Apple has officially released the iPhone SE 2024, and if you’re wondering whether it’s a solid upgrade, you’ve landed in the right place. In this in-depth iPhone SE 2024 Specs and Performance review, we’ll explore what makes this budget iPhone tick — and whether it’s the right pick for Kenyan buyers who want Apple quality at a lower price point.
Let’s get right into it.
Design and Display
At first glance, the iPhone SE 2024 maintains a familiar look. Apple decided not to reinvent the wheel here. Instead, it sticks to the traditional Touch ID design, which might appeal to fans of the classic iPhone layout.
However, don’t be fooled by the old-school aesthetics — this device is packed with modern internals.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 4.7-inch Retina HD (1334 x 750) |
| Design | Aluminium and glass |
| Biometric | Touch ID (Home Button) |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| Water Resistance | IP67 certified |
While the screen isn’t OLED or high refresh like newer models, it still offers sharp visuals and great outdoor visibility for its size and price.
Performance and Hardware
Here’s where the iPhone SE 2024 truly shines. Apple has equipped it with the same A16 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 14 series. That means it handles gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps without breaking a sweat.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | A16 Bionic (5-core GPU) |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage Options | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB |
| OS | iOS 17 (upgradable) |
Compared to older models like the iPhone 13 Pro Max, the SE 2024 delivers nearly identical real-world speed for everyday users — at nearly half the price.
For most people, this chip ensures smooth app launches, excellent gaming performance, and futureproof software support.
Camera Capabilities
The iPhone SE 2024 might only have a single rear camera, but don’t underestimate its capabilities. Thanks to computational photography and the powerful A16 chip, photo and video quality are surprisingly good.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rear Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front Camera | 7MP FaceTime HD |
| Video | 4K up to 60fps, Slo-Mo, Time-Lapse |
| Smart HDR | Yes |
| Portrait Mode | Yes (Rear Only) |
It can’t compete with flagship devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, especially in low light or advanced zoom, but for casual users, the photo quality remains impressive.
Battery Life and Charging
Despite its compact size, the iPhone SE 2024 offers solid battery life. Apple claims up to 15 hours of video playback, which aligns with real-world usage for browsing, calls, and moderate streaming.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Life | Up to 15 hours video playback |
| Charging | 20W fast charging (50% in 30 mins) |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (Qi-compatible) |
| Charger Included | No (sold separately) |
If you’re coming from older iPhones or Androids, you’ll notice a significant boost in efficiency and charge speed — assuming you’re using the right accessories.
iPhone SE 2024 vs Previous Models
If you’re wondering how the SE 2024 compares to earlier SE models or older flagships, here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | SE 2020 | SE 2022 | SE 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chip | A13 Bionic | A15 Bionic | A16 Bionic |
| Camera | 12MP | 12MP | 12MP with Smart HDR |
| Battery Life | 13 hrs | 14 hrs | 15 hrs |
| Software Support | iOS 17 (limited) | iOS 18+ | iOS 19+ |
This year’s SE offers the best value-to-performance ratio ever seen in the lineup.
Who Should Buy the iPhone SE 2024?
The iPhone SE 2024 is perfect for users who:
- Prefer compact phones with home buttons
- Want iPhone-level performance without the flagship price
- Are upgrading from older devices like the iPhone 8 or SE 2020
- Need a reliable secondary device
While it’s not the flashiest option, it delivers on what matters most: speed, reliability, and longevity — all backed by Apple’s ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone SE 2024 is a smart buy for anyone looking for an affordable yet powerful smartphone in Kenya. It’s especially useful for users who value performance over flashy design, and who want long-term iOS support.
With the same chip as the iPhone 14 and a price that undercuts most modern devices, the SE 2024 easily earns its place as one of the most efficient budget iPhones ever.
To understand how Apple’s latest hardware choices reflect broader trends, you can explore more about Apple Inc. and how its chip development strategy sets it apart in the mobile phone industry.
