iPhone SE (1st generation) review

Design of the iPhone SE (1st generation) — Apple iPhone SE (1st generation)

The Design of the iPhone SE (1st generation)

The iPhone SE (1st generation) weighs 113g and comes in Space Gray, Silver, Gold, Rose Gold. Its protection is listed as No official IP rating. Those details affect grip, pocket comfort, and how carefully the phone must be handled.

Performance and Gaming with the A9 Chip — Apple iPhone SE (1st generation)

The Apple iPhone SE (1st generation) uses the Apple A9 chip, the same speedy processor found inside the bigger iPhone 6s. This makes the little phone feel very fast. Apps open quickly, the screen responds to touches without lag, and the phone can run demanding games smoothly. In everyday use, it keeps up nicely with the larger iPhones of its time. The software experience feels fluid. Even though the Touch ID button is the first-generation version, it enable the phone quickly thanks to the fast chip.

The phone handles video playback very well, with a battery that supports up to 13 hours of video. You can browse the web, use social media, and play games without the phone slowing down. The main trade-off is the 4-inch screen, which is small for modern games or watching movies. But if you prefer a compact device, this chip gives you flagship-level power in a tiny package. The iPhone SE (1st generation) does not feel like a budget device when you use it.

It feels like a top performer, just in a very small body.

Camera Quality: Rear and Front — Apple iPhone SE (1st generation)

The rear camera on the Apple iPhone SE (1st generation) is a 12-megapixel main shooter, the same used in the iPhone 6s. This camera takes excellent photos in daylight. Colors look natural, details are sharp, and the phone can also record 4K video. It works well for a point-and-shoot experience, especially at this price point. The rear camera is a major highlight. On the flip side, the front-facing camera is a weak point. It is only a 1.2-megapixel camera.

Selfies look soft and less detailed compared to newer phones or the iPhone 6s. If you take many selfies or make lots of video calls, this might be disappointing. The rear camera also lacks optical image stabilization, so videos can be a bit shaky in low light. Still, for the price and size, the main camera is a big reason to choose this phone. It gives you great photos without needing to carry a larger device.

For most people, the rear camera will more than satisfy their daily photo and video needs.

Battery and Charging Speeds — Apple iPhone SE (1st generation)

For a phone this tiny, the battery life is surprisingly solid. Apple rates the iPhone SE for up to 13 hours of video playback, and in everyday use that often means it can get through a full day without needing a top-up. You can stream music, browse the web, and take plenty of photos without worrying about the battery dying before bedtime.

The one downside is charging. The phone ships with a slow 5-watt wired charger, and there is no fast-charging support or wireless charging at all. Plugging it in for a quick boost before heading out won't get you far. You'll need to leave it on the charger for a couple of hours to go from empty to full. If you are someone who forgets to charge overnight, you might find this frustrating. However, for a phone that easily slips into a small pocket and weighs only 113 grams, the trade-off in charging speed is a fair compromise for all-day endurance.

Who Should Buy a 4-Inch iPhone in 2016? — Apple iPhone SE (1st generation)

The best person for this phone is someone who values a compact size above everything else. If you miss being able to text with one thumb or need a phone that fits comfortably in any pocket, this device is a perfect match. It's also ideal for anyone looking for a budget-friendly entry into the iOS ecosystem without sacrificing core performance.

That said, the 4-inch screen is tiny by 2016 standards. Watching videos, reading long articles, or typing emails will feel cramped. Also, the older design with large bezels looks dated. If you find yourself constantly watching media or need a big canvas for work, you will likely be happier with a larger model. Use our phone finder to see what other options fit your needs. This phone is for fans of small phones who know exactly what they want and won't mind the retro looks.

Is the iPhone SE (1st generation) right for you? — Apple iPhone SE (1st generation)

The Apple iPhone SE (1st generation) review shows that Apple managed to create something special by mixing old and new. You get the familiar, sharp-cornered design of the iPhone 5s with the powerful A9 chip and excellent 12-megapixel rear camera from the iPhone 6s. This means apps open quickly, games run smoothly, and photos look great, even in daylight. Plus, you can record 4K video, which is impressive for a budget device.

There are some clear trade-offs. The 4-inch screen is small, the front camera takes weak 1.2-megapixel selfies, and there is no official water resistance. The Touch ID sensor is also the older, slower version from the iPhone 5s. If you prioritize a huge screen or top-tier selfies, you should look elsewhere. But if you want a pocket-friendly, fast, and affordable iPhone that still holds up well, this is an excellent choice. Check out a side-by-side comparison with the iPhone 7 to see the differences.

In the end, the iPhone SE (1st generation) is a wonderful little phone for anyone who loves a small size and doesn't want to give up speed.

Use the phone reviews to check the next practical option.