Apple just expanded their iPhone 16 series with the launch of the iPhone 16e. Now, choosing the right iPhone can be tricky, especially with similar models like the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16. The iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 are both impressive smartphones, but they have some key differences. This comparison dives into the specifics of each device, exploring their key differences in areas like camera capabilities, performance, display quality, battery life, and price.
This guide will help you determine which iPhone 16 variant is the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: Design and Build
Both the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 share the same DNA, but differ in the design implementations. The iPhone 16e has the familiar notch which has been a signature look for iPhones since the past 6 years. It’s a design feature that is timeless and gets instant recognition. The iPhone 16, on the other hand, has the futuristic look of the sleek Dynamic Island.
Beyond the notch and the dynamic island, both phones come with an aluminum frame and Apple’s durable Ceramic Shield glass protection. What the iPhone 16 offers is slightly better finish, a wider selection of colors, and the Camera control button.
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iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: Display
The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e share a common screen size, both featuring a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED panel. Both offer excellent contrast and color accuracy, along with HDR compatibility. The key difference lies in their maximum brightness. The iPhone 16 achieves a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it significantly more visible in direct sunlight than the iPhone 16E, which peaks at 1,200 nits.
The iPhone 16 also includes the Dynamic Island enhances usability by providing a dynamic and interactive area on the screen for notifications and controls. Sadly, both smartphones still rely on 60Hz refresh rate tech, and Apple is at fault for not upgrading the display panels.
iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: Performance
Both the iPhone 16 and the more affordable iPhone 16e deliver exceptional performance thanks to Apple’s new A18 chip. This processor, with its six-core CPU (two cores for high-demand tasks and four for efficiency), ensures a fluid and responsive user experience.
The primary difference between the two phones comes down to be a minor variation in their graphics processing units (GPU). The iPhone 16 has a slight advantage with its five-core GPU compared to the iPhone 16e’s four-core GPU. While in Day to day use, this difference should be minimal and will not have an effect on most users, although power users may see a slight benefit from the iPhone 16’s GPU configuration, especially in gaming.
Both phones will enjoy the benefits of Apple Intelligence, once it rolls out globally. Apple Intelligence powers features like improved photo processing, real-time performance optimizations, and a more customized overall experience.
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iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: Camera
The camera setups differ considerably between the iPhone 16e and the iPhone 16. The 16e is equipped with a lone 48MP primary camera, which has been lifted from a much older iPhone model. That said, we hope this camera is capable of producing high-quality images with excellent detail, color fidelity, and a wide dynamic range, making it suitable for a variety of shooting situations. As some of it has been indicated in the product reveal video by Apple.
In contrast, the iPhone 16 boasts a more advanced dual-camera system. Adding an ultrawide lens to the main sensor opens up possibilities for wider shots, useful for landscapes and unique compositions. The iPhone 16 also gets extra camera modes such as macro mode for close-up photography and spatial video recording.
Ultimately, while the 16e may deliver a balanced camera experience, it certainly will lose out on a lot more features that rely on a two-lens system.
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iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: Battery
Apple has not officially revealed the battery size of the iPhone 16e, but the 26 hours of video playback it provides suggests a capacity near 3,300mAh. The phone relies on more standard charging methods, with 20W wired charging through USB-C and 7.5W wireless charging support, though it lacks MagSafe compatibility.
The standard iPhone 16, however, packs a slightly larger 3,510mAh battery and supports faster charging, including PD2.0 wired, 25W MagSafe, 15W wireless charging, and even reverse wireless charging.
iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: Verdict
The iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 are both solid smartphones, each catering to different consumer needs and priorities. The iPhone 16e, with its classic design, longer battery life, and AI feature suite, offers a compelling value proposition for people looking for a reliable and affordable iPhone experience.
The iPhone 16, on the other hand, stands out with its modern Dynamic Island, brighter display, more powerful GPU, and a versatile dual-lens camera system. It’s a premium device that is aimed at buyers who demand for best features and performance.
Ultimately, the choice between the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 boils down to your individual preferences and budget. The iPhone 16e at Rs 59,900 is a perfect stepping stone in the iPhone ecosystem. However, if you’re willing to pay a premium for a slightly better product, the iPhone 16 at Rs 79,900 is the way to go.
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