Apple Launches the iPhone 16e: A Budget-Friendly Option in the iPhone 16 Series
Apple has unveiled the iPhone 16e, a more affordable version of the iPhone 16 series. Aimed at users who want top-tier features without the hefty price tag, the iPhone 16e offers many of the same innovations as the iPhone 16 but at a lower cost. This new model is equipped with an OLED display, FaceID, the latest A18 chip, and the much-discussed Action Button, making it a tempting option for many. But does it hold up against the more expensive iPhone 16? Let’s compare both models to help you decide which one suits your needs.
The price difference between the two models is quite significant. The iPhone 16e starts at ₹59,900 for the 128GB variant, with the 256GB model priced at ₹69,900. The highest storage option, with 512GB, costs ₹89,900.
On the other hand, the iPhone 16’s price begins at ₹79,900 for the 128GB variant. The 256GB version costs ₹89,900, while the 512GB model is available for ₹1,09,900. At the time of writing, the iPhone 16 is also available on Flipkart for ₹69,999, making it more affordable than the official price.
Design-wise, the iPhone 16e feels reminiscent of older iPhone models. The front panel features a large notch, while the back has a single camera module with an LED flash. The device is IP68-rated, meaning it’s dust- and water-resistant. It comes in two colors: Black and White.
In contrast, the iPhone 16 boasts a more modern design with a vertical dual-camera setup at the rear. The front panel sports the Dynamic Island, adding a fresh touch to the design. Additionally, it offers customizable buttons such as the Action Button and Camera Button. The iPhone 16 is available in multiple colors, including Black, White, Pink, Teal, and Ultramarine. Both models share the same IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
Both the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 feature a 6.1-inch OLED Super Retina XDR display. The iPhone 16e offers a resolution of 1170 x 2532 pixels with up to 1200 nits of peak brightness, HDR support, and Ceramic Shield protection.
The iPhone 16, however, boasts a slightly higher resolution of 1179 x 2556 pixels and can reach up to 2000 nits of peak brightness in outdoor settings, making it a better choice for users who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Under the hood, both models are powered by the same Apple A18 chip, which is built on a 3nm process and supports a 16-core Neural Engine. However, the iPhone 16e features a 4-core GPU, while the iPhone 16 has a slightly more powerful 5-core GPU. Both phones offer up to 512GB of internal storage and run iOS 18, with full support for Apple Intelligence AI features.
Camera-wise, both the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 share a 48-megapixel rear camera. However, the iPhone 16e uses a 2-in-1 camera system that works as both a wide-angle and telephoto lens, providing a 2x telephoto zoom. It also features a 12-megapixel front camera with an f/1.9 aperture.
Meanwhile, the iPhone 16 has a more versatile dual-camera setup, with a 48-megapixel Fusion camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide sensor. Its front camera is also 12 megapixels, offering excellent quality for selfies and video calls. Both models can shoot 4K videos at up to 60fps.
In terms of battery life, the iPhone 16e offers up to 26 hours of video playback, while the iPhone 16 provides up to 22 hours. Both models come with a USB Type-C port for fast charging, ensuring that users spend less time plugged in.
Ultimately, both models have their merits, depending on what you’re looking for. The iPhone 16e is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want the core features of the latest iPhone, including the A18 chip and OLED display. It’s perfect for those who want Apple’s newest tech without splurging.
On the other hand, the iPhone 16 is geared towards users who want a slightly better overall experience, with a more powerful GPU, enhanced camera capabilities, and additional customization options like the Action Button. If you’re willing to spend a little more for these features, the iPhone 16 may be the better option.
Feature | iPhone 16e | iPhone 16 |
---|---|---|
Price (128GB) | ₹59,900 | ₹79,900 |
Display | 6.1-inch OLED Super Retina XDR (1170 x 2532) | 6.1-inch OLED Super Retina XDR (1179 x 2556) |
Processor | Apple A18 | Apple A18 |
GPU | 4-core GPU | 5-core GPU |
RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
Rear Camera | 48MP 2-in-1 (wide & telephoto) | 48MP + 12MP ultra-wide |
Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
Battery Life | Up to 26 hours of video playback | Up to 22 hours of video playback |
Charging Port | USB Type-C | USB Type-C |
Colors | Black, White | Black, White, Pink, Teal, Ultramarine |
Both devices are solid choices, but your decision will depend on your budget and which features matter most to you. Whether you opt for the more affordable iPhone 16e or the feature-rich iPhone 16, Apple continues to offer top-tier devices for every kind of user.