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

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

Refurbished price:$120.64

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 users seeking reliable mobile experiences. Released in March 2022, the iPhone SE 2022 operates on Apple's iOS platform, while the Motorola Moto G Play 2024, launched in early 2024, runs on Android. The primary distinctions between these two devices lie in their operating systems, design philosophies, and performance capabilities, catering to different user preferences and needs.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone SE 2022 was released in March 2022, making it an older model compared to the Motorola Moto G Play 2024, which launched in January/February 2024. This difference in release year impacts their respective software support cycles.
  • Software Longevity: Apple is known for providing extended iOS updates, with the iPhone SE 2022 expected to receive software support for approximately 5-6 years from its release. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 typically receives one major Android OS update and security updates for a few years, with security updates expected until 2027.
  • Repairability: The iPhone SE 2022 generally has an average repairability score, with components like the screen and battery being relatively accessible for replacement, though some specialized tools may be required. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 also has an average repairability score. Both devices feature durable materials, with the iPhone SE 2022 offering an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, and the Moto G Play 2024 featuring Corning Gorilla Glass 3 on the front and a water-repellent design with an IP52 rating.

Release Year

2022

2024

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

No

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key differentiator, impacting how smoothly applications run and how responsive the device feels during daily use.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a powerful processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications, multitasking, and graphics-intensive games with notable smoothness and responsiveness. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 features a processor that capably handles everyday tasks, social media, and light gaming, though users might experience occasional stutters during heavy multitasking or with more demanding applications.
  • Multitasking and Storage: Both devices come with 4GB of RAM. The iPhone SE 2022 offers internal storage options up to 256GB, while the Moto G Play 2024 comes with 64GB of internal storage, which is expandable via a microSD card up to 1TB.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone SE 2022 has a smaller battery capacity, providing an average of around 9 hours of web browsing and typically lasting a full day for light to medium users. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 features a larger battery, offering extended usage that can last multiple days for many users, even with regular activity.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display is the primary interface for user interaction, and differences in screen technology and specifications can significantly affect the viewing experience.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The iPhone SE 2022 features a 4.7-inch Retina HD IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1334x750 pixels, offering clear visuals and good color reproduction. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 has a larger 6.5-inch IPS LCD display with an HD+ resolution of 1600x720 pixels, providing a more expansive viewing area.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone SE 2022 offers a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits, which aids visibility in various lighting conditions. The Moto G Play 2024 has a maximum brightness of 500 nits and features a 90Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations, though its brightness may struggle in direct sunlight.
  • Viewing Experience: The iPhone SE 2022's compact screen is well-suited for one-handed use, while the Moto G Play 2024's larger display is beneficial for media consumption and users who prefer more screen real estate.

Resolution

750 x 1334

720 x 1600

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are often a deciding factor for many users, influencing the quality of photos and videos captured.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone SE 2022 is equipped with a single 12MP wide camera that includes optical image stabilization (OIS) and advanced computational photography features like Smart HDR 4 and Deep Fusion, allowing for detailed photos and 4K video recording up to 60 frames per second. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 features a 50MP main camera with Quad Pixel technology, which combines pixels to produce 12.5MP images by default, and includes Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF).
  • Low-Light and Everyday Photography: The iPhone SE 2022 generally delivers consistent image quality in various lighting conditions, benefiting from its advanced image processing. The Moto G Play 2024's camera performs well in good lighting, capturing decent images, but its performance may diminish in low-light environments.
  • 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, with the Moto G Play 2024 also supporting Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio.

Main camera

12 megapixels

50 megapixels

Front camera

7 megapixels

8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The iPhone SE 2022 supports 5G (sub-6 GHz) and Wi-Fi 6, offering faster cellular and wireless data speeds. It uses a Lightning port for charging and data transfer. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 supports 4G LTE (without 5G connectivity) and Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac. It features a USB-C port for charging and data, and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Security and Handling: The iPhone SE 2022 utilizes Touch ID for secure authentication, integrated into its home button. Its compact dimensions (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) and lighter weight (144g) make it easy for one-handed use. The Moto G Play 2024 features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security. It has larger dimensions (163.82 x 74.96 x 8.29 mm) and weighs 185g, offering a more substantial feel.
  • Build Materials: The iPhone SE 2022 features a glass front and back with an aluminum frame. The Moto G Play 2024 has a plastic back and frame, with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protecting the display.

Weight

3 oz

6 oz

Screen size (inches)

4.7

6.5

Network

5G

LTE

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

Users often praise the iPhone SE 2022 for its powerful performance, compact size, and long-term software support, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer the iOS ecosystem in a familiar design. Some common criticisms include its smaller display, dated design with large bezels, and battery life that, while improved over its predecessor, may require frequent charging for heavy users. The Motorola Moto G Play 2024 is frequently lauded for its exceptional battery life, large display, and the inclusion of a headphone jack and expandable storage. However, users sometimes note its lack of 5G connectivity, lower display resolution, and limited software update policy as potential drawbacks.

Users prioritizing a compact device with top-tier processing power and extended software longevity within the Apple ecosystem may find the iPhone SE 2022 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users who value a larger screen, significantly longer battery life, expandable storage, and a more open Android experience might lean toward the Motorola Moto G Play 2024. Both devices offer distinct advantages, 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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