Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) vs TCL 50 XL 5G
You'd expect the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) to dominate. In real-world use, the TCL 50 XL 5G's features, like its 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling, can make a big difference for daily tasks. However, if you want the Apple ecosystem and longevity with regular updates, the iPhone SE's 5G capability and IP67 water resistance might sway you back to Apple’s side. Key specs: Display: 4.7" vs 6.78" and Refresh: 60 Hz vs 120 Hz.
Why compare these? Both the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) and TCL 50 XL 5G are budget-friendly smartphones competing in the same market segment. This makes them direct rivals for buyers looking for budget-friendly features and performance in 2026. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right one for your specific needs.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Apple iPhone | TCL 50 |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.5★ (225 reviews) | 4.1★ (19 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem | Huge 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz display is rare for this price |
| Main Drawback | Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels | Ultrawide camera is low resolution (5MP) and muddy |
| Market Position | Budget | Budget |
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
TCL 50 XL 5G
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 15) and 2 years of security updates
MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm octa-core)
Mali-G57 MC2
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.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) vs TCL 50 XL 5G
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
TCL 50 XL 5G
| Criterion | Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) | TCL 50 XL 5G |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.5(225)Best Buy | ★4.1(19)Amazon |
Operating System | iOS | Android |
Software Support | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022) | 1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 15) and 2 years of security updates |
Processor | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm octa-core) |
Graphics | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) | Mali-G57 MC2 |
RAM | 4GB | 6GB (Plus up to 6GB Virtual RAM Expansion) |
Storage | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe | 128GB (Expandable via microSDXC up to 2TB) |
Display Size | 4.7" | 6.78" |
Screen Type | Retina HD LCD (IPS) | IPS LCD, 120Hz, NXTVISION Technology |
Resolution | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) | 2460 x 1080 (FHD+) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz (Adaptive) |
Peak Brightness | 625 nits (Typical) | 500 nits (Typical) / 550 nits (HBM) |
Main Camera | 12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x | 50MP, f/1.8, PDAF (1/2.76" sensor) |
Ultra-Wide Camera | No (Not supported) | 5MP, f/2.2, 115-degree FOV |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) — Includes 2MP Depth Sensor f/2.4 |
Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 5x | Up to 10x |
Video Recording | 4K @ 60fps; 1080p @ 60fps; Slo-mo 1080p @ 240fps | 1080p @ 30fps |
Front Camera | 7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps | 8MP, f/2.0, 1080p @ 30fps |
Battery | 2,018mAh (Approximate) | 5,010mAh (Typical) |
Wired Charging | 20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning | 18W Fast Charging (Charger included in box) |
Wireless Charging | 7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment) | No (Not supported) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), 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 | No official IP rating |
Dimensions | 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) | 6.60 x 2.97 x 0.32 in (167.6 x 75.5 x 8.2 mm) |
Weight | 5.09 oz (144 g) | 6.88 oz (195 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 | Stereo speakers (DTS Sound), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, microSD slot, 18W Charger included |
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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
TCL 50 XL 5G
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 15) and 2 years of security updates
MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm octa-core)
Mali-G57 MC2
6GB (Plus up to 6GB Virtual RAM Expansion)
128GB (Expandable via microSDXC up to 2TB)
Pros
- Huge 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz display is rare for this price
- Includes 18W charger, cable, and sometimes a case in the box
Cons
- Ultrawide camera is low resolution (5MP) and muddy
- No official IP rating for water or dust resistance
Which one is better?
Grab the iPhone SE if you prefer iOS and need a compact device - it’s lighter at 5.09oz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) if: you value a compact design for one-handed use, prefer iOS and its app ecosystem, or want better water resistance with IP67.
Choose the TCL 50 XL 5G if: you need a massive screen for gaming or videos, prioritize battery life for long trips, or want a more affordable phone with expandable storage. (6.78" display, 120 Hz refresh)
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.5★ vs 4.1★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 225 reviews vs 19
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Most affordable entry Priority
Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Huge 6.78-inch FHD+ Priority
Huge 6.78-inch FHD+ 120Hz display is rare for this price
→ Choose TCL 50
Conclusion
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) and TCL 50 XL 5G are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Bottom line: The Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) edges ahead with a 4.5★ rating compared to 4.1★. However, TCL 50 XL 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 TCL 50 XL 5G?
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is the better choice if you prioritize most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. TCL 50 XL 5G wins if you value huge 6.78-inch fhd+ 120hz display is rare for this price. Both are rated highly (4.5★ vs 4.1★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) and TCL 50 XL 5G?
Key differences: Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) offers most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem, while TCL 50 XL 5G stands out with huge 6.78-inch fhd+ 120hz display is rare for this price. Consider that Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) dated design with thick top and bottom bezels. Meanwhile, TCL 50 XL 5G ultrawide camera is low resolution (5mp) and muddy. 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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