In 2025, flagship phones keep getting bigger, heavier, and more expensive. Foldables and AI-powered flagships look amazing, but they come at a price many students or first‑time iPhone buyers can’t justify.
That’s where the iPhone SE (2022) quietly stays relevant. Even three years after launch, it’s still one of the best ways to join the Apple world without breaking the bank. Let’s see why and where it shows its age.
Classic design old but practical
At first glance, the iPhone SE (2022) might look “outdated”:
- 4.7‑inch Retina HD display with big top and bottom bezels
- Same physical Home button with Touch ID
- Single rear camera
But for some users, this classic design is actually a plus:
- Small and lightweight (just 144g) fits easily in pockets and hands.
- Touch ID is fast, reliable, and works even when wearing masks still handy in some situations.
- Aluminium and glass build feels sturdy and premium despite the size.
For students who want a phone that’s easy to handle, the SE feels refreshingly compact in a world of huge 6.7-inch slabs.
Display bright enough, but dated
The 4.7-inch LCD screen is sharp and colorful enough for social media, YouTube, and daily browsing.
Downsides:
- Only 60Hz refresh rate (no ProMotion)
- Lower resolution and contrast compared to OLED displays in modern phones
- Smaller size makes reading and video less immersive
Still, if you’re upgrading from an old iPhone 7 or Android budget phone, it’s perfectly fine especially for basic tasks.
Performance surprisingly fast in 2025
Here’s why the SE (2022) remains impressive: it runs on the A15 Bionic chip the same chip used in the iPhone 13 series.
In 2025, this means:
- Apps launch quickly
- Scrolling through Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter is smooth
- Casual games and even heavier titles like PUBG Mobile run well (though on smaller screen)
And thanks to Apple’s software support, the SE (2022) is still getting the latest iOS updates, including new AI features in iOS 18.
Camera single lens, but smarter than it seems
The SE has just one 12MP rear camera, but Apple’s image processing helps it compete surprisingly well.
- Daylight photos: Bright, natural colors, good detail.
- Portrait mode: Works only on people (since it lacks a depth sensor).
- Video: Shoots up to 4K 60fps, and the stabilization is good.
Low‑light photos do show more noise compared to newer iPhones with night mode and multiple cameras. But for everyday shots, social media posts, and video calls, it’s more than enough.
Battery life acceptable, not amazing
This is where the SE (2022) shows its age:
- Around 4–5 hours screen‑on time for average use.
- Smaller battery capacity due to compact size.
For students, this usually means charging once in the evening, especially on heavy days of streaming or gaming.
The good news:
- Supports fast charging (50% in ~30 minutes with a compatible charger).
- Wireless charging also works, though not as fast as MagSafe on newer iPhones.
Features you get & what you miss
What you get:
- iOS updates for a few more years (probably until at least 2027)
- Reliable Touch ID (many still prefer this)
- Water & dust resistance (IP67)
- Solid build quality
What you miss:
- No Face ID or Dynamic Island
- No ultra‑wide or telephoto cameras
- Smaller screen not great for binge‑watching or gaming
- No MagSafe accessories (introduced in iPhone 12 and later)
Price in 2025 very attractive
This is the strongest point for the SE (2022) today.
In Pakistan:
- PTA-approved: around PKR 125,000–165,000, depending on condition and storage
- Non‑PTA (Wi‑Fi only): can drop below PKR 90,000
Globally:
- US: around $200–250 used / refurbished
- UAE: AED 700–900
For a genuine Apple device with software support, this price is hard to beat.
Why it’s great for students & first-time buyers
- Compact, lightweight — easier to carry in a backpack or pocket
- Strong performance for daily apps, online classes, and social media
- Still gets security updates & new features
- Much cheaper than a new iPhone 15 or 15 Pro
For first‑time iPhone users, it’s an affordable way to get into iMessage, FaceTime, and Apple’s ecosystem.
Pros & cons summary
Pros:
✔ Compact and lightweight
✔ Fast A15 Bionic chip
✔ Reliable Touch ID
✔ Affordable price
✔ iOS updates for years
Cons:
✘ Small, older‑style screen
✘ Single rear camera; no night mode
✘ Battery life just average
✘ No MagSafe or Face ID
Verdict worth it in 2025
If you:
- Want a first iPhone on a budget
- Prefer smaller phones
- Need iOS updates and security for a few more years
- Can live without fancy cameras and large screens
Then yes iPhone SE (2022) is still a very smart buy in 2025, especially for students or parents buying a phone for teenagers.
But if you want better cameras, longer battery, or a more modern look, consider stretching your budget for an iPhone 13, 13 mini, or a used iPhone 14.
