Editor's note: Apple stopped manufacturing and selling both the iPhone SE (2020) and iPhone XR. You may still be able to find both models from retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, or select Canadian carriers.
Article Summary
The new iPhone SE released in 2020 splices hardware from newer iPhone models into a compact and budget-friendly device. The iPhone XR features some older hardware, but offers better battery life and a big, beautiful display. When choosing an upgrade, it comes down to personal preference.
The iPhone SE (2020) is a compromise between the leading-edge performance of an iPhone 15 and the familiar format of a compact device. Like the previous iPhone SE model, it features a low price tag too. This makes it an appealing upgrade for many Apple fans who have been waiting for something affordable.
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XR At A Glance
iPhone SE (2020)
Compact performance on a budget
- Fast A13 Bionic performance
- Familiar size and interface
- Smart camera software
- Mediocre battery life
iPhone XR
Big screen and all-day battery
- Big, beautiful display
- Long lasting battery
- A12 Bionic CPU is still fast
- Full price is still expensive
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XR: Display
The most obvious difference between these two smartphones are their displays. The iPhone SE (2020) uses a 4.7” Retina HD display with 1334x750 pixels, complete with the familiar Home button at the bottom. The iPhone XR sports a larger 6.1” Liquid Retina HD display, 1792x828 resolution, and a distinctive “notch” at the top.
Both devices offer 1400:1 contrast ratio, True Tone, wide colour display (P3) and Haptic Touch. If you’ve used an iPhone for years, you may not be ready to give up your Home button yet; the iPhone SE (2020) offers comparable display technology to the iPhone XR’s larger screen.
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XR: Battery Life
The iPhone XR needs more power for that larger screen, but it houses a larger battery. The iPhone SE (2020) is rated for up to 13 hours of video playback while the iPhone XR is rated for up to 16 hours. That’s enough to binge any Apple TV+ series on one charge. Once you’re out of juice, charging either model is easy; both iPhone devices are compatible with Fast-charge and wireless charging.
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XR: Cameras
On paper, both the iPhone SE (2020) and iPhone XR offer identical camera specs, but upon closer inspection there are subtle differences. On the back, both iPhone models feature a single 12MP camera with a f/1.8 aperture, optical image stabilization, 5x digital zoom and True Tone flash. However, the newer CPU in the iPhone SE (2020) offers more real-time effects and Next-generation Smart HDR.
There is a 7MP camera on the front of both devices with a f/2.2 aperture, HDR and real-time effects. The iPhone XR’s front camera hardware is slightly better with extended dynamic range, Animoji and Memoji support, and 60fps video recording at full HD. If most of your photos are selfies, the iPhone XR is a better choice. Otherwise, the iPhone SE (2020) gets the advantage thanks to its superior image processing power.
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XR: Prices and Best Value
Apple engineers designed the iPhone SE (2020) for cost-effectiveness. As a result, you can buy a smartphone with nearly all the power of a thousand-dollar iPhone 11 for just $579. Three storage options are available at different price points, and all are available in three colours.
The iPhone XR was launched a year and a half earlier with six colour choices as a cheap alternative to the high-end iPhone XS. Unfortunately, it’s still attached to a high base price of $799 and only offers two storage options.
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XR Storage Options
| Storage Size | iPhone SE (2020) | iPhone XR |
|---|---|---|
| 64GB | $579 | $799 |
| 128GB | $649 | $869 |
| 256GB | $789 | n/a |
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XR: Performance
Some differences, like larger screen and battery, make the iPhone XR the better phone. However, the iPhone SE (2020) has the newer A13 Bionic CPU giving it the advantage in many other ways. With more in-camera effects, next generation Smart HDR, QuickTake video, superior 3D graphics and Wi-Fi 6 wireless networking, the iPhone SE (2020) simply outperforms the older iPhone XR.
iPhone SE (2020) vs iPhone XR: Verdict
When Apple released the iPhone 11 family of smartphones in late 2019, they decided to keep the older iPhone XR on the market as a low-cost alternative. With the iPhone SE, Apple consumers can get much of the same performance offered by the iPhone 11 for under $600. Its compact size and familiar Home button are appealing features to long-time fans of Apple smartphones—the iPhone SE (2020) is visually similar to every classic device going back as far as the iPhone 6. If you love your iPhone 6, 6s, 7 or 8, then you shouldn’t hesitate in choosing iPhone SE (2020).
The iPhone XR still fills a niche; fans of the large, all-screen display can save hundreds of dollars when compared to buying a newer iPhone 11. The battery life and selfie camera are superior to the iPhone SE (2020). The iPhone XR is matched or outperformed in almost every other category, so the iPhone SE (2020) is the best low-budget iPhone upgrade.
iPhone XR 64GB Plans
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Fido
$39 Data, Talk & Text Plan with 20GB
$72.75/mth
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