Iphone Se 2020 Vs 2022 Is The Upgrade Really Worth It

The iPhone SE series has carved a niche for itself as Apple’s budget-friendly powerhouse—delivering flagship-level performance in a compact, affordable package. With the release of the iPhone SE (2022), many owners of the 2020 model found themselves wondering: should I upgrade? After all, both phones share a nearly identical design and starting price. But beneath the surface, key differences emerge that could sway your decision. Let’s break down every major aspect—from chip performance to camera capabilities—to determine whether moving from the 2020 to the 2022 model is truly worth it.

Design and Build: Almost Identical, But Not Quite

At first glance, the iPhone SE 2020 and 2022 are indistinguishable. Both feature a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, Touch ID home button, and glass-and-aluminum construction. They’re IP67-rated for dust and water resistance and come in three colors: black, white, and (PRODUCT)RED.

The subtle difference lies in materials. The 2022 model uses slightly tougher ceramic shield front cover glass—same as the iPhone 12 and later—which improves drop resistance. While this doesn’t change the look or feel dramatically, it does add a layer of durability that long-term users may appreciate.

Tip: If you frequently drop your phone, the improved front glass on the 2022 model offers better peace of mind—even if it still demands a case for full protection.

Performance: A Generational Leap Under the Hood

The most significant upgrade between the two models is the processor. The 2020 SE runs on the A13 Bionic chip, while the 2022 version upgrades to the A15 Bionic—the same chip used in the iPhone 13 series. This isn’t just a minor bump; it represents a substantial leap in CPU, GPU, and machine learning performance.

In real-world usage, the A15 delivers up to 40% faster CPU performance and 50% faster graphics than the A13. For everyday tasks like browsing, messaging, and social media, both phones feel snappy. However, under heavy load—such as gaming, multitasking with pro apps, or editing high-resolution photos—the 2022 model pulls ahead noticeably.

“Even in compact devices, silicon matters. The A15 ensures the 2022 SE will remain responsive and supported longer.” — David Kim, Mobile Hardware Analyst at TechPulse Insights

Additionally, the A15 includes a more advanced Neural Engine, which enhances features like computational photography and Siri responsiveness. It also supports newer technologies such as Wi-Fi 6 and Gigabit-class LTE, improving connectivity speed and stability.

Camera Comparison: Smarter, Not Necessarily Better

Both models sport a single 12MP rear camera and a 7MP front-facing shooter. On paper, they seem equal. But Apple made meaningful software-driven improvements in the 2022 model thanks to the A15’s image signal processor.

• Portrait Mode Enhancements: The 2022 SE can apply depth control to more subjects, including pets and objects, not just people.
• Snapshots with Smart HDR 4: Improved dynamic range and color accuracy in mixed lighting conditions.
• Night Mode: Available on both, but faster and more consistent on the 2022 due to better processing.
• 4K Video at 60fps: Supported on both, but stabilization and noise reduction are superior on the newer model.

In practice, photos from the 2022 SE appear sharper in low light and more balanced in challenging scenes. The difference isn’t night and day, but over time, especially when sharing images online or printing them, the quality gap becomes apparent.

Connectivity and Future-Proofing

One area where the 2022 model clearly outshines its predecessor is future readiness. Beyond Wi-Fi 6, it supports Bluetooth 5.3, offering better audio quality, lower latency, and improved battery efficiency with compatible accessories.

More importantly, the A15 chip positions the 2022 SE for longer software support. Apple typically supports iPhones for five to six years after release. Given that the 2022 model launched with iOS 15 and is expected to receive updates through iOS 22 or beyond, it will likely stay current longer than the 2020 version, which may stop receiving updates by 2025.

Feature	iPhone SE 2020	iPhone SE 2022
Chipset	A13 Bionic	A15 Bionic
Wi-Fi	Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)	Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
Bluetooth	5.0	5.3
Front Glass	Standard Glass	Ceramic Shield
5G Support	No	No (only LTE)
Storage Options	64GB, 128GB, 256GB	64GB, 128GB, 256GB

Note: Despite rumors, neither model includes 5G. Apple kept the SE line on LTE to maintain affordability and battery life.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah has used her iPhone SE 2020 since launch. She loves its size, battery life, and simplicity. By late 2023, she noticed occasional lag in apps and slower photo processing. Her daughter recommended upgrading to the 2022 model. Skeptical at first, Sarah tested one in-store.

She immediately noticed how quickly the camera focused in dim lighting and how smoothly video edits rendered in iMovie. After transferring her data, she found Face ID alternatives via Touch ID worked just as well, but the overall responsiveness felt fresher. Six months later, she reports no slowdowns—even with dozens of installed apps—and appreciates the improved screen durability after a few accidental drops.

For Sarah, the upgrade wasn’t about flashy new features—it was about sustained performance and confidence in longevity.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade?

Use this checklist to evaluate whether moving from the iPhone SE 2020 to the 2022 model makes sense for you:

1. ✅ Are you experiencing app crashes or sluggishness on your 2020 model?
2. ✅ Do you take photos in low-light environments regularly?
3. ✅ Do you plan to keep your phone for another 2–3 years?
4. ✅ Is faster Wi-Fi and better Bluetooth important for your smart home or audio gear?
5. ✅ Can you get a trade-in or discounted price on the 2022 model?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the upgrade is likely worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the iPhone SE 2022 waterproof?

It’s not fully waterproof but has an IP67 rating, meaning it can survive immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The 2020 model has the same rating.

Does the iPhone SE 2022 support MagSafe?

Yes, the 2022 model includes MagSafe compatibility for magnetic chargers and accessories. The 2020 model does not.

Can I use my old case with the 2022 SE?

In most cases, yes. The dimensions are nearly identical. However, slight variations around the camera cutout or buttons may affect fit with some third-party cases.

Final Verdict: When the Upgrade Makes Sense

The iPhone SE 2020 remains a capable device, especially for light users who prioritize battery life and compact design. But the 2022 model brings meaningful improvements—especially in processing power, camera intelligence, and future-proofing—that justify the upgrade for those pushing their current phone to its limits.

If you're still satisfied with your 2020 SE and don’t notice performance issues, holding off is perfectly reasonable. But if you want smoother performance, better photos, and a device built to last into the next few iOS generations, the 2022 SE delivers excellent value without stepping up to a larger or pricier iPhone.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Evaluate your current usage, check carrier deals, and consider trading in your old SE. The small upgrade delivers big returns for the right user.