iPhone 11 vs iPhone Se 3rd Gen: Which iPhone Wins?
Choosing your next iPhone can feel like navigating a tech maze. With so many options, how do you decide which one is the perfect fit for your needs and budget? Today, we’re putting two popular contenders head-to-head: the iPhone 11 and the iPhone SE (3rd generation).
The iPhone 11, with its vibrant display and powerful performance, offers a premium experience. On the other hand, the iPhone SE 3rd generation brings Apple’s signature features in a more compact and affordable package. This comparison will break down the key differences, helping you make an informed decision.
We’ll explore everything from design and camera capabilities to performance and battery life. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which iPhone best suits your lifestyle. Get ready to discover the strengths and weaknesses of both the iPhone 11 and the iPhone SE (3rd generation), so you can confidently choose your next device!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 4.7-inch |
| Display Technology | Liquid Retina HD | Retina HD |
| Processor | A13 Bionic chip | A15 Bionic chip |
| Rear Camera | Dual 12MP (Wide, Ultra Wide) | 12MP Wide |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps | 4K video recording at 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, or 60 fps |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP67 |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| 5G Connectivity | No | No |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Face ID | No | No |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 17 hours | Up to 15 hours |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 11: Features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display with a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels. Offers a larger screen size and better viewing experience, but may not be as sharp as higher-resolution displays.
- iPhone Se (3rd Gen): Boasts a 4.7-inch Retina HD display with a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels. Offers a more compact size, making it easier to handle, but has a smaller screen and lower resolution compared to the iPhone 11.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Processor
- iPhone 11: Powered by the A13 Bionic chip, which is still a capable processor, offering smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming. It’s an older chip, but still handles most apps well.
- iPhone Se (3rd Gen): Equipped with the A15 Bionic chip, the same chip found in the iPhone 13 series. Provides significantly faster performance and improved efficiency compared to the iPhone 11.
- Winner: iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Camera System
- iPhone 11: Features a dual-camera system with 12MP wide and ultra-wide lenses. Offers good image quality with Night mode, but lacks some of the advanced features found in newer iPhones.
- iPhone Se (3rd Gen): Has a single 12MP wide lens. While it uses computational photography to improve image quality, it lacks the flexibility of the dual-camera system of the iPhone 11.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Battery Life
- iPhone 11: Provides decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. Battery life can vary depending on usage patterns.
- iPhone Se (3rd Gen): Offers relatively shorter battery life compared to the iPhone 11, especially with heavy usage. The smaller battery size is a trade-off for its compact design.
- Winner: iPhone 11
Design and Build
- iPhone 11: Features a modern design with a glass back and aluminum frame. Offers a wider range of color options.
- iPhone Se (3rd Gen): Retains the classic iPhone design with a glass back and aluminum frame. Has a smaller size and a home button, offering a familiar feel for some users.
- Winner: iPhone 11
5G Connectivity
- iPhone 11: Does not support 5G connectivity.
- iPhone Se (3rd Gen): Supports 5G connectivity, providing faster download and upload speeds in areas where 5G is available.
- Winner: iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Price
- iPhone 11: Generally available at a lower price point than when it was first released, but the pricing depends on used condition.
- iPhone Se (3rd Gen): Typically has a lower starting price compared to the iPhone 11, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Winner: iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Storage Options
- iPhone 11: Offers storage options up to 256GB, providing ample space for photos, videos, and apps.
- iPhone Se (3rd Gen): Offers storage options up to 256GB, providing ample space for photos, videos, and apps.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | iPhone 11 |
| Performance | iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
| Camera Versatility | iPhone 11 |
| Battery Life | iPhone 11 |
| Design | Tie (Depends on Preference) |
| Price | iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
What They Have in Common
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, allowing you to easily charge them using a Qi-compatible charging mat.
- Processor: Both phones are capable of running the latest iOS versions and apps.
- Video Recording: Both iPhones offer 4K video recording capabilities, allowing users to capture high-quality videos.
- Storage Options: Both models are available with the same storage options, providing the same flexibility for users based on their needs.
- Connectivity: Both phones support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for connecting to other devices and networks.
iPhone 11 vs. iPhone SE (3rd Gen) Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The iPhone 11, powered by the A13 Bionic chip, and the iPhone SE (3rd Gen), featuring the A15 Bionic chip, offer distinct performance capabilities. The A15 Bionic in the SE 3rd Gen provides a noticeable speed boost, particularly in tasks demanding intensive processing, such as gaming and video editing. However, the A13 Bionic in the iPhone 11 still delivers smooth performance for everyday use, including app navigation and multitasking. Consider your usage patterns; if you prioritize the latest and greatest performance, the SE 3rd Gen is superior. Both devices handle most tasks with ease, but the SE 3rd Gen has a slight edge.
Camera Capabilities
Camera quality is a crucial factor for many users. The iPhone 11 boasts a dual-camera system with a wide and ultrawide lens, offering greater versatility for capturing landscapes and group photos. It also excels in low-light conditions compared to the SE 3rd Gen. The SE 3rd Gen, with its single-lens camera, takes excellent photos in good lighting, but lacks the ultrawide lens and Night mode capabilities of the iPhone 11. If you frequently take photos in varied environments and value the flexibility of multiple lenses, the iPhone 11 is the better choice.
Display and Design
The iPhone 11 showcases a larger 6.1-inch Liquid Retina display, providing an immersive viewing experience, especially when watching videos or playing games. Its design features a modern, edge-to-edge display and a notch for the front-facing camera. The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) maintains the classic iPhone design with a 4.7-inch Retina HD display and thick bezels, and a physical home button. The smaller size is more pocketable, but the screen is less immersive. Choose based on your preference for screen size and overall design aesthetic.
Battery Life
Battery life is an important consideration for mobile users. The iPhone 11 generally offers better battery performance than the iPhone SE (3rd Gen), allowing for longer usage between charges. This is due to the iPhone 11’s larger battery capacity. The SE 3rd Gen’s battery life is good for its size but may require more frequent charging, particularly with heavy usage. Consider your daily usage patterns and whether you need a phone that can last a full day without needing to recharge.
Storage Options and Price
Both models offer different storage configurations and price points. The iPhone 11 typically offers more storage options than the iPhone SE (3rd Gen), giving you more flexibility depending on how many apps, photos, and videos you intend to store. The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is generally more affordable, making it a more budget-friendly option. Consider your storage needs and budget when making your decision. The price difference might be a significant factor.
Software and Updates
Both the iPhone 11 and iPhone SE (3rd Gen) run on iOS, ensuring a consistent user experience. Apple is known for providing long-term software support for its devices, meaning both phones will receive updates for several years to come. However, the iPhone SE (3rd Gen), being the newer model, will likely receive software updates for a longer period. This ensures that you get the latest features and security updates. This is a point to consider for longevity.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 11 If…
- You prefer a larger display for media consumption and gaming.
- You want a dual-camera system with an ultra-wide lens for more versatile photography.
- You value a longer battery life.
- You want a more modern design with a larger screen.
Buy iPhone SE (3rd Gen) If…
- You prefer a smaller, more compact phone that is easier to handle with one hand.
- You are looking for a more affordable iPhone.
- You prioritize the latest processor for faster performance.
- You want a phone with a physical home button and Touch ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has the better processor?
The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) has the A15 Bionic chip, while the iPhone 11 has the A13 Bionic chip. The A15 offers a performance boost, making the SE 3rd Gen faster for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. However, the A13 is still very capable and handles most tasks smoothly. The SE 3rd Gen is the clear winner for processing power.
Does the iPhone 11 have a better camera?
Yes, the iPhone 11 has a superior camera system. It features a dual-camera setup with a wide and ultrawide lens, providing more versatility and better low-light performance. The SE 3rd Gen has a single-lens camera, which still takes great photos in good light, but lacks the extra features of the iPhone 11.
Which phone has a longer battery life?
The iPhone 11 generally has a longer battery life compared to the iPhone SE (3rd Gen). The iPhone 11 has a larger battery capacity, allowing for extended use between charges. The SE 3rd Gen’s battery is adequate for its size, but the iPhone 11 offers better endurance for heavy users.
Which phone has a bigger screen?
The iPhone 11 has a larger display, measuring 6.1 inches, offering a more immersive viewing experience. The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) has a 4.7-inch screen. The larger display on the iPhone 11 is preferable if you watch videos or play games frequently.
Which phone is more affordable?
The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is typically the more budget-friendly option. It is usually priced lower than the iPhone 11. This price difference makes the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) an attractive choice for those looking for a high-quality iPhone without the premium price tag.
Does the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) have 5G?
Yes, the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) does support 5G connectivity, providing faster download and upload speeds where 5G networks are available. The iPhone 11, on the other hand, does not have 5G capabilities. This is a significant advantage for the SE 3rd Gen.
Which phone is better for everyday use?
Both phones are suitable for everyday use. The iPhone 11 offers a more comprehensive experience with its better camera and larger display, while the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) provides a more compact and affordable option with excellent performance. Your choice depends on your priorities.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the iPhone 11 and the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) depends on individual needs. The iPhone 11 offers a superior camera, larger display, and better battery life. The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) provides faster processing, 5G support, and a more compact design. Consider your priorities: performance, features, and price.
Winner: iPhone SE (3rd Gen)