Galaxy A23 5G • Unlocked vs iPhone SE (2020) • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy A23 5G, released in August 2022, and the Apple iPhone SE 2020, launched in April 2020, are smartphones that cater to different user preferences and ecosystems. While the Galaxy A23 5G offers a larger display and multi-camera system running on Android, the iPhone SE 2020 provides a compact form factor with a powerful processor and the iOS operating system. These devices present distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support are key factors. The Galaxy A23 5G, released in August 2022, benefits from a more recent launch, typically receiving around four years of software support from Samsung. The iPhone SE 2020, launched in April 2020, has a strong track record of extended iOS updates, with Apple generally providing five to six years of support, meaning it has already received updates up to iOS 26.4 as of March 2026.

• Software Longevity: The iPhone SE 2020 generally offers a longer period of software updates, extending its practical lifespan in terms of receiving new features and security patches. The Galaxy A23 5G also provides a commendable update commitment for an Android device.
• Repairability: The iPhone SE 2020 has a repairability score of 6 out of 10 from iFixit, with common components like the display and battery being relatively straightforward to replace, often using parts compatible with the iPhone 8. The Galaxy A23 5G has a repairability index score of 8.1 out of 10 in some regions and a general score of 6.75 out of 10, indicating that its backplate, camera lens covers, and battery are replaceable with appropriate tools and techniques.
• Physical Durability: The Galaxy A23 5G features Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection. The iPhone SE 2020 has an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, offering protection against immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The Galaxy A23 5G does not have an official IP rating.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app navigation to demanding applications. These two devices offer different performance profiles based on their internal components.

• Processing Power: The iPhone SE 2020 is equipped with a powerful processor that enables smooth operation, quick app loading, and efficient handling of graphically intensive games and multitasking. The Galaxy A23 5G features a processor that provides snappy performance for everyday use and general multitasking, though it may reach its limits with more complex applications.
• Storage and RAM: The Galaxy A23 5G offers flexible storage options, including 64GB or 128GB, and supports expandable storage via a microSD card, which is beneficial for users who need significant space for media and apps. The iPhone SE 2020 comes with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of internal storage, but does not offer expandable storage. The Galaxy A23 5G is available with 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB of RAM, while the iPhone SE 2020 has 3GB of RAM.
• Battery Performance: The Galaxy A23 5G is known for its substantial 5000mAh battery, which often provides up to two days of use for many users, even with moderate to heavy usage. The iPhone SE 2020, with its smaller 1821mAh battery, typically requires more frequent charging, with many users reporting it may not last a full day under heavy use.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer different viewing experiences.

• Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy A23 5G features a larger 6.6-inch PLS LCD display, providing an expansive viewing area. The iPhone SE 2020 has a more compact 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display.
• Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy A23 5G offers a Full HD+ resolution of 2408x1080 pixels, resulting in crisp details and good color reproduction. The iPhone SE 2020 has a resolution of 1334x750 pixels, which is clear for its size but not Full HD.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: A notable difference is the refresh rate; the Galaxy A23 5G boasts a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations, a feature often found in higher-end devices. The iPhone SE 2020 maintains a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Both displays offer good brightness levels for outdoor visibility, with the Galaxy A23 5G being bright enough for use under sunlight.

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many users, and these phones approach photography with different hardware and software philosophies.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy A23 5G features a versatile quad-camera setup, including a 50-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 5-megapixel ultrawide lens, and two 2-megapixel sensors for macro and depth. The iPhone SE 2020 relies on a single 12-megapixel rear camera, which also includes OIS.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy A23 5G's main camera captures good detail and vibrant colors in well-lit conditions, though the ultrawide lens may show a decrease in sharpness. The iPhone SE 2020's single camera, powered by its advanced processor, delivers excellent photos with good dynamic range and natural skin tones in adequate lighting. It lacks a dedicated Night Mode, which can impact low-light performance compared to multi-camera systems.
• Video and Front Camera: Both phones offer capable video recording. The iPhone SE 2020 can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, with good stabilization and audio quality. The Galaxy A23 5G records video at up to 1080p at 30 frames per second. For selfies, the Galaxy A23 5G has an 8-megapixel front camera, while the iPhone SE 2020 features a 7-megapixel front camera that supports a software-based Portrait Mode.