Apple’s iPhone SE and iPhone 15 Pro Max target different types of users—the iPhone SE is an affordable compact phone, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max is a premium flagship with cutting-edge features.

If you're deciding between these two iPhones in South Africa in 2025, this detailed guide will compare:
✅ Specifications & key differences
✅ Display, design, and performance
✅ Battery life and camera comparison
✅ Pricing in South Africa & where to buy
✅ FAQs to help you choose the right model

iPhone SE vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max: Quick Comparison Table

1. Design & Build Quality

iPhone SE (2022): Classic & Compact

The iPhone SE has the same design as the iPhone 8, featuring thick bezels and a home button with Touch ID.

✔ Small and lightweight (144g) – Great for one-handed use.
✔ Aluminum frame with a glass back – Feels premium but outdated.
✔ Limited colors – Midnight, Starlight, and (Product) Red.

iPhone 15 Pro Max: Premium & Modern

The iPhone 15 Pro Max features a titanium frame with thin bezels and a Dynamic Island display.

✔ Lighter than previous Pro Max models (221g vs. 240g in iPhone 14 Pro Max).
✔ Durable Ceramic Shield glass for better drop protection.
✔ Available in Natural Titanium, Blue Titanium, White Titanium, and Black Titanium.

???? Winner: iPhone 15 Pro Max – Premium titanium build and modern design.

2. Display Quality

iPhone SE (2022): Small but Functional

✔ 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD (1334 x 750 resolution).
✔ 60Hz refresh rate – Not as smooth as ProMotion displays.
✔ Thick bezels – Feels outdated in 2025.

iPhone 15 Pro Max: The Best iPhone Display

✔ 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED (2796 x 1290 resolution).
✔ 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate – Smoother scrolling and gaming.
✔ Always-On Display with Dynamic Island.

???? Winner: iPhone 15 Pro Max – Brighter, smoother, and larger display.

3. Performance & Hardware

iPhone SE (2022): Still Powerful for Its Price

✔ A15 Bionic Chip (Same as iPhone 13 Pro) – Fast, but not future-proof.
✔ 4GB RAM – Less than modern iPhones, but good for everyday use.
✔ Best for casual users who don’t need high-end gaming or multitasking.

iPhone 15 Pro Max: The Fastest iPhone Ever

✔ A17 Pro Chip (3nm technology) – Most powerful iPhone processor.
✔ 8GB RAM – Better multitasking and gaming performance.
✔ Ideal for gamers, creators, and power users.

???? Winner: iPhone 15 Pro Max – Future-proof and best for heavy users.

4. Camera Comparison

iPhone SE (2022): Basic But Reliable

✔ 12MP single rear camera – Good in daylight, struggles in low light.
✔ No Night Mode or Deep Fusion like newer iPhones.
✔ 7MP front camera – Decent for selfies but lacks modern AI processing.

iPhone 15 Pro Max: Professional-Grade Photography

✔ 48MP Main Camera – Captures stunning detail.
✔ 12MP Ultrawide Camera – Great for landscapes.
✔ 12MP 5x Telephoto Camera – Best for zooming without losing quality.
✔ 12MP Selfie Camera with Autofocus – Sharper and better for video calls.

???? Winner: iPhone 15 Pro Max – Professional camera system with better zoom and night mode.

5. Battery Life & Charging

iPhone SE (2022): Decent for a Small Phone

✔ 15 hours of video playback.
✔ 20W fast charging (50% in 30 min).
✔ No MagSafe charging, only standard Qi wireless charging (7.5W).

iPhone 15 Pro Max: Massive Battery

✔ 29 hours of video playback – Almost double the SE.
✔ 20W fast charging (50% in 30 min).
✔ Supports MagSafe (15W wireless charging).

???? Winner: iPhone 15 Pro Max – Best battery life on any iPhone.

6. Price in South Africa & Where to Buy

???? Both phones are available on contract at major South African mobile networks.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the iPhone 15 Pro Max worth the extra price over the iPhone SE?

✔ Yes, if you want the best camera, battery life, and display.
✔ No, if you just need a basic iPhone for calling, messaging, and light apps.

2. Does iPhone SE support 5G in South Africa?

✔ Yes, iPhone SE (2022) has 5G support on Vodacom, MTN, and Telkom.

3. Which iPhone is better for gaming?

✔ iPhone 15 Pro Max – A17 Pro chip, 120Hz display, and bigger battery.

4. Can I charge iPhone SE and iPhone 15 Pro Max with the same charger?

✔ Yes, both support 20W fast charging via USB-C to Lightning.
✔ iPhone 15 Pro Max also supports MagSafe wireless charging (15W).

5. Which iPhone is better for students?

✔ iPhone SE is the better budget option for students who just need a reliable phone.
✔ If you need a better camera and battery, consider the iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

???? Buy iPhone SE if you want an affordable, compact iPhone.
???? Buy iPhone 15 Pro Max if you want the best performance, camera, and battery.