relatively affordable price, the iPhone SE (2022) is still a viable option. However, if you’re looking for a more modern device with better battery life, a larger screen, and a more advanced camera system, you might want to consider other options like the Samsung Galaxy A55, Google Pixel 8a, or the Redmi Note 13.

At the end of the day, the iPhone SE (2022) remains a solid phone for those who prefer a simple, no-frills experience. But for those seeking more from their budget device in 2025, there are better options out there.

Conclusion

The iPhone SE (2022) remains a classic in the compact budget phone category, but with the advances in budget smartphones over the past few years, it’s clear that newer models offer more for your money. If you’re already using an SE (2022), it still has plenty of life left in it, but if you’re looking to upgrade or buy new, you might want to explore the competition before making your choice.

Final Verdict: 3.5/5 – Still a solid phone for budget-conscious users, but there are better options out there in 2025.