The iPhone SE is dead. Long live the iPhone 16E.
Apple has officially unveiled its latest “budget” offering — the iPhone 16E. But how does it compare to its sibling, the iPhone 16? And what does the “E” even stand for — Entry? Economy? Envious? 🤔
Whatever it means, this model brings Apple’s AI features to a lower price tier. Let’s break down the differences and similarities between the two phones.
Storage & Pricing
| Model | Storage Options | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | $799 |
| iPhone 16E | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | $599 |
Key Takeaway: Same storage tiers — but the 16E is $200 cheaper.
Performance & AI Features
Both phones come equipped with the A18 chip, making them compatible with Apple’s suite of AI tools under Apple Intelligence, including:
- AI writing tools
- Genmoji
- Image Playground
- Cleanup tool in Photos
💡 Note: The 16E’s GPU has one less core, but performance is otherwise comparable.
Display Comparison
| Feature | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16E |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.1-inch OLED | 6.1-inch OLED |
| Resolution | 2556 x 1179 | 2532 x 1170 |
| Pixel Density | 460 PPI | 460 PPI |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Peak Brightness | 1600 nits | 1200 nits |
| Ceramic Shield | Latest Gen | Possibly from iPhone 14 Gen |
| Dynamic Island | Yes | No (monobrow notch) |
Observation: Both models still stick with a 60Hz refresh rate — which feels outdated in 2025.
Size & Build
| Feature | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16E |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 7.8 mm | 7.8 mm |
| Weight | 170g | 167g |
| Frame & Back | Aluminum + Color-infused glass | Aluminum + Glass |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
Camera System
| Feature | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16E |
|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP (f/1.6) w/ 2x Optical Zoom | 48MP (f/1.6) w/ 2x Optical Zoom |
| Ultrawide | 12MP (f/2.2) | ❌ Not Available |
| Front Camera | 12MP (f/1.9) | 12MP (f/1.9) |
| Video | 4K @ 120 fps | 4K @ 120 fps |
| Camera Button | Dedicated | Action Button (Configurable) |
“Make sure you check back for the full camera comparison.”
Charging & Battery
- Ports: Both have USB-C
- Wireless Charging:
- iPhone 16: MagSafe supported
- iPhone 16E: Qi One (7.5W only)
| Feature | iPhone 16 | iPhone 16E |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | ~22 hours | ~26 hours |
| MagSafe | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Pro Tip: You might use a MagSafe case workaround on 16E, but compatibility isn’t guaranteed.
Colors
| Model | Colors Available |
|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, Black, White |
| iPhone 16E | Black, White (Customize via Cases) |
Final Thoughts
“Those are just some of the key similarities and differences between the 16 and 16E.”
If you’re hunting for a more affordable iPhone that doesn’t sacrifice on performance or Apple Intelligence features — the 16E is compelling. However, if you value better brightness, dynamic island, MagSafe, or a dual camera system — the iPhone 16 might be the better pick.
Key Takeaways
- ✅ Same chip, but slightly weaker GPU in 16E.
- 🎥 Similar camera specs, but no ultrawide on 16E.
- 🔋 Better battery life in 16E — surprisingly.
- ⚠️ No Dynamic Island or MagSafe for 16E.
- 💰 $200 cheaper, making 16E the most affordable way into Apple Intelligence.
Would you pick iPhone 16E or iPhone 16?
Let us know in the comments, and be sure to check out more in-depth comparisons at SEO Innovaters.