Apple‘s iPhone range offers various models catering to different users. Specifically, the iPhone XR and iPhone SE are two popular options, each providing unique features, design, and pricing. For shoppers deciding between these iPhone models, understanding their key distinctions is essential to determine the best device for your needs.
Our guide outlines the critical differences between the iPhone XR and SE across factors like display, processor, camera, battery life, and more. We‘ll help decipher their capabilities to decide which iPhone works for you. Let‘s compare these two impressive smartphones.
iPhone XR vs. SE: Quick Comparison
| Feature | iPhone XR | iPhone SE |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD | 4.7-inch Retina HD |
| Processor | A12 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| Rear Camera | 12MP Wide | 12MP Wide |
| Front Camera | 7MP, 1080p 60fps | 7MP, 1080p 30fps |
| Biometric Security | Face ID | Touch ID |
| Battery Life | Up to 16hr video playback | Up to 13hr video playback |
| Storage | 64GB/128GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Fast Charging | Up to 50% in 30 mins (15W adapter) | Up to 50% in 30 mins (18W adapter) |
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
Display Size and Quality
One of the most obvious differences between the iPhone XR and iPhone SE is display size and overall screen real estate.
The iPhone XR features a sizeable 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display. With its large screen occupying nearly the entire front of the phone, it provides an expansive canvas for an immersive viewing and interaction experience. Whether browsing the web, watching videos, or playing graphics-intensive games, the XR‘s spacious display introduces engagement not matched on smaller screens.
In addition to its size, the iPhone XR display uses LCD technology to deliver accurate colors and clarity. With a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels, elements appear sharp and details remain crisp even during fast motion scenes.
By comparison, the iPhone SE incorporates a more compact 4.7-inch Retina HD display. For users prioritizing portability in a pocket-friendly form factor, the SE‘s smaller dimensions keep overall device size down. However, its reduced screen real estate naturally restricts the viewing area available compared to the expansive XR display.
Regardless of its compact measurements, the iPhone SE display still produces quality visuals thanks to Retina technology‘s clear text and images. And with a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels, clarity and details remain apparent though squeezed into a smaller display footprint.
So for customers valuing screen size to fully immerse in videos, games, and more visual heavy apps, the iPhone XR better satisfies with its capacious 6.1-inch display. But iPhone SE serves users wanting portability without sacrificing too much screen space.
A12 vs. A13 Processor Performance
Under the hood, the iPhone XR and iPhone SE leverage different Apple processor generations, which impacts overall device performance.
The iPhone XR utilizes Apple‘s A12 Bionic system-on-a-chip. Built on a 7-nanometer manufacturing process, the A12 chip delivers faster CPU and GPU performance compared to previous iterations. With 6 CPU cores including 2 performance cores, the A12 adeptly handles everything from launching apps quicker to powering demanding games smoothly.
Moreover, the A12‘s 4-core GPU proves 30% faster than prior designs to enable richer graphics and visuals. These capabilities translate into fast, fluid device interactions free of lag whether jumping between apps or playing in console-quality 3D worlds.
On the other hand, the iPhone SE houses Apple‘s A13 Bionic processor, representing their most advanced silicon to date. Fabricated using an enhanced 7nm process, the A13 builds upon the A12‘s foundation by incorporating 20% faster CPUs and 10% faster GPUs. This new design powers features like more efficient machine learning and fused machine learning accelerators to amplify computational photography and AR functionality beyond what the iPhone XR can deliver.
Consequently, while the iPhone XR certainly holds its own thanks to the mighty A12 Bionic engine, the iPhone SE‘s A13-fueled performance unlocks its full potential for faster app launches, smoother gaming, and bleeding edge machine learning capabilities. Casual users may not notice much difference in real world use but discerning power users desiring every last ounce of speed and cutting edge functionality may wish to choose the SE for its best-in-class A13 Bionic brain.
Camera Capabilities: Photos and Video Recording
Both the iPhone XR and iPhone SE feature rear 12 megapixel wide cameras for capturing photos and video. With an ƒ/1.8 aperture, the 12MP sensors combined with computational photography deliver excellent quality images even in low light scenarios. Between the two models while their 12MP technical specifications match, photo results still impress.
On the video front, the iPhone XR and iPhone SE largely share identical attributes as well including optical image stabilization, RAW format capture, and slow-mo support. However, a few key video distinctions set them apart:
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Front Camera Resolution and Frame Rate: The iPhone XR incorporates a higher resolution 7MP front facing camera with 1080p video recording at 60 fps. This combination enables more detailed selfies and smooth action for vlogging needs. By contrast, the iPhone SE‘s front camera matches the 7MP resolution but limits video to 30 fps lacking the fluidity of the XR‘s 60 fps capability.
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Stereo Recording: For professional-level videography, the iPhone XR uniquely offers stereo recording from both front and rear cameras. This stands out from the iPhone SE‘s mono recording to capture stereo sound more accurately as our ears hear it naturally.
So photographers and videographers aiming for top-notch production may wish to select the iPhone XR for its best-in-class front camera video support at 60fps and true stereo recording reproduction. But casual shooters will still relish the core quality and features found in both iPhone cameras.
Biometric Authentication: Face ID vs Touch ID
Apple employs advanced biometric authentication across its devices to securely unlock access and approve actions. The iPhone XR and iPhone SE leverage two different methods suiting unique preferences.
Most distinguishing, the iPhone XR implements Face ID facial recognition as its biometric unlock mechanism. Using its TrueDepth front-facing camera infrastructure, Face ID accurately maps facial geometry to generate a depth map applied towards identification. Components like the dot projector and infrared camera scan thousands of reference points to build a unique faceprint integral to the system.
Once registered, simply glancing at the iPhone XR allows Face ID to authenticate securely in about a second to unlock the phone without any additional action needed. This approach frees the device from fingerprint readers and placements while making authentication intuitive after a brief learning curve.
On the other hand, the iPhone SE sticks with the venerable Touch ID fingerprint reader situated within the physical Home button. For years, Touch ID has provided reliable and virtually instantaneous fingerprint verification to conveniently unlock iPhones without remembering passcodes. And with advanced sensors, Touch ID even works in wet conditions or other challenging environments.
Ultimately, iPhone XR customers preferring facial recognition can leverage the futuristic Face ID tech for passwords-free access. But loyal Touch ID users still benefit from the tactile Home button and lightning fast fingerprint matching securing the iPhone SE.
Battery Life and Fast Charging
Battery life stands essential for keeping devices powered for communication, navigation, entertainment, and productivity needs throughout busy days. Both the iPhone XR and iPhone SE deliver solid battery performance but differ on absolute totals before needing to recharge.
Featuring a higher capacity internal battery, the iPhone XR iPhone provides longer runtimes reaching up to 16 hours of video playback on a full charge. For contrast, the smaller iPhone SE equates to around 13 hours of video watching before depleting reserves. Under less intensive everyday usage spanning the gamut from web browsing to chat, runtimes on both naturally extend even longer.
When the time eventually comes to top up, both iPhone models support fast charging for quick turnaround. The iPhone XR battery charges rapidly up to 50% in just 30 minutes using the included 15-watt power adapter. Similarly, the iPhone SE battery likewise reaches half capacity in 30 minutes leveraging an 18-watt charger and Lightning cable.
So customers working remotely or enjoying travel adventures may wish to choose the iPhone XR for maximum battery life insurance before finding a power outlet. But even the iPhone SE fast charging sufficiently refuels within reasonable spans when battery conservation becomes paramount.
Storage Options and Pricing
Onboard storage allows installing apps, saving photos and videos, downloading music, and otherwise building a robust digital portfolio over a smartphone‘s lifetime. Apple configures both the iPhone XR and iPhone SE with adequate baseline capacities while offering enhanced options.
The iPhone XR comes standard with 64GB storage suitable for most typical users. A higher tier sits at 128GB helping power users store substantially more over years of use.
Comparatively, the iPhone SE matches those same 64GB and 128GB grades but also piles on a range topping 256GB configuration. This class-leading quarter terabyte option future proofs investments by providing copious space so that local storage limitations rarely hamper the experience.
In terms of cost, iPhone XR pricing elevates above iPhone SE levels. The XR launched at $749 making it one of the most affordable new iPhone models in the product line history. In contrast, Apple positions iPhone SE models at budget-friendly price points representing one of least expensive modern iPhones ever released.
Specific pricing varies by factors like onboard storage, market region, and seasonal sales. But generally iPhone XR models demand around a $100 premium over their SE counterparts when aligned by storage. Discerning shoppers seeking more economical options without sacrificing functionality may discover the iPhone SE strikes an ideal balance despite fallback compared to the higher-end iPhone XR.
Water and Dust Resistance
Today‘s mobile gadgets withstand more challenging environments including exposure to water and particulates. Both the iPhone XR and iPhone SE achieve identical durability and sealing satisfying demanding lifestyles.
Incorporating seals, gaskets, and adhesives applied during precise manufacturing, the iPhone XR and iPhone SE each meet IP67 ratings for water and dust resistance. The IP67 certification specifically indicates successfully preventing dust ingress plus enduring immersion in fresh water down to depths up to 1 meter for 30 continuous minutes without damage.
So users can fearlessly carry their iPhone to the pool, beach, or trail without panicking from accidental splashes or temporary submersion thanks to IP67 safeguards. Just avoid purposeful soaking or underwater photography sessions deeper than 1 meter and longer than 30 minutes. But both models offer peace of mind for typical lifestyles and mishandling.
History and Background
Gaining full context around popular iPhone models directly relates to their respective backgrounds and historical unveilings.
iPhone XR – Announced September 2018 alongside the flagship iPhone XS, the iPhone XR arrived as a lower-cost alternative retaining advanced features like Face ID and the all-screen design but making select component downgrades to achieve more accessibility.
For example, Apple opted for LCD instead of pricier OLED displays while relying on a single rear lens instead of a multi-lens camera system. But bright colors and the same premium fit-and-finish exuded appeal and value upon debut.
The "R" in iPhone XR derives from replacing iPhone X. Initially indicated as "iPhone 10" following iPhone 8 predecessors, the Roman numeral "X" commonly substitutes the number 10. Thus, iPhone XR signifies iPhone 10 replacement. However, Apple formally pronounces the branding as "iPhone Ten-R" in keeping with the X theme despite its actual meaning.
iPhone SE – Debuting over a half-decade earlier in March 2016, the original iPhone SE constituted Apple’s first foray into smaller, pocket-friendly iPhones since 2013’s iPhone 5s. The intention served appealing to users preferring 4-inch devices in a market shifting towards larger screens. By combining iPhone 5s dimensions with vastly improved internal specs matching the flagship iPhone 6s – notably Apple‘s blistering A9 chipset and 12MP camera – the iPhone SE delivered outsized performance at miniaturized scale.
This winning formula returned with the 2nd generation iPhone SE announced April 2020. Apple again recycled familiar external traits from the preceding iPhone 8, itself a modest evolution over iPhone 6 and 7 designs. But internally the 2020 iPhone SE leveraged processing might from the then-current Apple A13 Bionic paired with computational photography intelligence. Topping options with up to 256GB storage plus budget-friendly $399 entry pricing amplified appeal. Initially called simply "iPhone SE," the 2020 model retroactively became "iPhone SE 2nd Generation" after the 2022 model debuted.
So iPhone XR follows Apple’s historic protocol launching new form factors at high prices that eventually trickle down to mass market levels. And iPhone SE represents applying latest innovations into proven beloved chassis reaching wider economic strata. Both philosophies produce winners.
Who Should Choose the iPhone XR or iPhone SE?
Deciding between popular iPhone models ultimately depends on individual preferences, priorities and budgets. Both the iPhone XR and iPhone SE make excellent choices but cater to different needs.
If you want the latest and greatest performance no matter what, choose iPhone SE for its blazing fast A13 chip. Mobile gamers need its maximum graphics handling too.
If entertainment and immersion matter most, pick iPhone XR for the expansive 6.1” screen ideal for videos and games. Its long battery life keeps playback going as well.
Everyday users wanting reliable quality at affordable pricing are wise to select iPhone SE given its lower cost structure compared to the relatively premium iPhone XR.
And shoppers seeking smaller devices for ultimate portability find their perfect match with the iPhone SE and its handy 4.7-inch chassis.
But photographers and videographers wanting pro-level results may prefer the iPhone XR with its best-in-class front camera supporting 60fps video.
Ultimately either iPhone XR or iPhone SE handily satisfies most iOS lovers. Identify the features aligning closest to your daily habits and let that guide a tailored match yielding customer technology bliss!
FAQ
Q: How do the iPhone XR and iPhone SE cameras compare?
A: The iPhone XR and iPhone SE share identical 12MP, f/1.8 aperture wide rear cameras producing excellent quality photos and videos. The iPhone XR ups its selfie game with a higher 7MP resolution front camera supporting 1080p video at 60 fps for added smoothness. But both incorporate fantastic image signal processors enabling computational photography magic.
Q: What colors can I buy the iPhone XR or iPhone SE in?
A: The iPhone XR originally released in black, white, blue, yellow, coral and Product Red. Later Apple issued (Product) Red and blue colors. Comparatively, the iPhone SE sells in black, white and Product Red. So the XR offers customers more variety to match personal style.
Q: How do the displays compare besides size differences?
A: The iPhone XR has a 1792×828 resolution Liquid Retina LCD display with 1.4 million pixels featuring wide color gamut and True Tone technology. And the iPhone SE uses a 1334×750 resolution Retina LCD panel with 1 million pixels also supporting P3 wide color. So beyond their size and resolution gaps, both displays utilize mature LCD technology to reproduce vibrant imagery.
Q: Can the iPhone SE use Face ID too or only Touch ID?
A: No, Face ID relies on TrueDepth camera hardware only found on iPhone X series and newer models like iPhone 14. So the iPhone SE is limited exclusively to Touch ID fingerprint recognition since it lacks necessary front-facing components for mapping facial geometry.
Q: Which iPhone model has better water resistance?
A: The iPhone XR and iPhone SE both carry identical IP67 ratings signifying comparable water and dust resistance able to withstand submersion for 30 minutes in 1 meter depths. So users can rest assured knowing either iPhone handles typical environmental exposure and accidents.
