The new budget phone from Apple is fast and has 5G, but it retains an older appearance, for a price of $429.

• The iPhone SE 2022, priced at $429, features 5G and the same processor as the iPhone 13, which costs $699 for the Mini model.
• The design of the device is outdated, resulting in poor battery life and camera quality.
• If you have the budget, the iPhone 13 is a better choice for most people, even if you only need to run the latest apps.

’s new $429 iPhone SE launches Friday.

For those who want an iPhone without the advanced features of the iPhone 13, such as a superior screen and enhanced cameras, it has been tested and is a suitable choice.

The iPhone SE, which was launched in 2020 for $399, is now $30 more expensive. However, it offers more features than the previous model, including faster 5G cellular, stronger glass, and the same high-speed processor as the iPhone 13, which starts at $699. Despite this, inflation and supply chain constraints may be contributing to the price increase. While Apple could have boosted the appeal of the iPhone SE by dropping the price, consumers are already facing financial strain in other areas, such as the grocery store and gas pump.

While the iPhone SE is not as popular as Apple's other phones, the 2020 version of the iPhone SE accounted for 12% of all iPhone sales from its launch until Q4 2021. However, the addition of 5G could make it a compelling option in international markets such as Europe and China where Apple didn't yet have a low-priced 5G phone to compete with budget Android devices.

Here’s what you need to know about it.

What’s good

The iPhone SE's strategy is to retain the body and screen of older models while upgrading with the latest processor and cellular chip, allowing it to run the latest games and apps without any slowdown, as I experienced with Disney's Melee Mania.

The iPhone 8 from 2017 has the same body design, but its fingerprint-reading home button is the only option, while Apple's Face ID unlock system is now getting support for face masks.

The iPhone SE is a more convenient option for carrying around and using while lying down, as it is smaller and lighter than the iPhone 13 Pro Max. The stereo speakers are also good, but if you have the budget, the iPhone 13 Mini offers a better screen, longer battery life, and nicer cameras, all in the same size.

While 5G does not support the fastest mmWave networks available on iPhone and Android devices, it does support the new C-band networks being rolled out by Verizon and T-Mobile's solid nationwide 5G network. Therefore, 5G is a great option for downloading large files before traveling. In my tests, T-Mobile's 5G network hit about 300Mbps at home, which was faster than my Wi-Fi in some parts of my house.

The camera is decent, but it's clear that cost-cutting measures were taken. Despite having the same lens as the 2020 model, the camera takes slightly better pictures due to the image signal processor in the latest A15 chip. Portrait shots with blurred backgrounds of people are possible, but the camera does not detect pets. Night mode is missing, so shots taken in the dark are not as clear as on more expensive Apple phones. The camera took nice, clean shots and did a good job capturing the deep reds of tulips. The front-facing camera is satisfactory for selfies with good color and tone balance.

The iPhone 11 is not as water-resistant as Apple's other iPhones, but it can still withstand a dip in the bath or a spill without any issues. It has the same robust glass as other iPhones to prevent shattering if dropped. Unlike some low-cost Android phones that use plastic instead of glass and metal, the iPhone 11 does not feel cheap.

What’s bad

The iPhone SE is not designed for heavy users, and its battery life reflects this. While it can handle basic tasks like making calls and browsing the web, it may not last all day if you're doing a lot of gaming or other processor-intensive activities.

The iPhone SE from 2020 resembles the iPhone 8 from 2017, but it appears outdated due to the availability of phones with better screens that extend to the top and bottom of the device.

Although the screen is sufficient, it may not impress you as much as the brighter and quicker screens found on Apple's pricier phones.

Although the device supports wireless charging with Qi charging pads, it does not work with Apple's newer MagSafe pucks, which attach to the phone's back and charge faster wirelessly.

If you plan to download and save more apps, movies and games, I recommend spending $479 for the model with 128GB of storage, even though most people looking for a budget phone are satisfied with 64GB.

Should you buy it?

I typically respond by inquiring about their intended use for the iPhone.

The iPhone SE is a great option for those seeking an affordable iPhone that can run all apps and the latest software. It's a significant upgrade for individuals transitioning from devices like the iPhone 8. Additionally, it's an excellent first phone for teenagers, as many kids receive their first phone in middle school.

The iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Mini are the best phones for most people, with their face-unlocking feature, nicer screens, better camera quality, and longer battery life.

The iPhone 13 Pro models are the best option if you want a high-quality screen and premium materials.