iPhone SE 3rd Generation: Specs, Support & 2026 Review

What is the iPhone SE 3rd generation equivalent to?

Hardware-wise, the iPhone SE 3rd generation closely mirrors the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini in processing power. Both devices run the same A15 Bionic CPU with 4 GB of RAM (Refurb.me specs comparison). This means the SE 3 can actually outscore the iPhone 13 on certain Geekbench 5 single-core benchmarks (Refurb.me specs comparison).

Hardware matches

The core processing hardware is essentially identical between the two devices. Both feature the A15 Bionic chip with 4 GB RAM, 5G connectivity, and dual SIM (nano + eSIM) support (Refurb.me specs comparison). The SE 3 was also the last iPhone to ship with this exact RAM configuration, as Apple later increased RAM in subsequent models.

Performance parity

In practical terms, app launching and general UI responsiveness are nearly identical between the SE 3 and iPhone 13. The SE 3’s smaller 4.7-inch display at 1334 x 750 pixels (326 PPI) contrasts sharply with the iPhone 13’s 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED at 2532 x 1170 pixels (457 PPI) (Refurb.me specs comparison). However, when it comes to raw computational tasks, the SE 3 holds its own against its more expensive sibling.

How much longer will the iPhone SE 3rd generation be supported?

Apple typically provides 5-7 years of software updates for iPhones, with average support spanning 6-8 years according to historical data (Refurb.me support timeline). Based on this track record and the device’s release in September 2021, the iPhone SE 3rd generation is expected to receive iOS updates through 2029 — actually outlasting the iPhone 13, which is projected to receive updates through 2028 (Refurb.me support timeline).

Apple support history

Apple’s support cycle for iPhones has consistently extended beyond most Android competitors. The company maintains iOS compatibility across multiple device generations, with major iOS upgrades typically continuing for 5-6 years from a device’s release date (Apple Community update insights). This longevity has been a key selling point for budget-conscious buyers who want a device that stays secure and up-to-date.

Expected timeline

The iPhone SE 3rd generation shipped with iOS 15.4 and is compatible with iOS 26 as of September 2025 (Wikipedia official history). This places the SE 3 in the current iOS era alongside much newer devices. For 2026 buyers, this means the SE 3 remains a viable option — it will continue receiving security updates and iOS feature upgrades for at least two more years.

Is the iPhone SE 3 worth buying in 2026?

For budget buyers who prioritize performance over display size, the iPhone SE 3rd generation remains a compelling option in 2026. The device delivers flagship-level processing power at a fraction of the cost, and its continued iOS 26 compatibility ensures it won’t become obsolete anytime soon. However, trade-offs in camera quality, battery life, and display technology require careful consideration.

Pros and cons in 2026

Value for money

The iPhone SE 3’s refurbished market pricing has dropped significantly since discontinuation in February 2025, making it one of the most affordable ways to access Apple’s ecosystem. The A15 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks and even demanding apps, while iOS 26 compatibility means buyers aren’t sacrificing modern software features.

What’s better, iPhone 13 or iPhone SE 3rd gen?

The iPhone 13 offers significant advantages in display, camera, and battery technology, but the iPhone SE 3 delivers comparable processing performance at a lower price point. Choosing between them depends on whether display quality and camera versatility matter more than raw computational power and budget savings.

Key spec differences

The gap between these two devices spans nearly every category except processing power.

The iPhone 13 wins on nearly every hardware metric, but the SE 3 matches it on processing and extends support by a year.

Use case recommendations

Choose the iPhone SE 3 if you prioritize compact size, Touch ID functionality, or budget constraints — and can accept the trade-offs in camera and display quality. Choose the iPhone 13 if display technology, camera versatility (especially Night mode and ultrawide lens), and battery life rank higher on your priority list. If you’re considering a foldable phone, you might want to check out our guide on the $Galaxy Z Fold3 kjøp brukt.

The SE 3 can timidly outscore the 13 on the Geekbench 5 CPU benchmark, but the iPhone 13’s screen is far superior to the SE’s, both in quality and size.

— Refurb.me (Tech Blog)

Summary

The iPhone SE 3rd generation occupies a unique position in 2026: a discontinued device with ongoing software support, flagship-tier processing power, and a budget-friendly price point in the refurbished market. It delivers the A15 Bionic experience Apple users expect, but compromises significantly on display, camera, and battery technology compared to devices like the iPhone 13. For buyers prioritizing compact size, Touch ID, or maximum value per dollar, the SE 3 remains a smart choice — as long as they understand the trade-offs heading into 2026. Users who prioritize screen quality and camera versatility should consider the iPhone 13 instead, accepting the higher price for superior hardware.