When Apple released the iPhone SE in 2016, it was hailed as a compact powerhouse that packed a punch in a small package. Fast-forward to 2020, and the company unveiled the second-generation iPhone SE, building upon the success of its predecessor. But the question on everyone’s mind was: are the iPhone SE 1st and 2nd generation the same size? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll delve into the design, dimensions, and features of both models to answer this burning question.
The Original iPhone SE: A Compact Powerhouse
The first-generation iPhone SE was announced in March 2016, and it marked a significant departure from the larger iPhone 6S and 6S Plus models. Apple designers aimed to create a phone that combined the best of both worlds: a compact design with premium features. The result was a device that measured 4.87 inches (123.8 mm) in height, 2.87 inches (69.3 mm) in width, and 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) in depth, weighing in at 3.9 ounces (113 grams). This made it one of the smallest and lightest iPhones on the market at the time.
A Design Language All Its Own
The iPhone SE’s design was an exercise in miniaturization, borrowing cues from the iPhone 5S while incorporating some modern twists. The phone’s rounded edges, chamfered borders, and stainless steel frame gave it a premium feel, despite its compact size. The 4-inch (640 x 1136) Retina display was a standout feature, boasting a pixel density of 326 pixels per inch (PPI). This made text and images appear crisp and vibrant, even at a smaller scale.
The iPhone SE 2nd Generation: A Refinement of Perfection
Fast-forward to 2020, and Apple unveiled the second-generation iPhone SE, a device that built upon the success of its predecessor while introducing some key upgrades. The new iPhone SE retained the same compact design as its predecessor, with identical dimensions: 4.87 inches (123.8 mm) in height, 2.87 inches (69.3 mm) in width, and 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) in depth. However, the phone’s weight had increased slightly to 4.8 ounces (136 grams), likely due to the upgraded internals.
A Speed Boost and Camera Upgrade
One of the most significant upgrades in the iPhone SE 2nd generation was the inclusion of Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 11 series. This resulted in a significant performance boost, making the new iPhone SE up to 1.8 times faster than its predecessor in terms of CPU performance. The phone’s camera system also received an upgrade, with a 12-megapixel (f/1.8) sensor and improved Portrait mode capabilities.
Wireless Charging and Water Resistance
The iPhone SE 2nd generation also introduced wireless charging, a feature previously reserved for Apple’s higher-end devices. This made it more convenient for users to top up their phone’s battery without the need for a Lightning cable. Additionally, the phone boasted an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning it could withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) for up to 30 minutes.
Size Comparison: 1st vs. 2nd Generation iPhone SE
So, are the iPhone SE 1st and 2nd generation the same size? The answer is a resounding yes. Both phones measure 4.87 inches (123.8 mm) in height, 2.87 inches (69.3 mm) in width, and 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) in depth. The 2nd generation iPhone SE is slightly heavier, but the difference is hardly noticeable. In terms of design, both phones share a similar aesthetic, with the same rounded edges, chamfered borders, and stainless steel frame.
What’s Changed: A Closer Look
While the overall design and dimensions of the iPhone SE 1st and 2nd generation are identical, there are some subtle differences. The 2nd generation iPhone SE features a slightly thicker camera bump, likely due to the upgraded camera sensor. Additionally, the phone’s display has been tweaked to support features like True Tone and a wider color gamut, making colors appear more vivid and lifelike.
The Verdict: Same Size, Different Feel
In conclusion, the iPhone SE 1st and 2nd generation are indeed the same size, with identical dimensions and a similar design language. However, the 2nd generation iPhone SE offers a range of upgrades under the hood, including a faster processor, improved camera, and wireless charging capabilities. While the phone’s design may not have changed dramatically, the enhancements make it a more compelling option for those seeking a compact yet powerful iPhone experience.
| Feature | iPhone SE 1st Generation | iPhone SE 2nd Generation |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.87 inches (123.8 mm) x 2.87 inches (69.3 mm) x 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) | 4.87 inches (123.8 mm) x 2.87 inches (69.3 mm) x 0.3 inches (7.6 mm) |
| Weight | 3.9 ounces (113 grams) | 4.8 ounces (136 grams) |
| Processor | A9 chip | A13 Bionic chip |
| Camera | 12-megapixel (f/2.2) | 12-megapixel (f/1.8) |
| Wireless Charging | No | Yes |
| Water Resistance | No | IP67 rating (up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes) |
In the end, the choice between the iPhone SE 1st and 2nd generation comes down to individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more affordable, compact iPhone with a still-capable processor, the 1st generation iPhone SE might be the way to go. However, if you want the latest and greatest features, including a faster processor, improved camera, and wireless charging, the 2nd generation iPhone SE is the clear winner.
What are the key differences between the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE?
The key differences between the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE are primarily in their processing power, camera capabilities, and storage options. The 2nd generation iPhone SE is equipped with Apple’s A15 Bionic chip, which provides a significant boost in performance and power efficiency compared to the A9 chip found in the 1st generation model. Additionally, the 2nd generation iPhone SE features a dual-camera setup with a 12-megapixel main camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, whereas the 1st generation model has a single 12-megapixel camera.
Furthermore, the 2nd generation iPhone SE offers more storage options, including 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, whereas the 1st generation model is available in 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB storage capacities. These upgrades make the 2nd generation iPhone SE a more capable and future-proof device, especially for users who want a high-performance device in a compact form factor.
How does the camera performance of the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE compare?
The camera performance of the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE differs significantly. The 1st generation iPhone SE has a single 12-megapixel camera, which is capable of taking good-quality photos in well-lit conditions. However, it lacks features like optical zoom, portrait mode, and advanced image processing capabilities. In contrast, the 2nd generation iPhone SE features a dual-camera setup with a 12-megapixel main camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, which enables features like optical zoom, portrait mode, and advanced image processing.
The dual-camera setup on the 2nd generation iPhone SE also enables a feature called “Smart HDR,” which combines multiple images taken at different exposures to create a single image with improved dynamic range and color accuracy. Overall, the camera performance of the 2nd generation iPhone SE is significantly better than the 1st generation model, making it a better choice for users who want a high-quality camera in a compact device.
What are the storage options for the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE?
The storage options for the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE differ. The 1st generation iPhone SE is available in 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB storage capacities. In contrast, the 2nd generation iPhone SE offers more storage options, including 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB. This means that users who need more storage space for their apps, photos, and videos can opt for the higher storage capacity options on the 2nd generation iPhone SE.
It’s worth noting that both devices do not have a microSD card slot, which means that users cannot expand their storage capacity beyond what is available onboard. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right storage capacity when buying the device, especially for users who plan to store a large number of files, apps, and media on their device.
How does the performance of the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE compare?
The performance of the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE differs significantly. The 1st generation iPhone SE is powered by Apple’s A9 chip, which was released in 2015. While it was a fast chip in its time, it has become somewhat outdated compared to modern smartphone processors. In contrast, the 2nd generation iPhone SE is powered by Apple’s A15 Bionic chip, which is a much faster and power-efficient processor.
The A15 Bionic chip on the 2nd generation iPhone SE provides a significant boost in performance, enabling users to run demanding apps and games smoothly. Additionally, the A15 Bionic chip is more power-efficient, which means that it can provide a longer battery life on a single charge. Overall, the performance of the 2nd generation iPhone SE is much better than the 1st generation model, making it a better choice for users who want a fast and efficient device.
Are there any differences in the display of the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE?
The display of the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE is similar, with both devices featuring a 4-inch Retina HD display with a resolution of 1134 x 640 pixels. Both devices also feature the same display features, including Display Zoom, which allows users to zoom in on the display, and Reachability, which enables users to access the top of the screen with one hand.
However, some users may notice that the display on the 2nd generation iPhone SE is slightly brighter and more vibrant than the 1st generation model. This is because the 2nd generation iPhone SE features a slightly improved display panel that can produce a wider color gamut and higher contrast ratio.
What are the battery life expectations for the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE?
The battery life expectations for the 1st and 2nd generation iPhone SE are similar, with both devices offering a battery life of up to 14 hours of talk time on 3G and up to 10 days of standby time. However, the 2nd generation iPhone SE has a more power-efficient processor and a slightly larger battery, which enables it to provide a slightly longer battery life on a single charge.
In real-world usage, users can expect the 2nd generation iPhone SE to last around a day and a half with moderate to heavy usage, while the 1st generation iPhone SE may need to be charged slightly more frequently. However, both devices support wireless charging and fast charging, which makes it convenient to top up the battery on the go.
Is the 1st generation iPhone SE still a good option in 2022?
While the 1st generation iPhone SE is still a capable device, it may not be the best option for users who want a high-performance device with the latest features and security updates. The 1st generation iPhone SE was released in 2016, and Apple has stopped providing software updates for the device, which means that it may not receive the latest security patches or feature updates.
Additionally, the 1st generation iPhone SE’s outdated processor and camera may not be able to keep up with the demands of modern apps and games. However, if budget is a concern and users don’t mind using an older device, the 1st generation iPhone SE can still provide a good user experience, especially for basic tasks like browsing, emailing, and social media.