Iphone Xr Vs Iphone Se 2020 Is The Xr Still Worth It In Current Year 2

As smartphone technology evolves rapidly, older models like the iPhone XR and iPhone SE (2020) remain popular due to their affordability and solid performance. But in 2024, the question arises: does the iPhone XR still hold its ground against the more modern-feeling iPhone SE 2020? Despite being released just a year apart, these devices represent two different philosophies in Apple’s lineup — one focused on screen size and design, the other on raw power and compact efficiency.

This article breaks down the key differences between the iPhone XR and iPhone SE 2020, evaluates real-world usability today, and helps you decide whether the XR remains a worthwhile option or if it's time to move on.

Design and Display: Size vs Simplicity

The iPhone XR features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display with slim bezels and a notch for Face ID. It offers vibrant colors and good brightness, making it ideal for media consumption. The larger form factor suits users who prefer one-handed use less and prioritize screen real estate.

In contrast, the iPhone SE 2020 retains the classic iPhone 8 design with a 4.7-inch Retina HD display and thick top and bottom bezels. While the screen is smaller and lower resolution, it’s easier to handle and fits comfortably in smaller hands or pockets. However, it lacks Face ID and uses Touch ID embedded in the home button — a feature some users still prefer for convenience and mask-friendly unlocking.

Tip: If you frequently use your phone with one hand or wear a mask daily, the SE 2020’s compact size and Touch ID may offer better usability than the XR.

Performance: A Clear Winner Emerges

Under the hood, the iPhone SE 2020 packs the same A13 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 11 series, while the iPhone XR uses the slightly older A12 Bionic. On paper, this difference may seem minor, but in practice, it translates into noticeably smoother performance on the SE.

Both phones handle everyday tasks like browsing, messaging, and social media without issue. However, the SE 2020 excels in app launch speed, multitasking, and gaming performance. It also receives longer software support thanks to its newer chipset architecture. As of 2024, iOS 17 runs well on both, but early signs suggest the SE will likely receive iOS 18, while the XR may be left behind.

“Devices with newer chips tend to stay optimized longer. The A13 in the SE 2020 gives it a significant longevity edge over the A12-powered XR.” — David Kim, Mobile Hardware Analyst at TechPulse

Camera Comparison: Trade-offs in Versatility

The iPhone XR has a single 12MP wide-angle rear camera with optical image stabilization and Portrait Mode via software processing. Its photos are strong in daylight, with accurate colors and excellent dynamic range. Low-light performance is decent for its era, especially after Night Mode was added via update.

The iPhone SE 2020 shares nearly identical camera hardware but benefits from the A13’s improved image signal processor. This results in faster autofocus, better noise reduction, and more consistent HDR processing. It also supports Smart HDR and extended depth-of-field effects in portraits.

However, the XR holds an advantage in video recording: it supports 4K at 60fps across all resolutions, while the SE 2020 caps out at 4K/30fps. For casual photographers, the difference is negligible, but content creators may notice the limitation.

Feature	iPhone XR	iPhone SE 2020
Processor	A12 Bionic	A13 Bionic
Rear Camera	12MP f/1.8, OIS, Portrait Mode	12MP f/1.8, Portrait Mode
Front Camera	7MP TrueDepth	7MP (non-TrueDepth)
Video Recording	4K up to 60fps	4K up to 30fps
Battery Life (Video Playback)	Up to 16 hours	Up to 13 hours
Biometric Security	Face ID	Touch ID
Water Resistance	IP67 (1m for 30 mins)	IP67 (1m for 30 mins)
Starting Storage	64GB	64GB

Battery and Longevity in 2024

The iPhone XR has a clear advantage in battery life. Apple rates it for up to 16 hours of video playback, compared to 13 hours on the SE 2020. In real-world mixed usage, the XR typically lasts a full day and sometimes stretches into a second, depending on usage patterns.

However, battery health degrades over time. If you're buying used or have owned either device since launch, actual endurance now depends heavily on charge cycles and calibration. Both support fast charging (with 18W adapter sold separately) and wireless charging, giving them equal flexibility in charging options.

From a longevity standpoint, the SE 2020 is the safer bet. Its A13 chip ensures compatibility with future iOS updates for at least another year beyond the XR. App developers are beginning to optimize for newer architectures, and older chips like the A12 may struggle with demanding applications by 2025.

Tip: Check battery health in Settings > Battery > Battery Health before purchasing a used model. Anything below 80% capacity will significantly impact daily usability.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah, a freelance writer, owned an iPhone XR since 2019. By early 2023, she noticed apps taking longer to load, her battery draining faster, and occasional stutters in Safari. She considered upgrading but didn’t want to spend over $500.

She tested both the iPhone XR and a refurbished SE 2020 side-by-side. Despite loving the XR’s larger screen for reading and writing, she was surprised by how much snappier the SE felt. The faster keyboard response, quicker app launches, and smoother scrolling made a tangible difference in productivity.

She ultimately chose the SE 2020 for $220, citing better long-term value. “It’s smaller, yes, but it feels like a new phone,” she said. “I don’t miss the notch or the extra screen space as much as I thought I would.”

Checklist: Choosing Between XR and SE 2020 in 2024

• ✅ Prioritize performance and software longevity → Choose iPhone SE 2020
• ✅ Need a large screen for videos, reading, or navigation → iPhone XR may still suit you
• ✅ Use Touch ID regularly or unlock while wearing masks → SE 2020 is more convenient
• ✅ Want better battery life and louder stereo speakers → XR has the edge
• ✅ Buying used/refurbished → Inspect battery health and storage capacity carefully
• ✅ Planning to keep the phone beyond 2025 → SE 2020 is the safer investment

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone XR still run the latest apps smoothly?

Most everyday apps work fine, but heavier games and photo/video editing tools may lag or not support the A12 chip optimally. Some newer apps may drop support for A12 devices starting in 2024–2025.

Is the iPhone SE 2020 worth buying in 2024?

Yes, especially at discounted prices. Its A13 chip, compact design, and iOS support make it a compelling budget iPhone. Just be aware of the small screen and lack of Night Mode on front camera.

Does the iPhone XR support 5G?

No. Neither the XR nor the SE 2020 supports 5G. Both are limited to LTE speeds. If 5G is important, consider upgrading to iPhone SE (2022 or later) or newer models.

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone XR Still Worth It?

In 2024, the iPhone XR remains functional but is showing its age. It delivers solid build quality, a great display, and respectable battery life, but its A12 chip limits future-proofing. The iPhone SE 2020, despite its outdated design, outperforms it in processing power, software support, and overall responsiveness.

If you already own an XR and it meets your needs, there’s no urgent reason to upgrade immediately. But if you’re buying a used or refurbished iPhone on a budget, the SE 2020 is the smarter choice for longevity and performance. The trade-off in screen size is often outweighed by the gains in speed and system fluidity.

Ultimately, value isn't just about specs — it's about how long the device will serve you well. And in that regard, the iPhone SE 2020 pulls ahead.

🚀 Ready to make a decision? Assess your priorities: screen size and battery life (XR) vs performance and longevity (SE 2020). Choose based on how long you plan to keep the phone — not just how it feels today.