iPhone SE (2020) Vs Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+

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

Refurbished price:91.35

Versus €319.00 new

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Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+
Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+
Starting at

Refurbished price:198.00

Versus €449.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone SE 2020 and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ are two distinct smartphones, released in April 2020 and January 2024 (globally) respectively. While both serve as mobile communication devices, they cater to different user preferences with their contrasting operating systems, design philosophies, and hardware capabilities. The iPhone SE 2020 operates on Apple's iOS, offering a compact form factor and a focus on a streamlined user experience, whereas the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ runs on Android, featuring a larger display and a more modern design with advanced camera technology.

Scores

Durability

When considering the practical lifespan of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline and Age: The iPhone SE 2020 was released in April 2020, making it an older device compared to the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, which saw its global release in January 2024. This age difference inherently means the iPhone SE 2020 has fewer years of potential software updates remaining.
  • OS Support Duration: Apple is known for providing extended software support, with the iPhone SE 2020 still receiving iOS updates, including iOS 26.3.1 in March 2026. It is expected to receive major iOS updates for approximately 5-7 years from its release, potentially until 2027-2029, with security updates extending further. In contrast, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is committed to receiving three major Android OS updates (up to Android 16) and four years of security updates, with security support ending around January 2028.
  • Physical Durability: The iPhone SE 2020 features an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning it can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ offers an IP68 rating, providing enhanced protection against dust and water, allowing for immersion in deeper water. Additionally, the Redmi Note 13 Pro+ incorporates Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for display protection, which is generally more resistant to drops and scratches.

Year of Release

2020

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from launching applications to handling demanding games and multitasking.

  • Processor Capabilities: The iPhone SE 2020 is equipped with a processor that, at its release, offered strong performance for its class, enabling smooth operation and efficient handling of applications. Users have reported that it holds its own with no lagging, even with heavy-duty games and files. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ features a more recent and powerful processor designed for high-speed output, which translates to a smooth mobile gaming experience and efficient multitasking.
  • System Responsiveness and Multitasking: The iPhone SE 2020 provides a responsive user experience, with apps launching quickly. Its RAM configuration allows for running multiple apps in the background without significant slowdowns. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ offers larger RAM configurations, which contribute to faster app execution and a more fluid experience when switching between numerous applications.
  • Storage Options: The iPhone SE 2020 was available with storage options up to 256GB. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ offers higher base storage, starting at 256GB and going up to 512GB, providing more space for applications, photos, and videos.

Memory (GB)

3 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and its quality significantly impacts the user experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The iPhone SE 2020 features a 4.7-inch Retina IPS LCD display, known for its accurate color reproduction and good viewing angles. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ boasts a larger 6.67-inch AMOLED display, which typically offers deeper blacks, higher contrast, and more vibrant colors compared to LCD technology.
  • Resolution and Brightness: The iPhone SE 2020 has a resolution of 750 x 1334 pixels. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ offers a higher resolution of 1220 x 2712 pixels, resulting in a sharper image with more detail. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ also features a significantly higher peak brightness of 1800 nits, which improves visibility in bright outdoor conditions compared to the iPhone SE 2020.
  • Refresh Rate: The iPhone SE 2020 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ features a 120Hz refresh rate, which provides a smoother visual experience, particularly when scrolling through content or playing games.

Resolution

750 x 1334

1220 x 2712

Screen type

Retina IPS LCD

AMOLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a key differentiator for many users, influencing how they capture and share moments.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone SE 2020 features a single 12-megapixel wide-angle camera on the rear, which benefits from computational photography for enhanced image quality, including Portrait mode for human subjects. Users generally find it capable in good lighting conditions. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ comes with a more versatile triple-camera setup, including a high-resolution 200-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization, an 8-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro lens. This allows for greater detail and flexibility in various shooting scenarios.
  • Low-Light and Everyday Photography: While the iPhone SE 2020 performs well in ample light, its low-light performance is more limited due to the single sensor. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+'s larger main sensor and advanced pixel-binning technology are designed to deliver clearer and brighter pictures even in challenging low-light conditions.
  • Video Recording Quality: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video. The iPhone SE 2020 can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ also supports 4K video recording.

Main camera

12 megapixels

200 megapixels

Front camera

7 megapixels

16 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several other features contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity Options: The iPhone SE 2020 supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, along with NFC for mobile payments. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ also supports modern Wi-Fi standards, Bluetooth, and NFC, and additionally offers 5G connectivity, providing faster mobile data speeds where available.
  • Biometric Security: The iPhone SE 2020 utilizes Touch ID, a fingerprint sensor integrated into the home button, for secure authentication. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ features an under-display fingerprint sensor, offering a more modern and integrated biometric solution.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone SE 2020 maintains a compact design with a 4.7-inch display, weighing 148 grams, which many users find comfortable for one-handed use. The Redmi Note 13 Pro+ is a larger device with a 6.67-inch display, weighing 204.5 grams, offering a more expansive viewing area.

Weight

148 g

204 g

Screen size (in)

4.7

6.67

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the iPhone SE 2020 often praises its compact size, robust performance for its age, and the familiarity of the iOS ecosystem. Many appreciate its continued software support from Apple, extending its usability over several years. Criticisms frequently revolve around its smaller battery capacity, which can lead to more frequent charging for heavy users, and its dated display technology compared to newer devices.

For the Redmi Note 13 Pro+, users frequently highlight its vibrant and smooth AMOLED display, rapid charging capabilities, and the high-resolution main camera as strong points. Some users have noted concerns regarding battery drain, particularly after certain software updates, and occasional heating under load. The software experience, specifically with HyperOS, has received mixed feedback, with some finding it less refined than expected.

Users prioritizing a compact device with a long-standing, consistent software experience and a familiar operating system may find the iPhone SE 2020 well-suited to their needs. Its smaller form factor and established ecosystem appeal to those who value ease of use and a traditional design. Conversely, users who prioritize a large, high-refresh-rate display, advanced camera features, faster charging, and a more modern design will likely lean towards the Redmi Note 13 Pro+. This device caters to those seeking a feature-rich Android experience with a focus on multimedia consumption and photography.

Both devices offer distinct advantages, and choosing between them depends on individual priorities. For those considering an eco-friendly alternative, quality-assured refurbished options for both models are available, providing a sustainable choice for acquiring these devices.

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