iPhone 16e vs. iPhone 16: Comparing Price, Design, Battery, Performance & More

Apple’s latest lineup puts two strikingly similar—but not identical—smartphones on the table. The new iPhone 16e slashes about $200 off the price of the standard iPhone 16, yet each model offers a distinct set of features that may sway your decision.

Photo via Trusted Reviews // iPhone 16e (left) versus iPhone 16 (right).

iPhone 16e

For those watching their budget, the numbers speak clearly. The iPhone 16e starts at $599 in the United States versus a $799 starting price for models from the iPhone 16 range. If cost is a primary concern, the iPhone 16e clearly offers a more affordable gateway into Apple’s ecosystem.

1. Design

Both models showcase the flat metal sides, sleek glass panels, and rounded corners that have become synonymous with modern iPhone design. However, there are nuances:

• Dimensions & Weight:
• iPhone 16e: Measures 5.78″ x 2.82″ x 0.31″ and weighs 5.88 ounces.
• iPhone 16: Slightly larger at 5.81″ x 2.82″ x 0.31″ and weighs 6.0 ounces.
• Display Notch vs. Dynamic Island:
• The 16e returns to the classic notch—a design callback to the iPhone X—while the iPhone 16 embraces Apple’s more modern Dynamic Island.
• Color Options:
• The 16e is available in only Black or White, whereas the 16 offers a broader palette including Pink, Teal, and Ultramarine for those seeking a pop of color.

Photo via SoyaCincau // The Apple iPhone 16e, released in 2025.

2. Display & Visual Experience

Both phones sport a 6.1‑inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with nearly identical pixel density (around 460ppi), yet brightness levels set them apart. The iPhone 16 reaches 1,000 nits under normal conditions and peaks at 2,000 nits outdoors, compared to the 16e’s more modest 800 nits typical and 1,200 nits peak. In everyday usage, both screens deliver sharp visuals, but the 16’s extra brightness can be a decisive factor when outdoors.

3. Performance & Specs

At their core, both models are powered by Apple’s A18 chipset and run iOS 18 with full support for Apple Intelligence features such as Genmoji and advanced photo editing tools. The key difference lies in graphics:

• GPU:
• iPhone 16e: Comes with a four-core GPU.
• iPhone 16: Steps it up with a five-core GPU, offering a slight edge in high-end gaming and graphics-intensive tasks.

Photo via Softonic // Both the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16e are powered by Apple's latest A18 chipset, ensuring ultra-fast performance.

In terms of connectivity, the iPhone 16 supports mmWave 5G, Wi-Fi 7, and includes an ultra-wideband (UWB) chip for precise tracking. The 16e, on the other hand, introduces Apple’s new C1 modem—which Apple proudly touts as “the most power-efficient modem ever in an iPhone”—but it only supports low- and mid-band 5G along with Wi-Fi 6, making it more suited for users on economical data plans.

4. Battery Life & Charging

Battery performance is one area where the iPhone 16e flexes its muscles. Thanks to a redesigned internal battery and the efficiency of the C1 modem, Apple claims up to 26 hours of video playback—about four hours more than the iPhone 16 in our tests. Despite similar wired charging speeds (roughly 69 minutes for a full charge with a 20W adapter), wireless charging tells a different story:

• Wireless Charging:
• iPhone 16e: Supports a standard 7.5W Qi wireless charge (MagSafe not supported).
• iPhone 16: Offers MagSafe wireless charging up to 25W (and also supports Qi2 at 15W).

5. Camera

Photography enthusiasts will notice a clear divide in camera hardware:

• Rear Cameras:
• iPhone 16e: Features a single 48MP Fusion camera.
• iPhone 16: Enhances the experience with an additional 12MP ultra-wide lens, enabling macro shots, spatial photos (compatible with Apple Vision Pro), and advanced video modes like Cinematic and Action mode.
• Selfie Experience:
• Both models sport a 12MP front-facing camera, but only the iPhone 16 supports the full suite of depth controls and video enhancements.

Photo via Apple // The rear camera of Apple's new iPhone 16e.

Final Verdict

Which one is right for you?

Choosing between the iPhone 16e and iPhone 16 ultimately comes down to what you value most in your smartphone experience:

• Pick the iPhone 16e if...
• You’re budget-conscious and don’t mind the return of the notch.
• You prioritize longer battery life and efficient 5G performance on everyday plans.
• A limited color range isn’t a dealbreaker for you.
• Opt for the iPhone 16 if...
• You crave a brighter display, a more modern Dynamic Island, and the extra versatility of a dual-camera system.
• You want MagSafe charging and access to Apple’s fastest 5G networks.
• You appreciate the extra nuance in gaming performance and photographic features.

In the end, while the gap between these two models might appear narrow on paper, your individual needs and budget will determine which iPhone fits best into your digital life.

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Oliver West

Journalist

With 5 years of experience in tech journalism, Oliver West focuses on creating detailed how-to guides, list articles, and practical tips for optimizing the Apple experience. Whether you're troubleshooting a device or exploring hidden features, Oliver’s guides are trusted by Apple users around the world.