iPhone SE (2022) • Locked Verizon vs Motorola Moto G Play (2024) • Unlocked

iPhone SE (2022) • Locked Verizon
iPhone SE (2022) • Locked Verizon
Starting at

Refurbished price:$124.00

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 both smartphones designed for different user priorities. Released in March 2022, the iPhone SE 2022 operates on Apple's iOS platform, offering a compact design and robust internal performance. In contrast, the Motorola Moto G Play 2024, launched in January 2024, runs on Android and emphasizes a larger display and extended battery life.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies are key differentiators.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone SE 2022 was released in March 2022, while the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 became available in January 2024. This two-year difference means the iPhone SE 2022 has already received several major iOS updates, whereas the Moto G Play 2024 is newer to the market.
  • Software Longevity: Apple is known for providing extended software support, with the iPhone SE 2022 expected to receive iOS updates until approximately 2028-2030, offering a long lifespan for software features and security. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024, running Android, is anticipated to receive fewer major OS updates, likely one, along with security updates for about two years from its release.
  • Repairability: The iPhone SE 2022 generally receives an average repairability score, with components like the screen and battery being relatively accessible for replacement, though the home button can be more challenging. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 also has an average repairability score, with some components requiring specific tools for disassembly.

Release Year

2022

2024

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

No

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of these two smartphones varies significantly, impacting how smoothly they handle daily tasks and demanding applications.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone SE 2022 features a powerful internal processor that enables very fast and responsive operation, handling demanding applications and multitasking with ease. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 is equipped with a processor that capably manages everyday tasks and light gaming, though users may occasionally notice minor stutters or slower loading times for more intensive applications.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The iPhone SE 2022 includes 4GB of RAM, contributing to its smooth multitasking capabilities. It offers internal storage options up to 256GB, without expandable storage. The Moto G Play 2024 also comes with 4GB of RAM, supporting its general performance. It provides 64GB of internal storage, which can be expanded significantly up to 1TB using a microSD card.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone SE 2022 typically offers average battery life, often requiring daily charging for moderate to heavy users. In contrast, the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 is known for its excellent battery longevity, frequently lasting up to two days or more on a single charge for many users.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display experience on the iPhone SE 2022 and the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 presents distinct characteristics in terms of technology, size, and visual clarity.

  • Display Technology and Size: The iPhone SE 2022 features a 4.7-inch Retina HD IPS LCD, offering a compact viewing area with consistent color reproduction. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 provides a larger 6.5-inch HD+ LCD display, which offers more screen real estate for media consumption and browsing.
  • Resolution and Brightness: The iPhone SE 2022 has a resolution of 1334x750 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 326 ppi, and a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits. The Moto G Play 2024 has a resolution of 1600x720 pixels, with a pixel density of 269 ppi, and a maximum brightness of 500 nits. While both displays are clear for general use, the iPhone SE 2022 offers slightly higher pixel density and brightness.
  • Refresh Rate and Viewing Experience: The iPhone SE 2022 features a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The Moto G Play 2024 offers a smoother visual experience with a 90Hz refresh rate, which can make scrolling and animations appear more fluid. However, the Moto G Play 2024's display may appear less vibrant and can struggle with visibility in very bright outdoor conditions.

Resolution

750 x 1334

720 x 1600

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera systems on these two devices cater to different photography needs and expectations.

  • Rear Camera Capabilities: The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a single 12MP rear camera that includes optical image stabilization and an f/1.8 aperture. It performs well in good lighting conditions, capturing images with accurate colors and detail, and supports features like Smart HDR 4 and Portrait mode. However, it lacks a dedicated Night Mode, leading to darker and grainier photos in low-light environments. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 features a 50MP main rear camera with Quad Pixel technology, which combines pixels to produce 12.5MP images by default. It includes a Night Mode and performs decently in well-lit scenarios, but can struggle with capturing fine details and shadows, particularly in challenging lighting.
  • Video Recording: The iPhone SE 2022 offers strong video recording capabilities, supporting up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, with optical image stabilization for smooth footage. The Moto G Play 2024 records video at up to 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second.
  • Front Camera and Audio: For selfies and video calls, the iPhone SE 2022 has a 7MP front camera. The Moto G Play 2024 features an 8MP front camera. Both devices offer stereo speakers for media consumption, with the Moto G Play 2024 also featuring Dolby Atmos support for enhanced audio.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

7 megapixels

8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements distinguish the iPhone SE 2022 and the Motorola Moto G Play 2024.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The iPhone SE 2022 supports 5G cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0, utilizing a Lightning port for charging and data transfer. It does not include a traditional headphone jack. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 offers 4G LTE connectivity, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.1, featuring a USB-C port for charging and data. A 3.5mm headphone jack is also present on the Moto G Play 2024.
  • Security and Sensors: The iPhone SE 2022 relies on Touch ID, an integrated fingerprint sensor within its home button, for secure authentication. The Moto G Play 2024 incorporates a fingerprint sensor conveniently located on its power button for unlocking. The iPhone SE 2022 includes NFC for Apple Pay, while the Moto G Play 2024 lacks NFC functionality.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone SE 2022 has a compact form factor, weighing 144g and measuring 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3mm, making it easy for one-handed use. It features an aluminum frame with glass on the front and back. The Moto G Play 2024 is larger and slightly heavier at 185g, with dimensions of 6.45 x 2.95 x 0.33 inches, and is constructed with a plastic back and frame, and Gorilla Glass 3 on the front.

Weight

3 oz

6 oz

Screen size (inches)

4.7

6.5

Network

5G

LTE

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Verizon

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

The iPhone SE 2022 and the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 cater to different user preferences, each with its own set of strengths and considerations. Users frequently praise the iPhone SE 2022 for its powerful performance, long-term software support, and compact design, which many find comfortable for one-handed use. Common criticisms often point to its dated design with large bezels, average battery life, and the absence of a dedicated Night Mode for its camera.

Conversely, the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 is widely appreciated for its exceptional battery life, larger display, expandable storage, and the inclusion of a traditional headphone jack. However, some users note its limited software update policy, the lack of 5G connectivity, and a camera system that performs best in ideal lighting conditions.

Users prioritizing a highly responsive operating system, extended software longevity, and a compact form factor may find the iPhone SE 2022 to be a suitable choice. For individuals who value a large display, multi-day battery life, expandable storage, and a more open Android ecosystem, the Motorola Moto G Play 2024 could be a better fit. Both devices offer distinct experiences, and considering a quality-assured refurbished option for either model can provide an eco-friendly alternative for making an informed choice.

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