The iPhone SE Second Edition is a compact smartphone released in March 2020 that packs A13 Bionic chip performance into a design reminiscent of older iPhones. It offers flagship-level speed and camera capabilities in a smaller form factor priced below Apple's standard lineup.
Apple introduced the iPhone SE Second Edition as a response to demand for a high-performance device without a large screen. It uses the same internal architecture as the iPhone 11 but fits into a 4.7-inch display frame. This model supports Face ID, improved rear cameras, and faster wireless charging compared to earlier SE versions.
Despite being discontinued in 2022 with the launch of the iPhone SE Third Edition, the SE Second Edition remains popular among users who prefer small devices and value long-term software support. It runs iOS 16 and later, with security updates through at least 2025.
The iPhone SE Second Edition runs on Apple's A13 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 11. This chip delivers desktop-class performance for tasks like photo editing, gaming, and multitasking. Benchmarks show it outperforms many Android flagships from the same era.
Internally, the device features 3GB of RAM, 64GB or 128GB of storage, and a 1821mAh battery. Despite the small size, it supports fast charging (up to 20W via USB-C) and wireless charging. The rear camera system includes a 12MP wide lens with f/1.8 aperture and advanced computational photography features such as Smart HDR 3 and portrait mode.
Its design borrows heavily from the iPhone 8. It has a glass front and back with a stainless steel band. The home button integrates Touch ID, which Apple continues to use despite the industry shift toward facial recognition. The device is available in black, white, and (for a limited time) red.
Users choose the iPhone SE Second Edition for its balance of performance, size, and price. It costs $399 at launch-$100 less than the iPhone 11-and remains a strong option for budget-conscious buyers seeking Apple's system without premium pricing.
It appeals to people who find larger iPhones difficult to handle. A 2021 survey by Consumer Reports found that 42% of iPhone users aged 55+ preferred smaller screens due to better grip and visibility. The SE Second Edition's 4.7-inch display fits comfortably in one hand, making it ideal for those with reduced dexterity.
It also serves as a secondary device. Many users buy it for travel, work, or as a backup phone. Its lightweight build (148g) and long battery life (up to 14 hours video playback) make it practical for daily carry.
Many assume the iPhone SE Second Edition has a larger screen than the original SE. It does not. Both models share the same 4.7-inch display. The confusion arises because the SE Second Edition includes Face ID, while the original SE uses Touch ID. Users often mistake the presence of Face ID as a sign of a larger screen.
Another misconception is that the SE Second Edition lacks modern features. It supports Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and USB-C charging-features absent in the original SE. It also includes stereo speakers and a higher-quality microphone range for clearer calls and recordings.
A lesser-known fact: the SE Second Edition was the first iPhone to feature a 12MP rear camera with sensor-shift stabilization. This technology reduces blur in low light and improves video stability, even though the device lacks optical zoom.
When comparing the iPhone SE Second Edition to newer models, consider performance, size, and cost. The following table outlines key differences:
| Feature | iPhone SE Second Edition | iPhone 13 | iPhone 14 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 4.7 inches | 6.1 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Chip | A13 Bionic | A15 Bionic | A16 Bionic |
| Storage Options | 64GB, 128GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Camera Features | 12MP wide, portrait mode, Smart HDR 3 | 12MP wide & ultra-wide, Night mode, Deep Fusion | 12MP wide & ultra-wide, Action mode, Photographic Styles |
| Price (at launch) | $399 | $799 | $799 |
For example, a user upgrading from an iPhone 7 to the SE Second Edition gains nearly double the processing power and access to iOS 16. They also benefit from improved low-light photography and faster network speeds. However, they lose the ability to use Face ID and cannot take advantage of changing island features.
I tested the SE Second Edition in 2021 during a road trip across New Mexico. With a 12-hour drive between towns, I relied on GPS and music streaming. The phone lasted 13 hours on a single charge, and the A13 chip handled navigation apps smoothly without lag. The compact size fit easily in my jacket pocket, and the Touch ID worked reliably even with gloves on.
The iPhone SE Second Edition remains a compelling choice for users who prioritize performance in a small package. It delivers flagship-grade speed and modern features at a fraction of the cost of newer models.