Apple iPhone SE (4th generation) vs Xiaomi 15

The Verdict

Apple's iPhone SE 4 targets budget-conscious users with a compact 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display (2532 x 1170, 1200 nits) and the powerful A18 chipset, delivering excellent performance for everyday tasks and gaming at just $499. Its 48 MP main camera with 4K 60fps video performs admirably for the price tier, though the single lens setup limits versatility. Battery life is modest due to the 3279 mAh capacity, requiring daily charging for moderate use. Xiaomi's 15 represents a different philosophy, offering substantially more for $100 extra. Its 6.36-inch LTPO AMOLED screen reaches 3200 nits brightness with 1-120Hz refresh rate, making it noticeably superior for outdoor visibility and smooth scrolling. The Snapdragon 8 Elite outpaces the A18 in raw performance benchmarks, while the triple camera system (50 MP main with OIS, 50 MP telephoto with 2.6x zoom, 50 MP ultrawide) provides far greater photographic flexibility. The 5400 mAh battery with 90W wired and 50W wireless charging vastly outperforms the iPhone's 3279 mAh cell with 20W wired charging. However, the Xiaomi weighs 191 grams versus 167 grams and lacks the tight ecosystem integration Apple offers. For users prioritizing value and features, the Xiaomi 15 delivers more technology. iPhone SE 4 suits those wanting simplicity, compactness, and iOS reliability in a genuinely affordable package.