Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) vs Samsung Galaxy A34
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Apple's iPhone SE (4th gen) delivers premium performance through its A18 chip and Super Retina XDR OLED display, making it ideal for iOS enthusiasts seeking flagship features at a mid-range price. Samsung's Galaxy A34 counters with impressive battery capacity (5000 mAh vs 3279 mAh), a 120Hz display, and a more versatile camera system including OIS and macro lens, though its MediaTek processor lags behind Apple's silicon. Both support 5G and feature solid build quality, but the iPhone SE excels in processing power, software longevity, and display brightness (1200 nits), while the Galaxy A34 offers better everyday battery life and screen refresh rate. For users prioritizing raw performance and iOS ecosystem integration, the iPhone SE represents better long-term value despite its smaller battery. Android users needing all-day battery and versatile cameras will appreciate the Galaxy A34's practical advantages at $150 less.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) | Samsung Galaxy A34 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iOS 18 | Android 13, One UI 5.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 167 g | 199 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Polycarbonate back, aluminum-look frame |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP67 |
| Dimensions | 138.7 x 67.3 x 7.9 mm | 161.3 x 78.1 x 8.2 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 48 MP | 48 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 12 MP | 13 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 4K@30fps |
| Telephoto | — | 5 MP macro |
| Ultrawide | — | 8 MP, f/2.2 |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 6 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | ~3279 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired | 25W wired |
| Wireless charging | 7.5W Qi | — |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.1 inches | 6.6 inches |
| Type | Super Retina XDR OLED | Super AMOLED |
| Resolution | 2532 x 1170 | 2340 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 1200 | 1000 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Hexa-core | Octa-core (2x2.6 GHz + 6x2.0 GHz) |
| GPU | Apple GPU (5-core) | Mali-G68 MC4 |
| Chipset | Apple A18 | MediaTek Dimensity 1080 |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 2.0 | USB-C 2.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Apple iPhone SE (4th generation)
Pros
- First SE with an OLED display, a generational leap over prior LCD
- A18 chip enables Apple Intelligence at the entry price point
- Face ID replaces Touch ID with modern full-screen front design
- USB-C replaces Lightning for universal compatibility
- Most affordable iPhone with A18 performance
Cons
- No telephoto or ultrawide camera — single rear lens only
- Capped at 60Hz with no ProMotion
- No Dynamic Island; uses standard notch
- No MagSafe support, only standard Qi wireless
- Modest battery life compared to standard iPhone 16
Samsung Galaxy A34
Pros
- IP67 water and dust resistance at an affordable price
- Vivid 120Hz Super AMOLED display
- Large 5000 mAh battery provides solid endurance
- Four years of OS updates promised
- 5G connectivity for future-proofing
Cons
- Only 6 GB RAM in base configuration
- No OIS on the 48 MP main camera
- Wi-Fi 5 limits wireless speeds
- Macro lens instead of a proper telephoto
Related Comparisons
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