iPhone SE 2024 Complete Review - Compact Powerhouse

The Ultimate Small Form Factor Performance Champion

iPhone SE 2024 Compact Powerhouse
4.7/5 (Based on comprehensive testing)

4.7" Display

Retina HD

A17 Chip

Powerhouse Performance

12MP Camera

Advanced Photography

$429

Starting Price

Introduction

The iPhone SE 2024 represents Apple's commitment to delivering flagship performance in a compact, affordable package. With the powerful A17 chip, advanced camera system, and classic iPhone design, this compact powerhouse proves that great things come in small packages. Perfect for users who prefer one-handed operation without compromising on performance, the iPhone SE 2024 delivers exceptional value and capability in a 4.7-inch form factor.

Technical Specifications

Display & Design

  • Screen Size: 4.7-inch Retina HD
  • Resolution: 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi)
  • Display Tech: IPS LCD, True Tone
  • Dimensions: 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm

Performance

  • Processor: A17 Bionic Chip
  • RAM: 6GB LPDDR5
  • Storage: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
  • Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3

Camera System

  • Main Camera: 12MP f/1.8 with OIS
  • Video Recording: 4K at 60fps
  • Front Camera: 7MP f/2.2
  • Features: Portrait Mode, Night Mode

Battery & Features

  • Battery: 2018 mAh
  • Charging: 20W Fast Charging
  • Water Resistance: IP67
  • OS: iOS 17

Performance Analysis

The iPhone SE 2024 delivers flagship-level performance thanks to the A17 Bionic chip. Despite its compact size, it matches or exceeds the performance of many larger, more expensive smartphones, making it a true compact powerhouse.

1,680

Geekbench Single

Flagship Performance

4,200

Geekbench Multi

Excellent Multi-Core

28,500

AnTuTu Score

Outstanding Overall

Gaming Performance

Daily Usage Performance

Compact Form Factor Excellence

The iPhone SE 2024's compact 4.7-inch form factor offers unparalleled one-handed usability without compromising on performance. This analysis explores why size matters and how Apple has maximized efficiency in a small package.

One-Handed Operation

Perfect for users who prefer comfortable one-handed usage and pocket-friendly design.

  • • Thumb-friendly interface navigation
  • • Easy pocket portability
  • • Comfortable grip for extended use
  • • Ideal for smaller hands

Performance Density

Maximum performance packed into minimal space with flagship-level capabilities.

  • • A17 chip in compact form
  • • Same performance as larger iPhones
  • • Efficient thermal management
  • • Optimized battery life

Camera Excellence

The iPhone SE 2024's 12MP camera system delivers exceptional photography capabilities, leveraging computational photography and the A17 chip's image processing power for professional-quality results.

Photo Capabilities

Main Camera: 12MP f/1.8
Image Stabilization: Optical (OIS)
Portrait Mode: Advanced
Night Mode: Excellent

Video Recording

4K Recording: 60fps
Slow Motion: 1080p 240fps
Video Stabilization: Cinematic
HDR Video: Dolby Vision

Pricing & Availability

64GB Model

$429

Entry Level

128GB Model

$479

Recommended

256GB Model

$579

Maximum Storage

Availability & Offers

  • • Available at Apple Store and authorized retailers
  • • Trade-in discounts available
  • • Apple Care+ protection plans
  • • Student and education discounts
  • • Carrier deals and financing options

Detailed Pros and Cons

What We Love

  • Flagship A17 chip performance in compact form
  • Perfect size for one-handed operation
  • Excellent camera quality with computational photography
  • Affordable entry point into iPhone ecosystem
  • Touch ID for secure authentication
  • 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi 6 support
  • iOS 17 with years of software updates

Areas for Improvement

  • Single rear camera limits photography versatility
  • Older design with thick bezels
  • No Face ID, only Touch ID
  • Limited battery life compared to larger iPhones
  • 64GB base storage may be insufficient
  • No MagSafe wireless charging

Comparison with Competitors

How does the iPhone SE 2024 compare with other compact and budget-friendly smartphones:

SpecificationsiPhone SE 2024iPhone 15Google Pixel 8a
Display Size4.7" LCD6.1" OLED6.1" OLED
ProcessorA17 BionicA16 BionicTensor G3
Main Camera12MP Single48MP Dual64MP Dual
Starting Price$429$699$499

Complete Buying Guide

The iPhone SE 2024 is perfect for users who want flagship performance in a compact, affordable package. Here's everything you need to know to make the right purchase decision.

Who Should Buy This?

  • • Users who prefer compact, one-handed phones
  • • Budget-conscious buyers wanting iOS experience
  • • Current iPhone users looking for affordable upgrade
  • • Those who prioritize performance over camera versatility
  • • Users who prefer Touch ID over Face ID
  • • First-time iPhone buyers

Storage Recommendations

  • 64GB: Light users, mostly streaming
  • 128GB: Recommended for most users
  • 256GB: Heavy users, lots of photos/videos
  • • Consider iCloud storage for additional space
  • • No expandable storage available
  • • Choose wisely - storage cannot be upgraded

Essential Accessories

Screen Protection

Tempered glass recommended

Protective Case

Leather or silicone options

20W Charger

Fast charging capability

Final Verdict

4.7/5

The iPhone SE 2024 proves that great things come in small packages. With flagship A17 performance, excellent camera capabilities, and unbeatable value, it's the perfect compact powerhouse for users who prioritize performance and portability without breaking the bank.

Compact Powerhouse Champion