Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
The Verdict
Apple's iPhone SE 4 delivers exceptional value at $499, featuring the powerful A18 chip, crisp 6.1-inch OLED display, and capable 48MP camera system. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6 commands a premium at $1899.99, justifying its cost through a groundbreaking 7.6-inch foldable display with 120Hz refresh rate, superior camera versatility with telephoto and ultra-wide lenses, and cutting-edge Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 performance. Battery capacity favors Samsung (4400mAh vs 3279mAh), while iPhone SE maintains better overall durability with IP68 rating and lighter 167g build. For mainstream users prioritizing affordability and solid performance, the iPhone SE 4 is an intelligent choice. Those seeking innovative form factor and premium features with higher budget tolerance should choose the Z Fold 6. Fundamentally different market segments make direct comparison challenging, but SE 4 offers superior value, while Z Fold 6 delivers transformative technology.
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 Fold 6 if…
- →Lighter and slimmer than the Z Fold 5
- →Improved 2600-nit displays inside and out
- →Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy performance
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 Fold 6
Pros
- Lighter and slimmer than the Z Fold 5
- Improved 2600-nit displays inside and out
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy performance
- Galaxy AI optimized for the foldable display
- Seven years of software support
Cons
- Very expensive at $1899
- Charging still capped at 25W
- Visible inner display crease remains
- Cameras lag behind the S24 Ultra
- IP48 rating (no dust protection)
Full Specifications
| Spec | Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | iOS 18 | Android 14, One UI 6.1.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 167 g | 239 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame | Armor Aluminum frame |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP48 |
| Dimensions | 138.7 x 67.3 x 7.9 mm | 153.5 x 132.6 x 5.6 mm unfolded |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 48 MP | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 12 MP | 10 MP cover, 4 MP under-display |
| 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, 1 TB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | ~3279 mAh | 4400 mAh |
| Charging | 20W wired | 25W wired |
| Wireless charging | 7.5W Qi | 15W |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.1 inches | 7.6 inches inner, 6.3 inches cover |
| Type | Super Retina XDR OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO |
| Resolution | 2532 x 1170 | 2160 x 1856 inner, 2376 x 968 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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