SpecPair

Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation) vs Samsung Galaxy A54

Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.

VS
Samsung Galaxy A54
Samsung
Samsung Galaxy A54
$450
Score 8.4/10
Winner

Quick Verdict

Apple's iPhone SE 3rd generation delivers flagship performance through its A15 Bionic chip, enabling smooth iOS 15 operation and impressive app speeds despite modest hardware specs. Samsung's Galaxy A54 counters with a larger 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display refreshing at 120Hz, substantially better cameras (50MP main with OIS plus ultrawide and macro), and a massive 5000 mAh battery versus the SE's 2018 mAh. Display quality heavily favors Samsung at 1000 nits peak brightness compared to 625 nits. However, the iPhone SE's compact 4.7-inch form factor, wireless charging, and superior processor efficiency appeal to users prioritizing portability and premium software experience. Camera quality differs: iPhone delivers cleaner processing while Galaxy offers versatility through multiple lenses. Battery life strongly advantages the Galaxy A54. At nearly identical pricing, the Galaxy A54 provides better overall specifications and daily usability, making it the stronger choice for most consumers, though iPhone SE suits those valuing compact design and iOS ecosystem.

Full Specifications

SpecificationApple iPhone SE (3rd generation)Samsung Galaxy A54
SoftwareiOS 15Android 13, One UI 5.1
Body
Weight144 g202 g
MaterialAluminum frameAluminum frame, Gorilla Glass 5
IP ratingIP67IP67
Dimensions138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm158.2 x 76.7 x 8.2 mm
Camera
Main camera12 MP50 MP, f/1.8, OIS
Front camera7 MP32 MP, f/2.2
Video4K@60fps4K@30fps
Telephoto5 MP macro
Ultrawide12 MP, f/2.2
Memory
RAM4 GB8 GB
Storage options64 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB128 GB, 256 GB
Battery
Capacity2018 mAh5000 mAh
Charging20W wired25W wired
Wireless charging7.5W Qi
Display
Size4.7 inches6.4 inches
TypeRetina IPS LCDSuper AMOLED
Resolution1334 x 7502340 x 1080
Refresh rate60Hz120Hz
Brightness (nits)6251000
Processor
CPUHexa-coreOcta-core (4x2.4 GHz + 4x2.0 GHz)
GPUApple GPU (4-core)Mali-G68 MP5
ChipsetApple A15 BionicExynos 1380
Connectivity
5G
NFC
USBLightningUSB-C 2.0
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6Wi-Fi 6
Bluetooth5.05.3

Category Scores

Value
Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation)7.5
Samsung Galaxy A548.3
Camera
Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation)7.2
Samsung Galaxy A548.5
Battery
Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation)6.0
Samsung Galaxy A548.9
Display
Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation)6.5
Samsung Galaxy A548.8
Performance
Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation)9.2
Samsung Galaxy A547.6

Pros & Cons

Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation)

Pros

  • Most affordable iPhone with 5G
  • Powerful A15 Bionic chip
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Touch ID home button
  • Long iOS software support

Cons

  • Dated design with thick bezels
  • Single rear camera
  • Small 4.7-inch LCD display
  • Lightning port instead of USB-C
  • Modest battery life

Samsung Galaxy A54

Pros

  • IP67 dust and water resistance at mid-range price
  • Bright 120Hz Super AMOLED display
  • Large 5000 mAh battery for multi-day use
  • Four years of OS and five years of security updates
  • OIS on the main camera improves low-light shots

Cons

  • Exynos 1380 trails Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 rivals
  • No telephoto camera, only a macro lens
  • No wireless charging
  • 25W charging is slow compared to Chinese competitors

Explore more in phones, see all Apple products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation) or the Samsung Galaxy A54.