Apple's latest budget offering, the iPhone 16e, has arrived after a three-year gap in the entry-level iPhone lineup. Priced at USD $599, this device aims to deliver core iPhone experiences while making calculated compromises to keep costs down. As Apple's most affordable 2025 iPhone, it raises an important question: what do you actually give up by choosing the 16e over its pricier siblings?
Design and Display Trade-offs
The iPhone 16e sports a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with a peak brightness of 1,028 nits—perfectly adequate for outdoor visibility but below the capabilities of the Pro models. Perhaps the most noticeable compromise is the 60Hz refresh rate, which feels noticeably stuttery compared to the 120Hz ProMotion displays on higher-end models. This limitation stands out particularly because many budget Android phones now offer 120Hz displays at much lower price points.
Design-wise, the 16e lacks the Dynamic Island found on other iPhone 16 models, instead featuring a more traditional notch design reminiscent of older iPhones. It also omits MagSafe support—a curious decision considering the technology has been standard on iPhones since the iPhone 12 series. While the phone still supports wireless charging through its built-in coil (which can weakly attract MagSafe pucks due to the ferrite material underneath), the absence of proper magnetic alignment makes the experience less convenient.
Performance and Intelligence
Where the iPhone 16e truly shines is in its processing power. Equipped with the A18 chip and 8GB of RAM, it delivers flagship-level performance that can handle everything from everyday tasks to demanding applications. Most importantly, this hardware enables full support for Apple Intelligence—the company's suite of on-device AI features that older iPhones cannot access.
The inclusion of Apple Intelligence is particularly notable, as it means 16e users will have access to Writing Tools, Notification Summaries, Image Playground, Visual Intelligence, Clean Up, and Genmoji. When Siri 2.0 eventually launches (reportedly as late as 2027), 16e owners will be able to take advantage of these advanced features while having spent significantly less on their device.
Camera Capabilities
Photography is one area where the compromises become more apparent. The iPhone 16e features a single 48MP wide camera on the back with an integrated 2x telephoto capability through sensor cropping. While this represents an upgrade from previous budget models, it lacks the versatility of the multi-camera systems found on the standard iPhone 16 and Pro models.
Most notably absent is an ultra-wide lens, which limits creative shooting options. The phone also cannot shoot in ProRAW format, capture cinematic video, or record spatial videos for Apple Vision Pro. That said, for casual photography, the camera system remains capable and produces quality images that will satisfy most users who don't need specialized photography features.
Apple's First In-House Modem
The iPhone 16e introduces Apple's first self-designed cellular modem, the C1. This represents a significant step in Apple's vertical integration strategy, moving away from Qualcomm modems. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, Apple prioritized battery efficiency over cutting-edge connectivity in this first iteration, which explains why the C1 lacks support for mmWave 5G—the highest speed version of 5G networks.
This omission is unlikely to impact most users, as mmWave 5G remains limited in deployment and is primarily useful in specific high-density locations like stadiums and airports. The C1 modem still supports the more widely available sub-6GHz 5G, which offers a better balance of speed and range. Future iterations of Apple's modem are expected to add mmWave support while further improving power efficiency.
Battery Life and Everyday Use
Battery performance is another highlight of the iPhone 16e. Apple claims it offers the best battery life on a 6.1-inch iPhone, with up to 26 hours of video playback. This puts it nearly on par with the standard iPhone 16 and represents a significant improvement over older models like the iPhone 11 or SE.
The device's lightweight design (167 grams) also makes it comfortable for all-day use—noticeably lighter than the Pro models with their titanium frames. For users upgrading from older iPhones, the combination of modern performance, improved battery life, and reduced weight makes for a compelling everyday experience.
iPhone 16e Key Specifications
- Price: USD $599
- Processor: A18 chip
- RAM: 8GB
- Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR, 60Hz refresh rate, 1,028 nits peak brightness
- Main Camera: 48MP wide with integrated 2x telephoto
- Front Camera: 12MP
- Battery: Up to 26 hours video playback
- Weight: 167 grams (5.88 ounces)
- Notable Features: Face ID, Apple Intelligence support, C1 modem
- Notable Omissions: MagSafe, mmWave 5G, Dynamic Island, Ultra-wide camera
Value Proposition
At USD $599, the iPhone 16e occupies an interesting position in Apple's lineup. It delivers the core iPhone experience with current-generation processing power and AI capabilities while making strategic compromises in areas like display technology, camera versatility, and convenience features like MagSafe.
For users coming from much older iPhones or those who prioritize software features and longevity over hardware luxuries, the 16e represents excellent value. It ensures access to Apple's ecosystem and latest software innovations without the premium price tag of the flagship models. However, photography enthusiasts, heavy media consumers who would benefit from a higher refresh rate display, or those deeply invested in MagSafe accessories may want to consider stepping up to the standard iPhone 16 or Pro models instead.