iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: What Are the Differences?

Recently, the iPhone 16e has sparked a heated discussion. This new model has attracted many people who are eager to learn more about it. So, is it better or worse than the iPhone 16? Today, we will compare the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 in detail from several aspects and provide you with purchasing advice.

iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: Price

Apple officially launched the iPhone 16e on February 28, 2025. The introduction of this model signifies the complete replacement of the previous SE series, aiming to leverage the reputation of the mainline models for better sales.

However, the starting price of the iPhone 16e is $599, which is higher than the third-generation iPhone SE but lower than the iPhone 16’s starting price of $799. Below is a price comparison of different storage options for the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16.

iPhone 16:

• 128GB, $799
• 256GB, $899
• 512GB, $1099

iPhone 16e:

• 128GB, $599
• 256GB, $699
• $512GB, $899

Each model of iPhone 16e costs less than the iPhone 16. This is reasonable considering iPhone 16’s specs, performance, and other aspects are better than that of the iPhone 16e.

Related: iPhone 16 vs 16 Pro vs 16 Pro Max: What Are The Differences?

iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: Design, Material, and Color

In terms of body design, the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 look very similar at first glance. The iPhone 16e features the same ceramic glass panel, an aluminum side frame, and a glass back, as the iPhone 16. Solid and durable materials allow both models to have the same IP68 ratings for protection against water and dust.

The sizes of the two models are also very close, with the 16e measuring 5.78 (height) x 2.82 (width) x 0.31 (depth) inches and weighing 167g, while the 16 measures 5.81 x 2.82 x 0.31 inches and weighs 170g. Both models have a display size of 6.1 inches.

However, upon closer inspection, there are several differences between the two models. First, the iPhone 16e does not feature the Dynamic Island found on the iPhone 16, instead reverting to a notch display, indicating that the 16e’s screen shortcuts and space utilization are not as efficient as those of the 16.

Second, the iPhone 16e is available in only two colors, black and white, while the iPhone 16 comes in five colors: Ultramarine, Teal, Pink, White, and Black.

Third, the iPhone 16e has only one rear camera while the iPhone 16 has two. Additionally, the iPhone 16e retains only the Action Button from the iPhone 16 on its side but does not include the Camera Control Button, which is designed for more convenient photography operations.

iPhone 16e vs 16: Performance

Both models are equipped with the A18 processor and have the same 8GB of RAM, proving that they perform equally well in handling everyday tasks such as running apps, web browsing, and word processing.

However, there is one key difference in their chips—the GPU. The iPhone 16e features a 4-core GPU, while the iPhone 16 comes with a 5-core GPU. This means that the iPhone 16 can deliver higher frame rates and better visual effects in gaming.

That said, a 4-core GPU is already sufficient for most users, especially those who do not frequently play high-end games. Additionally, the iPhone 16e is equipped with the same Apple Intelligence as the iPhone 16, which was not available on the iPhone 15.

Related: iPhone 16 vs 15: All the Differences Are Here

iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: Display

The iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 both feature the same 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, meaning they have the same screen refresh rate and contrast ratio. However, due to the iPhone 16e’s notch occupying more screen space than the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 16, its pixel density is slightly lower.

The biggest difference likely lies in the screen’s maximum brightness. The iPhone 16e can reach 800 nits of brightness under normal lighting conditions and up to 1200 nits in brighter environments. In contrast, the iPhone 16 offers 1000 nits, 1600 nits, and 2000 nits, with a minimum brightness of 1 nit.

iPhone 16 vs iPhone 16e: Cameras and Photography

The single rear camera on the iPhone 16e is easily reminiscent of the SE series, but it has a higher pixel count, making it comparable to all other iPhone 16 models. Both the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 feature a 48MP Fusion camera and a 12MP front-facing camera.

However, when it comes to rear photography, the iPhone 16 has an additional sensor-shift OIS system, which provides stabilization for Action Mode.

Furthermore, the iPhone 16 also includes an extra wide-angle camera, offering better photography capabilities, including macro photography (5x). This wide-angle camera is also the reason why the iPhone 16e cannot capture spatial photos and videos.

iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: Charging and Battery

The official battery life for video playback of the iPhone 16e, as provided by Apple, is rated at 26 hours, which is 4 hours more than the iPhone 16. According to data from several reputable third-party review agencies, the iPhone 16e’s battery capacity is indeed larger than that of the iPhone 16. According to the official website, this is because the iPhone 16e is equipped with the lighter C1 modem. Another possible reason is that the iPhone 16e has only one rear camera, providing more space for the battery.

However, the iPhone 16e does not support MagSafe wireless charging; it only supports standard Qi wireless charging at 7.5W, while the iPhone 16 supports 15W MagSafe. Both models support 25W wired charging.

Related: The iPhone 16 Battery Life Performance Review

Final Verdict

If we put aside the price, the iPhone 16 offers better GPU, charging options, photography, display brightness, and Dynamic Island compared to the iPhone 16e. However, the iPhone 16e is priced $200 lower than the iPhone 16, which could be a significant reason for budget-conscious users to choose it, especially since the differences between the two models are not particularly large.

Overall, if you have never tried an Apple product and find the standard models too expensive, the iPhone 16e could be a good starting point. But if you already own an iPhone 16 or iPhone 15 series, we do not recommend upgrading to the iPhone 16e.