Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) vs Motorola razr (2023)
The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is the budget option here, but it packs a punch with its A15 Bionic chip. Key specs: Display: 4.7" vs 6.9" and Refresh: 60 Hz vs 144 Hz.
Why compare these? The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (budget-friendly) and Motorola razr (2023) (mid-range) represent different approaches to smartphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Apple iPhone | Motorola razr |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.5★ (225 reviews) | 4.3★ (513 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem | Most accessible price point for a new foldable phone in the US |
| Main Drawback | Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels | External display (1.5") is tiny and only useful for basic notifications (unlike Razr+) |
| Market Position | Budget | ✓Mid-range |
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
Motorola razr (2023)
Android
3 Android OS upgrades and 4 years of bi-monthly security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 (4nm)
Adreno 644
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) vs Motorola razr (2023)
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Motorola razr (2023)
| Criterion | Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) | Motorola razr (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(225)Best Buy | ★4.3(513)Best Buy |
Operating System | iOS | Android |
Software Support | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022) | 3 Android OS upgrades and 4 years of bi-monthly security updates |
Processor | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 (4nm) |
Graphics | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) | Adreno 644 |
RAM | 4GB | 8GB LPDDR4X |
Storage | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe | 128GB UFS 2.2 (Non-expandable) |
Display Size | 4.7" | Main: 6.9" / External: 1.5" |
Screen Type | Retina HD LCD (IPS) | Main: FHD+ pOLED, LTPO, 144Hz / External: OLED, 60Hz |
Resolution | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) | Main: 2640 x 1080 (413 ppi) / External: 194 x 368 (282 ppi) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz | Main: Up to 144Hz / External: 60Hz |
Peak Brightness | 625 nits (Typical) | 1,400 nits (Main Peak) / 1,000 nits (External Peak) |
Main Camera | 12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x | 64MP, f/1.7, 0.7µm, OIS, Laser AF (Quad Pixel to 16MP) |
Ultra-Wide Camera | No (Not supported) | 13MP, f/2.2, 120-degree FOV, Macro Vision |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 5x | Up to 8x |
Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps; 1080p @ 60fps; Slo-mo 1080p @ 240fps | 4K UHD @ 30fps; 1080p @ 30/60fps |
Front Camera | 7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps | 32MP, f/2.4, 0.7µm (Quad Pixel to 8MP) |
Battery | 2,018mAh (Approximate) | 4,200mAh (Non-removable) |
Wired Charging | 20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning | 30W TurboPower (Charger NOT included in US retail box) |
Wireless Charging | 7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment) | 5W Wireless Charging |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC | 5G (Sub-6/mmWave - Carrier Dependent), Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC |
USB | Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds) | USB Type-C 2.0 |
Durability | IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Ion-strengthened glass | IP52 (Water-repellent coating - Splash Resistant only) |
Dimensions | 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) | Open: 6.73 x 2.91 x 0.29 in (170.8 x 74.0 x 7.35 mm) / Closed: 3.47 x 2.91 x 0.62 in |
Weight | 5.09 oz (144 g) | 6.65 oz (188.6 g) |
Biometrics | Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor in Home button) | Side-mounted fingerprint reader, Face Unlock |
Extras | Stereo speakers, Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Dual eSIM support | Vegan Leather finish, Stereo Speakers (Dolby Atmos), Ready For (Wireless only) |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. | Check Price on Amazon→ | Check Price on Amazon→ |
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
4GB
64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe
Pros
- Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem
- Compact and lightweight design is easy to use with one hand
Cons
- Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels
- Small 4.7-inch LCD screen lacks the vibrancy of OLED competitors
Motorola razr (2023)
Android
3 Android OS upgrades and 4 years of bi-monthly security updates
Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 (4nm)
Adreno 644
8GB LPDDR4X
128GB UFS 2.2 (Non-expandable)
Pros
- Most accessible price point for a new foldable phone in the US
- Battery life (4,200mAh) exceeds that of the premium Razr+ and Galaxy Z Flip5
Cons
- External display (1.5") is tiny and only useful for basic notifications (unlike Razr+)
- Charger is NOT included in the box (unlike previous Moto G phones)
Which one is better?
Key specs: Display: 4.7" vs 6.9" and Refresh: 60 Hz vs 144 Hz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) if: you want a lightweight phone at 5.09oz, prefer a compact design for one-handed use, or value a classic interface with Touch ID.
Choose the Motorola razr (2023) if: you need a larger display at 6.9", require a battery that lasts all day, or want a foldable phone that offers a premium feel.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.5★ vs 4.3★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 513 reviews vs 225
→ Choose Motorola razr
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Motorola razr
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Bottom line: The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) edges ahead with a 4.5★ rating compared to 4.3★. However, Motorola razr (2023) remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) or Motorola razr (2023)?
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is the better choice if you prioritize most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Motorola razr (2023) wins if you value most accessible price point for a new foldable phone in the us. Both are rated highly (4.5★ vs 4.3★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) and Motorola razr (2023)?
Key differences: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) offers most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem, while Motorola razr (2023) stands out with most accessible price point for a new foldable phone in the us. Consider that Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) dated design with thick top and bottom bezels. Meanwhile, Motorola razr (2023) external display (1.5") is tiny and only useful for basic notifications (unlike razr+). Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 27, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
Affiliate disclosure
PageBen uses Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This supports independent content for US shoppers.