Apple iPhone SE (2022) vs Apple iPhone 15 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date March 18, 2022 September 22, 2023
Release Year 2022 2023

Physical

Volume 67.99 cm³ 82.43 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.26 "/g 3.57 "/g
Weight 144 g 171 g
Height 138.4 mm 147.6 mm
Width 67.3 mm 71.6 mm
Thickness 7.3 mm 7.8 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Red
  • Starlight
  • Midnight
  • Black
  • Yellow
  • Blue
  • Green
  • Pink

Display

Screen Size 4.7 " 6.1 "
Resolution 750 x 1334 1179 x 2556
Aspect Ratio 16:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 65.4 % 86.4 %
Pixel Density 326 PPI 461 PPI
Refresh Rate N/A N/A
Typical Brightness 625 nits N/A
HBM Brightness N/A 1000 nits
Peak Brightness N/A 2000 nits

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 91.35 mAh/in² 90.00 mAh/in²
Battery Density 29.68 mAh/cm³ 40.63 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 2018 mAh 3349 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm) Apple A16 Bionic (4 nm)
CPU Hexa-core (2x3.22 GHz Avalanche + 4x1.82 GHz Blizzard) Hexa-core (2x3.46 GHz Everest + 4x2.02 GHz Sawtooth)
GPU Apple GPU (4-core graphics) Apple GPU (5-core graphics)

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support
DisplayPort 1
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features Lightning 2.0 USB Type-C 2.0, DisplayPort

Software

Operating System iOS iOS
Initial OS Version 15.4 17
Maximum OS Version 18 18

Comparison Summary

iPhone SE (2022) vs. iPhone 15: A User-Centered Comparison

As a technology communications specialist, my goal is to help you understand these phones not just by their specs, but by how they feel in your hand and how they fit into your life. Let's dive into a narrative-driven comparison of the iPhone SE (2022) and iPhone 15.

1. Design and Usability Assessment

FeatureiPhone SE (2022)iPhone 15User Experience Impact
Interface DesignClassic, familiar iOS with home buttonModern, all-screen iOS with Dynamic IslandSE offers a nostalgic, simple interface; iPhone 15 provides a more immersive, contemporary experience.
Interaction FlowPrimarily button-based navigationGesture-based navigationSE relies on learned button interactions; iPhone 15 offers a fluid, intuitive experience with swipes and taps.
AccessibilityTouch ID, ReachabilityFace ID, VoiceOver, larger displayBoth offer strong accessibility features, but the 15's larger display and Face ID cater to a wider range of needs.
Design ErgonomicsCompact, one-handed useLarger display, slightly heavierSE excels in portability and one-handed usability; iPhone 15 prioritizes screen real estate for media consumption and multitasking.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration

Scenario: Imagine you're a busy professional constantly on the go. The iPhone SE (2022)'s compact design slips effortlessly into your pocket, allowing for quick one-handed checks and calls. Its familiar home button provides tactile feedback, grounding you in a familiar interaction. However, when reviewing detailed presentations, the smaller screen might feel limiting.

Now picture yourself as a creative individual who loves capturing and consuming visual content. The iPhone 15's expansive Super Retina XDR display brings your photos and videos to life with vibrant colors and incredible detail. The Dynamic Island seamlessly integrates notifications and live activities, keeping you informed without disrupting your workflow. Editing photos on the larger screen is a joy, and the advanced camera system captures stunning moments with ease.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation

For users who value simplicity, familiarity, and compact design, the SE shines. Its lower price point also makes it more accessible. However, users with visual impairments might find the smaller screen challenging. The iPhone 15, with its larger display, Face ID, and advanced accessibility features, caters to a broader audience, including those who prefer hands-free interaction or require larger text.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework

Choose the SE if:

  • You prioritize a compact, lightweight phone for easy one-handed use.
  • You prefer the familiar, button-based navigation of classic iOS.
  • Budget is a significant factor.

Choose the iPhone 15 if:

  • You value a large, vibrant display for immersive media consumption and multitasking.
  • You embrace modern, gesture-based interaction.
  • You want the latest camera technology and processing power.

My Choice: As Sophia Rodriguez, I would choose the iPhone 15. While I appreciate the SE's compact charm, I find the 15's larger, more immersive display and modern interaction flow essential for my work and creative pursuits. The improved camera system, faster processor, and longer battery life significantly enhance my daily workflow. The seamless integration of the Dynamic Island adds a layer of sophistication and efficiency that I find incredibly appealing. Although it's a more significant investment, the iPhone 15's user experience aligns better with my needs as a technology communicator who thrives on visual content and seamless interaction.

Sophia Rodriguez
Sophia Rodriguez

Technology Communications Specialist

Expert in transforming complex technological innovations into accessible, engaging narratives.

Key Strengths:

  • Technology storytelling
  • User experience design analysis
  • Inclusive technology communication
  • Design-driven technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with human-centered understanding.