The iPhone 16e sets itself apart in Apple’s lineup by aiming for a lower price point while preserving a current-generation chip and a modern design ethos. It poses as a spiritual successor to the third-generation iPhone SE, keeping the idea of a recent chip inside a body that resembles older iPhone designs. At the same time, it introduces a price that’s higher than the most budget-friendly expectations, and it makes several notable trade-offs to hit that price target. The result is a phone that tries to balance longevity, performance, and cost, but raises questions about whether the compromises are worth the savings in every scenario. This in-depth review explores every facet of the iPhone 16e—from its design to its camera system, battery life, and software experience—so you can decide whether this is the right budget option for you.
Overview and positioning in Apple’s lineup
The iPhone 16e occupies a unique niche in Apple’s catalog. It sits between the most affordable iPhone models and the premium devices that have dominated headlines in recent years. Apple’s strategy with the 16e is to deliver a device that lasts longer and performs strongly, while still keeping an eye on affordability compared with the full-priced iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus—phones that share the same A18 processor and broader feature set. The 16e is not as budget-focused as the iPhone SE, which traditionally launched at a lower price with more modest specifications; rather, the 16e acts as a bridge—offering a modern chip and a design language closer to the flagship family while still undercutting the more expensive models in some important areas.
One of the most striking aspects of the 16e is that its price of $599 places it squarely in a position where it can feel more affordable than the newest high-end models, yet still commands a premium over some prior-generation devices. That pricing choice is especially notable given Apple’s broader ecosystem investments and the premium feel many buyers expect from new iPhones. The result is a device that asks buyers to weigh a few meaningful trade-offs—some hardware changes, some feature omissions, and the broader implications of owning Apple’s first self-designed modem—against the advantages of a current-generation silicon and a design that looks modern and fresh. In other words, the 16e is the new “budget iPhone” in name and spirit, but with considerations that go beyond a simple sticker price.
The phone’s core proposition remains straightforward: Apple packages a top-tier chip into an accessible frame, aiming to deliver reliable performance, long software support, and a capable camera system for everyday use. The 16e emphasizes longevity and dependable everyday performance, leveraging Apple’s A18 processor to keep pace with existing and upcoming iOS features. It also marks Apple’s long-awaited completion of a meaningful hardware step—self-designing its own modem, the Apple C1—after a substantial investment in modem technology for nearly six years. All told, the iPhone 16e is designed to be the most economical path to a long-lasting iPhone experience, even if certain premium features are sacrificed to reach that price point.
In comparing the 16e to its siblings, several points stand out. The iPhone 16 remains the direct performance and feature benchmark—sharing the same A18 chip and Apple Intelligence capabilities—but at a higher price and with a more feature-rich design. The iPhone 15 Pro, with its own robust camera system and advanced design language, remains a strong alternative if a buyer can find it at a comparable price. For those who want MagSafe, a modern notch-less design, and an ultrawide camera system, the iPhone 15 or iPhone 16 might present more compelling options. The iPhone 16e’s trade-offs—such as the absence of MagSafe, a notch display style, a reduced camera lineup, and a slightly older display panel—support a more conservative user with a focus on longevity and raw performance per dollar, rather than feature-parity with the most premium devices.
In short, the iPhone 16e is Apple’s attempt to marry current-generation performance with a more approachable price tag, while delivering a design language that remains consistent with Apple’s broader vision. It attempts to offer the longest possible software-supported lifespan at a price that still feels accessible for a new iPhone, even as it navigates the costs associated with a self-developed modem and other design decisions that separate it from the flagship models.
Design and build: a blend of familiar lines and practical choices
The iPhone 16e’s design reflects a deliberate blend of elements drawn from both the iPhone 16 and the iPhone 14 series. The result is a device that looks modern without completely abandoning the familiar aesthetic that many users associate with Apple’s mid-range devices. The frame uses a matte aluminum construction that wraps around the body, paired with a matte glass back. This combination creates a refined feel that is sturdy but not overly slick, and it helps the device balance grip with a premium appearance. Apple offers two color options—black and white—providing a clean, minimalist look that aligns with the company’s design language. For those who prefer more color variety, the options are somewhat limited, and third-party cases become the primary way to introduce a broader palette.
From the outside, one of the most immediate design cues is the presence of a single rear camera module. While some may view a smaller camera bump as a subtle aesthetic choice, it also reflects a broader hardware decision: the 16e does not incorporate the larger, more complex camera array found on the higher-end iPhone models. This streamlined camera setup contributes to a sleeker silhouette, even as some users might wish for a more substantial camera system for photographic flexibility. The antenna lines on the 16e are slightly more pronounced than those on the iPhone 16, an interesting hardware nuance you may notice when you compare side by side. While the reason for the larger lines is not officially explained by Apple, it’s reasonable to speculate that the change is connected to performance considerations for the self-designed Apple C1 modem—the company’s first internal modem platform.
At the front, the 16e returns to a notch-based design rather than adopting the Dynamic Island found in many models of the iPhone 16 family. This choice aligns the 16e with earlier generations that fans may remember more vividly, while still delivering an edge-to-edge display experience. Face ID remains a primary biometric method, and the display continues to fill the front with a nearly seamless panel that supports vivid content with good color reproduction. While not everyone might love the notch by comparison with the more modern Dynamic Island, the visual impact remains manageable, and functionality is not compromised: a fast, reliable Face ID experience and an expansive display area for apps, media, and navigation.
A notable hardware omission in the design is MagSafe. The iPhone 16e does not include MagSafe magnets or the associated ecosystem features, and this stands out given Apple’s push toward MagSafe in recent years. The absence matters for users who rely on MagSafe accessories—wallets, chargers, and mounts—since third-party options will be the primary avenue to re-create the magnet-enabled experiences. Apple’s own ecosystem benefits, including MagSafe charging devices and accessories, are less accessible here, which some buyers may see as a significant drawback. The lack of MagSafe also has broader implications: charging with a magnetic wireless setup is off the table, which means a different charging workflow and accessory compatibility compared with other iPhone models that ship with MagSafe.
The overall design of the iPhone 16e is still highly functional and modern. The build quality feels resilient, with an understated yet premium feel that should stand up well to daily use. While I would have preferred more color options and MagSafe support, the device maintains a clean, contemporary aesthetic that fits in with Apple’s current product family. The presence of the Action Button on the side is a notable modern touch that enhances customization and quick access to features without needing to dive into software menus.
In summary, the iPhone 16e harmonizes a familiar, contemporary design with practical compromises that help achieve its price target. It looks modern enough to be mistaken for a higher-end device in casual observation, yet it has the practical characteristics and limitations that come with a budget-conscious approach. The design decisions—especially the notch choice, the modest camera configuration, and the lack of MagSafe—define the device’s visual identity and its functional footprint in daily use.
Display and screen quality: a bright, readable OLED panel with some caveats
The iPhone 16e ships with a 6.1-inch OLED display that matches the resolution of the iPhone 16, at 1170 x 2532 pixels. This panel delivers the familiar deep blacks and punchy colors that OLED platforms are known for, and it performs well in a variety of lighting conditions. The 60Hz refresh rate is standard for many mid-range devices, and it aligns with the display expectations for a phone at this price segment. Viewers will still enjoy crisp text, responsive touch input, and solid overall image fidelity, particularly in typical day-to-day tasks, media consumption, and web browsing.
Brightness is a key differentiator when you compare the iPhone 16e to its higher-end sibling. The iPhone 16e tops out at 800 nits in standard viewing conditions, with a peak brightness of 1200 nits when viewing HDR content. While these numbers are respectable and ample for most outdoor scenarios, they fall short of the iPhone 16’s HDR peak brightness of around 2000 nits. In practice, this means that outside in bright sunlight, the 16e may require a bit more manual adjustment or screen tilt to retain readability, and outdoor viewing may occasionally feel a touch more washed out compared with the brighter flagship display. For most users, however, the panel remains highly usable with excellent contrast and pleasing color accuracy.
The display’s 60Hz refresh rate is a trade-off that aligns with the device’s price positioning. A higher refresh rate—such as 90Hz or 120Hz—can deliver smoother scrolling and more fluid motion, particularly in gaming and fast action scenes. The 16e’s 60Hz experience is adequate for everyday use and standard media playback, but it will be noticeably smoother on devices that offer a higher refresh rate. Nevertheless, the OLED panel delivers true blacks and vibrant visuals, which enhances the overall perception of quality even if the max refresh rate sits a touch lower than some peers.
In real-world usage, the display on the iPhone 16e offers strong legibility indoors and in most outdoor contexts. The color reproduction remains balanced, with good saturation and accurate skin tones for photos and videos. The absence of a high refresh rate is the primary display-related compromise on this device, but for many buyers, the trade-off may be acceptable given the 16e’s emphasis on longevity, performance, and cost. For users who rely heavily on smooth scrolling and gaming, this is a potential area to consider when evaluating the total value proposition.
Overall, the iPhone 16e presents a capable and satisfying display experience for the price, with bright HDR performance and strong color accuracy. The 800 nits (typical) / 1200 nits (HDR peak) brightness specification ensures readability in most everyday environments, and while the panel doesn’t push the very top end of brightness or refresh rate, it remains competitive in its class and well-aligned with the device’s positioning as a long-lasting, value-focused option.
Performance and Apple’s first self-designed modem
Apple consistently equips its new budget devices with capable silicon, and the iPhone 16e is no exception. It runs the A18 processor—the same chip deployed in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus—meaning users can expect a robust performance profile that remains competitive with today’s flagship devices in most scenarios. The A18 enables strong app launch times, smooth multitasking, and solid gaming performance, ensuring a comfortable and responsive experience for the majority of daily tasks. The chip also supports Apple Intelligence, a suite of on-device machine learning features that Apple has been emphasizing across its current lineup. The 16e’s A18 implementation is designed to deliver improved performance over prior generations while maintaining energy efficiency, a combination that translates to snappy operation and longer battery life for typical use cases.
The 16e’s performance characteristics extend beyond raw speed to include broader software capabilities. With Apple Intelligence, the device can handle more predictive tasks, on-device processing for certain features, and improved on-device voice processing, all of which contribute to a smoother and more capable user experience. This emphasis on intelligent processing can lead to faster photos, smarter app interactions, and better overall efficiency as iOS continues to evolve in lockstep with Apple’s hardware.
One of the most significant hardware milestones with the iPhone 16e is Apple’s long-awaited self-designed modem, the Apple C1. After acquiring Intel’s modem division years ago, Apple has finally introduced a native modem, marking a meaningful shift in how the company approaches wireless connectivity. The C1 supports a broad swath of bands and networks, ensuring reliable 5G performance across typical usage scenarios. However, the device does not support ultra-fast mmWave 5G in all contexts, which is often present in some public spaces or specific carrier deployments. For users whose everyday usage doesn’t rely on ultra-fast mmWave speeds, the C1 delivers solid performance that aligns with expectations for a first-generation in-house modem.
In testing, the Apple C1 demonstrated performance that is on par with the iPhone 16 in many respects. While it may not match the most premium devices in every scenario, it provides reliable, consistent connectivity and robust network support across a wide range of operators. The 16e’s modem implementation is an important step in Apple’s broader hardware strategy, as it reduces reliance on third-party modem suppliers and positions Apple to optimize hardware and software more tightly for future updates and features.
In terms of storage and memory, the iPhone 16e ships with 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. The combination of ample RAM and fast storage supports smooth multitasking and quick app launches, which complements the A18’s performance profile. The device’s overall performance is well-suited to handling not only current apps and games but also future iOS updates, given Apple’s historical track record of software longevity and extended support. The iPhone 16e is thus positioned as a device that can stay current for several years, with software updates and feature enhancements that leverage the A18’s capabilities and the efficiency of the C1 modem.
Software-wise, the iPhone 16e ships with iOS 18, bringing with it the same Apple Intelligence features and user experience you’d expect from other iPhone 16 devices. That includes the companion system-level features, visual intelligence, and the overall software ecosystem that has defined iPhone experiences for years. Siri, privacy features, and the broader integration with Apple services are all part of the package, ensuring that buyers get a cohesive, well-supported experience. The combination of a modern chipset, a first-party modem, and year-after-year software support makes the iPhone 16e a strong option for users who want reliable performance with long-term software updates.
In summary, the iPhone 16e delivers strong overall performance thanks to the A18 chip and the in-house Apple C1 modem. The device is capable of handling demanding tasks, multitasking, and AI-assisted features with confidence, while continuing to offer a robust software update trajectory. The modem frontier is particularly notable, signaling Apple’s continued commitment to controlling more of its hardware stack to optimize longevity and performance in future generations.
Battery life and charging: a focus on endurance, with slower wireless charging
Apple touts battery life as a standout benefit of the iPhone 16e, framing it as a device that can deliver extended viewing time and strong daily endurance. In particular, Apple notes a video playback benchmark of up to 26 hours, a figure that surpasses the standard iPhone 16 by about four hours. While real-world usage will vary based on screen brightness, background activity, and network conditions, the underlying message is clear: the 16e is designed to carry you through a long day with comfortable headroom for heavy usage scenarios. In typical day-to-day use, the battery performance is sufficient to get most users through a full day with moderate to heavy usage, and many users may find they finish the day with a comfortable amount of buffer remaining.
Charging speeds for the iPhone 16e reflect a few trade-offs that align with its price positioning. The device supports wired charging up to 25W, which is modest when compared with some Android models and other iPhone variants that offer higher-wattage charging. This means that the initial top-up might take longer than on devices that support faster charging. On the wireless side, the iPhone 16e supports Qi wireless charging at up to 7.5W. It does not include MagSafe, and as a result, it misses the faster MagSafe charging speeds that some users have come to rely on. While Qi wireless charging on its own is practical for a broad range of chargers and pads, the 7.5W rate is noticeably slower than MagSafe’s capabilities when magnets and alignment are in play. The lack of MagSafe extends to accessory availability as well, since Apple’s magnet-based ecosystem is not native to this model.
Despite the slower wireless charging, the battery performance remains strong due to the combination of the A18’s efficiency and the 16e’s overall power management. In day-to-day use, users may consistently end up with a full day of usage and still have a reasonable amount of battery remaining after a typical evening. For those who heavily rely on wireless charging or fast top-ups, the 25W wired charging is a partial compromise that may affect how quickly the phone returns to a full charge after substantial usage. Nevertheless, the larger battery life emphasis aligns with the device’s core promise: a longer-lasting iPhone experience with a modern chip and dependable performance across the software ecosystem.
In practice, battery life and charging behavior on the iPhone 16e demonstrate that endurance remains a priority for Apple in this price tier. The device’s ability to deliver extended playback time and a full day’s worth of use for many users indicates that it can hold up well in everyday scenarios, which is a meaningful advantage for buyers seeking longevity and reliability. The charging experience—while not the fastest in class—remains functional and convenient, especially for users who rely on a mix of wired charging and Qi wireless charging in daily routines.
Camera system: a capable setup with important limitations
The iPhone 16e’s camera configuration reflects a clear set of trade-offs designed to hit the price target while preserving reliable performance. The most visible change versus the standard iPhone 16 is the absence of an ultrawide camera. The main shooter is a 48-megapixel sensor with an f/1.6 aperture and optical image stabilization (OIS). However, the sensor is smaller than the one used in higher-end models, which reduces the amount of light it can gather in low-light situations. As a result, low-light images may not be as bright or detailed as those captured by the larger sensors in the more expensive iPhones. Also, because there is no ultrawide camera, the 16e’s ability to capture expansive landscapes or group shots at wider angles is inherently limited.
Apple does use sensor cropping to deliver a 2x “lossless” zoom in some scenarios, a feature the company has marketed as a benefit of the camera system. In practice, this means you can achieve a 2x crop without quality degradation, but it’s not a true optical zoom; there is no dedicated telephoto or ultrawide lens to provide additional zoom levels without sacrificing light gathering or image quality at certain focal lengths. As a result, for zoom beyond 2x or for more dramatic perspective shifts, images may appear less natural when viewed at larger sizes on devices such as laptops. The lack of a dedicated ultrawide and telephoto means certain shooting opportunities—like wide vistas or tight close-ups with strong background separation—will rely more on post-processing and software-based enhancements rather than true lens flexibility.
In well-lit environments, images captured with the 16e remain bright, punchy, and color-rich. The camera system still benefits from Apple’s robust image processing, and it supports Photographic Styles, a feature introduced with the rest of the iPhone 16 family, which allows users to adjust tone and color characteristics to match their preferences. Even with a smaller main sensor, it’s possible to obtain appealing results with vivid colors and well-managed exposure, particularly in scenes with balanced lighting.
When lighting drops, the absence of a larger sensor becomes more apparent. Low-light images can be competitive but do not reach the same benchmark as the iPhone 16’s larger sensor, which tends to gather more light and deliver brighter, more detailed photos with less noise. The 16e’s camera can still produce solid results, particularly if you’re not chasing the most aggressive low-light performance. The camera’s ability to capture depth and subject separation in portrait modes is supported, but some limitations exist. Because there is no dedicated depth sensor and no advanced telephoto option, depth information for portrait images may be constrained, and you may notice less pronounced bokeh or less precise edge detection in certain scenarios. That’s a natural trade-off for a camera system that prioritizes a single main sensor at a budget-focused price.
A notable software-side advantage is the integration of Photographic Styles and other iPhone camera features that originated with higher-end devices. While the hardware is simplified compared with flagship models, software improvements can help you tailor the look of your photos post-capture. For video, the iPhone 16e offers 4K video recording at 60 frames per second, which is competitive and sufficient for most consumer needs, including social sharing and casual filmmaking. The camera’s performance remains reliable, with consistent exposure and color rendering across a variety of shooting scenarios.
In summary, the iPhone 16e’s camera system is dependable and capable within its price class. It provides solid everyday photography, good color and detail in bright conditions, reliable video capabilities, and a software-driven enhancement through Photographic Styles. The limitations—the absence of an ultrawide lens, the smaller main sensor, and the lack of a dedicated telephoto—are clear trade-offs, but for many users, especially those prioritizing a balanced smartphone experience with a long software life, the camera remains a compelling choice.
Software and user experience: iOS 18 with Apple Intelligence
The iPhone 16e ships with iOS 18, anchoring the software experience in Apple’s current-generation ecosystem. The software stack continues to emphasize efficiency, privacy, and a cohesive integration with Apple services and hardware. iOS 18 brings the same breadth of features you’d expect from contemporary iPhone devices, including enhancements to Siri, various privacy protections, and deepening capabilities of Apple Intelligence—a suite of on-device AI features designed to improve automation, photo processing, and overall performance.
Apple Intelligence is integrated into the operating system in a way that benefits devices across the lineup, and on the 16e, users can expect a smooth, responsive experience that leverages the A18’s performance capabilities. The software experience feels consistent with what you’d find on higher-end models, but with the practical differences that come with the phone’s hardware. The result is a user experience that remains contemporary and well-supported, with a long horizon of software updates promised by Apple’s typical update cadence. This long-term software support is a key factor in the device’s value proposition, reinforcing its positioning as a long-lasting iPhone option that can remain relevant for years into the future.
The 16e’s software experience benefits from a stable and well-optimized set of apps and services. Apple’s ecosystem—Music, Photos, Messages, FaceTime, and iCloud—remains central to the daily experience, and the hardware’s efficiency ensures responsive operation even as workloads intensify. Siri continues to play a central role for voice-based interactions, reminders, and smart home control, while security and privacy features remain prominent, consistent with Apple’s broader emphasis on user protection. The software experience on the 16e is designed to feel cohesive with the rest of Apple’s devices, so users who already own an iPhone or other Apple gear will find a familiar and integrated environment.
In sum, iOS 18 on the iPhone 16e delivers a polished, robust software experience that aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of longevity and ecosystem cohesion. The combination of a capable processor, a modern but not premium-grade camera system, and a software platform that emphasizes AI features, privacy, and seamless integration creates a compelling experience for buyers who value reliability and long-term software support.
The competition and value proposition
The iPhone 16e’s pricing positions it in a slightly unusual space within Apple’s lineup. It is $200 cheaper than the iPhone 16, which makes it an appealing option for buyers who want strong performance and a long software life without paying flagship-level prices. However, there’s a compelling trade-off in features—the 16e sacrifices several capabilities that are standard on the more expensive models. The camera system is simplified, with no ultrawide lens, slower sensor performance in low light, and no telephoto option. The display, while bright and vivid, dials back on peak brightness and refresh rate compared with the top-tier models. The device also foregoes MagSafe, which is a notable ecosystem feature across multiple iPhone generations.
In the broader sense, the 16e’s most significant strategic consideration is the availability of used or refurbished iPhone 15 Pro devices at a similar price point. If a buyer can find a 15 Pro for a similar price, many advantages line up in its favor: a more advanced camera system with broader focal length options, a more sophisticated display, and the presence of MagSafe along with a more premium design language. In those scenarios, the 15 Pro might deliver a better overall experience, particularly for photography enthusiasts or users who want a more feature-rich device at a similar price.
For those who are weighing the base iPhone 15 devices, the 15 introduces a different set of trade-offs. The iPhone 15 features a notch design and a dual-camera system that offer modern capabilities and a more widely recognized design language, plus MagSafe. However, the iPhone 15 might not offer the same performance and longevity as the 16e, especially if you plan to keep the device for multiple years of iOS updates. The iPhone 16e sits in a position where its A18 chip, battery efficiency, and software support make it competitive, but potential buyers should consider whether the trade-offs align with their priorities—battery life, camera flexibility, MagSafe access, or display features.
The TL;DR is that if you can locate an iPhone 15 Pro at a similar price, it’s generally a stronger buy because you gain a superior camera system, faster display, and continued MagSafe compatibility, all while maintaining comparable processing performance and update longevity. If your choice is truly between the iPhone 16e and the iPhone 15, you’re weighing better performance and Apple Intelligence support (16e) against a dual-camera setup and a more modern design (iPhone 15) with MagSafe. For many buyers, the decisive factor may be whether you place higher value on a longer-term software horizon and processor performance (favoring the 16e) or on a more feature-rich camera and design experience (favoring the 15 or 15 Pro).
In short, the iPhone 16e presents a strong value proposition for buyers who want a long-lasting iPhone with solid performance at a more accessible price. It becomes less compelling if the user is a photography enthusiast seeking the most versatile camera system or if MagSafe is a non-negotiable ecosystem feature. As with any major device purchase, prospective buyers should assess their own priorities—camera versatility, display preferences, ecosystem features, and willingness to trade certain capabilities for price—and evaluate whether the iPhone 16e aligns with their daily needs and long-term expectations.
Should you buy the iPhone 16e?
If you’re looking for a new iPhone with a focus on longevity, strong everyday performance, and a price that’s more approachable than the latest flagship models, the iPhone 16e warrants serious consideration. Its A18 processor, robust software support, and the debut of Apple’s own modem position it as a forward-looking choice that can remain relevant for many years. The camera system is reliable for typical use, and the device provides a solid balance of features without overreaching into the premium tier’s price.
However, if your priorities include owning MagSafe accessories, an ultrawide camera, or the strongest possible camera system with advanced zoom capabilities, you may want to explore other options in Apple’s lineup or beyond. The iPhone 16e’s trade-offs—especially the lack of MagSafe and the absence of an ultrawide lens—could influence decisions for users who rely on those features or who want the most versatile photography toolkit. If you can locate an iPhone 15 Pro at a similar price, that option often presents a more compelling overall package due to its more advanced camera setup and continued MagSafe compatibility.
In conclusion, the iPhone 16e is a strong contender for buyers who want a modern iPhone that can last many years, benefit from Apple Intelligence, and deliver reliable performance at a more accessible price point. It’s not a perfect match for everyone, but for the right user—someone who values longevity, software updates, and a current-generation chip without chasing the very top-tier features—the iPhone 16e can be an excellent choice.
Conclusion
The iPhone 16e stands out as Apple’s thoughtful approach to a long-lasting, capable, budget-friendly iPhone. It blends a modern chip with a design language that nods to both the iPhone 16 and the iPhone 14 series, resulting in a device that feels contemporary without being the literal flagship. The self-designed Apple C1 modem marks a significant milestone, signaling Apple’s intent to own more of its hardware stack for optimized longevity and performance.
At $599, the 16e sits at a price sweet spot that can be appealing for buyers who want a future-proof iPhone that can handle years of software updates, solid performance, and reliable battery life. The decision hinges on trade-offs: the absence of MagSafe and ultrawide cameras, a smaller sensor in the main camera, and a 60Hz display instead of a higher refresh-rate panel. If those omissions don’t weigh heavily for you, the 16e offers a compelling value proposition—an iPhone that prioritizes longevity and dependable everyday use while delivering the latest silicon and a credible – and evolving – software experience.
For buyers weighing options, the best approach is to assess your priorities against the 16e’s strengths and weaknesses. If you can secure an iPhone 15 Pro at a similar price or find a non-Pro iPhone with MagSafe within reach, those alternatives could offer a more robust photography toolkit or ecosystem compatibility. If your aim is a budget-conscious iPhone that remains current for years to come, with solid performance and a clean, modern design, the iPhone 16e deserves careful consideration as a practical endpoint in Apple’s evolving lineup.
