With the release of the iPhone 16e in 2025, the launch of the iPhone SE (4th generation) remains uncertain, leaving many disappointed.
For iPhone SE (3rd generation) users, what are the available upgrade options? Should they consider purchasing another iPhone SE 3, or would switching to a different smartphone be a better choice?
This time, we compared it with the SHARP AQUOS sense9, a popular Android smartphone. Could the AQUOS sense9 be a viable upgrade for iPhone SE (3rd generation) users? Let’s find out.
Compare the iPhone SE (3nd generation) vs AQUOS sense9 Body and Display at Actual Size
First, let's compare the two devices side by side. While the sense9 has been downsized compared to previous sense series models, it is still noticeably larger than the iPhone SE3.
As smartphones continue to grow in size due to market trends, it’s important to consider how much of an increase in size is acceptable. Instead of simply rejecting larger phones, let's evaluate whether the size difference remains manageable.
The AQUOS sense9 features a large display with evenly spaced bezels. The front camera is housed in a punch-hole design, making it less intrusive. Compared to the iPhone SE3, the sense9 offers a significantly larger display area.
Additionally, while the iPhone SE3 uses an LCD screen, the sense9 boasts an OLED display with vivid contrast, higher resolution, and improved refresh rate and brightness. As a SHARP product known for display quality, the sense9 ensures a highly satisfying viewing experience for those switching from the iPhone SE3.
In terms of weight, the sense9 is about 22 grams heavier, which is noticeable but still within an acceptable range.
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iPhone SE (3nd generation)MTT MOMOCO78% 13:50AnTuTu ver9iPhone SE (3nd generation)
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AQUOS sense9MTT MOMOCO78% 13:50AnTuTu ver10AQUOS sense9
Compare iPhone SE (3nd generation) vs AQUOS sense9 in a Specifications Chart
When it comes to cameras, the iPhone SE3 features a single 12MP camera, whereas the sense9 is equipped with a dual-camera system, consisting of a wide and ultra-wide lens, both at 50MP. The front camera on the iPhone SE3 is 7MP, while the sense9 offers a significantly higher 32MP, allowing for more detailed selfies. Overall, the sense9 provides a more advanced camera experience.
In terms of water and dust resistance, the iPhone SE3 is rated IP67, whereas the sense9 offers a higher IP68 rating. Both devices support eSIM and mobile payment features.
While the iPhone SE3 has a slight edge in processing speed, the difference is not significant in everyday use.
iPhone SE (3nd generation) | AQUOS sense9 | |
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Manufacturer | Apple | SHARP |
Release Date | ||
Screen Size | 4.7 inch | 6.1 inch |
Resolution | 750 x 1,334 | 1,080 x 2,340 |
Display Details | Retina HD LCD | Pro IGZO OLED |
Max Refresh Rate | 60 Hz | 240 Hz |
Max Brightness | 625 nits | 2000 nits |
Body Size | 67.3mm x 138.4mm x 7.3mm | 73mm x 149mm x 8.9mm |
Weight | 144 g | 166 g |
Processor | Apple A15 Bionic | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 2.4GHz + 1.95GHz octa core |
OS | iOS 15 | Android 14 |
Main camera 1 | 12-megapixel(f/1.8) | 50-megapixel(f/1.9) |
Main camera 1 details | 84°, OIS, 1/1.55", 23mm | |
Main camera 2 | 50-megapixel(f/2.2) | |
Main camera 2 details | super wide angle 122°, 1/2.5", 13mm | |
Main camera 3 | ||
Main camera 3 details | ||
Main camera 4 | ||
Main camera 4 details | ||
Main camera 5 | ||
Main camera 5 details | ||
Sub camera 1 | 7-megapixel(f/2.2) | 32-megapixel(f/2.2) |
Sub camera 1 details | 78°, 25mm | |
Sub camera 2 | ||
Sub camera 2 details | ||
Battery | 5,000 mAh | |
Video playback time | 15 hours | |
RAM(GB) | 6 G | |
ROM(GB) | 64 G | 128 G |
Antutu | 732,000 ver9 | 601,000 ver10 |
Water resistance | IPX7 | IPX5/IPX8 |
Dust resistance | IP6X | IP6X |
SIM | dual SIM(nano-SIM,eSIM)dual eSIM | DSDV nanoSIM/eSIM |
NFC | Felica | Felica |
In the end, which is better, iPhone SE (3nd generation) vs AQUOS sense9?
There is an almost three-year gap between the release of the iPhone SE3 and the sense9. Given how rapidly smartphone technology evolves, the newer design and hardware of the sense9 provide a distinct advantage.
The sense9 maintains a reasonable price while delivering high-quality features, aligning with the concept of the iPhone SE. If users can accept the larger size, the sense9 stands out as one of the best alternatives to the iPhone SE in 2025.
Let's Compare iPhone SE (3nd generation) vs AQUOS sense9 in More Detail
We recommend comparing the iPhone SE (3nd generation) vs AQUOS sense9 in more detail through the following link and making an informed purchase decision.
Compare the screen of iPhone SE (3nd generation) vs AQUOS sense9 with animation.
Compare the Antutu scores of iPhone SE (3nd generation) vs AQUOS sense9 in a graph.
Compare the weight of iPhone SE (3nd generation) vs AQUOS sense9 in a graph.
Compare the thickness and slimness of iPhone SE (3nd generation) vs AQUOS sense9 in a graph.