Verdict
The iPhone SE (2022) is powerful for its size but feels fundamentally outdated. A15 Bionic and long software support are genuine strengths, yet the small 60Hz LCD, large bezels, single camera and mediocre battery life make it a niche choice in 2026.
The third-generation iPhone SE has always been a strange combination of old and new. Inside, Apple’s A15 Bionic gives it performance that still feels fast. Outside, the design is based on a much older iPhone formula with a 4.7-inch LCD, thick bezels and a physical Home button with Touch ID.
That combination appeals to a specific audience. Some users genuinely prefer a fingerprint sensor and a very compact phone. The SE also supports 5G, wireless charging and current iOS versions, so it is not obsolete from a software perspective.
The hardware compromises are severe, however. The display is small, low-resolution by modern standards and fixed at 60Hz. There is only one 12MP rear camera, so there is no ultrawide or telephoto. Battery endurance was only moderate even when the phone was new, and aging batteries make that concern more important today.
The iPhone SE (2022) therefore makes sense only for buyers who actively want its old-school form factor. For everyone else, a newer Face ID iPhone offers a much better screen, battery and camera experience.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fast A15 Bionic
- Very compact and light
- Touch ID Home button
- 5G support
- Wireless charging
- Long iOS support
Cons
- Tiny 4.7-inch LCD
- Large bezels
- Single rear camera
- Weak battery life
- Lightning port
- No Apple Intelligence
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the iPhone SE (2022) have Touch ID?
Yes. Touch ID is built into the physical Home button.
Does the iPhone SE (2022) support 5G?
Yes. It uses Apple’s A15 Bionic platform and supports sub-6GHz 5G.
Who should still buy the iPhone SE (2022)?
It mainly suits buyers who specifically want a very small iPhone with Touch ID and can accept the older display, camera and battery design.