Apple iPhone SE (2022) review: Nostalgic performance

The latest iPhone isn't actually the newest so to speak — well, based on looks anyway. The Apple iPhone SE sports the same design as the good ol' iPhone 8, but packs modern goodies such as an A15 Bionic processor, IP67 water and dust resistance, and 5G.

Quick specs

A15 Bionic processor
Qi wireless charging
64/128/256GB
12MP f1.8 rear camera, 7MP f2.2 front camera

Unlike the iPhone 13 mini, which packs in everything from the iPhone 13 range but in a smaller form factor, the SE has some compromises. Like the iPhone 8, there's only one rear camera, a 4.7-inch Retina HD IPS display, and no Face ID. But if you're a fan of the old-school Apple design, the SE is perfect. Add in the zippy performance from the A15 chip, and it's perfect. Storage starts at 64GB, and caps out at 256GB. Note that you'll have to get used to the Touch ID button instead of gestures for some actions. The Control Center is also accessed with a bottom-up swipe like the old iPhones.

One thing that I really like is just how slim the SE is. I've forgotten how comfortable the iPhone 8 feels in the hand, and the SE brings back those fond memories. Sure, the 4.7-inch display doesn't fill up the space like newer phones, but it's bright and vibrant. With the smallest battery among the iPhones, I could barely eke out a day's use. Our video battery test at max brightness has the phone running at just 3hr 28mins.

While it has only one rear 12MP camera, the SE takes pretty good shots. Images tend to look sharp with minimal noise. That's mostly if you take it with lots of light. The phone doesn't come with Apple's Night mode so your low-light shots won't have the benefit of a longer exposure. There's also no Cinematic mode for great-looking videos. But it does a good job for Portrait shots with both the front and rear cameras.

Starting at S$699, the Apple iPhone SE is the most affordable iPhone yet. You get the performance of the iPhone 13 range with the nostalgic look and feel of older iPhones. Get it from Shopee, Lazada, Amazon, or Apple.

5 under S$100 gadgets that you can get

Note: Review unit provided by Apple.

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