In the world of mobile telephony, the relationship between Android and iOS It's one of the most well-known rivalries. Being an Android or iOS user is often experienced as a true statement of purpose, comparable to the most staunch sports loyalties. Although each operating system has its fervent supporters and detractors, the reality is that innovation and competition between the two platforms continues to intensify with each generation of devices.
Recently, a surprising trend has begun to emerge in the market: while a few years ago many users were switching from iPhone to Android phones to look for larger screens and greater customization, now the opposite is observed. A considerable segment of Android users has begun to interest in the iPhone SE, Apple's compact and "affordable" model, which seems to be gaining followers thanks to a combination of power, price and compact size.
The rise of the iPhone SE: A headache for Android?
Traditionally, Apple's "Special Edition" models (known as SE) have been a gateway to the iOS ecosystem thanks to their combination of more affordable price and powerful hardware based on recent generations of Apple's processor. All while maintaining a classic and compact design in the face of the growing trend toward ever-larger phones. But does the iPhone SE really pose a threat to Android smartphones? Let's take a closer look, considering the current alternatives and the reasons behind the renewed interest in this device.
More users are migrating from Android to iOS: Why are they choosing the iPhone SE?
One of the most striking figures in the market is how the iPhone SE has increased the proportion of users migrating from Android. While in high-end models like the iPhone 6s only a 10% of buyers came from Android, in the case of the iPhone SE that figure has grown to 16% for Android phones less than two years old. This reflects the SE's success in winning over Android users looking for a compact and powerful device without sacrificing the Apple ecosystem.
Not only that, but only 35% of iPhone SE buyers owned a recent iPhone. This suggests that the SE's proposition is especially attractive to those willing to compromise. change operating system, likely seduced by Apple's combination of up-to-date hardware, long-standing software support, and a consistently smooth user experience.
An “outdated” model that is gaining new users?
It is curious that the success of the iPhone SE among Android users is not only due to advances in design or the integration of the latest technologies, but precisely to its focus on the essentials: a model with a "retro" aesthetic (inherited from previous generations of iPhone), a physical button with Touch ID which is still valued by many users, and a main camera that, although not leading the market in megapixels, offers outstanding quality thanks to hardware and software optimization.
The explanation may lie in the user experience: the iPhone SE remains one of the most powerful devices in its price range, offering the same generation of processor found in Apple's most premium models and guaranteeing years of upgrades. For many, this combination is enough to sacrifice emerging technology in favor of a compact, reliable, and well-built smartphone.
The compact mobile market: a nearly empty field for Android
One of the main competitive advantages of the iPhone SE is that There are no real alternatives on Android In the high-end compact mobile segment, most Android manufacturers have opted for screens larger than 6,5 inches, leaving those looking for a small but powerful device without a chance. According to market comparisons, the few models that could compete with the SE in compact form factor are rare exceptions:
- Samsung Galaxy S22/S23/S24/S25: Some models are "small," but most are over 15 cm tall, and not all offer the same combination of cutting-edge hardware and small size.
- Google Pixel 8a and 9: Android alternatives with 6,1 or 6,3-inch screens and latest-generation processors, although they generally barely come close to the performance of Apple's chips in terms of power and efficiency.
- ASUS Zenfone 8 or similar "niche" models that, despite their quality, do not achieve mass penetration or the global support for updates and distribution that Apple guarantees.
The consumer looking for a mobile phone that is "easy to operate with one hand" and also offers high-end power, It has practically no options on AndroidApple has successfully exploited this niche with the iPhone SE, and to date, no Android manufacturer seems willing to make a strong push into this segment.
Processor and performance comparison: Can Android compete at the same price?
In the technical section, the iPhone SE incorporates the processor of Apple's premium models, giving it unrivaled performance in its price range. While high-end Android phones often easily exceed €1.000, the SE manages to outperform them in synthetic tests and real-world tasks thanks to the efficiency of Apple Silicon:
- Apple A15, A16, or A18 Bionic (depending on the SE generation) vs. Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2/3/Elite or Google Tensor G3/4 on Android.
- Software optimizationOn iOS, the operating system and hardware are designed together, ensuring a smooth experience and guaranteed updates for years. Android depends on each manufacturer's policy and custom layered optimization.
It's almost impossible to find an Android phone for less than €500 that can match the raw performance, power efficiency, and long-term support of the iPhone SE. Even models like the Google Pixel or the Samsung Galaxy A55/A35, while well-balanced and recommendable for their price-performance ratio, don't achieve the same level of power or integration between hardware and software.
Design, display and user experience: strengths and weaknesses
One of the most debated aspects of the iPhone SE is its "classic" appearanceApple has opted to keep the edges, physical buttons, and Retina display small (4,7 inches on previous models, 6,1 inches on newer ones), which contrasts with the trend on Android smartphones toward smaller bezels and larger screens.
- The iPhone SE stands out for its compact form factor, lightness and easy handling, ideal for those who hate "bricks" weighing more than 200 grams and measuring 6,7 inches.
- On Android, only models like the Google Pixel 8a/9 They manage to balance size and power, while most alternatives (Xiaomi, Samsung, OnePlus, Vivo, etc.) exceed 6,5 or even 6,9 inches.
- In terms of display quality, high-end OLED panels on Android offer higher refresh rates (90 or 120 Hz) and higher maximum brightness, but in the mid-range, many devices opt for basic LCD or AMOLED.
The SE's "retro" design may be unappealing to some audiences, especially those looking for maximum display area or wanting to take advantage of technologies like advanced facial recognition (Face ID). However, for those who value the Physical Touch ID, sustained performance and durability, the iPhone SE remains a solid alternative.
Camera Comparison: Has Android Beat the iPhone SE?
One of the areas where Android has managed to advance most rapidly compared to the iPhone SE is photography. Although Apple continues to optimize its single 12 or 48 MP sensor (depending on the generation), the main Android manufacturers have opted for multiple camera setups and sensors that generally exceed 48-50 MP in mid-range models, and up to 108 or more in premium models.
- El iPhone SE It uses a single main camera, but takes advantage of Apple's software and image processing to deliver sharp photos, accurate portraits, and superior video quality in its price range.
- On Android, models like the Google Pixel 8a or 9 They excel in computational photography and night performance, while alternatives from Xiaomi, Samsung (A55, S24) or OPPO include multiple sensors (wide angle, macro, telephoto) for greater versatility.
It is true that high-end Android phones have achieved more flexible cameras and, in many cases, better results in specific conditions (ultra-wide angle, night modes, optical zoom). However, the overall balance of the iPhone SE In photography and video, it remains one of its strong points for users who don't need a "lens lab" in their pocket.
The ecosystem and updates: the real difference between iPhone SE and Android
One of the main reasons for many users to make the jump from Android to iOS, especially with the SE model as a "gateway", is the promise of immediate and extended updates for yearsApple updates all of its compatible devices on the same day with each new version of iOS, while Android's policy varies widely by manufacturer, range, and region.
- Apple guarantees support for up to five years or more on their devices, even on “budget” models like the SE.
- On Android, although Google and Samsung have improved their policies, fragmentation remains: many mid- to low-range devices receive two or three years of updates, and others don't even receive that much.
Additionally, the Apple ecosystem It is especially attractive for users who already use a Mac, iPad, AirPods, or Apple Watch, thanks to the full integration between devices. For more information on compatibility and updates, you can check out our guide on What the green dot on your screen really means.
Comparison of real Android alternatives to compete with the iPhone SE
While it's true that the iPhone SE "plays alone" in the powerful compact segment, there are Android alternatives that can compete in different aspects, whether in price, individual features, or value for money. Below are the most notable ones in the current 2024/2025 range:
- Google Pixel 8a/9: : Balance between compact size (6,1 – 6,3 inches), high-quality camera, powerful processor (Tensor G3/G4), guaranteed updates and “clean” software.
- Samsung Galaxy A35/A55: Mid-range with a Super AMOLED display, a good multi-camera system, and a slim design, ideal for those looking for premium features at a reasonable price.
- Xiaomi 14 / Redmi Note 13Xiaomi is betting heavily on hardware and photography, with AMOLED displays, powerful fast charging, and ample storage configurations.
- OnePlus 12R/13: One of the best value mobile phones, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2/Elite processor, high refresh rate screen, abundant RAM and ultra-fast charging.
- OPPO Reno12/Realme 12 Pro+: Mid-high range options with a careful design, good autonomy, periscopic camera and AMOLED screen.
- Honor X8B, Vivo Y35, Cubot P80: Affordable alternatives with a good balance between features, memory, and battery life, designed for users who value price above all else.
They also highlight the NothingPhone (2) for its differential commitment to design and user experience with the Glyph interface, as well as the Vivo X90 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra in the more premium range, although the latter are already in another league in terms of price and size.
Price Range Comparison: What Does the User Get for What They Pay?
- Up to 500 euros: In this range, the iPhone SE offers the most powerful processor and guaranteed updates, although it lags behind Android in terms of design and multiple cameras. The Google Pixel 8a, Samsung Galaxy A35, and Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 compete in terms of battery life, AMOLED display, and camera versatility, sacrificing some support longevity.
- From 500 to 800 euros: Androids in this segment (Nothing Phone 2, realme 12 Pro+, OPPO Reno12, etc.) add premium specs and high-refresh-rate displays, but the iPhone SE still stands out for its raw performance and update support.
- Above 800 euros: This is where the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Xiaomi 14, Pixel 9 Pro, and standard iPhone 15/16 come in. These are phones with maximum power and a premium experience, although for most users, the iPhone SE is still sufficient if they prioritize long-term investment and ease of use.
Is it worth the upgrade from Android to the iPhone SE?
The decision to switch from Android to iPhone SE, or vice versa, depends largely on the personal priorities. For more information about the Apple ecosystem and its advantages, you can also visit our article on iPhone 16e vs. Android Rivals.
- If you value a closed system, maximum security and privacy, immediate updates and long-term support, the iPhone SE is the best entry point into the Apple world.
- If you prefer Advanced customization, variety of hardware options, multiple cameras and the latest technology in screens and batteries, Android offers an endless catalog.
- For users who prioritize the price and value for money, Android remains unbeatable for its diversity and adaptability to all needs.
- If you need a compact and powerful terminal, the iPhone SE has an almost exclusive territory, although options like the Google Pixel or some compact Samsungs can deliver if you don't mind sacrificing raw power or years of support.
The jump from Android to iOS with the SE is, above all, a commitment to the simplicity and trustThose looking for a phone that "just works" for many years and offers a consistent experience will appreciate Apple's offering. On the other hand, those looking to stay ahead in innovation, experiment, and squeeze every euro out of their hardware will continue to find Android a paradise of possibilities.
User reviews: loyalty to Google or attractiveness of iOS
The debate between systems is still open. Would you be willing to put aside your Android mobile Are you ready to upgrade to an iOS phone, or are you loyal to the Google universe and its flexibility? Every user has a different story and a unique list of priorities, so the decision is never easy. We invite you to use our comments section to share your experience, questions, or recommendations about the iPhone SE and its Android rivals.
The diversity in the smartphone market has never been so positive for consumers, who can now choose exactly what they need and tailor their budget to their lifestyle. Both the iPhone SE and its Android alternatives offer clear advantages and limitations. The key is to understand them and decide which one best fits your daily life.
Thanks to today's wide range of devices, consumers can choose between the stability and long-term support of the iPhone SE or the endless variety and constant innovation of Android smartphones. Whether it's size, price, power, cameras, operating system, or user experience, the competition between the two worlds continues to drive the global mobile market.