iPhone SE (2020) vs Oppo Reno 8 Pro

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

Refurbished price:A$108.00

Versus A$529.00 new

See options
Oppo Reno 8 Pro
Oppo Reno 8 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$327.00

Versus A$1,741.00 new

See options

The iPhone SE 2020 and the Oppo Reno 8 Pro are distinct smartphones, released in April 2020 and July 2022 respectively, offering different approaches to mobile technology. While the iPhone SE 2020 operates on Apple's iOS ecosystem, the Oppo Reno 8 Pro runs on Android with Oppo's ColorOS overlay. Key differentiators include their design philosophy, display technology, and camera systems, catering to varied user preferences.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, their release timelines and software support policies play a significant role.

  • Release and Support: The iPhone SE 2020, launched in April 2020, benefits from Apple's extended software support, having received updates up to iOS 26.4 as of March 2026, indicating over six years of support. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro, released in July 2022, typically receives two years of Android OS updates and four years of security updates.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the longest possible software update cycle will find the iPhone SE 2020 offers a more extended period of official support. Both devices are built to last, but the iPhone SE 2020's continued updates contribute to its functional lifespan.
  • Repairability: The iPhone SE 2020 has a repairability score of 6 out of 10, with common components like the display and battery being relatively accessible for repair. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro boasts a higher repairability score of 8.0 out of 10, suggesting good ease of repair for its components.

Release year

2020

2022

Operating system

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily operations, from app usage to multitasking and gaming.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone SE 2020 is equipped with a powerful processor that handles demanding applications and multitasking smoothly, providing a responsive user experience. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro features a current-generation processor designed to deliver strong performance for gaming and heavy usage, maintaining smooth operation even under load.
  • Multitasking and Storage: The iPhone SE 2020 comes with 3GB of RAM, which is sufficient for typical daily tasks and app switching. Storage options for the iPhone SE 2020 include 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro offers more substantial RAM configurations, with options for 8GB or 12GB, enhancing its capability for extensive multitasking and running numerous applications simultaneously. It is available with 256GB of internal storage.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone SE 2020 has a smaller battery capacity, which means heavy users may find themselves needing to charge more frequently to last a full day. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro, with its larger battery, is generally reported to last through a full day of heavy use.

Memory (GB)

3 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for users, and both devices offer different visual experiences.

  • Display Technology and Size: The iPhone SE 2020 features a 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display, known for its accurate color reproduction and consistent viewing angles. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro sports a larger 6.7-inch AMOLED display, which provides deep blacks, vibrant colors, and high contrast.
  • Resolution and Brightness: The iPhone SE 2020 has a resolution of 1334 x 750 pixels at 326 pixels per inch (PPI) and a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro offers a higher resolution of 1080 x 2412 pixels with a pixel density of 394 PPI, contributing to sharper images and text. Its display can reach up to 950 nits peak brightness, making it suitable for outdoor visibility.
  • Refresh Rate and Protection: The iPhone SE 2020 features a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro offers a smoother visual experience with a 120Hz refresh rate, which is particularly noticeable during scrolling and gaming. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro's display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5.

Resolution

750 x 1334

1080 x 2412

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant factor for many users, and these devices approach photography differently.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone SE 2020 features a single 12-megapixel wide camera with optical image stabilization, capable of capturing detailed photos and 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. It includes Smart HDR 2 and Portrait mode for people. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro comes with a triple rear camera setup, including a 50-megapixel main sensor, an 8-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro lens. It also incorporates a dedicated imaging neural processing unit for enhanced image processing.
  • Low-Light Performance and Features: The iPhone SE 2020 performs well in good lighting conditions, but it lacks a dedicated Night Mode, which can impact low-light photography. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro's main camera, supported by its imaging chip, delivers good low-light performance, capturing detailed and less noisy images in challenging lighting. However, its ultrawide and macro cameras are generally considered less capable than the main sensor.
  • Front Camera and Audio: The iPhone SE 2020 has a 7-megapixel front camera suitable for selfies and video calls. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro features a higher-resolution 32-megapixel front camera, offering more detail for selfies. Both devices provide clear microphone quality for calls and recording, and their speakers offer a satisfactory media consumption experience.

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of a smartphone.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The iPhone SE 2020 supports Wi-Fi 6 and Gigabit LTE, and uses a Lightning port for charging and data transfer. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro offers 5G connectivity and newer Wi-Fi standards, along with a USB-C port, which is a widely adopted standard. Neither device includes a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometrics and Design: The iPhone SE 2020 features a physical Home button with Touch ID for secure authentication. It retains a classic iPhone design with a glass front and back, and an aluminum frame, offering IP67 water and dust resistance. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro utilizes an in-display fingerprint sensor for unlocking. It presents a more modern, streamlined unibody design with a glass front protected by Gorilla Glass 5 and an aluminum frame.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The iPhone SE 2020 is a compact and lightweight device, measuring 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and weighing 148 grams, making it easy for one-handed use. The Oppo Reno 8 Pro is a larger device at 161.2 x 74.2 x 7.6 mm and 183 grams, providing a more expansive screen but requiring a two-handed grip for some users.

Weight

148 oz

183 oz

Screen size (in)

4.7

6,7

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The iPhone SE 2020 and Oppo Reno 8 Pro cater to different user priorities, each excelling in specific areas. User sentiment for the iPhone SE 2020 often praises its compact form factor, powerful performance for its size, and the reliability of the iOS ecosystem. Criticisms frequently point to its dated design with larger bezels, average battery life for heavy users, and the absence of features like Night Mode for the camera.

The Oppo Reno 8 Pro is generally lauded for its vibrant AMOLED display, strong overall performance, and impressive main camera, particularly in low-light conditions. Its fast charging capabilities are also a common highlight. Some users note that its secondary cameras (ultrawide and macro) do not match the quality of the main sensor, and the lack of wireless charging is sometimes mentioned.

Users prioritizing a compact device with a familiar design, long-term software support, and robust core performance for everyday tasks may find the iPhone SE 2020 well-suited to their needs. It offers a consistent experience within the Apple ecosystem. Conversely, individuals who value a large, vibrant display, rapid charging, and a versatile camera system with strong low-light capabilities will likely lean towards the Oppo Reno 8 Pro. It provides a more modern Android experience with a focus on visual and charging performance.

For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can be an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new, offering a sustainable choice without compromising on functionality.

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