iPhone SE (3rd generation) review

A Look That Stays in 2017 — iPhone SE (3rd generation): iPhone SE (2022)

The iPhone SE (2022) revisits a design language that debuted years ago, offering a compact, familiar shape with a home button and prominent bezels. This is the same chassis used on the iPhone 8, so anyone expecting a modern, edge-to-edge display or a notch will be disappointed. The phone is slim, extremely lightweight at 144 grams, and feels solid in hand, with glass on the front and back that Apple says is the same hardy material used on the iPhone 13.

Available in Midnight, Starlight, and Red, it retains a simple, clean aesthetic. The home button houses Touch ID, which remains a fast and reliable way to enable the phone or authorize payments, though it does mean you miss out on gesture-based navigation.phone reviews often praise this classic approach, but it clearly shows its age next to nearly any other 2022 smartphone.

The Same Small Screen — iPhone SE (3rd generation): iPhone SE (2022)

The 4.7-inch Liquid Retina LCD display is unchanged from the previous generation, offering a 60Hz refresh rate and the same resolution. It gets bright enough for indoor use and casual outdoor shots, but it lacks the deep blacks and high contrast of an OLED panel found on pricier iPhones. The screen is surrounded by top and bottom bezels, which makes the phone feel more cramped than larger, closer-to-full-screen devices. For those transitioning from a bigger phone, watching videos or reading web pages will feel noticeably smaller.

Single-handed use is a clear benefit, but the display is clearly a cost-saving measure. While it remains sharp for texting and calling, it is not designed for immersive media consumption or heavy gaming, even though the phone’s processor can easily handle those tasks. If you value a small, one-handed screen, this fits the bill, but there are no modern upgrades here.

Speedy Chip, Fast Connection — iPhone SE (3rd generation): iPhone SE (2022)

Under the hood, the story is completely different. The iPhone SE (2022) uses the Apple A15 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 13 lineup. This gives it flagship-level performance for apps, games, and multitasking, and it should feel fast for years to come. The chip also enables 5G connectivity, making this the most affordable way to get Apple's 5G experience.

Battery life is rated for up to 15 hours of video playback, which should get most people through a full day, and the phone supports 20W-class wired charging and Qi wireless charging. However, despite the A15 processor, the phone lacks the Cinematic mode video and the advanced camera features found on the iPhone 13 series. The single 12MP main camera takes strong, reliable photos in daylight, but it lacks a telephoto lens or ultra-wide option, limiting creative flexibility. The phone also carries an IP67 water resistance rating.

For a simple, speedy, and connected iPhone that runs like new, this is a compelling package. Check the phone directory for similar options.

A Single Camera Does the Job — iPhone SE (3rd generation): iPhone SE (2022)

The iPhone SE (2022) relies on a single 12-megapixel rear camera, the same hardware found in its predecessor. While that might sound limiting, the upgraded A15 Bionic chip brings improved image processing. Photos taken in daylight are sharp and color-accurate, and the phone can now capture time-lapse night shots with a tripod. Portrait mode works well on people, using software-based depth estimation, but it struggles with pets or objects. You won't find an ultra-wide or telephoto lens here, so framing is less flexible.

Video recording tops out at 4K, and the lack of Cinematic mode—a bokeh-effect video feature available on other A15-powered iPhones—is a notable omission. For everyday snapshots and casual video, the camera is perfectly capable, but it won't satisfy those who crave creative versatility.

All-Day Battery and Wireless Charging — iPhone SE (3rd generation): iPhone SE (2022)

Apple rates the iPhone SE (2022) for up to 15 hours of video playback, which translates to a full day of mixed use for most people. Streaming video, browsing social media, and light gaming won't leave you scrambling for a charger before bedtime. The phone supports 20-watt-class wired charging, though you'll need to buy the adapter separately. It also works with Qi wireless chargers, a convenient feature for topping up at a desk or nightstand.

The battery life is solid for a compact device, but heavy users—especially those who play graphics-intensive games or shoot lots of video—may find themselves reaching for a charger by early evening. Overall, the endurance is respectable given the small chassis and the powerful chip inside.

Is the iPhone SE (3rd generation) right for you? — iPhone SE (3rd generation): iPhone SE (2022)

Is the iPhone SE (3rd Generation) a Smart Buy for You?

Use the phone finder to check the next practical option.

The iPhone SE (3rd generation) is best suited to touch id, 5g, and a familiar small chassis. The iPhone SE (3rd generation) delivers serious speed and 5G in a small, familiar body. Its A15 Bionic chip makes everyday tasks feel snappy, and the Touch ID home button is handy for quick enable. But the 4.7-inch screen, old-style bezels, and single rear camera show its age. If you miss the home button and want a compact phone that won't break the bank, this is a solid pick.

Just don't expect modern features like an edge-to-edge display or a telephoto lens. The iPhone SE (2022) is a straightforward, affordable gateway to Apple's ecosystem for those who value performance over flashiness. Price, physical condition, battery health, and remaining support should decide whether it still makes sense.