iPhone 16e: Dim Display Disappoints

iPhone 16e Display Issues

In the laboratory tests we did during our apple iphone 16e testimonial, its OLED display reached just 791 nits of top brightness at 20% APL (Ordinary Photo Level). For context, that’s not simply below average– it’s without a doubt the dimmest display we’ve tested on any phone at this cost in 2025.

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BOE’s panel ASP (typical asking price) is reportedly located strongly, and while that may benefit Apple’s margins, it does not necessarily benefit the individual. We don’t understand yet if the dark display is due to panel limitations, adjusting decisions, or both– yet it’s hard to disregard the reality that this Very Retina XDR display behaves even more like a spending plan panel than what Apple’s branding suggests.

So, if you’re considering the apple iphone 16e, ask on your own: exactly how typically do you utilize your phone outside? If the answer is “a lot,” then it is except you and you must probably think about one of the choices. That, or opt for a second-hand/refurbished older front runner iPhone design.

BOE Impact on Brightness

The most likely factor for the frustrating brightness lies in the provider. Apple has selected BOE Modern technology, China’s biggest OLED panel vendor, as the lead provider of flexible LTPS OLED display screens for the iPhone 16e. BOE managed to safeguard this major style win over Samsung Display and LG Display– and while that’s a huge organization landmark for BOE, it’s feasible we’re seeing the consequences in real-world efficiency.

At the greater cost of $600, the iPhone 16e changed the aging iPhone SE as Apple’s entry-level model. It includes a modern layout, an effective A18 chip, a more capable video camera, and support for Apple Intelligence.

Outdoor Usability Concerns

In straight sunlight, the iPhone 16e is challenging to check out. Framing shots, reading messages, or navigating with Maps ends up being a frustrating experience in anything brighter than overcast daytime.

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Surprisingly, the iPhone 16e additionally includes a Super Retina XDR display, which is Apple’s premium branding for its OLED display screens used across the schedule. Yet plainly, not all “Super Retina XDR” panels are developed equal.

In straight sunlight, the apple iphone 16e is difficult to check out. Apple has actually selected BOE Technology, China’s greatest OLED panel supplier, as the lead supplier of versatile LTPS OLED screens for the iPhone 16e. BOE managed to safeguard this major style win over Samsung Display and LG Present– and while that’s a big company landmark for BOE, it’s feasible we’re seeing the repercussions in real-world performance.

I am a guy that appreciates the outdoorsy life. I trek a great deal and I have actually had phones with inadequate screen brightness while on a path– it’s not fun. Any time I want to check or use the electronic camera navigation it is a fight to figure things out, which is specifically a trouble thinking about how complicated trail navigating apps can be.

iPhone 16e: Key Caveats

But there are several caveats regarding the 16e that make it a questionable acquisition decision. The AI capacities are seriously delaying behind those on phones from Samsung and Google, and that will possibly proceed right into next year. Second, while the cam is capable, it is still simply a single video camera.

The iPhone 16e might have been the no-compromise spending plan apple iphone– a real substitute for the SE that does not feel like an action down. But in the existing market, we have $500 Android phones shipping with display screens that equal in 2014’s flagships, so Apple’s decision to ship a display that maxes out under 800 nits with a 60Hz refresh price feels unreasonable and inadequately computed.

Nonetheless, also laid-back users deserve a display that satisfies modern-day requirements. Especially at this cost. For instance, I can quickly recommend to my father– that doesn’t require much from a phone– a phone with a single electronic camera, however I would not advise him one that comes with poor screen illumination.

Better Alternatives Exist

The Pixel 9a, OnePlus 13R, and Galaxy S24 FE all offer 120Hz OLED presents with vivid shades and greater resolutions. They’re simpler on the eyes, smoother to scroll, and much more receptive in video games and applications. The 16e simply can not keep up.

If you’re taking into consideration the iPhone 16e, ask on your own: just how usually do you utilize your phone outside? That, or go for a second-hand/refurbished older front runner iPhone version.

The iPhone 16e’s screen is shockingly dim. In a market where almost every mid-range competitor is pushing for far better display screens, Apple has made use of a panel that falls drastically behind the curve in among the most important use groups.

Google’s latest mid-range alternative, the Pixel 9a, is currently available at its market price without any discounts at Amazon. You can acquire the phone with a $100 Gift Card, but you don’t get a cost cut on that package, either.