iPhone 16e is Here – A Budget Phone That Feels Flagship!

Apple just did something unexpected, the iPhone 16e is here, and it’s not what anyone expected from a budget iPhone. Priced at A$999, it brings flagship-level power with the A18 chip, a 48MP camera, and Apple’s first in-house 5G modem, the C1. But with no MagSafe, a single rear camera, and a design that feels familiar, is this really the budget iPhone we’ve been waiting for?

Pre-orders start on February 21, with the official release on February 28, but should you even consider it?

Design & Display 

At first glance, the iPhone 16e looks nearly identical to the iPhone 14, featuring the same 6.1-inch design, Face ID notch, and aluminum frame. However, unlike Apple’s flagship models, it doesn’t include Ceramic Shield glass, which could make it slightly less durable. Available in matte black and white, Apple keeps the color options simple this time around.

The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display ensures sharp visuals and vibrant colors, but it lacks ProMotion, meaning the refresh rate remains at 60Hz instead of 120Hz. Scrolling and animations won’t feel as smooth as on Apple’s Pro models, which might be noticeable to users switching from higher-end devices.

Performance 

Apple has equipped the iPhone 16e with the A18 chip, similar to the standard iPhone 16. However, reports suggest this could be a binned version, meaning slight efficiency differences may exist, though real-world performance remains strong. Paired with 8GB of RAM, it delivers smooth multitasking, gaming, and AI-powered features.

But here’s the real game-changer, it’s the first iPhone to feature Apple’s in-house C1 modem, designed to improve 5G connectivity and reduce reliance on third-party chips. While this should enhance signal strength and efficiency, actual network performance will depend on carrier support and optimization.

What’s missing? There’s no ProMotion, so the refresh rate stays at 60Hz, making scrolling and animations feel less fluid than on Pro models. Additionally, there’s no advanced cooling system, meaning sustained performance might not match flagship iPhones, especially under heavy loads like gaming or video rendering.

Camera 

For the first time, Apple has given a budget iPhone a 48MP camera, enhanced by Smart HDR 5 and the latest Photonic Engine. This upgrade improves low-light performance, enhances dynamic range, and delivers more natural skin tones in portraits. However, unlike its flagship counterparts, the iPhone 16e features only a single rear lens, meaning there’s no ultra-wide or telephoto zoom.

The 12MP front camera remains unchanged from previous models, supporting Face ID, 4K video recording, and Smart HDR enhancements. While the primary lens delivers excellent detail and color accuracy, users who rely on versatile camera setups with multiple focal lengths may find the lack of ultra-wide and telephoto options limiting.

Battery & Charging

Apple claims the iPhone 16e offers up to 26 hours of video playback, putting it on par with some flagship models. It charges via USB-C, making it compatible with a wider range of accessories. However, wired charging speeds are capped at 20W, meaning a full charge still takes over an hour, similar to previous non-Pro iPhones.

There’s no MagSafe support, which means wireless charging is limited to 7.5W Qi charging, significantly slower than the 15W MagSafe charging available on premium models. This could be a drawback for users who have invested in the MagSafe ecosystem, as accessories like MagSafe chargers, wallets, and battery packs won’t function optimally with the iPhone 16e.

Price & Availability 

At A$999, the iPhone 16e is Apple’s new entry-level iPhone, officially replacing the iPhone SE. But does it still qualify as a budget-friendly option?

The iPhone SE (2022) launched at A$719, making this a significant price jump. Pre-orders start on February 21, with an official launch on February 28.

Apple’s pricing strategy is clear, it’s moving away from truly budget iPhones. While the iPhone 16e is positioned as an affordable option, its A$999 price tag places it much closer to mid-range iPhones than previous entry-level models.

Verdict – Should You Buy the iPhone 16e?

The iPhone 16e is a solid choice if you want a modern iPhone with powerful performance, Face ID, and long battery life at a reasonable price. However, it comes with trade-offs, there’s no ultra-wide camera, no MagSafe, and the display is limited to 60Hz.

Who Should Consider Alternatives?

• If you want an iPhone under A$600, the Refurbished iPhone 13 offers a lower-cost option.
• If you need MagSafe and better wireless charging, consider an iPhone 14 or newer.
• If a 60Hz display feels outdated, an iPhone 13 Pro Price with 120Hz ProMotion might be a better pick.

Final Thoughts – Apple’s Budget iPhone is Here!

The iPhone 16e is Apple’s latest attempt at offering a budget-friendly device, but its higher price and missing flagship features may leave some users questioning if it’s truly a great deal.

For casual users, it’s an excellent choice. For those looking for more premium features, a second-hand iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 might be the better buy.