iPhone 16e Review: A Good Phone, But Not the Best Value
The iPhone 16e is Apple’s latest attempt at delivering a more affordable option for those who just need an iPhone. But is it worth the price? If you’re someone upgrading from an iPhone 8 Plus or iPhone X, this device might seem like a solid choice. However, for tech enthusiasts or those who expect premium features, the 16e leaves much to be desired.
A Mixed Bag of Features
Apple has positioned the iPhone 16e as a budget-friendly option, yet its $599 price tag raises questions about its actual value. It lacks some modern features that Apple fans have come to expect, such as MagSafe and an ultra-wideband chip for precise AirTags tracking. Given its limitations, the price feels at least $100 too high, especially when compared to other devices in the market, including previous-generation iPhones.
Battery Life: A Surprising Win
One of the biggest strengths of the iPhone 16e is its battery life. Historically, 6.1-inch iPhones haven’t been known for impressive battery performance, but the 16e changes that. In real-world usage, it consistently ends the day with around 50% battery left under moderate use, and even with heavy use—including GPS navigation and music streaming—it still holds up remarkably well.
This battery longevity is thanks in part to Apple’s first-ever in-house C1 modem, designed to optimize connectivity and efficiency. Cellular performance has been strong, with no major issues encountered during testing in New York City. However, its connectivity is limited to sub-6 5G, meaning it doesn’t support the faster mmWave 5G available in select locations.
Performance and Hardware Trade-offs
The iPhone 16e is powered by Apple’s A18 chipset, similar to the one in the iPhone 16, but with one less GPU core. While this doesn’t make a huge difference in everyday use, heavier gaming or graphic-intensive tasks may result in slightly more stutters compared to its pricier counterparts. For most users, however, the phone remains smooth and capable.
The display, a 6.1-inch OLED panel, is bright and clear, but it maxes out at a 60Hz refresh rate—a letdown considering that most Android phones at this price offer at least 90Hz. The lack of Apple’s newer Ceramic Shield protection also means the screen is slightly more vulnerable to scratches and drops.
Camera: Decent, But Limited
The iPhone 16e’s single-camera system is competent but not groundbreaking. While its 48MP main sensor delivers sharp and detailed photos, it lacks an ultra-wide or telephoto lens, making it less versatile than competing phones. Low-light performance is decent, but without Night Mode improvements seen on higher-end models, shots can get blurry if you’re not perfectly still.
Portrait mode also struggles in low light, and while the selfie camera is solid, there are better options available in similarly priced Android devices.
Missing Features: MagSafe and Ultra-Wideband
Two glaring omissions in the iPhone 16e are MagSafe and the ultra-wideband chip. MagSafe, Apple’s magnetic charging and accessory system, has been a convenient feature for many users, and its absence feels like a step backward. Similarly, the lack of ultra-wideband means you won’t get precise tracking with AirTags—an odd choice given how popular they have become.
For users upgrading from older iPhones, these missing features might not be deal-breakers, but they make the device feel less future-proof compared to other options in Apple’s lineup.
Pricing and Alternatives
At $599, the iPhone 16e sits in an awkward position. It’s $170 more than the now-discontinued iPhone SE, yet it lacks many of the quality-of-life upgrades seen in the iPhone 15. For just $100 more, the iPhone 15 offers a better display, improved build quality, MagSafe, and ultra-wideband support.
Another compelling alternative is a used or refurbished iPhone 15 Pro, which provides a much more premium experience with ProMotion (120Hz refresh rate), a triple-camera setup, and a more durable titanium design—all for nearly the same price as a new 16e.
Final Verdict: A Reliable iPhone, But Not the Best Choice
The iPhone 16e is a well-built, reliable phone that delivers solid performance and exceptional battery life. However, its high price and lack of key features make it a tough sell. If you’re upgrading from an older iPhone and just want a new iPhone without breaking the bank, it will serve you well. But if you’re looking for the best value, you’d be better off with an iPhone 15 or even a used iPhone 15 Pro.
Rating: 7/10
Pros:
- Excellent battery life
- Reliable performance
- Bright and sharp OLED display
Cons:
- No MagSafe or ultra-wideband support
- 60Hz refresh rate feels outdated
- Price is too high for the feature set