Apple announced its new entry-level model, the iPhone 16e, on February 20, 2025. This model is positioned as the successor to the previous iPhone SE (3rd generation), and is equipped with the latest A18 processor, with the price starting at 99,800 yen for the 128GB model. Meanwhile, the higher-end iPhone 16 model has more advanced features and is priced higher.
This article compares three models: the iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, and iPhone SE (3rd generation). We hope it will be helpful for those who are unsure which one to choose.
table of contents
What to choose based on design and ease of use?
What if you were to choose based on performance and features?
Storage Capacity & Price
Which model should you choose?
summary
What to choose based on design and ease of use?
Screen size and operation
iPhone 16e / iPhone 16: Equipped with a 6.1-inch OLED display, it's perfect for those who want to enjoy games and videos on a large screen!
*Of these three models, only the iPhone 16 features the "Dynamic Island," a sub-display that can show various information, and the Camera Control button. For those who want smoother notifications, app operation, and camera operation, the iPhone 16 is recommended.
The 16e does not have a camera control button, but it does have an action button on the left side above the volume buttons that can be used to launch the camera or mute the device.
NIMASO Tempered Glass Film for iPhone 16e/14 Pro Max/14 Pro/14 Plus/14/13 Pro Max/13 Pro/13 mini/13, Black Borderless with Guide Frame (2-Pack)
The design leaves enough space around the edges of the iPhone to prevent interference with the case. Even if the case breaks, the shatterproof coating prevents glass shards from flying everywhere, ensuring safety.
iPhone SE (3rd generation): Equipped with a 4.7-inch LCD display and a home button (with fingerprint authentication). If you prefer one-handed operation, have difficulty authenticating with Face ID, or prioritize a compact design, we recommend the iPhone SE (3rd generation).
Tip: If you want a large screen, we recommend the iPhone 16e or iPhone 16. If you prefer a smaller model, we recommend the iPhone SE (3rd generation). If you want a large screen and the Dynamic Island experience, we recommend the iPhone 16.
Body design
iPhone 16e: Available in black and white, this phone has a simple design. Recommended for those who prefer a more subdued design. The phone is made of matte glass on the back and aluminum on the sides.
iPhone 16: A pop design with a wide range of colors! Perfect for those who want to choose based on fashion! The back is made of color-infused glass with a matte texture, and the sides are made of aluminum.
iPhone SE (3rd generation): A classic design with a size that fits comfortably in your hand. Perfect for those who love the classic iPhone! The back is made of glass (glossy finish) and the sides are made of aluminum.
Tip: If you're looking for a simple and understated design, choose the iPhone 16e; if you're looking for a unique design with a wide range of colors, choose the iPhone 16; if you value the classic iPhone look, choose the iPhone SE (3rd generation).
What if you were to choose based on performance and features?
Processing chip & AI compatible
iPhone 16e / iPhone 16: The higher the number on the processing chip that powers the iPhone, the more powerful it is. The 16 and 16e are equipped with the latest A18 chip and support Apple Intelligence, so if you want to take full advantage of the latest AI features, these two models are recommended.
iPhone SE (3rd generation): Equipped with the A15 Bionic chip, it's sufficient for everyday use, but it's inferior to the latest chips and doesn't support AI functions. If you're looking for stable performance, the SE3 should be satisfactory.
Key point: If you're looking for a balance between high-speed processing and cost-effectiveness, choose the iPhone 16e; if you're looking for even higher performance, choose the iPhone 16.
Camera performance
iPhone 16e: Equipped with a 48-megapixel main camera! However, it does not have an ultra-wide-angle lens. It is perfect for people who mainly take everyday photos and do not take many landscape photos.
iPhone 16: Equipped with a dual camera (main + ultra-wide-angle)! You can take beautiful photos of both people and landscapes. If you prioritize camera performance, you should choose the iPhone 16!
iPhone SE (3rd generation): A single camera (12 megapixels) with simple functions. If you're just taking photos of everyday life, the SE3 is fine.
Tip: The iPhone 16e is sufficient for everyday photography, but if you want to take more serious photos and are interested in the new technology of "spatial photography," we recommend the iPhone 16.
Battery and Charging
iPhone 16e: iPhone 16e: Boasts up to 26 hours of battery life for video playback, but it doesn't have MagSafe and only supports basic Qi wireless charging.
iPhone 16: Video playback time is up to 22 hours, about four hours less than the iPhone 16e, but it supports MagSafe , which expands accessory compatibility.
iPhone SE (3rd generation): Battery life is shorter than the other two models, and it supports wireless charging but not MagSafe.
Tip: If you're looking for a long-lasting battery and convenient charging (MagSafe), we recommend the iPhone 16.
NIMASO Tempered Glass Film for iPhone 16/16 Plus/16 Pro/16 Pro Max with Guide Frame and Black Borderless Screen Protector (2-Pack)
Ultra-thin and non-interfering with the case, the 0.33mm ultra-thin screen offers 99.99% transparency. Anti-fingerprint and smooth to the touch, ensuring a beautiful screen at all times.
Storage Capacity & Price
| Model | iPhone 16e | iPhone 16 | iPhone SE3 * |
| 64GB | – | – | 62,800 yen |
| 128GB | 99,800 yen | 124,800 yen | 69,800 yen |
| 256GB | 114,800 yen | 139,800 yen | 84,800 yen |
| 512GB | 144,800 yen | 169,800 yen | – |
*SE3 is no longer available at the Apple Store. However, you can purchase it at any Apple Authorized Reseller.
Tip: If you want the latest model at a reasonable price, choose the iPhone 16e.
Conclusion: Which model should you choose?
| Recommended for: | Which model to choose |
| I want a high-performance model that is cost-effective | iPhone 16e |
| I don't care about the camera features | |
| I want an iPhone with a long battery life | |
| I want an iPhone with a high-performance camera | iPhone 16 |
| I want to use spatial photography | |
| I want to use MagSafe | |
| I like small and simple models | iPhone SE (3rd generation) |
| I want to choose based on price rather than specs | |
| I want to use fingerprint authentication |
summary
The iPhone 16e is a relatively affordable model that offers excellent value for money, despite being equipped with the latest chips and a high-performance camera. If you're looking for cutting-edge features, the iPhone 16 is a good choice, while if you prioritize compactness and simple usability, the iPhone SE (3rd generation) is a good choice. The important thing is to choose the model that's right for you. Use this article as a reference to choose the perfect iPhone and enjoy a comfortable smartphone life.
*If you would like to know more about the specifications of the iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, and iPhone SE3, please see the table below.
| Model | iPhone 16e | iPhone 16 | iPhone SE3 |
| Storage | 128GB 256GB 512GB |
128GB 256GB 512GB |
64GB 128GB 256GB |
| Screen size | 6.1 inch (organic EL) | 6.1 inch (organic EL) | 4.7 inch (LCD) |
| Body size | Height: 146.7mm Width: 71.5mm Thickness: 7.8mm |
Height: 147.6mm Width: 71.6mm Thickness: 7.8mm |
Height: 138.4mm Width: 67.3mm Thickness: 7.3mm |
| Weight | 167g | 170g | 144g |
| Rear camera | 48MP | Main: 48MP Fusion Ultra wide angle: 12MP |
12MP |
| In-camera | 12MP | 12MP | 12MP |
| battery | Video playback: Up to 26 hours Streaming: Up to 21 hours Audio playback: Up to 90 hours | Video playback: Up to 22 hours Streaming: Up to 18 hours Audio playback: Up to 80 hours | Video playback: Up to 15 hours Streaming: Up to 10 hours Audio playback: Up to 50 hours |
| fast charging | Charges up to 50% in about 30 minutes | Charges up to 50% in about 30 minutes | Charges up to 50% in about 30 minutes |
| CPU | A18 chip | A18 chip | A15 Bionic |
| certification | Face ID | Face ID | Touch ID fingerprint authentication |
| waterproof | IP68 grade | IP68 grade | IP67 grade |
| Terminals | USB-C connector | USB-C connector | Lightning |
| color | Black White | Ultramarine Teal Pink White Black | (PRODUCT) RED Starlight Midnight |
[NIMASO's Top Picks] iPhone 16e Cases & Screen Protectors Ranking🎉
Introducing popular NIMASO items to help you find your perfect one!
🥇 #1 | [Cherry Blossom Limited Edition] NIMASO iPhone 16e/14/13 Pro/13 Tempered Glass Film
- Dust-free and bubble-free: Dust is automatically removed when removing the adhesive surface protection sticker, reducing the occurrence of bubbles by 40%.
- Full Protection: Made with 9H hardness glass that meets US military standards, it provides excellent protection from scratches and impacts when dropped.
- High transparency and fingerprint resistance: Ultra-thin glass with 99% transparency and AF coating provides comfortable operation and fingerprint resistance.
- Easy to apply: With the dedicated guide and simple "just pull" operation, you can apply it perfectly without any misalignment.
🥈 #2 | NIMASO iPhone 16e/14/13 Pro/13 Privacy Window Film
- Anti-peeping: Prevents people from looking at your screen from both sides, protecting your privacy.
- High durability: Made in Japan with 9H hardness glass that absorbs shock and is shatterproof.
- Smooth operation: Rounded edges make it smooth to the touch.
- No case interference: Designed to fit your smartphone case.
🥉 #3 | NIMASO iPhone 16e Case, Anti-Yellowing, Clear (Ice Star Series)
- High transparency: The highly transparent PC back allows for the original design of the iPhone 16e to be displayed and can also be customized.
- Anti-yellowing: Made of high-quality PC and TPU material, it maintains its clarity for a long time. Compatible with wireless charging.
- US military-grade shockproof: Drop-resistant and provides solid protection.
- Precision fit: Perfect fit for iPhone 16e, smooth button operation.
If you want to know more about other iPhone 16e accessories, click here .
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