Apple iPhone SE 2020: Should you buy one?

Apple has a new enticing smartphone in its lineup called the iPhone SE 2020. Although not entirely a “new” smartphone, it’s price makes it an attractive offering. The question now is, should you buy one? Let’s find out.

Before we get started, let’s check what the new iPhone SE 2020 has to offer. This device is based on the iPhone 8, which Apple recently discontinued, that’s why it has the same dimensions and design. Most of the improvements are found internally. It is now equipped with a more powerful A13 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 11, a larger storage option, and new camera features. The rest is the same.

If you have the iPhone SE 2016 (1st-gen), iPhone 7 and older

I will always have a soft spot for the original iPhone SE’s design and size. Unfortunately, you can’t get one of those anymore. The iPhone SE 2020 is now the most compact iPhone in Apple’s current lineup. If you’re still using the original iPhone SE or older iPhones and thinking of upgrading, the 2nd-gen iPhone SE is the right choice if you have a limited budget.

If you have an iPhone 8, 8 Plus

If you have the iPhone 8, there’s not a lot of reason to upgrade to an SE 2020 unless you need the features mentioned above. The same goes for the iPhone 8 Plus as you’re going to lose the telephoto camera, and downgrading the display size and resolution, and battery life. I suggest upgrading to the iPhone 11 instead.

If you have an iPhone XR

The only advantage the iPhone SE 2020 has over the iPhone XR is the newer A13 Bionic chipset. I don’t think you should let go of the larger display, Face ID, and longer battery life for an updated chipset. Besides, the A12 Bionic is still powerful in today’s standards that Apple equipped it in the iPad Air 2019. I suggest holding on to your iPhone XR and wait for the iPhone 12.

If you have an iPhone 11 series

I guess the iPhone SE 2020 will work if you’re looking for a secondary Apple device to complement your iPhone 11. That is if you have the budget. Otherwise, might I suggest getting an iPhone 8 or iPhone 7 instead. Let’s just hope you can find a store or a seller that still has stocks.

If you have an Android

If you already have an Android smartphone but also want a robust iPhone in your arsenal, the iPhone SE 2020 is also a good starting point. But if you’re just testing the waters to see if you’d survive on iOS, I suggest getting an iPhone 8 or older. The advice also applies if this is your first time getting an iPhone.

In summary, the iPhone SE 2020 is an excellent device to upgrade to if you have an iPhone 7 or older. If you can stretch your budget, get an iPhone 11 series. And if you can hold on much longer, save up and wait for the iPhone 12 series.

One Comment

Greg says:

5 years ago

I would probably save up for this not only because it’s the cheapest iPhone but because it supports dual sim capability. The only thing left to consider is if our networks offer esim capability to prepaid users. Please publish an article on the esim situation in the Philippines.
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