Pixel 6 Vs Iphone Se 2020 Is Google Really Worth Ditching Apple

For years, the iPhone SE (2020) has been a favorite among users who want flagship-level performance in a compact, affordable package. But with the arrival of the Pixel 6, Google made a bold statement—offering premium features at a competitive price. The question now isn't just about specs; it's about loyalty. If you're deeply embedded in Apple's ecosystem, is switching to Android—and specifically to Google's flagship—really worth it?

This isn't a simple upgrade path. It’s a cross-platform leap that affects how you use your phone, sync your data, and interact with apps, wearables, and services. Let’s break down what each device offers and whether Google’s vision justifies leaving Apple behind.

Design and Build: Compact Simplicity vs Modern Flagship

The iPhone SE (2020) embraces minimalism. With its 4.7-inch Retina HD display and Touch ID home button, it feels like a throwback to earlier iPhone designs. Its small footprint makes it easy to handle with one hand, a rarity in today’s smartphone market. Constructed with aerospace-grade aluminum and glass, it’s durable and supports IP67 water resistance.

In contrast, the Pixel 6 features a 6.4-inch OLED display with a high 90Hz refresh rate and a centered punch-hole camera. The design is unmistakably modern, with curved edges and a bold horizontal camera bar across the back. Built with recycled aluminum and Gorilla Glass Victus, it delivers a premium feel while maintaining a balanced weight distribution.

While the SE wins on portability, the Pixel 6 offers a far more immersive viewing experience and contemporary aesthetics. For users prioritizing screen real estate and visual clarity, the Pixel 6 is clearly ahead.

Tip: If you value one-handed use and pocketability, the iPhone SE remains unmatched in the sub-$500 range.

Performance: Raw Power vs Efficiency

Under the hood, the iPhone SE packs Apple’s A13 Bionic chip—a processor that still outperforms many mid-range Android chips from its era. iOS optimization ensures smooth multitasking, fast app launches, and excellent longevity. Apple promised five years of OS updates, and the SE (2020) continues to run iOS 17 without issue.

The Pixel 6, however, introduced Google’s first in-house processor: the Tensor chip. Designed for AI and machine learning tasks, it excels in speech recognition, photo processing, and real-time translation. While Geekbench scores show the A13 slightly ahead in single-core performance, the Tensor brings unique capabilities like Call Screen, Live Translate, and enhanced Assistant features.

Real-world usage reveals that both phones are snappy, but in different ways. The SE handles everyday tasks with effortless efficiency. The Pixel 6 shines when leveraging Google’s AI-driven features, offering functionality no iPhone can match natively.

Performance Comparison Table

Feature	iPhone SE (2020)	Pixel 6
Processor	Apple A13 Bionic	Google Tensor
RAM	3GB	8GB
Storage Options	64GB, 128GB, 256GB	128GB, 256GB
OS Updates	Up to 5+ years (iOS 17 supported)	At least 3 OS upgrades, 5 years of security
Benchmark (Geekbench 5, approx.)	Single: 1330 / Multi: 3400	Single: 1020 / Multi: 2750

Camera: Computational Photography vs Consistency

The iPhone SE uses a single 12MP rear camera. Despite its simplicity, it captures well-balanced photos in daylight with accurate colors and reliable HDR. Low-light performance is decent thanks to Smart HDR and Portrait Mode via software simulation. However, it lacks Night mode and ultra-wide capability.

The Pixel 6 changes the game with a dual-camera setup: a 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. Google’s computational photography engine produces stunning results—especially in low light. Features like Magic Eraser, Face Unblur, and Real Tone ensure photos look natural and vibrant across skin tones.

In head-to-head tests, the Pixel 6 consistently outperforms the SE in dynamic range, detail retention, and night shots. Videos are also superior, with cinematic pans and improved stabilization. For photography enthusiasts on a budget, the Pixel 6 offers near-flagship quality at a fraction of the cost.

“Google’s investment in AI-powered photo processing has redefined what mid-tier phones can achieve.” — David Imel, Mobile Imaging Analyst at DXOMARK

Ecosystem and Software Experience

This is where the decision becomes personal. If you own an iPad, Mac, or AirPods, the iPhone SE integrates seamlessly. Handoff, iMessage, FaceTime, iCloud Photos, and AirDrop create a frictionless environment that Android still struggles to match.

Switching to the Pixel 6 means embracing Google’s ecosystem: Gmail, Google Photos, Google Drive, and YouTube Music. You gain features like Nearby Share, Google Assistant’s deeper integrations, and better cross-device search. However, iMessage remains a pain point—green bubbles, delayed delivery, and lack of read receipts when texting iPhone users.

Additionally, the Pixel 6 runs stock Android with guaranteed timely updates directly from Google. This means cleaner software, fewer bloatware apps, and faster access to new Android versions. The iPhone SE benefits from long-term iOS support, but customization options are limited compared to Android.

Tip: Before switching, test how much you rely on iMessage and AirDrop. These gaps can disrupt daily communication.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Switch from SE to Pixel 6

Sarah had used iPhones exclusively since 2012. Her SE (2020) served her well for emails, calls, and social media. But after getting a Chromebook for remote work, she found herself juggling between devices. Notifications didn’t sync cleanly, file transfers were clunky, and Google Meet wasn’t optimized on iOS.

She switched to the Pixel 6 and paired it with her Chromebook. Instantly, call and message syncing improved. She could answer texts from her laptop, cast videos directly from her phone, and use Google Assistant to schedule meetings across devices. The camera upgrade was a bonus—her weekend hiking photos looked professional without editing.

“It took two weeks to adjust,” she said. “But once I stopped missing iMessage, I realized how much smoother everything felt within Google’s world.”

Step-by-Step: How to Transition from iPhone to Pixel 6

Moving from iOS to Android requires planning. Follow this timeline for a smooth switch:

1. Week 1: Backup & Audit – Back up your iPhone to iCloud. List essential apps and check their Android availability.
2. Day of Switch: Use Move to Android – Install the “Move to Android” app on your iPhone. Connect both phones via Wi-Fi to transfer contacts, messages, photos, and calendars.
3. First 48 Hours: Set Up Core Services – Log into Google Account, restore apps, enable Find My Device, and set up biometrics.
4. First Week: Customize & Sync – Adjust notification settings, install alternatives for iOS-exclusive apps (e.g., Pulse SMS for messaging), and link wearable devices.
5. After One Month: Evaluate – Reflect on what’s working. Are you using Google Assistant more? Do you miss AirDrop? Adjust habits accordingly.

FAQ

Can I keep my phone number when switching?

Yes. Most carriers allow number porting during activation. Use Google’s “Transfer your number” tool during Pixel setup.

Does the Pixel 6 support wireless charging?

Yes, the Pixel 6 supports Qi wireless charging and reverse charging for accessories like earbuds.

Is the iPhone SE still worth buying in 2024?

If you prefer iOS, need a small phone, or are on a tight budget, yes. But it lacks modern features like Face ID, 5G, and advanced cameras. For most users, upgrading to a newer platform makes more sense long-term.

Final Verdict: Is Google Worth Ditching Apple?

The answer depends on your priorities. If seamless integration with Apple devices, iMessage dominance in your circle, or preference for iOS simplicity matter most, sticking with the iPhone SE—or upgrading to a newer iPhone—makes sense.

But if you value innovation, AI-powered features, superior cameras, and a more customizable experience, the Pixel 6 offers compelling reasons to switch. Google has closed the gap in build quality and performance while introducing unique tools that leverage artificial intelligence in practical ways.

More importantly, the shift reflects broader trends. Users are increasingly choosing ecosystems based on utility, not brand loyalty. As Google strengthens its hardware-software integration and Apple resists change in key areas (like charging ports and messaging interoperability), the balance is shifting.

“The future of mobile isn’t just about specs—it’s about intelligence, adaptability, and openness.” — Jan Dawson, Tech Industry Analyst

Conclusion

Deciding between the Pixel 6 and iPhone SE 2020 isn’t just about comparing megapixels or processors. It’s about choosing a direction: continue with Apple’s polished but closed ecosystem, or embrace Google’s evolving, AI-first approach. For many, the Pixel 6 represents not just a phone, but a step toward a more connected, intelligent digital life.

💬 Have you made the switch from iPhone to Pixel? Share your experience, challenges, and wins in the comments below—your story could help someone make their next big tech decision.