iPhone SE (2020) vs Motorola Moto E32

iPhone SE (2020)
iPhone SE (2020)
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$108.00

Versus A$529.00 new

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Motorola Moto E32
Motorola Moto E32
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The iPhone SE 2020 and the Motorola Moto E32 are smartphones designed for different user experiences, released in April 2020 and May 2022, respectively. While the iPhone SE 2020 operates on Apple's iOS ecosystem, the Moto E32 runs on Android. Key differentiators include their operating systems, display sizes, and performance capabilities, catering to distinct user preferences.

Scores

Durability

The longevity and support for these devices vary significantly due to their different ecosystems and release strategies.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone SE 2020 was released in April 2020, making it an older device compared to the Motorola Moto E32, which launched in May 2022. This difference in release year impacts their expected software support timelines.
  • Software Longevity: Apple is known for providing extended software support, with the iPhone SE 2020 currently supporting iOS 26 and likely to receive future updates, potentially extending its usable life for several more years. In contrast, the Motorola Moto E32 launched with Android 11, and while some sources indicated a potential upgrade to Android 12, official forums suggest it may primarily receive security updates until around May 2024.
  • Repairability and Durability: The iPhone SE 2020 features an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, indicating it can withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. It received a repairability score of 6 out of 10 from iFixit, noting that common components like the display and battery are relatively straightforward to replace. The Moto E32 has an IP52 water-repellent design, offering protection against splashes and light rain. Its construction primarily uses plastic for the frame and back.

Release year

2020

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

No

Operating system

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a significant area of distinction between these two smartphones, influencing how smoothly they handle various tasks.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone SE 2020 is equipped with a powerful processor that enables it to handle demanding applications, complex games, and multitasking with considerable responsiveness. Users can expect smooth performance even with graphically intensive tasks. The Moto E32 features a processor designed for everyday tasks, providing adequate performance for general use such as web browsing, social media, and light gaming. Users may notice some slowdown when running very demanding applications or engaging in heavy multitasking.
  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone SE 2020 offers a highly responsive user experience, with quick app loading times and fluid navigation through the operating system. The Moto E32 provides a generally responsive experience for its intended use, though transitions and app launches might be slightly less instantaneous compared to higher-performance devices.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone SE 2020 is available with internal storage options of 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, without expandable storage. The Moto E32 typically comes with 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB of internal storage, with the added flexibility of expanding storage up to 1TB using a microSD card.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone SE 2020 has a smaller battery capacity, which for heavy users, often necessitates charging before the end of a full day. It supports wireless charging. The Moto E32 is equipped with a larger battery, and users frequently report that it can last for an extended period, often two to three days with moderate usage. It supports faster wired charging.

Memory (GB)

3 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display characteristics of these two phones offer different visual experiences, catering to varying preferences for size, clarity, and smoothness.

  • Display Technology and Size: The iPhone SE 2020 features a 4.7-inch Retina HD IPS LCD, providing a compact viewing area with good color accuracy and viewing angles. The Moto E32 offers a larger 6.5-inch IPS LCD, which provides more screen real estate for media consumption and browsing.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The iPhone SE 2020 has a resolution of 1334x750 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 326 pixels per inch (ppi), which delivers sharp text and clear images on its smaller screen. The Moto E32 has a resolution of 1600x720 pixels (HD+), with a pixel density of approximately 268-270 ppi, offering a clear but less dense display compared to the iPhone SE 2020.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone SE 2020 typically reaches a maximum brightness of 625 nits, providing good visibility in various lighting conditions, and has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The Moto E32 features a 90Hz refresh rate, which contributes to smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience, though its peak brightness is generally lower than the iPhone SE 2020.

Resolution

750 x 1334

720 x 1600

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

IPS LCD

Audiovisual

The camera systems on both devices are designed to capture different types of moments, with distinct strengths and features.

  • Rear Camera Capabilities: The iPhone SE 2020 features a single 12-megapixel wide camera with an f/1.8 aperture and optical image stabilization, capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. It excels in well-lit conditions, producing detailed and color-accurate photos. The Moto E32 comes with a triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 16-megapixel wide lens, a 2-megapixel macro lens, and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. It records video at 1080p at 30 frames per second.
  • Low-Light Performance and Features: The iPhone SE 2020 does not include a dedicated Night Mode, which can result in dimmer and less detailed photos in very low-light environments. However, its image processing helps improve overall photo quality. The Moto E32's camera system performs adequately in good lighting, but its low-light performance is generally more limited.
  • Front Camera and Video: For selfies and video calls, the iPhone SE 2020 has a 7-megapixel front camera that records 1080p video. The Moto E32 is equipped with an 8-megapixel front camera, also capable of recording 1080p video.
  • Audio Experience: The iPhone SE 2020 provides clear audio output through its speakers, suitable for media consumption and calls. The Moto E32 offers a mono speaker, which is functional for calls and general audio playback. The Moto E32 retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, offering a traditional wired audio option, which is absent on the iPhone SE 2020.

Main camera

12 megapixels

16 megapixels

Front camera

7 megapixels

8 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and daily usability of these devices.

  • Connectivity Standards: The iPhone SE 2020 supports Wi-Fi 6 and Gigabit LTE, offering faster wireless data speeds and improved network performance. It also includes NFC for mobile payments. The Moto E32 supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n (Wi-Fi 4) and 4G LTE connectivity. It does not typically include NFC, which means it cannot be used for tap-to-pay services. Both devices feature Bluetooth 5.0 for connecting to accessories.
  • Biometric Security and Ports: The iPhone SE 2020 utilizes Touch ID, a fingerprint sensor integrated into the home button, for secure unlocking and authentication. It uses a Lightning port for charging and data transfer. The Moto E32 features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for biometric security. It uses a USB-C port for charging and data, and notably includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone SE 2020 has a compact design with a 4.7-inch screen, weighing 148 grams, making it easy for one-handed use. Its build includes a glass front and back with an aluminum frame. The Moto E32 has a larger 6.5-inch display and weighs 184 grams, offering a more expansive viewing experience. It features a plastic frame and back.

Weight

148 oz

184 oz

Screen size (in)

4.7

6,5

Network

4G

4G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

The iPhone SE 2020 and Motorola Moto E32 cater to different user needs and priorities. Users often praise the iPhone SE 2020 for its powerful performance, compact size, and the long-term software support provided by Apple. Its camera is generally well-regarded for its photo quality in good lighting, and the Touch ID sensor offers a familiar and reliable authentication method. However, common criticisms include its smaller battery capacity, which may require frequent charging for heavy users, and the absence of a dedicated Night Mode for photography.

The Motorola Moto E32 is frequently lauded for its large display with a smoother refresh rate, offering an immersive viewing experience. Its substantial battery capacity is a significant advantage, often providing extended usage on a single charge. Users also appreciate the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack and expandable storage. Criticisms sometimes point to its more modest processing power, which can lead to slower performance with demanding applications, and its limited software update commitment compared to the iPhone SE 2020.

Users prioritizing a compact device with robust performance for demanding applications, long-term software updates, and a premium build may find the iPhone SE 2020 well-suited to their needs. Those who value a larger display, extended battery life, expandable storage, and a traditional headphone jack for everyday tasks might lean towards the Motorola Moto E32. Both devices, when considered as quality-assured refurbished options, offer an eco-friendly alternative for consumers seeking reliable technology.

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