Iphone Se 2020 Vs S21 Is It Worth Upgrading In 2024

The iPhone SE (2020) remains a compelling budget option for iOS users who prioritize performance over flashy design. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S21, released the following year, brought flagship Android innovation within reach of mid-tier pricing by 2024. With both devices now several years old but still functional, many users face a critical question: if you're currently on the iPhone SE 2020, is upgrading to the S21 — or switching ecosystems entirely — worth it in 2024?

This decision isn't just about specs. It involves ecosystem loyalty, long-term software support, camera expectations, and how you use your phone daily. Let’s break down the key differences and real-world implications to help you make an informed choice.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

The iPhone SE 2020 packs Apple’s A13 Bionic chip — a powerhouse even by 2024 standards for light to moderate usage. Paired with iOS optimization, it handles most apps smoothly, including social media, navigation, and even some gaming. However, it runs on just 3GB of RAM, which can cause background app reloads during multitasking.

In contrast, the Galaxy S21 launched with the Exynos 2100 or Snapdragon 888 (depending on region), both flagships at the time. It includes 8GB of RAM, enabling smoother multitasking and better longevity when running demanding apps or games. While thermal throttling was a known issue with the Snapdragon 888 under heavy load, day-to-day performance remains solid in 2024.

Tip: If you frequently switch between productivity apps or use AR features, the S21’s extra RAM offers a noticeable advantage over the SE 2020.

Display and Design Experience

Design philosophy separates these two phones dramatically. The iPhone SE 2020 sticks with the classic iPhone 8 form: compact 4.7-inch LCD with thick bezels and a Home button with Touch ID. This makes it one of the last truly pocketable iPhones, ideal for single-handed use.

The S21, meanwhile, embraces modern smartphone trends: a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, edge-to-edge screen, and punch-hole front camera. The higher resolution, deeper blacks, and smoother scrolling deliver a premium visual experience — especially for video, gaming, and web browsing.

Build quality also differs. The S21 uses plastic on the back (despite its premium look), while the SE has glass-and-aluminum construction. However, the S21 supports IP68 water resistance; the SE does not.

“Phones are no longer just tools — they’re windows to digital life. A high-refresh OLED screen changes how users engage with content.” — Lena Park, Mobile UX Analyst at TechInsight Group

Camera Capabilities: Real-World Use

The iPhone SE 2020 has a single 12MP rear camera. Thanks to Apple’s image processing, it captures sharp, color-accurate photos in daylight. Night mode is available but limited compared to multi-sensor systems. Video recording tops out at 4K@60fps, excellent for its class.

The S21 brings a triple-camera setup: 12MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and a 64MP telephoto with 3x hybrid zoom. This versatility allows creative framing, better low-light performance through pixel binning, and usable zoom capabilities. Its Night Mode and AI scene optimizer adapt well across environments.

For casual photographers, the SE holds up. But if you travel, shoot landscapes, or value flexibility, the S21’s camera system is a meaningful upgrade.

Camera Feature Comparison

Feature	iPhone SE (2020)	Samsung Galaxy S21
Rear Cameras	12MP (f/1.8)	12MP (f/1.8) + 12MP (ultra-wide) + 64MP (telephoto)
Front Camera	7MP (f/2.2)	10MP (f/2.2)
Zoom	Digital only	3x Hybrid, up to 30x Digital
Video Recording	4K@60fps	8K@24fps, 4K@60fps
Night Mode	Yes (rear only)	Yes (all cameras)

Battery Life and Charging Reality

Battery capacity favors the S21: 4,000mAh versus the SE’s 1,821mAh. In practice, the S21 lasts a full day with moderate to heavy use, often stretching into a second morning with lighter habits. The SE, however, struggles beyond a single workday under constant connectivity and app usage.

Charging is another divergence. Both lack wireless charging (a cost-saving measure), but the S21 supports faster 25W wired charging (adapter sold separately). The SE maxes out at 18W fast charging with a compatible brick — otherwise, it defaults to slow 5W charging with the included adapter.

Software efficiency plays a role too. iOS manages background processes tightly, giving the SE more endurance than raw specs suggest. Still, the S21 generally wins in stamina.

Mini Case Study: Daily Usage Patterns

Consider Maria, a teacher using her iPhone SE 2020 since 2020. She checks email, uses Google Classroom, takes student photos, and streams podcasts during commute. By 6 PM, her battery is at 15%. After upgrading to an S21 in early 2024, she noticed she rarely charged before bedtime, even with increased photo documentation and YouTube lesson prep. The larger battery and adaptive 120Hz display made a tangible difference in reducing daily stress around power levels.

Software Support and Ecosystem Shift

iOS updates remain a strong selling point for Apple. The iPhone SE 2020 is expected to receive iOS 18 in late 2024, meaning six years of software support — exceptional longevity. Security patches will likely continue into 2025.

Samsung promises four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates for the S21. As of 2024, it has received Android 13 and One UI 5.1, with Android 14 potentially being its final major update. Security patches may taper off by 2025–2026, depending on region.

Switching from iPhone to Android introduces friction: iMessage compatibility loss, AirDrop replacement, re-downloading apps, and adjusting to new gestures and settings layouts. iCloud integration gives way to Google’s ecosystem — a shift that affects backups, contacts, and photo sync.

Tip: Use Samsung Smart Switch to transfer data seamlessly. But manually back up iMessages via third-party tools before leaving iOS.

Checklist: Before Upgrading from iPhone SE 2020 to S21

• ✅ Back up all iPhone data to iCloud and computer
• ✅ Export important messages or notes stored in iMessage
• ✅ Disable Find My iPhone and sign out of iCloud
• ✅ Set up Google account on new S21
• ✅ Transfer contacts, photos, and calendar events
• ✅ Install essential apps and restore purchases where possible
• ✅ Test messaging (especially group chats with iPhone users)

Is It Worth Upgrading in 2024?

For most iPhone SE 2020 users, upgrading to the S21 in 2024 makes sense only if you:

• Need a larger, modern display for media or productivity
• Want better cameras with zoom and ultra-wide options
• Require longer battery life without carrying a power bank
• Are open to leaving the iOS ecosystem

If you value compact size, Touch ID, iOS consistency, and plan to keep your phone beyond 2026, sticking with the SE — or upgrading to the iPhone SE (2022 or 2023) — may be smarter. The SE lineage continues to offer excellent value within Apple’s world.

Conversely, the S21 delivers a near-flagship experience at a fraction of today’s prices. Refurbished units sell for under $200 in 2024, making it a cost-effective leap in display, camera, and performance — provided you accept shorter software support and the Android learning curve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my iPhone accessories with the S21?

Most Bluetooth accessories (earbuds, watches, speakers) will pair seamlessly. Lightning cables won’t work — you’ll need USB-C alternatives. MagSafe accessories are incompatible.

Will the S21 feel much bigger than the SE 2020?

Yes. The S21 is significantly taller, wider, and heavier. If you prefer small phones, it may take time to adjust. Consider using a grip case or one-handed mode.

Does the S21 have a headphone jack?

No, neither phone includes a 3.5mm jack. You’ll need USB-C headphones or a dongle for analog audio.

Final Verdict

Upgrading from the iPhone SE 2020 to the Samsung Galaxy S21 in 2024 isn’t about necessity — it’s about desire for a different kind of smartphone experience. The S21 offers superior display technology, camera versatility, and battery life, all wrapped in a sleek, modern design. But it comes at the cost of ecosystem disruption and slightly shorter software support.

If your SE 2020 still performs well and you rely heavily on Apple services, staying put — or moving to a newer SE model — preserves continuity. But if you’re ready to explore Android’s flexibility and want more screen, better photos, and longer battery life without spending flagship prices, the S21 remains a compelling upgrade path in 2024.

💬 Have you switched from iPhone to Samsung? Share your experience below — your insights could help others make their decision!