iPhone SE vs. iPhone 6 – Comparison & Buyer’s Guide

The iPhone SE is Apple’s first 4-inch device since the iPhone 5s and so much has changed in terms of hardware and capabilities. Some might be confused by the similar appearance, which is why we’ve decided to provide you with a buyer’s guide that pits the iPhone SE vs. iPhone 6 with pros and cons. If you are planning to upgrade your current device to one of the newer models, you might be wondering whether to buy the iPhone SE or the iPhone 6 to replace your current phone. Appearances can be especially deceptive with this generation, as the smaller SE packs quite a punch and gives you plenty of bang for your buck.

iPhone SE vs iPhone 6: Specifications

The iPhone SE is much closer to the iPhone 6s when it comes to the specifications, meaning that it surpasses most of the capabilities of the iPhone 6. You get a better back-facing camera with 12 MP and 4K video instead of 8 MP and 1080p video, as well as a faster A9 chip which results in better gaming experiences and overall snappier performance. In terms of the front-facing selfie camera, they are both at 1.2 MP and offer 720p video on iPhone SE.

The 2 GB of RAM in the iPhone SE are extremely helpful in keeping web pages and apps in memory, whereas the iPhone 6 only has 1 GB of RAM. This means that browser tabs don’t need to be reloaded as often, the same goes for apps that are kept in the background and reopened later in the App Switcher.

There is of course a difference in screen size, the iPhone SE’s 4-inch screen is noticeably smaller when compared to the iPhone 6 with the 4.7-inch diagonal. Both have the same Touch ID sensor (1st generation) and are now available in 16 GB and 64 GB storage options. The iPhone SE boasts the next generation M9 motion coprocessor, whereas the iPhone 6 is equipped with the earlier M8 version. This means that the “Hey Siri” feature works on the SE without having to plug it into a wall outlet or your computer, wirelessly.

iPhone SE vs iPhone 6: Design

As explained above, the iPhone SE is very closely related to the iPhone 5s when it comes to design. A minor difference is the protective glass on the front of the device, which has a more rounded edge now. The iPhone 6 has a more curved shape and is 7mm thinner than the new 4-inch model. There is also a weight difference: The iPhone SE is lighter with its 113 g vs 129 g for the iPhone 6. So you’d get a slightly thicker but lighter device that is usable with one hand when going for the iPhone SE.

Both are available in Silver and Space Gray, whereas you get two more color options with the SE: Gold and Rose Gold.

iPhone SE vs iPhone 6: Pricing

iPhone 6 in 16 GB – $549.00
iPhone 6 in 64 GB – $649.00
iPhone SE in 16 GB – $349.00
iPhone SE in 64 GB – $449.00

When buying your iPhone without a plan and without financing, there is a $150.00 difference. This makes the iPhone SE a great bargain for when you’re on a budget or simply prefer the design and smaller size. Note that you also get more performance out of the iPhone SE, as it contains the next generation of Apple’s Ax chip, the A9 found in the iPhone 6s.

iPhone SE vs iPhone 6: Hardware

If you want the phone with the better overall performance and longevity in terms of iOS compatibility and power-hungry games and apps, go for the iPhone SE. Its Apple A9 chip and M9 motion coprocessor are found in the latest current generation of flagship devices and should sustain you for a number of years. You also gain access to the always-on “Hey Siri” feature and are able to take Live Photos, whereas the photography benefits from the better 12 MP iSight camera and improved signal processing of the latest generation. The iPhone 6 only does 8 MP photos, no live photos and can only record in Full HD as opposed to super high definition 4K. Both models include an NFC chip and thusly work with Apple Pay.

iPhone SE vs. iPhone 6 Review

Overall, the choice between the iPhone SE and iPhone 6 is a matter of preference. Both are excellent devices, but it will probably come down to your budget and which form factor you prefer. The iPhone SE delivers incredible performance for the price and is on par with the latest iPhone 6s hardware, the main difference is a lack of 3D Touch as explained in our iPhone 6s and iPhone SE comparison. If you need the bigger display to watch media, play games and type comfortably, the iPhone 6 is surely still a great choice. You might want to hold out for the launch of the iPhone 7 and buy a used 6s in that case, so you can reap the benefits of all the latest features.