iPhone 8 vs Se: Which iPhone Should You Buy in 2024?
Choosing a new iPhone can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. You might be torn between a classic design and modern features. If you’re considering a more budget-friendly option, the iPhone SE is a strong contender.
But what about the iPhone 8? It offers a familiar design that many people still love. This comparison dives deep into the key differences between the iPhone 8 and the iPhone SE, helping you make the right choice for your needs and budget.
We’ll explore everything from performance and camera capabilities to battery life and price. Get ready to discover which iPhone reigns supreme in this head-to-head battle. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which phone is the better fit for you.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | iPhone 8 | SE |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 4.7 inches | 4.7 inches |
| Processor | A11 Bionic | A13 Bionic |
| RAM | 2GB | 3GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Storage Options | 64/128/256GB | 64/128/256GB |
| Headphone Jack | No | No |
| Touch ID | Yes | Yes |
| Display Technology | Retina HD | Retina HD |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Design and Build
- iPhone 8: Features a glass back and aluminum frame, offering a premium feel and wireless charging. The glass back is prone to cracking, and the design is now dated.
- Se: Retains the iPhone 8’s design with a glass back and aluminum frame. It offers a familiar, compact form factor but lacks the modern aesthetic of newer iPhones.
- Winner: Tie
Display
- iPhone 8: Features a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, which is sharp and vibrant. It lacks the edge-to-edge design of newer iPhones, resulting in larger bezels.
- Se: Also uses a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, offering similar quality to the iPhone 8. The smaller screen size might be preferred by some.
- Winner: Tie
Processor
- iPhone 8: Powered by the A11 Bionic chip, which is still capable for everyday tasks and gaming. It is older than the SE’s chip.
- Se: Equipped with the A13 Bionic chip, providing significantly faster performance and improved efficiency compared to the iPhone 8.
- Winner: se
Camera
- iPhone 8: Has a single 12MP rear camera that takes good photos in favorable lighting conditions. It lacks the advanced features and computational photography capabilities of newer iPhones.
- Se: Also features a single 12MP rear camera, but benefits from the A13 Bionic chip’s improved image processing, resulting in slightly better photos and video.
- Winner: se
Battery Life
- iPhone 8: Offers decent battery life, but it can be a concern for heavy users. The smaller battery capacity can struggle to last a full day.
- Se: Provides slightly better battery life than the iPhone 8, but it is still not a standout feature. It can typically last a full day with moderate use.
- Winner: se
Storage Options
- iPhone 8: Available in limited storage options, potentially requiring users to manage storage more carefully. May be less appealing to those needing more space.
- Se: Offers a more varied selection of storage options, providing users with more flexibility to meet their needs.
- Winner: se
Price
- iPhone 8: Generally available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option. It is still a reasonable choice for anyone needing a cheap iPhone.
- Se: Also positioned at a competitive price, offering excellent value for its performance and features.
- Winner: Tie
Software and Updates
- iPhone 8: Will continue to receive software updates for a while, but it will eventually be phased out.
- Se: Supported with the latest iOS updates for a longer period.
- Winner: se
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | SE |
| Value | SE |
| Design | iPhone 8 (Subjective) |
| Camera (Overall) | SE (Slightly) |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Size: Both the iPhone 8 and the SE feature a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, offering a familiar and compact form factor. This makes them easy to handle and use with one hand.
- Water Resistance: Both phones share an IP67 water resistance rating, providing protection against splashes and brief submersion in water. This offers peace of mind in everyday use.
- Touch Id: Both models utilize the classic Touch ID fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking and authentication, a feature many users still prefer.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, allowing for convenient charging without the need for cables.
- Main Camera: Both phones have a 12MP main camera, capable of capturing detailed photos and videos.
iPhone 8 vs SE Buying Guide
Performance and Speed
The iPhone 8, powered by the A11 Bionic chip, delivers impressive performance, handling demanding tasks and games with ease. The A11 chip offers a noticeable speed boost compared to older iPhone models. While the original SE, with its A9 chip, is still capable, the difference in processing power is significant. The iPhone 8 provides a smoother overall experience, particularly when multitasking or running graphically intensive applications. This difference is especially noticeable when considering future software updates and their optimization requirements.
The original SE, while still functional, may exhibit occasional lags compared to the iPhone 8. This is primarily due to the older processor architecture. However, the SE remains a viable option for basic usage and less demanding applications. The iPhone 8 provides a more future-proof performance profile.
Display and Design
The iPhone 8 features a larger 4.7-inch Retina HD display, providing a more immersive viewing experience compared to the SE’s 4-inch screen. The larger display is advantageous for browsing the web, watching videos, and playing games. The iPhone 8 also incorporates True Tone technology, which adjusts the display’s white balance to match the ambient lighting, making the screen easier on the eyes. The SE’s smaller screen can feel cramped for some users.
The design of the iPhone 8 includes a glass back, enabling wireless charging functionality, a feature absent in the SE. The SE retains the classic iPhone design with an aluminum back. Both phones are well-built, but the iPhone 8 offers a more modern aesthetic and additional features. The overall build quality remains very similar between the two.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone 8 boasts a 12MP single-lens camera with improved image processing, resulting in sharper and more vibrant photos compared to the original SE. The iPhone 8 also features optical image stabilization (OIS), which reduces blur caused by hand shake, making it easier to capture clear photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions. The iPhone 8 offers enhanced video recording capabilities, including 4K video at 60fps.
The original SE’s 12MP camera still takes decent photos in good lighting conditions. However, it lacks the advanced features and image processing capabilities of the iPhone 8. The SE’s video recording is limited compared to the iPhone 8. The iPhone 8’s camera system provides a significant upgrade, especially for those who prioritize photography.
Battery Life Comparison
Battery life is a crucial factor in choosing a smartphone. The iPhone 8 offers a battery life that is generally similar to the original SE, but this can vary depending on usage patterns. Both phones can last a full day of moderate use. However, heavy users may find themselves needing to recharge their phones before the end of the day. The iPhone 8’s larger display and processing power can impact its battery consumption.
The original SE’s battery life is adequate for its size and processing capabilities. The SE might edge out the iPhone 8 in some cases, particularly with less intensive tasks. However, the battery performance is very similar in real-world scenarios. Both phones benefit from efficient power management. It is important to note that battery health degrades over time.
Storage Options and Pricing
The iPhone 8 typically offers more storage options than the original SE, including 64GB and 256GB models. This is beneficial for users who store a large number of photos, videos, and apps on their phones. The original SE is commonly available in 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB. The availability of higher storage capacities in the iPhone 8 provides more flexibility.
Pricing is a key consideration. The original SE is generally available at a lower price point than the iPhone 8, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The price difference reflects the age and feature set of the phones. The iPhone 8, being a newer model, usually commands a higher price, especially if purchased new or in excellent condition.
Software and Updates
Both the iPhone 8 and the original SE support the latest versions of iOS. However, the iPhone 8, being a newer device, may receive software updates for a longer period. Apple typically provides software updates and security patches for several years after a device’s release. This ensures that the phone remains secure and has access to the latest features.
While the original SE still receives updates, the lifespan may be shorter than the iPhone 8. The availability of future iOS updates is an important factor to consider. The iPhone 8 offers a longer potential software support window. Regular updates enhance the user experience and address any security vulnerabilities.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 8 If…
- You prefer a design that is slightly more modern than the SE.
- You want a phone with a slightly more premium feel.
- You prioritize a balance between features and price.
Buy SE If…
- You are looking for the most affordable iPhone.
- You prioritize the latest processor for better performance.
- You prefer the classic iPhone design and size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the iPhone 8 faster than the SE?
Yes, the iPhone 8, with its A11 Bionic chip, is significantly faster than the original SE, which has the A9 chip. The A11 Bionic offers improved processing power, resulting in quicker app loading times, smoother multitasking, and better overall performance, especially when running demanding applications and games. This difference is quite noticeable in day-to-day use.
Does the iPhone 8 have a better camera than the SE?
Yes, the iPhone 8 has a better camera. It features a 12MP camera with improved image processing, optical image stabilization, and enhanced video recording capabilities, including 4K video at 60fps. The SE’s camera still takes decent photos, but lacks the advanced features and image quality of the iPhone 8. The iPhone 8 offers superior photographic results.
What are the screen sizes of the iPhone 8 and SE?
The iPhone 8 has a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, while the original SE features a 4-inch screen. The larger display on the iPhone 8 provides a more immersive viewing experience for browsing, watching videos, and playing games. The SE’s smaller screen is more compact and easier to use with one hand, but can feel cramped for some users.
Does the iPhone 8 have wireless charging?
Yes, the iPhone 8 supports wireless charging, thanks to its glass back design. This allows users to charge their phone simply by placing it on a compatible wireless charging pad. The original SE, with its aluminum back, does not offer wireless charging capabilities. Wireless charging adds convenience to the charging process.
What are the storage options available for each phone?
The iPhone 8 typically offers 64GB and 256GB storage options. The original SE is available in 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB. The iPhone 8 provides greater flexibility for storing more photos, videos, apps, and other files. The storage capacity is a critical factor for users with large media libraries.
Which phone has better battery life?
The battery life is quite similar between the two phones, with both capable of lasting a full day of moderate use. However, battery life can vary based on individual usage patterns. The iPhone 8’s larger display and processing power may slightly impact its battery consumption, but the differences are not dramatic. Battery health over time also plays a factor.
Which phone is more expensive?
The iPhone 8 generally costs more than the original SE. The price difference reflects the age, features, and performance capabilities of the two phones. The SE is often available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option. The iPhone 8’s higher price tag reflects its newer technology and improved features.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the iPhone 8 and the original SE depends on individual needs and budget. The iPhone 8 offers a superior user experience with its faster processor, larger display, better camera, and wireless charging. While the SE remains a functional device, the iPhone 8 provides a more modern and future-proof option. The iPhone 8 provides a better overall experience at a higher cost.
For those prioritizing performance, features, and a longer software support lifespan, the iPhone 8 is the better choice. The SE remains a viable option for budget-conscious users.
Winner: iPhone 8