Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation) vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
The Verdict
Apple's iPhone SE 3rd Gen targets budget-conscious users with the powerful A15 Bionic chip, delivering smooth iOS performance in a compact 4.7-inch form factor. Its 12MP camera and 2018mAh battery represent typical entry-level specs, though the 625-nit IPS LCD display feels dated compared to modern standards. Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra represents the flagship tier with a stunning 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display hitting 2600 nits, a versatile quad-camera system (200MP main, 50MP 5x telephoto), and robust 5000mAh battery supporting 45W charging. Performance-wise, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 slightly edges the A15 for raw power, while One UI 6.1 offers deeper customization than iOS 15. The S24 Ultra's titanium frame and IP68 rating exceed SE durability standards. For photographers, videographers, or anyone wanting cutting-edge features, the S24 Ultra justifies its $1299 premium. However, the iPhone SE 3rd Gen remains exceptional value for those prioritizing reliability, compact size, and ecosystem loyalty over cutting-edge capabilities. Choose SE for affordability; pick S24 Ultra for comprehensive flagship excellence.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation) if…
- →Most affordable iPhone with 5G
- →Powerful A15 Bionic chip
- →Compact and lightweight design
Buy the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra if…
- →Flat titanium design with anti-reflective Gorilla Glass Armor
- →Outstanding 200 MP camera with dual telephoto
- →Built-in S Pen for productivity
Category Scores
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 S24 Ultra
Pros
- Flat titanium design with anti-reflective Gorilla Glass Armor
- Outstanding 200 MP camera with dual telephoto
- Built-in S Pen for productivity
- Bright 2600-nit display readable in sunlight
- Seven years of OS and security updates
Cons
- Very heavy at 232 g
- Expensive starting price
- Charging speed unchanged at 45W
- S Pen lost Bluetooth air actions
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation) | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iOS 15 | Android 14, One UI 6.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 144 g | 232 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Titanium frame, Gorilla Glass Armor |
| IP rating | IP67 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm | 162.3 x 79.0 x 8.6 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 12 MP | 200 MP, f/1.7, OIS |
| Front camera | 7 MP | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps |
| Telephoto | — | 50 MP 5x periscope + 10 MP 3x |
| Ultrawide | — | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 4 GB | 12 GB |
| Storage options | 64 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB | 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 2018 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired | 45W wired |
| Wireless charging | 7.5W Qi | 15W |
| Display | ||
| Size | 4.7 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Type | Retina IPS LCD | Dynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO |
| Resolution | 1334 x 750 | 3120 x 1440 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 625 | 2600 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Hexa-core | Octa-core (1x3.39 GHz + 5x3.1 GHz + 2x2.9 GHz) |
| GPU | Apple GPU (4-core) | Adreno 750 |
| Chipset | Apple A15 Bionic | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | Lightning | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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