Should You Buy the iPhone 16e? A Smart Purchase or a Gimmick?
iPhone 16e has been launched and it is advertised as most affordable iPhone having all latest features & built in Apple intelligence. But is it worth buying product at ₹ 59,900, let’s find out about the new special edition iPhone in detail and conclude whether it is a smart buy or just a gimmick!
In today’s era, smartphones have become an important part of our lives. Every year, phones coming in the market with new models and features entice consumers. In such a situation, Apple’s new iPhone 16e is also a big topic of discussion as it launched by Apple for those who can’t afford their flagship smartphones. The company launched it on Feb 19, 2025 and advertised it as the affordable and budget-friendly phone. But is it truly an affordable iPhone? Let’s crack it below:
Features of iPhone 16e
iPhone 16e is considered to be one of the newly launched phones of Apple. This phone has brought many new features compared to iPhone 15 and iPhone 14. First of all, let’s talk about its processor. iPhone 16e has Apple’s new A18 chipset, which is more powerful and energy efficient than the A16 and A15 Bionic chipsets of previous models. This chipset not only improves the performance of the phone but also enhances its AI capabilities. Apple has added a new feature called “Apple Intelligence” to it, which promises to give the user an even smarter experience.
In terms of display, the iPhone 16e has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, which comes with a 60Hz refresh rate. However, this display seems to be a slightly older design than the Dynamic Island Display of the iPhone 15, as it retains the notch design. Still, this phone performs quite well in terms of display quality and color accuracy.
In the camera section, the iPhone 16e has a single 48MP main camera, which is much better than the 12MP camera of the iPhone 14. But if we compare the iPhone 15 which comes loaded with dual camera setup (a 48MP main camera alongside a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens) wins the race and offers a broader range of photographic possibilities.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the iPhone 16e comes with sharp edges like the iPhone 14, which is different from the rounded edges of the iPhone 15. This phone has an action button, which helps users to quickly complete some specific tasks. However, the iPhone 15 has a dynamic island feature, which helps in managing notifications and activities and looks premium & trendy. Therefore, the iPhone 16e may seem a bit old to some users in terms of design.
Battery and Performance
Battery life has been improved a lot in the iPhone 16e. Apple claims that the battery of this phone lasts longer than previous models. Also, with the help of A18 chipset, the performance of the phone is also very smooth. This phone performs very well in gaming, multitasking and using heavy apps.
Price and value for money
The iPhone 16e price starts at ₹59,900 in India and this price is nearly same for iPhone 15 (128 GB variant). However, the iPhone 14 is priced lower than both phones, starting at ₹54,900. In such a situation, if you are thinking of buying the iPhone 16e, you have to decide whether it is right for you to spend extra money for new features and better performance. If you already have an iPhone 14 or iPhone 15, there is nothing special in the iPhone 16e to upgrade your old phone. However, if you are using older models and want to experience new features, then the iPhone 16e can be a good option.
Is the iPhone 16e a smart buy?
I don’t recommend to buy iPhone 16e at price of ₹59,900 and the reasons are outdated display design, single camera setup, only 2 color options and nearly same features like previous models. It seems that Apple has found a way to clear its stock and launch unsold models of iPhone 13 or iPhone 14 with new names and new prices.
iPhone 16e priced at ₹59,900 is not a value for money product and instead you can buy Apple’s iPhone 15 that offers better display design, better camera setup and 5 color options. You can get the new iPhone 15 from various online stores like Croma, Amazon, Flipkart with Credit or Debit Card discount in around ₹59,900.
Being an Android user, if you want to experience Apple ecosystem and looking for low cost iPhone then iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 are far better options than iPhone 16e as these old models of iPhone fall under range of ₹50,000 – ₹60,000 and offers better features and connectivity.
Apart from that, as recommended by many tech experts and tech Youtubers… if you can wait till September 2025, you can buy iPhone 16 in same range from various online or offline stores at discounted prices. Apple lowers the prices of previous models whenever a new iPhone is launched. Hence iPhone 16 price will be listed soon at discounted price on apple.com store when iPhone 17 will be launched in September 2025!
If you still want to buy the iPhone 16e, it’s your personal choice you can go for it and get it from the Apple official online or offline stores. You’ll get to experience its new features (Built in AI), improved battery life, and enhanced performance. Comment your opinion below and don’t forget to share!
