Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) vs Nokia XR21 5G
The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is the budget option here, offering a compact design and a powerful A15 chip. However, if you're after durability and better specs for daily use, the Nokia XR21 5G stands out with its impressive features. The Nokia brings a 6.49-inch display that’s perfect for streaming and gaming, while the iPhone SE's 4.7-inch screen feels cramped in comparison. Key specs: Display: 4.7" vs 6.49" and Refresh: 60 Hz vs 120 Hz.
Why compare these? The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) (budget-friendly) and Nokia XR21 5G (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.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Apple iPhone | Nokia XR21 |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.5★ (225 reviews) | 3.5★ (60 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem | Certified IP69K rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets) |
| Main Drawback | Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels | Removed wireless charging (The older XR20 had 15W wireless) |
| 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)
Nokia XR21 5G
Android
3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
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 Nokia XR21 5G
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Nokia XR21 5G
| Criterion | Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) | Nokia XR21 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(225)Best Buy | ★3.5(60)Amazon |
Operating System | iOS | Android |
Software Support | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022) | 3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023) |
Processor | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) |
Graphics | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) | Adreno 619 |
RAM | 4GB | 6GB |
Storage | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe | 128GB UFS 2.1 (Non-expandable) |
Display Size | 4.7" | 6.49" |
Screen Type | Retina HD LCD (IPS) | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 550 nits (Sunlight Boost), Wet Hands/Glove Support |
Resolution | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) | 2400 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 625 nits (Typical) | 450 nits (Typical) / 550 nits (High Brightness Mode) |
Main Camera | 12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x | 64MP, f/1.8, PDAF, Dual-LED Flash |
Ultra-Wide Camera | No (Not supported) | 8MP, f/2.2, 112-degree FOV, Fixed Focus |
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 | 1080p @ 30/60fps (Chipset limitation) |
Front Camera | 7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps | 16MP, f/2.4 |
Battery | 2,018mAh (Approximate) | 4,800mAh (Non-removable) |
Wired Charging | 20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning | 33W Fast Charging (QC3.0 / PD 2.0 compatible) |
Wireless Charging | 7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment) | No (Not supported) — *Note: Downgrade from Nokia XR20* |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, GNSS (L1+L5) |
USB | Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds) | USB Type-C 2.0 (OTG) |
Durability | IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Ion-strengthened glass | IP68/IP69K (High Temp/Pressure Jets); MIL-STD-810H; Corning Gorilla Glass Victus |
Dimensions | 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) | 6.61 x 3.09 x 0.41 in (168.0 x 78.6 x 10.5 mm) |
Weight | 5.09 oz (144 g) | 8.15 oz (231 g) |
Biometrics | Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor in Home button) | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock |
Extras | Stereo speakers, Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Dual eSIM support | Two Programmable Buttons (Top Emergency/Side Quick Access), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Dual Stereo Speakers (96dB) |
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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
Nokia XR21 5G
Android
3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of monthly security updates (from global launch in May 2023)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm)
Adreno 619
6GB
128GB UFS 2.1 (Non-expandable)
Pros
- Certified IP69K rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets)
- Guaranteed 3 OS updates and 4 years of monthly security patches
Cons
- Removed wireless charging (The older XR20 had 15W wireless)
- Removed microSD card slot (The older XR20 had expandable storage)
Which one is better?
Grab the iPhone SE if you want a lighter phone with classic iPhone features and a compact size.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) if: you want a lightweight phone at 5.09oz, prefer a classic design with Touch ID, or need a solid introduction to the iPhone ecosystem.
Choose the Nokia XR21 5G if: you need a durable phone with IP69K rating, want a larger 6.49" display for gaming, or need a longer-lasting 4800mAh battery.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.5★ vs 3.5★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 225 reviews vs 60
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Nokia XR21
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Conclusion
With the key differences outlined, the decision should be clearer. Both options deliver quality—choose the one that fits your priorities.
Bottom line: The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) edges ahead with a 4.5★ rating compared to 3.5★. However, Nokia XR21 5G remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) or Nokia XR21 5G?
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is the better choice if you prioritize most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Nokia XR21 5G wins if you value certified ip69k rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets). Both are rated highly (4.5★ vs 3.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) and Nokia XR21 5G?
Key differences: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) offers most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem, while Nokia XR21 5G stands out with certified ip69k rating (withstands high-pressure/high-temp steam jets). Consider that Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) dated design with thick top and bottom bezels. Meanwhile, Nokia XR21 5G removed wireless charging (the older xr20 had 15w wireless). 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.
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