iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: What are the Differences? Which One Should You Buy? Full Specifications Comparison

Apple recently launched the iPhone 16e in India and globally, ending the traditional 'SE' moniker. However, this year's iPhone 16e looks a lot like the iPhone 16 from last year.

So we've decided to pit the two iPhones against each other and find out what's the difference between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e and which one is worth considering in 2025. Without any further delays, here's our full specifications comparison of the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e.

iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: Full Specs Comparison

Design and Display

Both the iPhone 16 and 16e feature a similar design, save the ultrawide camera. Apple opts for the same ceramic shield and glass back protection on both phones. The two iPhones also feature an aluminium frame and an IP68 rating for resistance to dust and water.

The iPhone 16 and 16e weight and measure about the same, while both devices also feature the Action Button. However, the iPhone 16e loses out on the Camera Control button and Dynamic Island feature. The latest iPhone 16e only comes in two colours as compared to the four for the iPhone 16. Both the phones also feature similar displays, although the iPhone 16's screen reaches a higher peak brightness.

Performance, Features, Battery

When it comes to performance, both phones use Apple's A18 chipset, which make them quite powerful and capable of taking on any flagship in 2025. Moreover, the two devices also come in the same storage configurations. The iPhone 16e also receives all the AI features with the inclusion of Apple Intelligence.

While Apple doesn't reveal battery capacity, it is likely to be similar on both phones. However, the iPhone 16 features faster wired and wireless charging support. On the flip side, the iPhone 16e arrives with Apple's custom C1 5G modem. Apple says the new C1 modem is the 'most power-efficient' modem on an iPhone, which should give it an edge in battery life.

Cameras

Both the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e use the same 48MP primary sensor, although the standard 16 model has a second 12MP ultrawide lens. Both phones use the same 12MP selfie camera and support 4K video recording at 60fps across all lenses. However, the iPhone 16's rear camera can also shoot spatial video at 1080fps (30fps).

iPhone 16e vs iPhone 16: Which One Should You Buy?

The price difference between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e is around Rs 15,000; but is it worth it? The iPhone 16 does have a few advantages over the 16e, although there's advantages are few and far between. The flexibility of an ultrawide camera is one of the biggest advantages of the iPhone 16, although it won't make much of a difference to someone who rarely uses the ultrawide lens.

And while we weren't fans of the Camera Control button, skipping the Dynamic Island does feel unnecessary, but are features you can live without, nonetheless. If we had to pick between one of the two, we'd prefer the iPhone 16e over the standard iPhone 16 as the additional ultrawide camera isn't worth the additional 15K price tag.