Apple’s newest budget iPhone, the iPhone 16e, is here! Designed to deliver flagship performance at a lower price, this model packs the A18 chip, 128GB base storage, and 5G connectivity. The iPhone 16e review reveals its strengths and weaknesses. But what compromises does it make? Let’s dive into its specs, features, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
iPhone 16e Key Features & Specs
- A18 Chip with 4-Core GPU: Powerful performance for daily tasks, but slightly reduced graphics power vs. iPhone 16.
- 128GB Base Storage: Double the starting storage of older SE models.
- 5G C1 Modem: Faster connectivity with Apple’s custom-designed modem.
- Action Button with AI: Customizable shortcuts for camera and Apple Intelligence features.
- No MagSafe or UWB: Lacks MagSafe wireless charging and Ultra Wideband (UWB) tracking.
- Wi-Fi 6 Support: Slower than Wi-Fi 7 on standard iPhone 16 models.
iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: Key Differences
1. No MagSafe Wireless Charging
The iPhone 16e skips MagSafe, meaning no magnetic accessories or faster wireless charging. Instead, it uses Qi wireless charging and USB-C.
- Who’s Affected: Users reliant on MagSafe wallets, chargers, or battery packs.
2. A18 Chip with Reduced GPU Power
While the A18 chip handles everyday apps smoothly, its 4-core GPU (vs. 5-core in iPhone 16) may lag in graphics-heavy gaming or 4K video editing.
3. 128GB Base Storage
A major upgrade from the iPhone SE’s 64GB start, the 128GB base storage suits most users. Need more? Opt for the 256GB model ($799).
This section of the iPhone 16e review focuses on key features that set it apart from competitors.
4. No Dedicated Camera Button
Missing the iPhone 16 Pro’s Camera Control button, but the Action button offers AI-powered shortcuts for Smart HDR and Auto Enhance.
5. Lower Display Brightness
- iPhone 16e: 800 nits (standard), 1,200 nits (HDR).
- iPhone 16: 1,000 nits (standard), 1,600 nits (HDR).
Outdoor visibility may suffer in bright sunlight.
6. eSIM-Only in the U.S.
U.S. buyers get eSIM-only support, while international models retain a physical SIM slot.
Who Should Buy the iPhone 16e?
✅ Best For:
- Budget-focused users wanting Apple’s latest A18 chip.
- Upgraders from older iPhones (e.g., iPhone 12, SE).
- Those who don’t need MagSafe or Ultra Wideband.
❌ Avoid If You Need:
- MagSafe accessories or faster wireless charging.
- Wi-Fi 7 speeds or Precision Finding for AirTags.
- A physical SIM slot in the U.S.
Pricing & Release Date
- Pre-orders: Start February 21, 2025.
- Launch Date: February 28, 2025.
- Price: Starts at $699 (128GB), $799 (256GB).
Check out our detailed iPhone 16e review to find out if it meets your needs.
Ultimately, our iPhone 16e review indicates that it’s a great choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Final Verdict
Get ready to explore more in our iPhone 16e review and see if it’s the right fit for you.
The iPhone 16e strikes a balance between affordability and performance, ideal for casual users prioritizing core features over premium extras. However, power users and frequent travelers may prefer the standard iPhone 16 for its Wi-Fi 7, MagSafe, and UWB support.
Ready to Upgrade? Pre-order the iPhone 16e starting February 21, 2025, or compare models to find your perfect fit!
In this iPhone 16e review, we will cover everything from performance to pricing, helping you make an informed decision.
Overall, this comprehensive iPhone 16e review highlights the device’s appeal to users seeking value and performance.
Don’t miss out on the chance to read our full iPhone 16e review and see how it compares to other models.
For those considering an upgrade, our iPhone 16e review provides insights into its features and usability.
After reading this iPhone 16e review, you will clearly understand its advantages and drawbacks.
