The original iPhone SE, launched in 2016, was Apple’s compact and budget-friendly answer to fans of smaller smartphones. With a 4-inch display and the same A9 chip found in the iPhone 6s, it delivered impressive performance in a compact frame at the time. Fast-forward to 2025, and the first-generation iPhone SE is now nearly a decade old. While it may still be available through secondhand marketplaces for under $100, it's no longer a practical choice for most users—especially when more powerful and supported alternatives like the iPhone SE 2nd Gen and SE 3rd Gen are available at accessible prices.
According to UpTrade’s Price Tracker, Certified Used or Refurbished iPhone SE 1st Gen units are extremely rare in 2025. Due to its age, most listings are either sold out or available only as “open box” or uncertified used products. You might find it for less than $100, but limited availability, lack of warranty, and outdated components make it a poor investment. In contrast, newer SE models—like the 2nd Gen (from $130+) and 3rd Gen (from $180+)—are widely available with better specs, active support, and higher reliability.
The first-generation iPhone SE’s last iOS upgrade was iOS 15 in 2022. It won’t support the newest iOS 26 in 2025. That means it misses out on the latest features, security patches, and app compatibility updates. Many modern apps now require newer iOS versions to function properly, leaving the original SE lagging behind or entirely unsupported. Without regular updates, the phone is vulnerable to security risks and lacks compatibility with services like Apple Pay, iCloud syncing, or even some basic app downloads.
Powered by the aging A9 chip and just 2GB of RAM, the iPhone SE 1st Gen struggles to meet today’s performance standards. While it may still handle basic functions like calling and texting, even simple web browsing or app usage can feel sluggish and laggy. The small 4-inch display, outdated camera system, and poor battery life further diminish its usability. Apps may crash, load slowly, or simply not run at all. For modern users—even those with minimal needs—the iPhone SE 1st Gen feels noticeably outdated and frustrating to use on a daily basis.
If you're considering the original iPhone SE, the 2nd generation SE is a much better buy in 2025. It supports the latest iOS 26, offers significantly better performance, and maintains the classic home button design that many users still love. At just $130+, it’s the ideal entry-level iPhone.
| Feature | iPhone SE 1st Gen | iPhone SE 2nd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2016 | 2020 |
| Chipset | A9 | A13 Bionic |
| RAM | 2GB | 3GB |
| Display | 4.0" LCD | 4.7" Retina HD |
| Home Button / Touch ID | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Camera | 12MP | 12MP (improved sensor) |
| Front Camera | 1.2MP | 7MP |
| Battery Life | ~13 hours video | ~13 hours video |
| iOS Support | iOS 15 (discontinued) | iOS 26 (2025) |
| Starting Price (2025) | <$100 (limited) | $130+ |
Takeaway: The A13 Bionic chip in the SE 2nd Gen is the same one used in the iPhone 11, delivering smooth performance even in 2025. The improved front camera and larger display also make it far more usable. Best of all, it still gets the latest software updates from Apple, giving you long-term value.
For buyers who want 5G connectivity, even better performance, and longer software support, the iPhone SE 3rd Gen is the way to go. It's powered by the A15 Bionic—the same chip used in the iPhone 13—and starts at just $180+ as a Certified Used or Refurbished device.
| Feature | iPhone SE 2nd Gen | iPhone SE 3rd Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2020 | 2022 |
| Chipset | A13 Bionic | A15 Bionic |
| RAM | 3GB | 4GB |
| Display | 4.7" Retina HD | 4.7" Retina HD |
| Home Button / Touch ID | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Camera | 12MP | 12MP (better processing) |
| Front Camera | 7MP | 7MP |
| 5G Support | No | Yes |
| Battery Life | ~13 hours video | ~15 hours video |
| iOS Support | iOS 26 (2025) | iOS 26+ (Longer support) |
| Starting Price (2025) | $130+ | $180+ |
Takeaway: The SE 3rd Gen is more future-proof, faster, and 5G-ready. With 4GB of RAM and better efficiency, it runs iOS 26 with ease and will likely be supported well into the late 2020s. It's ideal for anyone who wants modern speed and network support in a compact iPhone with the Home button.
In 2025, the original iPhone SE is no longer a practical choice. It lacks support for iOS 26, has outdated hardware, and offers a limited experience in today's app ecosystem. While it may be tempting due to its sub-$100 price, we do not recommend buying it—especially when much better options are available just a little higher in price.
Key Takeaways:
Unless you're buying it purely for nostalgia or extreme minimal use, it's worth spending slightly more on a newer iPhone SE model.
No. It stopped receiving software updates after iOS 15 and does not support iOS 16 or newer.
It can be found in the open market for under $100, but Certified Used or Refurbished models are rare due to age.
Many apps now require iOS 16 or higher. While some may still work on iOS 15, performance and compatibility issues are common.
Not really. The lack of updates poses security risks, and its small screen and slow performance make it frustrating to use.
The iPhone SE 3rd Gen (2022) is the best value if you want 5G, long-term software support, and excellent performance. The iPhone SE 2nd Gen (2020) is ideal for basic use at a lower price.
The iPhone SE 1st Generation supports up to iOS 15.7.9. It does not support iOS 16, iOS 17, or the latest iOS 26 available in 2025. This limits compatibility with newer apps and features.
To identify your iPhone SE model:
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