Sun Mar 09 09:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Apple’s iPhone 16e: A Solid Budget Option, But With Trade-offs

**New York, NY** – Consumer Reports has released a first look review of Apple’s new budget iPhone, the iPhone 16e. Priced at $600 for the 128GB version, the 16e replaces the iPhone SE and offers a compelling option for consumers seeking a quality smartphone without premium features.

While lacking some high-end features found in Apple’s flagship models, like the ultrawide camera, MagSafe charging, and Dynamic Island, the 16e boasts a 6.1-inch OLED display, the latest A18 chip, and USB-C charging. It also includes Apple’s new Intelligence features, currently being rolled out via iOS 18 updates.

Consumer Reports writer Courtney Lindwall spent a weekend testing the device, praising its crisp, colorful photos and generally impressive performance for everyday tasks like scrolling, streaming, and texting. While the single 48-megapixel rear camera (saving as 24MP images) lacks the versatility of the Pro models’ multiple lenses, Lindwall found the image quality to be surprisingly good. She noted the absence of an ultrawide camera limits macro shots and expansive wide-angle photography. Video recording capabilities are also slightly pared down, omitting Cinematic and Action modes.

The 16e’s battery life is claimed to surpass other 6.1-inch iPhones and offer a significant improvement over the iPhone SE, although Consumer Reports’ official lab tests are still pending. The inclusion of the Action Button, offering quick access to customizable tools, is a welcome addition, while the absence of MagSafe charging may be a deterrent for some users.

Lindwall concludes that the iPhone 16e is an excellent choice for users upgrading from older iPhones, providing a significant improvement in performance and features at a budget-friendly price. However, consumers prioritizing cutting-edge camera systems or specific features like MagSafe should consider Apple’s higher-priced models. A full Consumer Reports review with lab test results will be available to members in the coming weeks.

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