Iphone Se 2020 Vs Iphone 11 Is The Cheaper One Really Worth It

When Apple released the iPhone SE (2020), it sent shockwaves through the smartphone market. Priced significantly lower than most flagship models, it packed an A13 Bionic chip—the same processor found in the iPhone 11—into a compact, retro-inspired design. But with the iPhone 11 available at a slightly higher price point, many buyers are left wondering: Is saving $100 or more by choosing the SE 2020 actually a smart move? The answer isn’t as simple as checking specs. It depends on your priorities: budget, screen size, camera quality, battery life, and long-term usability.

Design and Display: Old School vs Modern

The most immediate difference between the iPhone SE 2020 and the iPhone 11 is their physical design. The SE 2020 revives the classic iPhone 8 form factor: a 4.7-inch LCD display with thick bezels and a Home button featuring Touch ID. In contrast, the iPhone 11 features a modern 6.1-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD with slim bezels and Face ID for biometric authentication.

This design choice affects user experience dramatically. The smaller screen of the SE suits users who prefer one-handed operation or dislike oversized phones. However, watching videos, browsing social media, or editing documents feels noticeably more constrained. The iPhone 11’s larger display provides a more immersive experience and better multitasking capabilities.

Tip: If you prioritize pocketability and single-hand use, the SE 2020 is ideal. For media consumption and modern aesthetics, go with the iPhone 11.

Performance: Surprisingly Even Ground

Under the hood, both phones run on Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, making them nearly identical in raw processing power. Whether you're launching apps, playing graphics-intensive games like Genshin Impact, or switching between multiple tasks, both devices perform fluidly and efficiently.

In benchmark tests, the iPhone SE 2020 often scores within 1–3% of the iPhone 11. Real-world usage confirms this parity. Apps open just as quickly, iOS updates are handled smoothly, and both phones are expected to receive software support until at least 2025.

“Processing power isn’t the bottleneck on either device—it’s how you interact with the phone that makes the difference.” — David Kim, Mobile Performance Analyst at TechPulse

For users focused purely on speed and longevity, the SE 2020 delivers flagship-level performance at a fraction of the cost. You’re not sacrificing future-proofing by choosing the cheaper model in terms of CPU or GPU.

Camera Comparison: One Sensor vs Two

This is where the trade-offs become clear. The iPhone SE 2020 has a single 12MP rear camera with f/1.8 aperture. It supports Portrait Mode and Smart HDR but lacks an ultra-wide lens and advanced computational photography features available on the iPhone 11.

The iPhone 11, meanwhile, features dual 12MP cameras: wide and ultra-wide. This allows for greater creative flexibility—capturing sweeping landscapes, group shots in tight spaces, or using Night Mode across all lenses. Its Smart HDR and Deep Fusion technologies produce richer textures and more balanced lighting in challenging conditions.

Feature	iPhone SE 2020	iPhone 11
Rear Cameras	Single 12MP (wide)	Dual 12MP (wide + ultra-wide)
Front Camera	7MP	12MP
Night Mode	Rear only	Rear & front
Portrait Mode	Supported (via software)	Supported (both rear & front)
Video Recording	4K up to 60fps	4K up to 60fps + extended dynamic range

If you frequently take photos or enjoy experimenting with different perspectives, the iPhone 11 is clearly superior. But for casual shooters who mainly use their phone for quick snaps and social sharing, the SE 2020’s camera performs admirably in daylight and decently in low light.

Battery Life and Charging: Practical Trade-Offs

Battery endurance favors the iPhone 11. Apple rates it for up to 17 hours of video playback, compared to around 13 hours on the SE 2020. In real-world use, the iPhone 11 typically lasts a full day with moderate to heavy usage, while the SE may require a midday charge under similar conditions.

Both phones support fast charging (with a 20W adapter sold separately) and Qi wireless charging. However, the iPhone 11 comes with a slightly faster base charging rate and benefits from more efficient power management due to its larger battery capacity.

Tip: Carry a compact power bank if using the SE 2020 daily. It offsets the shorter battery life without adding much bulk.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria, a freelance writer and commuter in Chicago, was upgrading from an iPhone 7. Her priorities were reliability, good call quality, and enough battery to last her train rides. She considered both the SE 2020 and iPhone 11.

After testing both in-store, she chose the iPhone SE 2020. “I don’t take many photos, and I hate how big my old phone felt,” she said. “The SE fits in my coat pocket, and since I work on Google Docs and email all day, the performance is perfect. I save $150, which I put toward noise-canceling headphones.”

Her experience highlights a key insight: value isn’t just about specs—it’s about alignment with lifestyle. For Maria, the SE wasn’t a compromise; it was the smarter fit.

Checklist: Which iPhone Should You Buy?

Use this checklist to decide based on your needs:

• ✅ Need a small, lightweight phone? → iPhone SE 2020
• ✅ Want the best camera system? → iPhone 11
• ✅ Prioritize battery life over portability? → iPhone 11
• ✅ On a tight budget but want top-tier performance? → iPhone SE 2020
• ✅ Use Face ID or prefer no Home button? → iPhone 11
• ✅ Frequently shoot video or edit photos? → iPhone 11
• ✅ Already own accessories (cases, docks) for older iPhones? → iPhone SE 2020 (compatible with iPhone 8 gear)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone SE 2020 run the latest iOS updates?

Yes. Despite its lower price, the SE 2020 runs the same operating system as newer iPhones. It received iOS 17 and is expected to support future updates through at least 2025, matching the iPhone 11’s software lifespan.

Is the lack of an ultra-wide camera a big deal?

It depends on your usage. Casual users may never miss it. But if you travel, photograph architecture, or enjoy creative mobile photography, the ultra-wide lens adds meaningful versatility. The iPhone 11 lets you capture more in a single shot without stepping back.

Does the iPhone SE 2020 feel outdated?

Subjectively, yes—for some. The large bezels and Home button look dated next to modern smartphones. However, many users appreciate the tactile feedback of Touch ID and the familiarity of the design. It’s a matter of preference, not obsolescence.

Final Verdict: Is the Cheaper iPhone Worth It?

The iPhone SE 2020 isn’t just “good for the price”—it’s genuinely excellent in its core strengths. It offers the same brain (A13 chip) as the iPhone 11, reliable build quality, iOS longevity, and a compact form few competitors match. For users who don’t need a big screen or advanced camera tricks, it’s arguably the best value in Apple’s lineup.

The iPhone 11, however, justifies its higher cost with tangible upgrades: better cameras, longer battery, improved stereo speakers, and a more modern interface. If you spend significant time consuming media or capturing memories, those extras add up.

Ultimately, the SE 2020 proves that “cheaper” doesn’t mean “inferior.” It’s a targeted tool for efficiency, portability, and performance. The iPhone 11 is a well-rounded flagship designed for broader appeal. Your ideal choice depends not on price alone, but on how you use your phone every day.

🚀 Ready to make your decision? Assess your daily habits, try both models in person if possible, and choose the phone that fits your life—not just your budget.