EDITOR'S NOTE:
Since their release dates in 2019 and 2020, the Google Pixel 3a and iPhone SE have been replaced by newer Pixel models. The phones have both been discontinued; however, while the Pixel 3a no longer receives the latest Android software updates, the iPhone SE (2nd gen) is still supported by Apple and can receive the latest version of iOS.
The information below reflects the data and pricing at the time of the devices' releases, and availability will differ from when we first reviewed them. You can upgrade to a new iPhone or a newer Pixel phone, or you may still be able to find refurbished models of these devices through retailers such as Amazon or eBay.
The 2020 iPhone SE is one of Apple’s most affordable devices (and one of the best iPhones to debut in the last few years). The original SE sold well and the 2020 generation was equally a big hit. Google, for their part, released a budget-friendly version of their flagship Google Pixel in 2018: the Google Pixel 3a. Let’s take a look and see how these two low-cost devices stack up against each other.
iPhone SE (2020) and Google Pixel 3a compared
| iPhone SE | Pixel 3a | |
|---|---|---|
| Debut Price | $399.99 | $399 |
| Display | 4.7” Retina HD (LCD) | 3a – 5.6" (OLED) 3a XL – 6.0" (OLED) |
| Camera | 12 MP | 12.2MP |
| Processor | A13 Bionic | Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 |
| Internal Memory | 64GB, 128G, 256GB | 64GB |
| Battery Life | Video: up to 13 hours
Audio: up to 40 hours | Not available |
| Water Resistance Rating | IP67 (1 meter up to 30 minutes) | N/A |
iPhone SE vs. Google Pixel 3a: Price
Affordability is a big selling point for the iPhone SE and Pixel 3a: both devices start at $400 (well, technically $399). It’s hard, if not impossible, to beat this price for the quality you get with the Pixel 3a and iPhone SE. Paying more for your SE gets you more storage while paying more for the 3a will get you a bigger display.
| Storage | iPhone SE | Pixel 3a | Pixel 3a XL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 64GB | $399.99 | $399 | $479 |
| 128GB | $449.99 | N/A | N/A |
| 256GB | $549.99 | N/A | N/A |
Winner: Tie
Pixel 3a vs. iPhone SE (2020): Display and Size
Display and size tend to go hand in hand, so we’re combining the two for the matchup. If you want a bigger display, the Pixel 3a is the device for you. It is nearly an inch bigger than the iPhone SE, and if you want an even bigger display you can opt for the 3a XL which about an inch and a half bigger than the SE.
Fans of the original iPhone SE, however, loved its compact size and Apple has definitely kept this in mind for the current design. The new SE’s 4.7” display may be small by today’s standards, but this is a phone made for portability.
As for screen quality, the Pixel 3a features OLED display while Apple’s SE has an LCD display. What’s the difference? Technical aspects aside, LCD screens can show bright and brilliant pictures, but OLED screens are able provide a greater contrast between dark and light, offering more depth and crisper details to images.
Winner:
- Google Pixel 3a for bigger display and OLED screen
- iPhone SE for portability
iPhone SE vs. Google Pixel 3a: Processor
While the iPhone SE is cheap, Apple didn’t make any concessions when it came to processor power: it features the industry best A13 Bionic chip—the same one that’s in the iPhone 11 models.
As for the Pixel 3a, some compromises were made. It features the Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 chip, which is able to handle average smartphone tasks, but lacks the high end kick to satisfy avid gamers and power users.
Winner: iPhone SE
iPhone SE (2020) 64GB
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 4.7" |
| Available On | 17 Plans from 2 carriers |
| Available From |
|
| Priced From | $10 per month + $299 upfront |
| View Full Details |
2020 version of the iPhone SE features a powerful A13 Bionic chip, 4.7" Retina HD Multi-Touch display, 12MP camera and home button with Touch ID
iPhone SE vs. Pixel 3a: Camera
Where Apple’s iPhones are known for their superior processors, Google’s Pixels are known for their superior cameras. It’s not surprising, then, that the Pixel 3a has the better camera.
Both the Pixel 3a and iPhone SE feature single-lens rear 12MP cameras, meaning there really isn’t a significant gap in hardware. However, Google’s software has always been the driving force behind their camera superiority. With the Pixel 3a, you get the exact same software that supports the camera on the higher-end Pixel 3. This includes the industry leading Night Sight which snaps clear and crisp pictures in the dark.
The iPhone SE still has an excellent camera. In fact, its 4K video capabilities are better than the Pixel’s. However, you’re just not going to get the same quality of pictures are you are with the Pixel 3a, and the lack of a night mode will stop you from taking any usable pictures in the dark.
Winner: Google Pixel 3a
iPhone SE vs. Google Pixel 3a: Design
If there is an immediate sign that these are budget devices, it’s probably their designs. Slim bodies and minimal to no bezels largely define modern flagship design; both the new iPhone SE and Pixel 3a have prominent bezels. The 3a is also slightly thicker than the Pixel 3. These phones might have strong internal specs, but they lack the polished looks of their more expensive counterparts.
Winner: Tie
Pixel 3a vs. iPhone SE: Battery Life
It’s hard to declare a winner when it comes to battery life. Google hasn’t been very forthcoming on how long their batteries last, but by most accounts (customer reviews, our own experience with the phone) the Pixel 3a has excellent battery life. While we don’t have similar feedback for the SE (most people have yet to get their hands on it for long enough), 13 hours of video playback and 40 hours of audio playback isn’t too shabby.
Winner: Both phones get high marks for battery life
Water Resistance
Finally, a really easy category to pick a winner for. The iPhone SE is rated IP67 and can theoretically function even after being dunked in one meter of water for 30 minutes. The Google Pixel 3a, on the other hand, is not rated for water resistance at all. Safe to say, you shouldn’t be dunking your 3a in any water. Well, don’t dunk your SE either. Just, keep all your electronics dry.
Winner: iPhone SE
iPhone SE vs. Google Pixel 3a: Overall
At first glance, this battle could be a landslide in favor of the iPhone SE. It’s newer and sports a superior processor. If you want an affordable phone that runs like a $1,000 phone, the 2nd generation iPhone SE is the device for you.
However, if you want the phone that’s going to give you the best shareable pictures—and has a better screen for when you want to view those pictures yourself—you should consider the Pixel 3a.
Winner:
- iPhone SE for performance
- Pixel 3a for display and camera
Angelo Ilumba
Senior Writer
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