Iphone Se 2020 Vs Galaxy Note 8 Why Are People Still Debating This In Current Year

In an era dominated by foldable smartphones, AI-powered cameras, and 5G connectivity, it’s surprising to see online forums and tech communities still discussing a matchup between two phones released years apart — the iPhone SE (2020) and the Samsung Galaxy Note 8. One launched in 2017, the other in 2020, neither is new. Yet, the conversation persists. Why? The answer lies not in raw specs or innovation, but in longevity, user loyalty, and the enduring appeal of devices that simply work.

This isn’t just nostalgia. It’s a reflection of how some older devices continue to serve users exceptionally well, even as newer models flood the market. For budget-conscious buyers, secondhand shoppers, or those who prioritize reliability over bleeding-edge features, these phones remain relevant. Let’s explore what keeps this debate alive — and whether either device still holds up today.

The Legacy of Two Iconic Devices

The Galaxy Note 8 was Samsung’s flagship in 2017, succeeding the ill-fated Note 7. It brought back confidence in the Note line with a refined design, dual rear cameras, and the beloved S Pen. At the time, it represented the pinnacle of Android productivity. Meanwhile, the iPhone SE (2020) was Apple’s answer to demand for a compact, affordable iPhone. It packed the powerful A13 Bionic chip into the body of the iPhone 8, appealing to fans of smaller form factors and iOS optimization.

Despite their different audiences, both devices earned reputations for durability and long-term software support. The Note 8 received updates until 2020, while the iPhone SE (2020) continues to run iOS 17 in 2024. This extended lifespan fuels ongoing comparisons, especially among users upgrading from older devices or shopping on a tight budget.

Tip: When buying used smartphones, always verify update eligibility — a phone that still receives OS updates will perform better and stay secure longer.

Performance: Chipset vs Real-World Speed

On paper, the iPhone SE (2020) has a significant advantage. Its A13 Bionic chip outperforms the Note 8’s Snapdragon 835 or Exynos 8895 in every benchmark. Even years later, iOS optimization allows the SE to handle modern apps smoothly. Safari loads pages faster, multitasking is snappier, and app launches feel instantaneous compared to the aging Note 8.

However, real-world usage tells a more nuanced story. Many Note 8 users report that the phone remains usable for basic tasks: email, messaging, web browsing, and even light photo editing. Samsung’s One UI has evolved, but lighter versions can run on older hardware. The larger screen and stylus functionality still appeal to note-takers and creatives who don’t need cutting-edge processing power.

The key difference? Longevity. While both phones may “work,” the iPhone SE (2020) does so with fewer compromises. It supports newer apps, runs modern games at playable frame rates, and integrates seamlessly with Apple’s ecosystem — features the Note 8 simply can’t match.

“Performance isn’t just about speed — it’s about relevance. A phone must do more than boot up; it needs to keep pace with evolving software.” — David Lin, Mobile Analyst at TechPulse Weekly

Feature Comparison: Where Each Phone Shines

Feature	iPhone SE (2020)	Galaxy Note 8
Operating System	iOS 17 (as of 2024)	Android 9 (last official update)
Processor	A13 Bionic	Snapdragon 835 / Exynos 8895
Display	4.7” LCD, 1334x750	6.3” Quad HD+ AMOLED
Rear Camera	12MP single lens	Dual 12MP (wide + telephoto)
Front Camera	7MP	8MP
Battery Capacity	1,821 mAh	3,300 mAh
S Pen Support	No	Yes
Fingerprint Sensor	Touch ID (front)	Rear-mounted
Water Resistance	IP67	IP68
Storage Options	64GB / 128GB / 256GB	64GB / 128GB / 256GB (expandable via microSD)

The table reveals stark contrasts. The Note 8 offers a superior display, expandable storage, and the unique S Pen. But the iPhone SE counters with modern software support, better app optimization, and stronger resale value. Battery life on the Note 8 is objectively better, but its age means degraded capacity in most units today.

Real-World Use Case: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria, a freelance graphic designer in her late 30s, recently inherited her brother’s old iPhone SE (2020) after her Note 8 finally gave out. She’d used the Note 8 since 2018, relying on the S Pen for sketching client ideas. When her battery started swelling, she faced a decision: repair the Note 8 or switch ecosystems?

She tried selling the Note 8 but found limited interest — most buyers wanted newer models. The SE, despite being three years newer, booted faster, ran design apps without lag, and synced with her MacBook effortlessly. After two weeks, she admitted she missed the stylus, but appreciated the reliability and cleaner interface.

Her experience mirrors many others: practicality often wins over sentimentality. The SE may lack certain features, but its seamless integration and continued updates make it a more future-proof choice in 2024.

Why the Debate Still Exists

The persistence of this comparison stems from several cultural and economic factors:

• Budget constraints: In times of inflation and economic uncertainty, consumers look for affordable options. Both phones are available secondhand for under $100.
• Nostalgia and brand loyalty: Longtime iPhone or Samsung users may resist switching ecosystems, leading them to compare familiar older models.
• Minimalist preferences: Some users dislike large phones. The SE’s compact size appeals to those tired of phablets.
• Perceived obsolescence: Not everyone needs 5G or advanced AI photography. For basic use, these phones are “good enough.”

Yet, the debate often overlooks critical realities: security, app compatibility, and serviceability. The Note 8 hasn’t received security patches since 2020, making it vulnerable to modern threats. The SE, by contrast, gets regular updates, ensuring safer browsing and banking.

Tip: Always check a device’s last update date before purchasing used. An unsupported phone is a security risk.

FAQ: Common Questions About These Phones Today

Can the iPhone SE (2020) run iOS 17?

Yes. As of 2024, the iPhone SE (2020) supports iOS 17, giving it access to the latest features, security patches, and app compatibility — a major advantage over the Note 8.

Is the Galaxy Note 8 still usable in 2024?

Barely. While it can handle calls, texts, and basic browsing, outdated software limits app support. Many modern apps no longer function properly or refuse to install due to Android version requirements.

Which phone holds better resale value?

The iPhone SE (2020) retains significantly higher resale value due to Apple’s longer software support and consistent demand for affordable iPhones.

Final Verdict: Time Has Moved On

If you’re choosing between these two phones in 2024, the answer should be clear: the iPhone SE (2020) is the superior option for anyone planning to use the device beyond six months. Its processor, software support, and ecosystem integration make it far more viable in the current mobile landscape.

That said, the continued discussion reflects something important — consumer frustration with planned obsolescence and the rising cost of smartphones. People aren’t clinging to old tech because they love it; they’re doing so because alternatives feel unaffordable or unnecessarily complex.

The real lesson here isn’t which phone wins, but what users truly value: longevity, simplicity, and reliability. Until more manufacturers embrace these principles, debates like “iPhone SE 2020 vs Galaxy Note 8” won’t disappear — they’ll just shift to the next pair of aging devices that outlive their expected shelf life.

💬 Still using an older phone? Share your experience below. What keeps you loyal — performance, design, or something else? Join the conversation and help others make smarter upgrade decisions.