Apple unveils the iPhone 16e: Is Apple’s new « budget » model really worth it? 📱

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Apple is returning to the « affordable » iPhone segment with an all-new model: the iPhone 16e. Positioned between entry-level and standard models, it offers an interesting compromise between modernity and concessions. But is it really worth it compared to the standard iPhone 16? Let’s find out.

A modernized design but no frills 🎨

Apple has finally done it! After years of waiting and an aging iPhone SE, the iPhone 16e arrives with a design inspired by recent models. Gone are the thick bezels—now we have a 6.1-inch edge-to-edge OLED display. However, there’s no Dynamic Island here; instead, it retains the classic notch. But the real good news? Face ID is finally included!

Photo : © Apple

Another major change is the switch to USB-C, finally replacing the outdated Lightning port. Add to that an aluminum chassis and a single 48 MP camera sensor, and you get an iPhone that feels modern without competing with premium models.

An iPhone built for the future ⚡

Under the hood, the iPhone 16e is powered by the A18 chip—the same as the iPhone 16—but with a slightly less powerful GPU. This is still great news for performance and device longevity, especially with the arrival of Apple Intelligence.

Another big innovation is the Apple C1 modem, designed in-house. It marks a first step towards independence from Qualcomm, but we’ll have to wait for tests to see if it meets expectations in terms of performance and network stability.

As for charging, Apple has skipped MagSafe, limiting the device to standard Qi wireless charging at 7.5W. A debatable choice, but not necessarily a dealbreaker for everyone.

iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: Almost twins… but not quite 👀

At first glance, the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 seem very similar: same screen size, same resolution, and the same OLED technology. Yet, a few details make the difference.

• Notch vs. Dynamic Island: The iPhone 16e keeps the classic notch, while the iPhone 16 features the more modern and interactive Dynamic Island.
• Only one size for the 16e: Unlike the iPhone 16, which also comes in a « Plus » version with a larger screen
• More subdued colors: The iPhone 16 is available in five colors, while the 16e is limited to just two (black and white).

Photo : © Apple

Another distinction is the absence of the Camera Control button on the iPhone 16e, which allows quick photo and video capture. A nice feature, but not essential.

Performance and camera: A closer battle than expected 📸

In terms of power, it’s almost a tie. Both models share the A18 chip, though the iPhone 16 has a slightly more powerful GPU. In daily use, the difference should be minimal.

Photo : © Apple

It’s in the camera department where the gap widens. The iPhone 16e has a single 48 MP sensor, while the iPhone 16 adds a 12 MP ultra-wide lens. This means the 16e loses some versatility, particularly for landscape or group shots.

Finally, the 16e is limited to Wi-Fi 6, while the iPhone 16 supports Wi-Fi 7. A difference that won’t matter much to most users—at least for now.

Price and verdict: Which one should you choose? 💰

Where the iPhone 16e really shines is its price. Starting at €719, it’s significantly more affordable than the iPhone 16 (€969). Here’s the breakdown:

• iPhone 16e : 128 Go (719€), 256 Go (849€), 512 Go (1 099€)
• iPhone 16 : 128 Go (969€), 256 Go (1 099€), 512 Go (1 349€)

The price gap is around €250, which is justified by the addition of Dynamic Island, the second camera sensor, and MagSafe on the iPhone 16. But if these features aren’t essential to you, the iPhone 16e is clearly a very attractive option.

A successful comeback for the « affordable » iPhone? 🏆

Apple is finally repositioning its entry-level model with an iPhone that no longer feels outdated. Face ID, OLED, USB-C, a 48 MP camera—all these updates make it a real alternative to the more expensive models.

If you’re looking for a powerful iPhone without breaking the bank, the 16e checks almost all the boxes. But if you want a more premium experience with better camera versatility and MagSafe, the iPhone 16 remains the better choice.

So, are you leaning towards the 16e or the 16? Let us know in the comments! 👇