iPhone 16E Review: Is It Worth Buying?

If you're using an older iPhone like the SE or iPhone 11, the 16E offers a solid upgrade in every area, from camera quality to battery life-though you might miss the ultrawide camera. It’s also a great choice for Android users considering a switch to Apple.

The iPhone 16E is a good option for those, especially teens or adults, who aren’t seeking the latest tech, especially if their current iPhone is a few years old.

Between the 16E and iPhone 15, I’d go with the 16E, provided you’re okay without the Dynamic Island, ultrawide camera, and MagSafe. The 16E’s A18 processor ensures longer support compared to the iPhone 15’s older A16 chip, which dates back to the iPhone 14 Pro in 2022.

Choosing between the iPhone 16 and 16E is trickier. If your budget allows, the iPhone 16 offers a brighter display, MagSafe, and an ultrawide camera that doubles as a macro lens, perfect for close-up shots like food.

If you’re debating whether to buy the 16E now or wait for the iPhone 17, the answer is not so clear. Even if the iPhone 17 were available today, it's a different device aimed at a different user than the 16E, which Apple markets as the value option. Personally, I wouldn’t wait six months for a new model.

iPhone 16E Design

The iPhone 16E features a familiar flat-sided design since the iPhone 12, with a sleek matte glass back that feels premium. There’s no camera bump, and the single lens gives the black 16E a striking, minimalist look.

The 6.1-inch display mirrors the iPhone 14’s, featuring an old-school notch for the selfie camera and FaceID. While the notch didn’t bother me, I did miss the Dynamic Island for seeing background activities like timers. But if you’re coming from an older iPhone without it, you won’t miss it.

The screen performs well, even outdoors. However, I wish the 16E had a higher refresh rate like ProMotion, which many Android phones at this price offer. But for better screen performance, you can opt for the iPhone 16 Pro.

The 16E lacks MagSafe, but if you’ve never had it, you likely won’t miss it. However, in a household with MagSafe users, it might be a bit inconvenient. Expect accessory makers to offer cases with magnets for compatibility.

iPhone 16E Cameras

The iPhone 16E sports a single 48MP rear camera. While it doesn’t have multiple lenses, this setup delivers sharp, well-balanced photos with good dynamic range, even in night mode. For simple snapshots, selfies, or quick videos for social media, it’s excellent.

The iPhone 16 offers more versatility with its second ultrawide camera, and the 16 Pro takes even better photos, but for most users, the 16E’s camera is more than enough.

Modem and 5G Performance

The iPhone 16E introduces Apple’s first custom modem, which ensures clear phone calls and smooth video calls over 5G. It delivers fast 5G speeds, allowing quick app downloads and seamless streaming.

In side-by-side tests with the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the 16E’s download speeds were a bit slower, but its upload speeds were actually faster, making it ideal for posting to social media and video calls.

Battery and Performance

The iPhone 16E’s battery is impressive. Even with heavy use, it lasts a full day and possibly more. It charges quickly, reaching 59% in just 30 minutes with a 30W charger.

Powered by the A18 chip, the 16E delivers strong performance for gaming, video editing, and running Apple’s AI tools. It scores well in benchmarks, though the iPhone 16 has an edge with its additional GPU core.

The 16E is a solid entry into Apple’s ecosystem, offering smooth iOS 18 performance, home screen customization, and essential features like satellite support for emergencies.

Final Thoughts

At $600, the iPhone 16E offers great value. Look for carrier deals or trade-ins to lower the price further. Even at this price, cutting features to reach a $500 version would have meant more compromises. The 16E will likely still hold its value even after the iPhone 17 release.