Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) vs Samsung Galaxy S24+
The Verdict
Apple's iPhone SE (4th generation) delivers impressive value at $499, featuring the powerful A18 chip and a vibrant 6.1-inch OLED display with 1200 nits brightness. However, its 60Hz refresh rate and modest 3279mAh battery limit longevity compared to competitors. Samsung's Galaxy S24+ ($999.99) positions itself in the premium segment with a superior 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED display (120Hz, 2600 nits), larger 4900mAh battery, faster 45W charging, and a versatile quad-camera system including 3x optical zoom and 8K video. Performance-wise, both handle demanding tasks excellently, but the S24+ edges ahead with its higher RAM (12GB vs 8GB) and faster 120Hz refresh rate for scrolling smoothness. For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing essential features and Apple's ecosystem, the iPhone SE offers remarkable value. Those wanting flagship capabilities, superior display technology, extended battery life, and professional-grade cameras should invest in the Galaxy S24+.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) if…
- →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
Buy the Samsung Galaxy S24+ if…
- →Upgraded QHD+ display with 2600-nit peak brightness
- →Galaxy AI features like Circle to Search
- →12 GB RAM standard
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 S24+
Pros
- Upgraded QHD+ display with 2600-nit peak brightness
- Galaxy AI features like Circle to Search
- 12 GB RAM standard
- Strong battery life from 4900 mAh cell
- Seven years of software updates
Cons
- Exynos 2400 runs hotter than Snapdragon variants
- No telephoto improvement over S23+
- Heavier than the Pixel 8 Pro alternatives
- 45W charging unchanged
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) | Samsung Galaxy S24+ |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iOS 18 | Android 14, One UI 6.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 167 g | 196 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 138.7 x 67.3 x 7.9 mm | 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 48 MP | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 12 MP | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps |
| Telephoto | — | 10 MP 3x optical |
| Ultrawide | — | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB | 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | ~3279 mAh | 4900 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired | 45W wired |
| Wireless charging | 7.5W Qi | 15W |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.1 inches | 6.7 inches |
| Type | Super Retina XDR OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO |
| Resolution | 2532 x 1170 | 3120 x 1440 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 1200 | 2600 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Hexa-core | Deca-core (1x3.2 GHz + 2x2.9 GHz + 3x2.6 GHz + 4x1.95 GHz) |
| GPU | Apple GPU (5-core) | Xclipse 940 |
| Chipset | Apple A18 | Exynos 2400 |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 2.0 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 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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