Apple iPhone 14 Plus vs iPhone SE (3rd Gen): Which One Should You Buy?

Trying to choose between the affordable iPhone SE and the larger, feature-rich iPhone 14 Plus? These two models cater to very different audiences. The iPhone SE is Apple’s most budget-friendly offering, retaining the home button and compact form. Meanwhile, the iPhone 14 Plus is a modern powerhouse with a big display, longer battery life, and advanced camera features.

This in-depth iPhone 14 Plus vs SE comparison will help you make a smart decision based on size, performance, battery, and value.

Both phones are powered by the same A15 Bionic chip, but they represent completely different design eras. While the iPhone SE caters to those who prefer the classic iPhone look and feel, the iPhone 14 Plus delivers a more immersive and modern flagship experience. This section highlights the technical differences to help you understand the performance potential and usability at a glance.

This section explores the physical attributes of iPhone SE vs 14 Plus, helping you understand how they’ll feel in your hand and look in everyday use. From button layout to materials and colours, the design can often influence buying decisions as much as specifications.

The iPhone SE retains bezels and a home button, providing a nostalgic and straightforward experience for those coming from older models. Meanwhile, the iPhone 14 Plus is aligned with Apple’s latest aesthetic, offering a larger screen-to-body ratio, Face ID, and a durable ceramic shield front.

Camera capability is a major deciding factor for most smartphone users. This section breaks down how each model performs in photography and videography, highlighting the practical impact of single vs dual-lens setups and modern software features.

While the iPhone SE has a decent single-lens camera, it lacks many modern computational photography features. The iPhone 14 Plus, on the other hand, delivers much better low-light performance, cinematic features, and a wider field of view with its dual-camera setup.

While both phones share the same A15 chip, differences in RAM and GPU configuration lead to small but noticeable differences in real-world multitasking and gaming. The iPhone 14 Plus also has one of the best batteries in the iPhone lineup, lasting hours longer than the SE.

This section focuses on how long the phones last in daily use and how well they handle demanding apps or multi-app workflows.

This section examines software and ecosystem advantages. While both devices support iOS 17 and receive similar updates, some features are hardware-restricted. The 14 Plus benefits from Face ID, MagSafe, and better accessory integration.

The iPhone SE continues to support Touch ID, which some users prefer for ease of use, especially while wearing masks or gloves.

Cost is a major consideration, especially when both models offer strong performance. This section compares the official prices, showing what you get for the price difference.

Now that you've seen the detailed comparison, here’s a quick summary to help you decide.

Choose iPhone SE if you:

• Prefer a small, pocketable phone with a home button
  

• Are upgrading from an older iPhone and want familiarity
  

• Have a limited budget but want Apple’s performance and software
  

• Use your phone for basic apps, browsing, and communication
  

Choose iPhone 14 Plus if you:

• Want a modern, immersive display and Face ID
  

• Need a bigger screen for reading, media, and gaming
  

• Care about camera quality, video recording, and battery life
  

• Expect to keep the device for several years and use it intensively
  
  

Whether you're leaning towards the budget-friendly iPhone SE or the feature-packed iPhone 14 Plus, the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card makes both options easier to own—thanks to flexible, easy EMIs and zero upfront payment options.

No matter your choice, the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card helps make your purchase more manageable.

Benefits include:

• EMIs over 1 to 60 months
  

• Zero down payment on select models
  

• Easy EMI to help divide the cost into instalments
  

• Pan-India acceptance at Apple stores, e-commerce platforms, and retail outlets
  

• Quick digital approval
  
  

Enjoy your new iPhone the smart way — with flexible payments and zero financial stress.