Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) vs Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
The Verdict
Apple's iPhone SE 4 delivers exceptional value at $499, featuring the powerful A18 chip, stunning 6.1-inch OLED display with 1200-nit brightness, and a capable 48MP camera system in a compact aluminum frame. Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 6 commands premium pricing at $1099.99 for its innovative foldable design, superior 2600-nit AMOLED screens (both inner and cover displays), Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and versatile dual-camera setup including ultrawide lens. While the Z Flip 6 excels in display technology, processing power, and camera versatility, it carries a fragile form factor and lower IP48 rating versus the SE's rugged IP68 durability. Battery capacity favors Samsung at 4000mAh versus 3279mAh, though both support wireless charging. For most users seeking a dependable, affordable flagship phone with excellent performance, the iPhone SE 4 offers unmatched value. However, tech enthusiasts prioritizing innovation and willing to invest substantially should consider the Z Flip 6's transformative foldable experience. The SE 4 is the smarter choice for practicality and value.
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 Z Flip 6 if…
- →Larger 4000 mAh battery for a Flip model
- →12 GB RAM upgrade for Galaxy AI
- →New 50 MP main camera sensor
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 Z Flip 6
Pros
- Larger 4000 mAh battery for a Flip model
- 12 GB RAM upgrade for Galaxy AI
- New 50 MP main camera sensor
- Compact pocketable flip design
- Seven years of software support
Cons
- Slow 25W wired charging
- Cover screen still limited compared to Razr+
- IP48 rating (no dust protection)
- Crease still visible on inner display
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iOS 18 | Android 14, One UI 6.1.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 167 g | 187 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Armor Aluminum frame |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP48 |
| Dimensions | 138.7 x 67.3 x 7.9 mm | 165.1 x 71.9 x 6.9 mm unfolded |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 48 MP | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 12 MP | 10 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 4K@60fps |
| 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 | 4000 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired | 25W wired |
| Wireless charging | 7.5W Qi | 15W |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.1 inches | 6.7 inches inner, 3.4 inches cover |
| Type | Super Retina XDR OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO |
| Resolution | 2532 x 1170 | 2640 x 1080 inner, 720 x 748 cover |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 1200 | 2600 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Hexa-core | Octa-core (1x3.39 GHz + 5x3.1 GHz + 2x2.9 GHz) |
| GPU | Apple GPU (5-core) | Adreno 750 |
| Chipset | Apple A18 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy |
| 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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