iPhone SE 4 vs. iPhone 17: How Apple’s Budget and Flagship Phones Compare

Last updated on February 18th, 2025 at 09:35 pm

Apple is preparing to bring two exciting iPhones to the market in 2025 – the iPhone SE 4 and the iPhone 17. The former will be the company’s budget smartphone, while the latter will be the top of the range flagship device.

In this article, I will explain the main similarities and differences between the iPhone SE 4 and the iPhone 17, focusing on the design, display, performance, camera, battery life, and other features that will help you make the decision.

Design & Build Quality

iPhone SE 4: Old But Updated

• Design: Has flat edges and a notched display like an iPhone 14, while getting rid of the Home Button.
• Materials: May have a glass back with an aluminum frame.
• Ports: This will be the first iPhone SE version to have USB-C, complying with the new regulations from the EU.
• Colors: Anticipated to have black, white, and red colors.

iPhone 17: A Flagship Evolution

• Design: Apple’s flagship line is reported to be adopting thinner form factors. There might even be an iPhone 17 Slim or iPhone 17 Air.
• Materials: Will probably use titanium or high-end aluminum like the iPhone 15 Pro series.
• Ports: Switching to USB-C, which helps to further strengthen Apple’s ecosystem.
• Colors: These devices could come in new exclusive color finishes, such as deep blue, silver, and graphite.

Judgment

For those seeking an affordable, small-sized iPhone, the design of SE 4 which resembles the iPhone 14 will be easy to adapt to. On the other hand, those wishing to have a premium look and feel will find using the iPhone 17 more appealing due to its lightweight and thinner frame.

Display: OLED vs. ProMotion Technology

iPhone SE 4: The Big Upgrade

• Screen Size: 6.1 inches OLED (1st SE model).
• Refresh Rate: Standard 60Hz.
• Notch: Classic notch, no Dynamic Island.
• Resolution: OLED with improved contrast and better battery consumption than LCD.

iPhone 17: Next-Level Display

• Screen Size: 6.3 inches OLED (may expand for larger models up to 6.9 inches).
• Refresh Rate: ProMotion expected 120Hz for high scrolling smoothness.
• Notch: Hesitating for Dynamic Island support, so interactivity is possible.
• Resolution: Colors have better brightness along with more precise reproduction, and the display supports improved HDR from the previous iteration.

Verdict

The iPhone SE 4 comes with an OLED screen which is a great improvement. In contrast, iPhone 17’s ProMotion screen smoothness and brightness makes the device’s display quality the best for users whose main concern is display quality.

Performance: A18 Chip vs. A19 Bionic

iPhone SE 4: Powerful but Economical

• Processor: A18 chip (iPhone 16).
• RAM: 8GB RAM (for multitasking ease).
• AI Features: Will likely cater to Apple Intelligence but with restrictions.

iPhone 17: Advanced Powerhouse

• Processor: Next-gen Apple A19 Bionic chip.
• RAM: Up to 12GB RAM for improved AI tasking and higher efficiency.
• AI Features: Eli5 optimized for machine learning and AI-based applications. Fully integrated with Apple Intelligence.

The iPhone 17 will outperform everyone and everything else, making it the best choice for gamers, professionals, and power users. It is clear tech skills will take full advantage of this device. The Apple SE 4 will suit the everyday user heroically with its equally average A18 Chip.

Cameras: Single-Lens Profound Vs. Triple-Lens Pro System

iPhone SE 4: Enhanced but Average

• Rear Camera: Single 48MP camera (improved performance in darker environments).
• Front Camera: Selfie camera with face ID has 12MP resolution.
• Video: Usual expectations set at 60fps, possible 4K recording.

iPhone 17: Professional-Grade Photography

• Upper Side: 48+MP ultra-wide + tele-photo triple lens rear system), main.
• Lower Side: Great selfies with the 3D face ID cameras.
• Video: Potentially able to do 8K video recording with a cinematic feature.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, the iPhone 17 should be the obvious choice due to the unmatched camera system. The iPhone SE 4’s 48mp camera also possesses brilliance, but is better suited for casual smartphone gamers and users.

Battery Life and Charging

iPhone SE 4: Dependable for Daily Use

• Battery: Assumed time per charge is 18-20 hours.
• Charging: Fast charge with USB-C, 50% in 30 minutes.
• Supports Wireless Charging: Yes, but no MagSafe.

iPhone 17: Faster Charging and Longer Lasting Battery

• Battery: Estimated usetime of 20-24 hours (may be longer for the larger Pro models).
• Charging: Expected to be able to charge at speeds of 30W or greater.
• Supports Wireless Charging: Yes, including MagSafe and has reverse wireless charging.

Verdict

In terms of longevity for battery life and charge speed, the iPhone 17 would be better, but for day-to-day use, the iPhone SE 4 does not fall short.

Software and Features

iPhone SE 4

• Capable of running iOS 18 with limited AI features.
• No Always-On display or ProMotion feature.
• No Dynamic Island and standard Face ID unlock.

iPhone 17

• Capable of running iOS 18 with full support of the Apple AI functions.
• Has the Always-On Display, Dynamic Island and ProMotion feature.
• More AI tools in photography, Siri and for personalization.

Price and Availability

Feature	iPhone SE 4	iPhone 17
Starting Price	~$500	~$999+
Launch Date	March/April 2025	September 2025

Due to its price point, the iPhone SE 4 is the most budget-friendly option. On the other hand, the iPhone 17 is predicted to start at $999 and go higher for Pro editions.

Iphone Se 4 Vs Iphone 17: Visibility and Which One To Buy?

To buy the iPhone SE 4, you have to:

✔ For users looking for a modern budget-friendly iPhone.
✔ For those who prefer lightweight and smaller devices.
✔ For users who do not require extreme performance or high-end cameras.

Purchase the iPhone 17 if:

✔ You wish to have the newest flagship that comes with pro-level functionality.
✔ You enjoy stunning photography with sharp details as well as amazing construction.
✔ You use gaming, AI, or rendering as your multitasking terminal.