The Apple iPhone 16e is the brand’s most affordable iPhone, priced at $599 or $600 . While it may not qualify as “cheap” by some standards, it stands as the lowest-priced option for those seeking a new iPhone directly from Apple. However, it’s not without trade-offs. The iPhone 16e packs solid performance, especially with the A18 chipset, but it comes with a few notable omissions.
Performance and Features:
The iPhone 16e is powered by the A18 chipset, which brings impressive speed and performance for everyday tasks and gaming. Although it has one fewer graphics core than the iPhone 16, this doesn’t hinder its ability to handle demanding games like Genshin Impact. The standout feature of this device is its long battery life, with users reporting up to nine hours of screen-on time even with heavy use. This is due to the inclusion of Apple’s new C1 chip, which improves power efficiency.
However, the iPhone 16e does have a few limitations:
- Camera: It has a single 48MP rear camera, which delivers good low-light performance but lacks the versatility of multiple lenses.
- No Dynamic Island: Unlike other models, the iPhone 16e retains the notch at the front, instead of Apple’s newer Dynamic Island.
- Missing Features: The phone also lacks MagSafe support, ultra-wideband chip, and precise AirTag tracking.
Should You Buy It?
If you’re looking for an iPhone but want to spend as little as possible, the iPhone 16e could be a reasonable choice. However, considering its price, you might get better value by opting for a used iPhone 15 Pro or the iPhone 15. The iPhone 15 provides more features, including the missing ones in the 16e, and can often be found at a price only slightly higher than the iPhone 16e.
iPhone 16e Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.1-inch, 60-Hz OLED |
| Processor and RAM | A18 (4-core GPU) with 8 GB RAM |
| Storage Options | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Rear Camera | 48-MP Fusion Camera |
| Front Camera | 12-MP Selfie Camera |
| Battery Life | Excellent battery life, up to 9 hours of screen-on time |
| Wireless Charging | Qi wireless charging |
| Water Resistance | IP68 |
| Face ID | Yes, with a notch |
| Carrier Compatibility | Works on all major US networks |
| Special Features | Apple Intelligence, Action button |
Conclusion:
While the iPhone 16e delivers solid performance for the price, its omissions—such as the lack of MagSafe and extra camera lenses—may make it feel less like a deal at $599. If you want more features without a huge price jump, the iPhone 15 or even a used iPhone 15 Pro might be a better option, offering more value for a slightly higher cost.
