Google Pixel 6A Vs iPhone SE (2022)

Google Pixel 6A
Google Pixel 6A
Starting at

Refurbished price:143.00

Versus €459.00 new

See options
iPhone SE (2022)
iPhone SE (2022)
Starting at

Refurbished price:127.00

Versus €549.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Google Pixel 6a and the iPhone SE (2022) are both compact smartphones released in 2022, offering distinct experiences within their respective operating systems. The Pixel 6a, launched in July 2022, runs on Android and features a modern design with a larger OLED display. The iPhone SE (2022), released in March 2022, operates on iOS and retains a classic iPhone design with a smaller LCD screen and a physical home button. These devices cater to users seeking capable smartphones without the premium price tag of flagship models, with key differentiators lying in their display technology, camera systems, and overall user interface.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, both the Google Pixel 6a and the iPhone SE (2022) offer substantial software support, though with different timelines and approaches.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone SE (2022) was released in March 2022, while the Google Pixel 6a followed in July 2022. This means the iPhone SE (2022) has a slight head start in its lifecycle.
  • OS Support Duration: The Google Pixel 6a is expected to receive OS updates until at least July 2025 and security updates until at least July 2027. The iPhone SE (2022), running iOS, typically receives major OS updates for 5-6 years from its release, potentially extending its software longevity further than the Pixel 6a.
  • Repairability: The Google Pixel 6a has been noted for a relatively good repairability score of 7/10, with components like the battery being easier to replace compared to some other models. The iPhone SE (2022) received a repairability score of 5.5/10, with some components being easily replaceable, such as the battery and screen, but others requiring more effort. However, Apple's approach to repairs can sometimes lead to warnings for non-genuine parts.

Year of Release

2022

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both smartphones are equipped with powerful processors for their respective ecosystems, delivering smooth performance for daily tasks and demanding applications.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Google Pixel 6a is powered by Google's Tensor chip, which enables efficient handling of demanding apps, multitasking, and advanced computational photography features. The iPhone SE (2022) features the A15 Bionic chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 13 series, providing flagship-level performance for gaming, streaming, and app usage.
  • System Responsiveness: Users can expect a highly responsive experience on both devices. The Pixel 6a's processor ensures quick app loading and fluid navigation within the Android operating system. The iPhone SE (2022)'s A15 Bionic chip makes it very fast and responsive, handling various tasks without noticeable slowdowns.
  • Storage and RAM: The Google Pixel 6a comes with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. The iPhone SE (2022) offers 4GB of RAM and storage options of 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on these two devices differs significantly due to their display technologies and design philosophies.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Google Pixel 6a features a 6.1-inch OLED display, offering deep blacks and vibrant colors. In contrast, the iPhone SE (2022) has a smaller 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD, which provides good color accuracy but does not match the contrast of an OLED panel.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Pixel 6a's OLED screen has a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 429 ppi, offering clear and sharp visuals. The iPhone SE (2022) has a resolution of 750 x 1334 pixels, with a pixel density of 326 ppi, which is still considered sharp for its size.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone SE (2022) offers a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits. Both devices feature a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which provides a smooth experience for most everyday interactions, though not as fluid as higher refresh rate displays found on some other smartphones.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

750 x 1334

Screen type

OLED

Retina IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems, leveraging their respective software and hardware to produce quality images and videos.

  • Camera System Capabilities: The Google Pixel 6a features a dual-camera setup on the rear, including a 12.2 MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a 12 MP ultrawide sensor. The iPhone SE (2022) has a single 12 MP wide camera on the back with OIS.
  • Photography Performance: The Pixel 6a is known for its computational photography, producing good-looking pictures with accurate exposure, white balance, and detail, even in challenging lighting conditions. The iPhone SE (2022)'s single camera, bolstered by the A15 Bionic chip's image processing, delivers good images in decent light with accurate colors and dynamic range. However, it lacks a dedicated night mode, which can result in grainier photos in low-light environments.
  • Video Recording Quality: The Pixel 6a can record 4K video at 30 or 60 frames per second, with good stabilization and respectable audio capture. The iPhone SE (2022) also supports 4K video recording up to 60 frames per second, with smooth slow-motion capabilities.

Main camera

12.2 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

8 megapixels

7 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core features, several other elements contribute to the overall user experience and practical utility of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity. The Google Pixel 6a includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, and features a USB-C port. The iPhone SE (2022) supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, and uses a Lightning port.
  • Biometric Security: The Pixel 6a incorporates an in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The iPhone SE (2022) utilizes Touch ID, a fingerprint sensor integrated into its physical home button.
  • Build Materials and Dimensions: The Pixel 6a features an aluminum frame with a plastic back and Gorilla Glass 3 on the front, measuring 152.2 x 71.8 x 8.9 mm and weighing 178g. The iPhone SE (2022) has a glass front and back with an aluminum frame, measuring 138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm and weighing 144g, making it a more compact and lighter device. Both devices offer some level of water and dust resistance, with the iPhone SE (2022) having an IP67 rating.

Weight

178 g

144 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

4.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

The Google Pixel 6a and the iPhone SE (2022) each present a compelling package, but cater to different user preferences and priorities. User feedback often highlights the Pixel 6a's strong camera performance, particularly its computational photography capabilities, as a major praise point. Many appreciate its modern OLED display and the clean Android experience. Criticisms sometimes point to its 60Hz refresh rate as a potential drawback compared to some competitors.

For the iPhone SE (2022), common praise revolves around its powerful processor, which delivers exceptional speed and longevity for an entry-level device. Its compact size and the familiarity of the classic iPhone design with Touch ID are also frequently lauded. However, its dated design with large bezels, smaller LCD screen, and less impressive battery life compared to other modern smartphones are often noted as areas for improvement.

Users prioritizing a modern, full-screen design, a versatile camera system, and the Android ecosystem will likely find the Google Pixel 6a well-suited to their needs. Its larger OLED display and robust battery capacity make it a strong contender for media consumption and extended use. Conversely, individuals who value a compact form factor, the iOS ecosystem, and a powerful processor for long-term performance, even with a more traditional design, may lean toward the iPhone SE (2022). Both devices offer quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons