Choosing a new smartphone can be challenging, especially when comparing models from the same brand. Apple’s iPhone lineup offers a range of devices, each with its own set of features and benefits. If you’re on a tighter budget and considering older models or the more affordable SE line, you might be stuck choosing between the iPhone 12 and the iPhone SE 3rd generation. Both offer the iconic Apple experience, but they cater to different needs and preferences. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which iPhone is the better choice for you.
Key Differences: A Side-by-Side Look
While both phones run on iOS and provide access to Apple’s ecosystem, they diverge significantly in several key areas.
Display and Design
The iPhone 12 boasts a significantly larger and more advanced display. It features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, offering higher resolution and brightness compared to the iPhone SE 3rd Gen’s 4.7-inch Retina HD display. The iPhone 12’s OLED screen technology delivers richer blacks and more vibrant colors, making it superior for media consumption and visual tasks. Design-wise, the iPhone 12 sports a modern, all-screen design with Face ID, while the iPhone SE 3rd Gen retains the classic iPhone look with thicker bezels and Touch ID.
iPhone 12 vs iPhone SE 3rd Gen Display Comparison
Alt text: Side-by-side comparison of iPhone 12 and iPhone SE 3rd generation displays, highlighting the larger screen and slimmer bezels of the iPhone 12 compared to the iPhone SE 3rd generation’s smaller screen and classic design.
Camera Capabilities
Photography is another area where the iPhone 12 excels. It features a dual-camera system on the rear, including wide and ultrawide lenses, offering more versatility in shooting options, including a zoom function and ultra-wide perspectives. The iPhone 12 also supports HDR video recording and Night mode on both the Wide and Ultra Wide cameras, significantly enhancing low-light photography. In contrast, the iPhone SE 3rd Gen has a single rear camera. While it’s a capable camera, it lacks the versatility of multiple lenses and advanced features like Night mode. The iPhone 12 also features a better front camera, improving selfie quality and video call clarity.
Performance and Battery
Performance-wise, the iPhone SE 3rd Gen holds a slight edge with its A15 Bionic chip, which is newer than the A14 Bionic in the iPhone 12. In day-to-day use, both chips are incredibly fast and responsive, handling apps and multitasking with ease. However, the A15 in the SE might offer slightly better power efficiency. Despite the chip difference, the iPhone 12 generally provides better battery life than the iPhone SE 3rd Gen, thanks to its larger battery capacity.
Software and Longevity
Both devices receive the latest iOS updates, ensuring access to the newest features and security patches. However, the newer A15 chip in the iPhone SE 3rd Gen might allow it to receive software updates for a year or two longer than the iPhone 12 in the long run.
Durability and Other Features
The iPhone 12 boasts better water resistance, offering IP68 rating compared to the iPhone SE 3rd Gen’s IP67. This means the iPhone 12 can withstand submersion in deeper water for longer periods. The iPhone 12 also supports MagSafe accessories, a feature not available on the iPhone SE 3rd Gen.
iPhone 12: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior Display: Larger, higher resolution OLED screen with vibrant colors.
- Versatile Camera System: Dual cameras with wide and ultrawide lenses, Night mode, and HDR video.
- Better Battery Life: Generally lasts longer on a single charge.
- Modern Design: Slim bezels and Face ID.
- Better Water Resistance: IP68 rating.
- MagSafe Compatibility: Supports MagSafe accessories.
Cons:
- Older Chip: A14 Bionic, slightly older than the A15 in the SE.
- Potentially Shorter Software Support: May receive updates for a shorter period compared to the SE.
- Higher Price: Typically costs more than a new iPhone SE 3rd Gen, especially when new.
iPhone SE 3rd Gen: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Newer, Faster Chip: A15 Bionic chip for excellent performance and efficiency.
- Potentially Longer Software Support: Likely to receive iOS updates for a longer duration.
- More Affordable: Significantly cheaper than the iPhone 12.
- Compact Size: Easier to handle for those who prefer smaller phones.
- Classic iPhone Design with Touch ID: Familiar and reliable for users who prefer Touch ID.
Cons:
- Smaller, Lower Resolution Display: 4.7-inch LCD screen.
- Single Rear Camera: Lacks the versatility of multiple lenses and advanced features.
- Shorter Battery Life: Generally doesn’t last as long as the iPhone 12.
- Outdated Design: Thick bezels and classic look may not appeal to everyone.
- Lower Water Resistance: IP67 rating.
- No MagSafe: Doesn’t support MagSafe accessories.
Conclusion: Which iPhone Should You Choose?
The choice between the iPhone 12 and iPhone SE 3rd Gen depends largely on your priorities and budget.
Choose the iPhone 12 if:
- You prioritize a superior display for media consumption and visual experience.
- You want a more versatile camera system for various photography needs.
- Battery life is a significant concern.
- You prefer a modern, all-screen design and Face ID.
- You value better water resistance and MagSafe compatibility.
Choose the iPhone SE 3rd Gen if:
- Budget is your primary concern.
- You prefer a smaller, more compact phone.
- You value the latest chip and potentially longer software support.
- You like the classic iPhone design and Touch ID.
- Advanced camera features and a large display are not essential for you.
Ultimately, both iPhones are capable devices. The iPhone 12 offers a more premium experience with its advanced features and design, while the iPhone SE 3rd Gen provides excellent performance and core iPhone functionalities at a more accessible price point. Consider what features are most important to you and how each phone fits within your budget to make the best decision.
