iPhone 15 Plus • Unlocked vs iPhone SE (2022) • Locked AT&T

When considering the longevity of these devices, both offer robust software support and durable builds, though with some notable differences.

• Software Updates: The iPhone 15 Plus, being a year and a half newer, is expected to receive iOS updates for approximately one year longer than the iPhone SE (2022). The iPhone 15 Plus is currently compatible with iOS 26, and is projected to receive updates until around 2035, while the iPhone SE (2022) is also compatible with iOS 26, but its support is estimated to continue until approximately 2033.
• Physical Durability: The iPhone 15 Plus incorporates Ceramic Shield on its front and a color-infused glass back, along with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, allowing submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The iPhone SE (2022) features durable glass on both its front and back, similar to the iPhone 13 series, and carries an IP67 rating, providing protection against splashes and dust, and submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
• Repairability: Both models are designed with repairability in mind, suggesting similar ease of access for common repairs, though specific component costs and availability can vary.

Both iPhones deliver smooth performance for daily tasks, but the newer model offers more headroom for demanding applications and multitasking.

• Processing Power: The iPhone 15 Plus is equipped with a more advanced processor, providing faster performance for intensive applications, complex games, and seamless multitasking. This ensures a highly responsive experience even with future software updates. The iPhone SE (2022), powered by a slightly older but still capable processor, handles everyday apps, web browsing, and light gaming with fluidity.
• Multitasking and Storage: The iPhone 15 Plus comes with 6GB of RAM, contributing to smoother transitions between apps and more efficient handling of multiple tasks simultaneously. The iPhone SE (2022) features 4GB of RAM, which is sufficient for typical daily usage but may show limitations with a high number of open applications. Storage options for the iPhone 15 Plus range from 128GB to 512GB, while the iPhone SE (2022) offers 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB.
• Battery Behavior: The iPhone 15 Plus features a larger battery, offering up to 26 hours of video playback, which translates to extended usage throughout the day for most users. The iPhone SE (2022) has a smaller battery, providing up to 15 hours of video playback, meaning heavy users may find themselves needing to recharge more frequently.

The display experience is a primary differentiator between these two models, impacting visual immersion and clarity.

• Display Technology and Size: The iPhone 15 Plus features a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, which delivers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. This larger screen size is well-suited for media consumption and productivity. The iPhone SE (2022) has a more compact 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display, offering good color accuracy and brightness for its class, and is preferred by users who favor smaller devices.
• Resolution and Brightness: The iPhone 15 Plus boasts a higher resolution of 2796x1290 pixels at 460 pixels per inch (ppi), resulting in sharper images and text. It also achieves significantly higher peak brightness levels, making content easier to view outdoors in bright sunlight. The iPhone SE (2022) offers a resolution of 1334x750 pixels at 326 ppi, which provides clear visuals for its screen size, though it does not reach the same brightness levels as the 15 Plus.
• Refresh Rate and Design: Both devices feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The iPhone 15 Plus incorporates a modern edge-to-edge display with the Dynamic Island, while the iPhone SE (2022) retains the classic iPhone design with bezels and a physical home button.

The camera systems on these two iPhones cater to different photography needs and offer varying levels of advanced features.

• Rear Camera System: The iPhone 15 Plus features an advanced dual-camera system, including a 48-megapixel main camera and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera. This setup allows for greater detail capture, improved low-light performance, and enhanced photographic flexibility, including 2x optical zoom capabilities. The iPhone SE (2022) is equipped with a single 12-megapixel wide camera, which performs well in good lighting conditions for everyday photography.
• Photography Features: The iPhone 15 Plus includes advanced features like Smart HDR 5, Night Mode, and Cinematic mode for video, offering more sophisticated image processing and creative options. The iPhone SE (2022) supports Smart HDR 4 and Photographic Styles but lacks Night Mode and the more advanced video capabilities found in the 15 Plus.
• Front Camera and Video: The iPhone 15 Plus has a 12-megapixel front camera, providing detailed selfies and improved video call quality. The iPhone SE (2022) features a 7-megapixel front camera. Both devices can record 4K video, but the iPhone 15 Plus offers more advanced stabilization and features, resulting in smoother and more professional-looking footage, along with better microphone quality for clearer audio capture.

Beyond core performance and display, several practical elements differentiate these two iPhone models.

• Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G cellular connectivity and modern Wi-Fi standards. The iPhone 15 Plus features Bluetooth 5.3 for efficient wireless connections, while the iPhone SE (2022) uses Bluetooth 5.0. A significant difference is the charging port: the iPhone 15 Plus has adopted a USB-C port, aligning with current industry standards, whereas the iPhone SE (2022) utilizes the Lightning connector.
• Biometric Security: The iPhone 15 Plus relies on Face ID for secure authentication and unlocking, using facial recognition technology. The iPhone SE (2022) retains the classic Touch ID, integrated into its home button, offering fingerprint-based security.
• Design and Handling: The iPhone 15 Plus is a larger device, measuring 160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8 mm and weighing 201 grams, offering a more expansive viewing and interaction experience. The iPhone SE (2022) is considerably more compact and lighter at 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and 144 grams, making it easier for one-handed use and pocketability. The iPhone 15 Plus features an aluminum frame with color-infused glass backs, while the iPhone SE (2022) also uses durable glass and an aluminum band.