Apple is about to unveil the fourth generation iPhone SE - and this time there are some exciting changes. But is it the best choice for you? We look at what the new model offers, what alternatives there are and whether it's really worth the wait.
What does the iPhone SE 4 offer?
According to recent reports, the iPhone SE 4 will get a major upgrade compared to its predecessor. We reported a few weeks ago and summarize:
-
design: The new SE is based on the iPhone 14, so it has thinner bezels, Face ID instead of Touch ID and a 6.1-inch OLED display.
-
Performance: It is said to be equipped with the A18 chip – the same processor that is also in the iPhone 16 – and have 8 GB of RAM.
-
camera: A single 48-megapixel camera on the back, which should provide strong photos.
-
connections: Apple is finally using USB-C on the SE, which ensures better compatibility.
-
5G modem: For the first time, Apple is using its own 5G chip instead of one from Qualcomm.
-
Price: A price below 500 US dollars is expected (probably around 529 € in Germany).
The SE 4 is much more modern, but loses the home button and thus Touch ID. If you don't like Face ID, you'll have to get used to it.
Is it worth waiting?
It depends on what you are looking for:
-
Do you want a new iPhone but don't want to spend a lot? Then the iPhone SE 4 could be a solid choice – especially because of the powerful chip and long software support.
-
Do you need your new smartphone immediately? Then there are alternatives that are already available (more on that below).
-
Are you still using an iPhone SE (2020 or 2022) and want to upgrade? Then the new SE is a big step forward – just because of the larger display and camera.
What alternatives are there?
If you don't want to wait, there are some alternatives in a similar price range:
iPhone 13
-
Similar design to the SE 4, but with dual camera.
-
A15 chip – slightly weaker than the A18, but still powerful.
-
Face ID, 6.1-inch OLED display and USB-C are also available here.
To the iPhone 13 buying guide!
Samsung Galaxy A54
-
6.4-inch AMOLED display with 120 Hz.
-
50 MP main camera + ultra wide angle.
-
5000 mAh battery – significantly better than the iPhone SE.
To the Samsung Galaxy A54 buying guide!
Google Pixel 7a
-
More compact than many 6.1-inch Android models.
-
Google Tensor G2 chip – very good performance for the price.
-
Camera with strong night mode and AI features.
To the Google Pixel 7a buying guide!
iPhone 12
-
Still a solid device with A14 chip.
-
Face ID and OLED display.
-
Dual camera with good photos even in poor lighting conditions.
To the iPhone 12 buying guide!
Conclusion: Wait or buy?
If you're looking for a cheap, future-proof iPhone and don't mind Face ID, then the SE 4 might be worth waiting for. But if you need a new smartphone right away, there are some strong alternatives - especially in the refurbished sector.
