iPhone Se 3rd Gen vs iPhone 8: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Stuck between a classic and a modern marvel? The choice between the iPhone SE (3rd generation) and the iPhone 8 can be a tough one. Both phones offer unique advantages, but understanding their differences is key to making the right decision for your needs and budget. Let’s dive in and see which iPhone reigns supreme!
The iPhone 8, a veteran in Apple’s lineup, boasts a familiar design and a solid foundation of features. It’s a testament to enduring design. On the other hand, the iPhone SE (3rd generation) brings a newer processor and some updated features, all while retaining the classic iPhone design.
This comparison will break down the key differences, from performance and camera capabilities to battery life and price. We’ll examine what each phone offers in terms of user experience. Whether you’re upgrading or buying your first iPhone, this guide will help you navigate the options and choose the perfect device.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone SE 3rd Gen | iPhone 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 4.7-inch | 4.7-inch |
| Processor | A15 Bionic | A11 Bionic |
| RAM | 4GB | 2GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps | 4K @ 60fps |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IP67 |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | No |
| Touch ID | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm | 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor
- iPhone Se 3rd Generation: Features the A15 Bionic chip, the same chip found in the iPhone 13 series. This provides significantly faster performance and improved efficiency compared to older chips. A major pro is its speed, but a potential con is the potential for overheating under heavy loads.
- iPhone 8: Equipped with the A11 Bionic chip. It’s a capable processor for its time, handling everyday tasks and gaming reasonably well. However, it’s considerably slower than the A15, and may struggle with demanding applications or multitasking compared to newer devices.
- Winner: iPhone SE 3rd Gen
Display
- iPhone Se 3rd Generation: Boasts a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, which is sharp and vibrant. Its small size may be a pro for those who prefer compact phones, but the screen size can be a con for media consumption and gaming.
- iPhone 8: Also features a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, identical to the SE. Offers the same clarity and sharpness. The same pros and cons apply regarding screen size.
- Winner: Tie
Camera
- iPhone Se 3rd Generation: Features a single 12MP wide camera with improved image processing thanks to the A15 Bionic chip, offering better low-light performance and Smart HDR 4. The single-lens setup simplifies use, but it lacks the versatility of multiple-lens systems.
- iPhone 8: Has a single 12MP wide camera. While capable, its image processing capabilities lag behind the SE due to the older processor. It produces good photos in favorable lighting conditions, but struggles more in low light.
- Winner: iPhone SE 3rd Gen
Battery Life
- iPhone Se 3rd Generation: Offers improved battery life compared to the iPhone 8, thanks to the more efficient A15 Bionic chip. It should last a full day with moderate use. A potential con is that it is still not as long-lasting as some other modern phones.
- iPhone 8: Battery life is noticeably shorter than the SE, often requiring charging before the end of the day. A major con is the potential for needing a battery replacement sooner.
- Winner: iPhone SE 3rd Gen
Design
- iPhone Se 3rd Generation: Maintains the classic iPhone design with thick bezels and a physical home button. A pro is the familiarity for those who prefer this design, but a con is the dated aesthetic compared to modern phones.
- iPhone 8: Also features the older design with thick bezels and a physical home button. It offers a similar feel to the SE. The design is dated compared to newer phones.
- Winner: Tie
5G Connectivity
- iPhone Se 3rd Generation: Supports 5G connectivity, providing faster download and upload speeds in areas with 5G coverage. A pro is the faster data speeds, but the availability of 5G may be a limitation.
- iPhone 8: Lacks 5G support, relying on 4G LTE. This is a con for users wanting the fastest possible data speeds.
- Winner: iPhone SE 3rd Gen
Software Updates
- iPhone Se 3rd Generation: Will receive software updates for a longer period, ensuring access to the latest features and security patches. A pro is the longer lifespan, but eventually, it will also become obsolete.
- iPhone 8: Has reached the end of its major software update cycle. This means it might not receive the latest features and security updates. A major con is the lack of future software support.
- Winner: iPhone SE 3rd Gen
Price & Value
- iPhone Se 3rd Generation: Offers a more modern feature set at a relatively affordable price point. The price is a pro, making it a good value, but it is not the cheapest smartphone available.
- iPhone 8: Typically available at a lower price due to its age. A pro is the low price, but the dated specifications and lack of software support are cons.
- Winner: iPhone SE 3rd Gen
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | iPhone SE 3rd Gen |
| Connectivity | iPhone SE 3rd Gen |
| Future-Proofing | iPhone SE 3rd Gen |
| Value | iPhone 8 |
What They Have in Common
- Display Size: Both phones feature a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, providing a similar viewing experience for content consumption and everyday tasks.
- Water Resistance: Both the iPhone SE 3rd generation and the iPhone 8 are rated IP67, offering protection against splashes, water, and dust.
- Touch Id: Both phones retain the classic Touch ID home button for secure unlocking and authentication.
- Wireless Charging: Both models support wireless charging, providing a convenient alternative to wired charging.
- Main Camera: Both devices share a 12MP rear camera, capable of capturing photos and videos.
iPhone SE 3rd Generation vs iPhone 8 Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The iPhone SE 3rd generation boasts the powerful A15 Bionic chip, the same found in the iPhone 13 series. This offers significantly improved performance compared to the iPhone 8’s A11 Bionic. Apps load faster, multitasking is smoother, and demanding games run with ease. The A15 Bionic also enables advanced computational photography features. The iPhone 8, while still capable, struggles with complex tasks and graphic-intensive applications. The difference in processing power is a crucial factor for users who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
Camera Capabilities
While both phones have single-lens cameras, the iPhone SE 3rd generation benefits from the A15 Bionic’s image processing capabilities. It delivers enhanced photo quality, especially in low-light conditions, and offers features like Smart HDR 4. The iPhone 8’s camera, though capable, lacks these advanced features and struggles in challenging lighting scenarios. Video recording is also improved on the SE, offering better stabilization and dynamic range. For photography enthusiasts, the SE 3rd generation offers a superior experience.
Design and Build Quality
The iPhone SE 3rd generation retains the classic iPhone 8 design, featuring a glass back and aluminum frame. However, the SE 3rd generation incorporates tougher glass for improved durability. The iPhone 8’s design is still appealing, but it feels dated compared to modern smartphones. Both phones are water-resistant, but the SE 3rd generation may offer slightly improved resistance. The overall build quality is comparable, but the SE has the edge with improved glass.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPhone SE 3rd generation offers slightly improved battery life compared to the iPhone 8, thanks to the more efficient A15 Bionic chip. However, both phones still have relatively small batteries compared to modern smartphones. Both support wireless charging, a convenient feature absent in many budget phones. Charging speeds are similar, both supporting fast charging with an appropriate adapter. Battery life is a consideration, especially for power users, but neither phone excels in this area.
Software and Updates
The iPhone SE 3rd generation ships with a more recent version of iOS and will receive software updates for a longer period. This ensures access to the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements. The iPhone 8, being an older model, will eventually reach its end-of-life for software updates. This makes the SE a more future-proof choice for those who want to stay current with the latest iOS features and security enhancements. Software support is a key advantage for the newer SE model.
Price and Value
The iPhone SE 3rd generation is generally priced higher than a used or refurbished iPhone 8. However, considering the improved performance, camera capabilities, and longer software support, the SE 3rd generation offers better value for the money. The iPhone 8 is a more budget-friendly option, but users must consider its limitations. The SE 3rd generation provides a superior overall experience for a slightly higher price. The value proposition favors the SE, despite the initial cost difference.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone SE 3rd generation If…
- You want the latest processor and performance for a smooth and responsive experience.
- You desire 5G connectivity for faster download and streaming speeds.
- You prefer a more up-to-date iPhone with the latest software support.
- You want a phone with longer software support.
Buy iPhone 8 If…
- You’re on a tight budget and looking for a more affordable option.
- You are satisfied with the performance of the A11 Bionic chip for your daily needs.
- You prefer the classic iPhone design and physical home button.
- You don’t need 5G connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in performance?
The iPhone SE 3rd generation, powered by the A15 Bionic chip, significantly outperforms the iPhone 8 with its A11 Bionic. This results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming performance. The A15 Bionic also enables advanced computational photography, enhancing the overall user experience. The performance difference is noticeable in everyday use.
How does the camera compare?
The iPhone SE 3rd generation benefits from the A15 Bionic’s image processing, leading to better photo quality, especially in low light. It includes features like Smart HDR 4, which the iPhone 8 lacks. While both have single-lens cameras, the SE’s software enhancements make a noticeable difference in image quality and video stabilization.
What about the design and build quality?
Both phones share a similar design, but the iPhone SE 3rd generation uses tougher glass. Both are water-resistant. The SE retains the familiar design, but the updated materials improve durability. While the overall design is similar, the SE has a slight edge in terms of build quality, thanks to the improved glass.
Is the battery life significantly different?
The iPhone SE 3rd generation has slightly better battery life due to the A15 Bionic’s efficiency. However, both phones have relatively modest battery capacities. Battery life is a key consideration for both, and neither phone is a standout in this area. It’s important to consider usage patterns when evaluating battery performance.
Which phone will receive software updates for longer?
The iPhone SE 3rd generation will receive software updates for a longer period. This ensures access to the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements for a longer duration. The iPhone 8, being older, will eventually reach its end-of-life for software updates, making the SE a more future-proof option.
How does the price factor into the decision?
The iPhone SE 3rd generation is typically priced higher than a used or refurbished iPhone 8. However, the improved performance, camera, and longer software support contribute to a better overall value. The iPhone 8 is a more budget-friendly option, but the SE offers a superior user experience.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The iPhone SE 3rd generation, with its A15 Bionic chip, is significantly better for gaming. It offers smoother frame rates, faster loading times, and handles graphically demanding games with ease. The iPhone 8, while capable, will struggle with some of the more advanced mobile games available today. The SE provides a better gaming experience.
Final Verdict
The iPhone SE 3rd generation offers a compelling upgrade over the iPhone 8, providing superior performance, a more advanced camera, and longer software support. While the design is similar, the improved processing power and features justify the slightly higher price. For users seeking the best experience, the SE 3rd generation is the clear winner.
Winner: iPhone SE 3rd Generation