Why the iPhone SE 2020 is often the smarter choice
Newer is better. Or so you think. The 2022 iPhone SE has 5G, a faster chip, and better battery life than its 2020 predecessor. It makes sense to choose the latest model, right? But here's what no one tells you: for most users, that older SE is secretly the smarter choice .
Not because it's cheaper—that's true too—but because the upgrades to the 2022 model are impressive on paper. In practice, you'll barely notice the difference. That A13 chip? Blazing fast for everything you do. 5G? Nice, but 4G is still perfectly fine . And with the money you save, you can immediately buy those AirPods you've been eyeing for months . Or a set of accessories that will truly make your phone better . Time to lay the facts on the table.
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The iPhone SE comparison: two generations under the microscope
Small size, big performance, and a friendly price—that's what the iPhone SE line has been promising for years. But when you're choosing between the 2022 version and the 2020 model , things get interesting. Because while both devices look identical, the specs tell a different story.
The newer edition boasts 5G support, a more powerful A15 Bionic chip, and improved battery life. But here's the twist: for many users, these upgrades are less relevant than they seem. The older model still runs smoothly with its A13 Bionic processor, and 4G networks in the Netherlands have excellent coverage. Moreover, the price difference can sometimes be hundreds of euros—money you can spend on useful accessories or simply keep in your pocket.
Design and build quality: identical twins
At first glance, the two models are indistinguishable. They share the same compact 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm body, the same 4.7-inch Retina HD display, and the familiar Home button with Touch ID. This size is perfect for those who don't need a huge screen but still want the iPhone experience.
Color options
- SE 2022: Midnight, Starlight, and (PRODUCT)RED
- SE 2020: black, white and (PRODUCT)RED
The construction is identical on both versions: a glass front and back with an aluminum frame. IP67 water resistance means both devices can handle a splash of water. Both score excellently in terms of sustainability – Apple uses recycled materials whenever possible.
Performance: The A13 vs. A15 Battle
The biggest difference is under the hood. The 2022 edition features the A15 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 13 series. The 2020 model has to make do with the A13 Bionic. Sounds like a world of difference, but the reality is more nuanced.
Daily use
For WhatsApp, Instagram, Netflix, and browsing, you'll barely notice the difference. Both chips are blazing fast for standard tasks. Apps open quickly, multitasking is smooth, and the system feels responsive. The A13 is still faster than what you'll find in many new Android devices.
Gaming and heavy apps
When it comes to intensive gaming or video editing, the A15 flexes its muscles. Graphically demanding titles run a bit smoother, and rendering is noticeably faster. But honestly: how many people edit video on a 4.7-inch screen?
Camera: subtle improvements
Both devices share the same hardware: a 12-megapixel main camera with an f/1.8 aperture and a 7-megapixel selfie camera. However, the newer model delivers better photos thanks to its more powerful image processor.
Where the SE 2022 scores better:
- Smart HDR 4 for more natural colors
- Photographic styles for personal adjustments
- Deep Fusion for more detail in textures
- Better low-light performance
The differences are subtle, however. For Instagram photos or vacation snaps, both cameras are more than adequate. Professional photographers certainly won't choose an SE model.
Battery life: small gain for the newer model
Apple promises two extra hours of video playback with the 2022 version (15 hours versus 13 hours). In practice, this means the newer model comfortably lasts a full day. With heavy use, you'll need to recharge the 2020 model by late afternoon.
Both devices support fast charging (50% in 30 minutes with a 20W adapter) and wireless charging. The charging speeds are identical, so you won't lose any time with that.
5G: Necessity or Luxury?
The SE 2022's biggest selling point is 5G support. But how important is that, really?
The reality of 5G in the Netherlands:
- Coverage is not yet optimal everywhere
- 4G speeds are more than sufficient for most tasks
- 5G consumes more battery
- Many subscriptions charge extra for 5G
For streaming, social media, and browsing, 4G is perfectly adequate. Only when downloading large files on the go or using it as a hotspot will you really notice a difference. The question is: how often do you do that on your phone?
Software support: future prospects
Both models run the latest iOS version flawlessly. The difference lies in the future. The A15 chip will likely receive updates for two years longer than the A13. Specifically:
- SE 2022: updates until approximately 2028-2029
- SE 2020: updates until approximately 2026-2027
For those who keep their phone for three years, this won't matter much. If you plan on using it longer, the newer model is a better choice.
Price comparison: where do you get value for your money?
Refurbished prices fluctuate, but the 2020 model is consistently cheaper. The difference is around €150-200. What can you do with that money?
- A set of AirPods
- Multiple cases and screen protectors
- A wireless charger plus extra cables
- Or just save for your next upgrade
Usage scenarios: which model is right for you?
Choose the iPhone SE 2022 if you:
- If you want to use the device for more than four years
- Regularly download large files on the go
- Want the best performance in games
- Values future-proofing
- Finding the latest of the latest important
Get the iPhone SE 2020 if you:
- Looking for a reliable everyday phone?
- The device has been used for two to three years
- Mainly calls, texts and browses
- Prefer to have money left over for accessories
- Do you need a spare phone or child phone?
Sustainability and environmental impact
Both models score well on sustainability. Apple uses recycled rare earth metals in the Taptic Engine and recycled tin in the logic board. The packaging is plastic-free.
Choosing a refurbished model makes both options even more sustainable. You give an existing device a second life and prevent electronic waste. Whether you choose 2020 or 2022, refurbished is always the greener choice.
Conclusion: choose rationally
The iPhone SE 2022 is technically superior, that's beyond dispute. A better processor, 5G, longer battery life, and extended software support make it the objectively better phone. But "better" doesn't automatically mean "best choice."
For many users, the 2020 model offers everything they need: smooth performance, a good camera, a compact size, and the familiar iPhone experience. You can invest the price difference in accessories that will truly enhance your daily use.
The smartest choice depends on your usage pattern and budget. Heavy users who keep their device for a long time are best off investing in the 2022 version. Regular users who upgrade after two to three years will be just as happy with the older model—and financially better off.
The smartest choice is not always the newest
Don't be fooled by spec lists. Both SE models are simply good phones that do what they're supposed to. The 2022 version is technically better , but the 2020 model will be more than enough for most people .
Take an honest look at what you actually use: are you mainly texting and scrolling through social media? Then that older SE is more than enough . With the money you save, you can immediately buy those accessories you wanted anyway. Sometimes the smartest choice isn't the newest one.
