Samsung Galaxy A15 5G vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
In contrast, if you want to step into the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) offers the powerful A15 Bionic chip in a compact 4.7" size. Key specs: Display: 6.5" vs 4.7" and Refresh: 90 Hz vs 60 Hz.
Why compare these? Both the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) 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 | Samsung Galaxy | Apple iPhone |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | 4.4★ (950 reviews) | ✓4.5★ (225 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Unmatched software support in budget class (4 OS updates) | Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem |
| Main Drawback | No official IP rating for water/dust resistance | Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels |
| Market Position | Budget | Budget |
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Android
4 years of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates
MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm octa-core)
Mali-G57 MC2
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
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: Samsung Galaxy A15 5G vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
| Criterion | Samsung Galaxy A15 5G | Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(950)Best Buy | ★4.5(225)Best Buy |
Operating System | Android | iOS |
Software Support | 4 years of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022) |
Processor | MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm octa-core) | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) |
Graphics | Mali-G57 MC2 | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) |
RAM | 4GB (Common US config) | 4GB |
Storage | 128GB (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB) | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe |
Display Size | 6.5" | 4.7" |
Screen Type | Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM) | Retina HD LCD (IPS) |
Resolution | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) |
Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz |
Peak Brightness | 800 nits (High Brightness Mode) | 625 nits (Typical) |
Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, AF | 12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 5MP, f/2.2 | No (Not supported) |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) — Includes 2MP Macro f/2.4 | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 10x | Up to 5x |
Video Recording | 1080p @ 30fps | 4K @ 60fps; 1080p @ 60fps; Slo-mo 1080p @ 240fps |
Front Camera | 13MP, f/2.0 | 7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps |
Battery | 5,000mAh (Typical) | 2,018mAh (Approximate) |
Wired Charging | 25W Super Fast Charging | 20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning |
Wireless Charging | No (Not supported) | 7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC | 5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC |
USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds) |
Durability | No official IP rating (Plastic frame/back) | IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Ion-strengthened glass |
Dimensions | 6.30 x 3.02 x 0.33 in (160.1 x 76.8 x 8.4 mm) | 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) |
Weight | 7.05 oz (200 g) | 5.09 oz (144 g) |
Biometrics | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock | Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor in Home button) |
Extras | 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Samsung Knox Vault, microSD slot | Stereo speakers, Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Dual eSIM support |
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Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
Android
4 years of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates
MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm octa-core)
Mali-G57 MC2
4GB (Common US config)
128GB (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB)
Pros
- Unmatched software support in budget class (4 OS updates)
- Vibrant Super AMOLED display (rare at this price point)
Cons
- No official IP rating for water/dust resistance
- Charging adapter not included in the box
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
Which one is better?
Grab the iPhone SE if you want a lightweight design and access to the iOS ecosystem - it's lighter.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Samsung Galaxy A15 5G if: you need a vibrant display for streaming, prioritize long battery life for travel, or want expandable storage up to 1TB.
Choose the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) if: you prefer a compact design for one-handed use, want flagship performance with the A15 chip, or need a water-resistant phone with an IP67 rating.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.5★ vs 4.4★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Apple iPhone
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 950 reviews vs 225
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Unmatched software support Priority
Unmatched software support in budget class (4 OS updates)
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Most affordable entry Priority
Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem
→ 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) leads with a 4.5★ rating versus 4.4★. That said, Samsung Galaxy A15 5G could still be the right pick depending on your specific priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Samsung Galaxy A15 5G or Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G is the better choice if you prioritize unmatched software support in budget class (4 os updates). Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) wins if you value most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Both are rated highly (4.4★ vs 4.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Samsung Galaxy A15 5G and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)?
Key differences: Samsung Galaxy A15 5G offers unmatched software support in budget class (4 os updates), while Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) stands out with most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Consider that Samsung Galaxy A15 5G no official ip rating for water/dust resistance. Meanwhile, Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) dated design with thick top and bottom bezels. 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.