Apple iPhone SE 2nd Gen Review: Compact Power, Weak Battery
Digging into real-world feedback, the Apple iPhone SE 2nd Generation, Black, Unlocked (Renewed) delivers a compact form factor and flagship-level performance at a fraction of the usual iPhone price — but one flaw consistently overshadows its strengths. Across Amazon, Reddit, Best Buy, and Trustpilot, battery life emerges as the single most cited limitation, with some owners calling it “absolutely atrocious” despite Apple’s marketing claims. Based on aggregated user sentiment, this model earns a 7.8/10: a smart buy for budget-conscious Apple fans who value small size and Touch ID, but a risky choice for heavy users without easy charging access.
Quick Verdict: Conditional buy — great for light to moderate daily use, problematic for power users unless battery replaced
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flagship A13 Bionic chip performance at low price | Poor battery life, often 3–4 hours screen-on |
| Compact 4.7" size ideal for one-handed use | Outdated iPhone 8 design with thick bezels |
| Touch ID preferred by mask-wearing or privacy-focused users | No night mode or advanced camera features |
| Wireless charging and fast charging support | No headphone jack |
| Affordable unlocked pricing across marketplaces | LCD display lacks OLED vibrancy |
| Good durability with IP67 water resistance | Limited future-proofing vs SE 3rd gen |
Claims vs Reality
Apple markets the SE 2nd Gen as having “big-time battery life” and “A13 Bionic power in a pocket-friendly design.” While the processor claim holds up — even Reddit users in 2024 report it’s “as fast as an iPhone 11” — the battery narrative doesn’t survive contact with daily use. A Best Buy reviewer warned: “The battery life is absolutely atrocious. For everything else, it's very good!” Another Reddit user shared that at 80% battery health, “my god it’s insane how bad the battery life is… I’m using a power bank as a temporary solution.”
Similarly, Apple’s claim of “toughest glass in a smartphone” and IP67 water resistance matches user experiences. Owners note the phone “shrugs off spills” and “still works fine after drops,” making it appealing to those prone to accidents. Yet the design itself — recycled from the iPhone 8 — draws criticism for looking dated in 2024, with thick bezels and no Face ID.
Camera marketing promises “Smart HDR” and “portrait mode with depth control,” which users confirm works well in daylight. However, the lack of night mode and ultra-wide lens limits creative possibilities. A Best Buy buyer noted, “Photo quality is very good, almost as good as the newer versions” — but only in well-lit environments.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Performance is the standout win. The A13 Bionic chip gives this budget model the same speed as the iPhone 11, enabling smooth app launches, multitasking, and even decent gaming. A Swappa buyer summed it up: “Basically, you get the guts and camera of an iPhone 11 inside an iPhone 8 case — and you still get Touch ID. Very good value.” This makes it a favorite for parents buying a “first iPhone” for teens, or for professionals who need reliable speed without flagship costs.
The size is another major draw. Many users who dislike the trend toward giant phones appreciate its 4.7" display. A Best Buy reviewer said, “Easy to use and I don’t need giant hands to carry or use it! Phones are getting so large it is ridiculous.” For commuters, travelers, and anyone who values pocketability, this compactness is a selling point.
Touch ID earns praise from mask-wearing users and those wary of Face ID privacy implications. “Best of all it still has Touch ID for those of us we need to unlock the phone while wearing masks,” one owner wrote. The physical home button also offers familiarity to long-time iPhone users.
Common Complaints
Battery life dominates negative sentiment. Even at full health, users report needing midday charges, with heavy use cutting life to 3–4 hours screen-on. A Reddit member compared its 1,821 mAh battery to the iPhone 11’s 3,110 mAh: “You have a powerful phone… in a small battery, that’s what you get.” For gamers, photographers, or social media power users, this limitation is a deal-breaker unless paired with a battery replacement.
The design, while durable, feels dated. Several reviewers lamented the “outdated design” and thick bezels, noting that even midrange Android devices now offer near-bezel-less displays. The LCD panel, while sharp, lacks OLED vibrancy and deep blacks, a drawback for video watchers and photographers.
Camera limitations frustrate those who expect modern versatility. Without night mode, ultra-wide, or telephoto lenses, low-light shots suffer. “Good for daylight shots, but low-light and advanced photography are limited,” reported one Quora contributor.
Divisive Features
Wireless charging is appreciated, but some find it slower than wired fast charging, especially given the small battery’s frequent top-ups. The absence of a headphone jack is polarizing: some shrug and use Bluetooth, while others miss the ability to charge and listen with wired headphones simultaneously.
Value perception also splits audiences. For buyers prioritizing Apple’s ecosystem and compact design, the SE 2nd Gen feels like a bargain. Those comparing pure spec sheets against similarly priced Androids see it as less competitive in camera and battery life.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and refurbished marketplace reviews show generally reliable performance after purchase, with minimal cosmetic wear and accurate battery health disclosures. Swappa buyers often remark that devices arrive “like brand new” and match descriptions. However, Trustpilot entries reveal occasional frustrations with accessories — one user reported a failed power cord within weeks, though Geek Squad replaced it promptly.
Long-term durability appears solid aside from battery degradation. Reddit users with 4+ years of ownership note that performance remains stable, but battery health often dips below 80%, triggering replacements. This suggests the phone can last years if owners budget for a midlife battery swap.
Alternatives
Data mentions three clear alternatives: iPhone SE 3rd Gen, iPhone XS, and iPhone 11.
The SE 3rd Gen adds the A15 chip and 5G support, extending future-proofing and improving image processing. For $50 more, many see it as a smarter buy if longevity matters. The iPhone XS, at similar prices, offers an OLED display and dual cameras — better for media and photography, but with an older chip. The iPhone 11 shares the A13 chip but adds a larger display, night mode, and better battery life, appealing to video watchers and travelers.
Price & Value
Current eBay listings show unlocked renewed units from $93.99 to $144.99, with higher prices for 128 GB and 256 GB configurations. This is well below launch pricing and competitive in the used iPhone market. Resale value remains stable due to ongoing iOS support, projected until at least 2026–2027. Community tips suggest buying certified refurbished for warranty coverage, and budgeting $50–$70 for a battery replacement to extend lifespan.
FAQ
Q: How long will the iPhone SE 2nd Gen get updates?
A: Apple typically supports iPhones for 6–7 years. Owners can expect updates until at least 2026 or 2027, plus security patches thereafter.
Q: Is the camera good enough for 2024–2025 use?
A: Yes for daylight and casual shots; no for low-light or advanced photography. Lack of night mode limits nighttime performance.
Q: Can the battery be replaced easily?
A: Yes. Apple and authorized repair shops offer affordable replacements, restoring full-day usability for around $50–$70.
Q: Does it support 5G?
A: No. It’s limited to 4G LTE. If 5G is important, consider the SE 3rd Gen.
Q: Is Touch ID better than Face ID?
A: Depends on preference. Many users favor Touch ID for mask use and privacy, while others miss Face ID’s convenience.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a light-to-moderate user who values compact size, Touch ID, and Apple’s ecosystem at a low price. Avoid if you need all-day battery for heavy use or advanced camera features — unless you’re ready to replace the battery quickly. Pro tip from the community: “Get you and your phone a new battery… they’re not that expensive at the Apple store” — it transforms the SE 2nd Gen from frustrating to fantastic.
