iPhone SE (2022) • Locked AT&T vs Motorola Moto G Play (2024) • Unlocked

iPhone SE (2022) • Locked AT&T
iPhone SE (2022) • Locked AT&T
Starting at

Refurbished price:$102.00

Versus $429.00 new

See options
Motorola Moto G Play (2024) • Unlocked
Motorola Moto G Play (2024) • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$100.00

Versus $128.99 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone SE 2022 and the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 are distinct smartphones, released in March 2022 and January 2024 respectively, offering different approaches to mobile technology. While the iPhone SE 2022 operates on Apple's iOS ecosystem, the Moto G Play 2024 runs on Android, providing users with varied software experiences. The primary differentiators lie in their operating systems, processing power, and display technologies.

Scores

Durability

These devices present different timelines for software support and expected practical lifespan.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone SE 2022 was released in March 2022, while the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 became available in February 2024, making the Moto G Play the newer device by almost two years.
  • OS Support Duration: The iPhone SE 2022, running iOS, is expected to receive major software updates for approximately 5 to 7 years from its release, potentially until 2028-2030, with security updates extending beyond that. The Moto G Play 2024, on the other hand, typically receives a more limited number of major Android updates, with user reports suggesting it may only receive one major OS update (to Android 14) and security updates for about two more years.
  • Repairability: The iPhone SE 2022 has an average repairability score, with common components like the screen and battery being relatively accessible, though some repairs may require specialized tools and can be affected by software locks for non-genuine parts. Information on the repairability of the Moto G Play 2024 is less detailed, but budget Android devices often feature more straightforward component replacement.

Release Year

2022

2024

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

No

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance capabilities of these two smartphones cater to different user expectations and demands.

  • Processor Capabilities: The iPhone SE 2022 features a powerful current-generation processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications, complex multitasking, and graphics-intensive games with smooth responsiveness. The Moto G Play 2024 is equipped with a processor designed for everyday tasks, providing smooth operation for basic use like web browsing, email, and social media, and can handle light gaming.
  • Storage and RAM: The iPhone SE 2022 offers internal storage options up to 256GB and includes 4GB of RAM, contributing to efficient multitasking. The Moto G Play 2024 comes with 64GB of internal storage, which is expandable up to 1TB via a microSD card, and 4GB of RAM, which can be a limiting factor for heavy multitasking or storing many large applications.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone SE 2022 has a smaller battery capacity, providing sufficient power for a typical day of moderate use, with Apple claiming up to 15 hours of video playback. The Moto G Play 2024 is known for its larger battery capacity, which users report can last a full day or even two with regular use, offering up to 11 hours of video streaming.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display technologies and viewing experiences differ significantly between these two devices.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The iPhone SE 2022 features a 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display with a resolution of 1334x750 pixels, offering clear visuals with a pixel density of 326 ppi. The Moto G Play 2024 has a larger 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1600x720 pixels, resulting in a lower pixel density of approximately 270 ppi.
  • Brightness and Clarity: The iPhone SE 2022's display offers a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits, providing good visibility in various lighting conditions. The Moto G Play 2024 has a maximum brightness of 500 nits, which may struggle in very bright outdoor environments.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The iPhone SE 2022 features a standard refresh rate. The Moto G Play 2024, however, offers a 90Hz refresh rate, which contributes to a smoother scrolling experience and more fluid animations compared to standard 60Hz displays.

Resolution

750 x 1334

720 x 1600

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both phones are designed for different photography and videography needs.

  • Rear Camera Capabilities: The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a single 12MP rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture, featuring optical image stabilization, Smart HDR 4, Deep Fusion, and Photographic Styles for enhanced image processing. It supports Portrait mode, which works primarily with human subjects. The Moto G Play 2024 features a 50MP main camera with an f/1.8 aperture and Quad Pixel technology, which combines pixels to produce 12.5MP images by default, aiming for better light capture. It includes a Night Mode for improved low-light performance.
  • Video Recording Quality: The iPhone SE 2022 can record videos in up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, offering detailed and smooth video capture. The Moto G Play 2024 records video at a maximum of 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second from both its front and rear cameras.
  • Front Camera and Audio: The iPhone SE 2022 has a 7MP front-facing camera with an f/2.2 aperture, supporting Portrait mode and Retina Flash. It also offers stereo audio recording and clear speaker output. The Moto G Play 2024 features an 8MP front camera with an f/2.0 aperture. It includes stereo speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack, with Dolby Atmos support for an enhanced audio experience.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

7 megapixels

8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements distinguish these two smartphones.

  • Connectivity Options: The iPhone SE 2022 supports 5G (sub-6 GHz) connectivity, along with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, offering faster wireless data speeds and efficient connections. The Moto G Play 2024 is limited to 4G LTE connectivity and supports Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1.
  • Port Types and Sensors: The iPhone SE 2022 uses a Lightning port for charging and data transfer and features Touch ID for biometric authentication. The Moto G Play 2024 includes a USB-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button. Neither device includes NFC for contactless payments.
  • Physical Characteristics: The iPhone SE 2022 has a compact design, measuring 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and weighing 144g, with a glass front and back and an aluminum frame. It also boasts an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. The Moto G Play 2024 is larger at 163.8 x 75 x 8.3 mm and heavier at 185g, featuring a plastic back and frame with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 on the front, and a water-repellent design.

Weight

3 oz

6 oz

Screen size (inches)

4.7

6.5

Network

5G

LTE

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

AT&T

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

User feedback for the iPhone SE 2022 often praises its powerful processor, compact size, and the longevity of iOS software support. Criticisms frequently point to its dated design with thick bezels, smaller display, and relatively modest battery life compared to more modern smartphones.

The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 receives positive remarks for its extended battery life, larger display, and the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack and expandable storage. Common criticisms include its limited software update policy, lack of 5G connectivity, and camera performance that is considered adequate in good lighting but struggles in challenging conditions.

Users prioritizing a compact form factor, long-term software support, and robust performance for demanding applications may find the iPhone SE 2022 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users who value a larger display, exceptional battery life, expandable storage, and a traditional headphone jack, and who are comfortable with a more basic software update schedule, may lean toward the Motorola Moto G Play 2024. Both devices offer distinct advantages, and choosing between them depends on individual priorities for daily use. For those seeking an eco-friendly alternative, quality-assured refurbished options for both models are available, providing a sustainable choice.

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