Google Pixel 7 Pro vs iPhone SE (2020)

The Google Pixel 7 Pro (2022) and the iPhone SE 2020 (2020) are distinct smartphones offering different user experiences. The Pixel 7 Pro, a flagship Android device, emphasizes advanced camera capabilities and a large, immersive display, while the iPhone SE 2020 provides a compact form factor and the streamlined iOS ecosystem. These differences cater to varying preferences in operating system, device size, and feature sets.

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and ease of repair.

• Release Timeline: The Google Pixel 7 Pro was released in October 2022, making it a more recent device compared to the iPhone SE 2020, which launched in April 2020. This two-year difference means the Pixel 7 Pro will likely receive software updates for a longer period.
• Software Longevity: Both devices receive regular operating system updates. The iPhone SE 2020, initially running iOS 13.4, has received updates to iOS 26, indicating a strong commitment to software support from Apple. The Pixel 7 Pro, running Android 13 at launch, is also expected to receive several years of major Android updates. Users can generally expect Apple devices to receive software support for approximately 5-6 years from their release, while Google typically provides 3-5 years of major OS updates for its Pixel phones.
• Repairability: The iPhone SE 2020 has a moderate repairability score, with iFixit giving it a 6 out of 10. Common repairs like screen and battery replacements are considered relatively straightforward, partly due to its design sharing components with the iPhone 8. The Google Pixel 7 Pro received a repairability score of 5.5 out of 10 from PBKreviews, indicating that while some parts like the screen are relatively easy to replace, battery removal can be complex due to strong adhesive.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from launching applications to managing multiple processes simultaneously.

• Processor Capabilities: The Google Pixel 7 Pro is equipped with a newer-generation processor designed for efficient handling of demanding applications, advanced computational photography, and smooth multitasking. The iPhone SE 2020 features a powerful processor for its release year, enabling fluid navigation and capable performance for most applications and games.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The Pixel 7 Pro typically offers 12 GB of RAM across all storage options, contributing to seamless multitasking and quick app switching. The iPhone SE 2020 comes with 3 GB of RAM, which, combined with iOS optimization, provides a responsive user experience for typical smartphone usage.
• Storage Options: The Pixel 7 Pro is available with internal storage options of 128 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB. The iPhone SE 2020 offers 64 GB, 128 GB, and 256 GB storage variants. Neither device supports expandable storage via a microSD card.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer distinct visual experiences.

• Display Technology and Size: The Google Pixel 7 Pro features a large 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display, providing vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. The iPhone SE 2020 has a more compact 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD, known for its accurate color reproduction and wide viewing angles.
• Resolution and Clarity: The Pixel 7 Pro boasts a higher resolution of 3120 x 1440 pixels, resulting in a very sharp and detailed image. The iPhone SE 2020 offers a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels, which provides sufficient clarity for its screen size.
• Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Pixel 7 Pro's display can reach high brightness levels, making it suitable for outdoor visibility, and features a 120 Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and more fluid animations. The iPhone SE 2020 has a standard 60 Hz refresh rate and offers good brightness for typical use.

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many users, and these two phones approach photography differently.

• Camera System: The Google Pixel 7 Pro features a versatile triple-camera system on the rear, including a 50 MP main sensor, a 12 MP ultrawide lens with autofocus, and a 48 MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom and up to 30x Super Res Zoom. The iPhone SE 2020 has a single 12 MP wide-angle rear camera with optical image stabilization and a 7 MP front camera.
• Photography Performance: The Pixel 7 Pro excels in computational photography, offering features like Macro Focus, Photo Unblur, and enhanced low-light performance across its multiple lenses. The iPhone SE 2020's single rear camera, powered by its processor, delivers strong image quality for everyday photos, including Portrait mode for people, and Smart HDR.
• Video Recording: The Pixel 7 Pro supports 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second across all its cameras, with advanced video stabilization and 10-bit HDR video capabilities. The iPhone SE 2020 can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second and offers cinematic video stabilization.