iPhone 11 Pro • Unlocked vs iPhone SE (2022) • Locked T-Mobile

iPhone 11 Pro • Unlocked
iPhone 11 Pro • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$200.00

Versus $749.00 new

See options
iPhone SE (2022) • Locked T-Mobile
iPhone SE (2022) • Locked T-Mobile
Starting at

Refurbished price:$124.00

Versus $429.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 11 Pro, released in September 2019, and the iPhone SE (3rd generation), launched in March 2022, represent different approaches within Apple's smartphone lineup. While both operate on the iOS platform, the iPhone 11 Pro offers a more advanced display and camera system from an earlier flagship generation, whereas the iPhone SE 2022 provides a more recent, powerful processor in a classic compact design.

Scores

Durability

The expected lifespan of a smartphone is influenced by its release date and the duration of software support it receives.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 11 Pro was released in September 2019, making it an older model compared to the iPhone SE 2022, which launched in March 2022.
  • Software Longevity: The iPhone SE 2022, being a newer device, is expected to receive major iOS updates for a longer period than the iPhone 11 Pro. The iPhone 11 Pro originally shipped with iOS 13 and is currently compatible with iOS 26.4, while the iPhone SE 2022 shipped with iOS 15.4 and is eligible for iOS 26. This means the SE 2022 offers a longer runway for future software features and security updates.
  • Durability Features: Both devices offer water and dust resistance, with the iPhone 11 Pro rated IP68 (maximum depth of 4 meters for up to 30 minutes) and the iPhone SE 2022 rated IP67 (maximum depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes). The iPhone 11 Pro features a stainless steel frame, while the iPhone SE 2022 uses an aluminum frame, both paired with glass backs.

Release Year

2019

2022

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance in both devices is driven by Apple's custom silicon, but with a generational difference that impacts overall responsiveness and future-proofing.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a more recent processor, which translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and more efficient handling of demanding applications and games compared to the iPhone 11 Pro's processor.
  • System Responsiveness: Users will experience a highly responsive interface on both devices, but the newer processor in the iPhone SE 2022 provides additional headroom for future software advancements and more intensive tasks.
  • Storage Options: Both models offer various internal storage capacities, typically starting from 64GB and going up to 256GB or 512GB, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 11 Pro was noted for its robust battery life upon release, often lasting more than a full day with heavy use. The iPhone SE 2022, despite its compact size, benefits from the efficiency of its newer processor, offering improved battery life compared to its predecessors and providing sufficient power for a day of typical use.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience differs significantly between these two models, primarily due to their display technologies and physical dimensions.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone 11 Pro features a 5.8-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering deep blacks, vibrant colors, and a high resolution of 2436 x 1125 pixels at 458 pixels per inch (ppi). In contrast, the iPhone SE 2022 has a 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display with a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels at 326 ppi. The OLED technology in the 11 Pro provides superior contrast and color accuracy.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone 11 Pro offers higher peak brightness, reaching up to 1200 nits for HDR content and 800 nits typical, making it highly visible in various lighting conditions. The iPhone SE 2022 provides 625 nits of typical brightness. Both devices feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
  • Screen Size and Viewing Experience: The larger 5.8-inch display of the iPhone 11 Pro provides a more immersive viewing experience for media consumption and general browsing, with a full-screen design. The iPhone SE 2022's 4.7-inch display is more compact, retaining the traditional iPhone design with bezels and a home button.

Resolution

1125 x 2436

750 x 1334

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Retina IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera systems on the iPhone 11 Pro and iPhone SE 2022 cater to different photography needs, with the Pro model offering more versatility.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 11 Pro boasts a triple 12MP camera system, including Ultra Wide, Wide, and Telephoto lenses, providing greater flexibility for different shooting scenarios. It also features Night mode for improved low-light photography, Deep Fusion for enhanced detail, and advanced Portrait mode capabilities. The iPhone SE 2022 features a single 12MP Wide camera, which benefits from the newer processor for computational photography features like Smart HDR 4, Deep Fusion, and Portrait mode, but it lacks Night mode.
  • Video Recording: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, offering high-quality video capture. The iPhone 11 Pro's multiple lenses allow for more creative video options, including optical zoom.
  • Front Camera: The iPhone 11 Pro includes a 12MP front-facing camera with 4K video recording, while the iPhone SE 2022 has a 7MP front camera.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

7 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate these two iPhone models, influencing daily usability and connectivity.

  • Connectivity: A key difference is network capability; the iPhone SE 2022 supports 5G connectivity, offering faster cellular data speeds in compatible areas, while the iPhone 11 Pro is limited to 4G LTE. Both support Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • Biometric Authentication: The iPhone 11 Pro utilizes Face ID for secure facial recognition and unlocking. The iPhone SE 2022 retains the classic Home button with Touch ID, offering fingerprint-based authentication.
  • Physical Design and Handling: The iPhone 11 Pro has a more premium feel with its stainless steel frame and a larger 5.8-inch display, weighing 188 grams. The iPhone SE 2022 is more compact and lighter at 144 grams, featuring an aluminum frame and a 4.7-inch display, making it easier for one-handed use for some users. Both devices use a Lightning port for charging and data transfer.

Weight

7 oz

3 oz

Screen size (inches)

5.8

4.7

Network

LTE

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

T-Mobile

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

Choosing between the iPhone 11 Pro and the iPhone SE 2022 involves weighing priorities between a more advanced display and camera system from an earlier flagship, versus a newer, more powerful processor and modern connectivity in a compact form factor.

Users who prioritize a larger, more vibrant OLED display for media consumption, along with a versatile triple-lens camera system that includes a dedicated telephoto lens and Night mode, may find the iPhone 11 Pro more appealing. Its premium build materials also contribute to a flagship feel. However, it is an older device, meaning its software support window is shorter.

Conversely, users who value a compact design, the latest processing power for long-term performance, and 5G connectivity will find the iPhone SE 2022 better suited to their needs. Its newer processor ensures it will receive software updates for a longer duration, making it a future-proof option, particularly for those who prefer Touch ID over Face ID. While its single camera is capable, it lacks the versatility and low-light performance of the 11 Pro's system, and its LCD display is less vibrant.

Both models offer a reliable iOS experience. For those seeking an eco-friendly alternative, considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either device can provide excellent value and extend the life cycle of these products.

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