iPhone SE (2022) • Unlocked vs iPhone SE (2022) • Locked Verizon

iPhone SE (2022) • Unlocked
iPhone SE (2022) • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$120.64

Versus $429.00 new

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

Refurbished price:$124.00

Versus $429.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone SE 2022 and the iPhone SE 2022 Verizon refer to the same device: Apple's third-generation iPhone SE, released in March 2022. The 'Verizon' designation simply indicates that the device is configured for use on the Verizon network, often implying carrier-specific locking or purchase options. Fundamentally, both are the same compact smartphone, offering updated internal components and enhanced connectivity within a familiar design. They operate on Apple's iOS platform, providing a consistent user experience across both.

Scores

Durability

Both versions of the iPhone SE 2022 share identical durability characteristics and software support timelines, as they are the same model.

  • Release Timeline and OS Support: Launched in March 2022, the iPhone SE 2022 is expected to receive major iOS updates for approximately 5 to 7 years from its release, with security updates potentially extending beyond that period. This provides a long software lifespan, ensuring continued access to new features and security enhancements. [1, 25, 27, 34, 37, 39]
  • Physical Durability: The device features a glass front and back, reinforced by an aluminum frame, and carries an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, allowing it to withstand submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. [10, 16, 20, 32]
  • Repairability: The iPhone SE 2022 generally offers average repairability. Components like the screen and battery are relatively accessible for replacement, though the use of adhesive and the need for specialized tools can add complexity. Battery replacements may trigger a 'Non Genuine Battery' message if not performed by authorized service providers. [8, 26, 29, 38, 40]

Release Year

2022

2022

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The iPhone SE 2022, regardless of its carrier designation, delivers consistent performance due to its identical internal hardware.

  • Processing Power: This device handles demanding applications and multitasking smoothly, providing a responsive user experience. It is capable of running graphics-intensive games and editing tasks without significant slowdowns, ensuring a fluid interaction with the operating system and applications. [4, 6, 16, 17]
  • Multitasking and Storage: Equipped with 4GB of RAM, the iPhone SE 2022 manages multiple open applications efficiently. Storage options are available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB configurations, allowing users to choose based on their content storage needs. [3, 4, 6, 17, 32]
  • Battery Behavior: In typical usage scenarios, the battery can last through a full day for moderate users. However, heavy use, such as extended gaming or video streaming, may necessitate more frequent charging. The device supports fast charging up to 20W and is compatible with Qi wireless charging. [4, 11, 14, 16, 17, 21, 23, 30]

Memory (GB)

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

Both iPhone SE 2022 models feature the same display technology and specifications, offering a consistent visual experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The device incorporates a 4.7-inch Retina HD IPS LCD display, providing a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels at 326 pixels per inch. This results in clear visuals suitable for everyday tasks like browsing, texting, and video consumption. [1, 4, 5, 13, 16, 19, 32]
  • Brightness and Color: The screen offers a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits, which is adequate for outdoor visibility in most conditions. It supports a wide color gamut (P3) and True Tone technology, which adjusts the display's white balance to match ambient light, contributing to a more natural viewing experience. [1, 6, 16, 19, 32]
  • Refresh Rate and Interaction: The display operates at a standard 60Hz refresh rate. It includes Haptic Touch for responsive feedback and a fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating to reduce smudges. [1, 19]

Resolution

750 x 1334

750 x 1334

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

Retina IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both iPhone SE 2022 variants are identical, offering the same photographic and video capabilities.

  • Rear Camera System: The main camera is a 12-megapixel wide-angle lens with an f/1.8 aperture and optical image stabilization. It includes features like Smart HDR 4, Deep Fusion, and Photographic Styles, which enhance image quality by optimizing contrast, textures, and skin tones. Portrait mode is available for human subjects. [1, 5, 6, 9, 16, 24, 32]
  • Photography Performance: The camera performs well in good lighting conditions, producing sharp and vibrant photos. However, it lacks a dedicated Night Mode, which can result in less detailed and noisier images in very low-light environments. [9, 24, 32]
  • Video and Front Camera: The device can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The front-facing camera is 7 megapixels with an f/2.2 aperture, supporting 1080p HD video recording at 30 frames per second and Portrait mode. Stereo speakers provide clear audio output for media consumption. [1, 5, 9, 16, 18, 23, 31, 32]

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

7 megapixels

7 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Both iPhone SE 2022 models share the same physical attributes and connectivity options.

  • Connectivity: The device supports 5G connectivity (sub-6 GHz, but not mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with 2x2 MIMO, and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring fast wireless data transfer and reliable connections. It also includes NFC for Apple Pay and VoLTE for high-quality voice calls. [4, 5, 6, 7, 12, 20, 32]
  • Physical Design and Interaction: The iPhone SE 2022 maintains a compact form factor, weighing 144 grams and measuring 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm. It features a Lightning connector for charging and data transfer, but does not include a 3.5mm headphone jack. The familiar Home button integrates Touch ID for secure authentication. [3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 13, 18, 19, 20]
  • Build Materials: Constructed with a glass front and back and an aluminum frame, the device offers a solid feel. It is available in Midnight, Starlight, and (PRODUCT)RED color options. [10, 16, 32]

Weight

3 oz

3 oz

Screen size (inches)

4.7

4.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Verizon

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

The iPhone SE 2022, whether purchased as a standard model or a carrier-specific 'Verizon' variant, is fundamentally the same device, offering a consistent set of features and performance. Users frequently praise its powerful internal components, which ensure smooth operation for demanding applications and multitasking. The compact size and the inclusion of Touch ID are also often highlighted as significant advantages for those who prefer a smaller device or a physical home button. [22, 24, 41]

However, common criticisms often point to its dated design, which retains the larger bezels and 4.7-inch LCD screen of older iPhone models, lacking the edge-to-edge displays found on more recent smartphones. The absence of a dedicated Night Mode for the camera and its battery life, while improved over its predecessor, are also noted as areas where it doesn't match up to higher-end devices. [11, 14, 21, 23, 24, 41]

Users prioritizing a powerful and responsive iOS experience in a compact form factor, who appreciate the familiarity of Touch ID and a physical home button, will find the iPhone SE 2022 well-suited to their needs. It is also a strong option for those who value long-term software support and robust performance for everyday tasks and mobile gaming. Conversely, users who prioritize a modern, expansive display, advanced camera features like Night Mode, or extended battery life for heavy usage might lean toward other devices. For those seeking a quality-assured refurbished option, the iPhone SE 2022 offers a sustainable choice that delivers strong performance within its classic design. The decision ultimately depends on individual preferences for design, camera capabilities, and display technology.

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