Comparing Redmi 15’s power with Apple’s compact premium

The Redmi 15 and the upcoming iPhone SE 4 represent two very different worlds — one built for maximum value, the other for refined performance. UK buyers deciding between the two are essentially choosing between affordability and long-term polish. Both aim to deliver more than their price suggests, but their strengths lie in completely separate areas.

The Redmi 15 is designed to deliver everything a user needs at a fraction of flagship cost. It offers a large 6.9-inch Full HD+ display with a smooth 144Hz refresh rate and an efficient Snapdragon 685 processor. Its standout feature remains the massive 7,000mAh battery paired with 33W charging, capable of lasting nearly two full days under regular UK use.

By contrast, the iPhone SE 4, expected to launch in 2025, will likely continue Apple’s philosophy of compact performance. Leaks suggest a 6.1-inch OLED display, Apple’s latest A18 chip, and a 48MP main camera — features placing it closer to flagship territory than budget range. The new design and USB-C charging bring it in line with Apple’s current standards, making it a more rounded upgrade from the older SE models.

Performance is where these two phones truly separate. The Redmi 15 handles multitasking, streaming, and casual gaming well, but the iPhone SE 4’s A18 chip will deliver flagship-level power and longevity. For users who keep their phones for several years, Apple’s extended software updates make the SE 4 a better long-term investment.

In display quality, the Redmi 15’s LCD panel is bright and smooth, ideal for media consumption, while the iPhone SE 4’s OLED technology provides deeper blacks and more vivid contrast. For everyday use, both perform well, but the SE 4 will likely offer more premium colour accuracy and sharpness.

Cameras also differ significantly. The Redmi 15’s 50MP setup produces solid daylight photos, while the iPhone SE 4 is expected to deliver far better image processing and low-light performance. For users who value quick, consistent photography, Apple’s software tuning still leads.

Battery endurance, however, belongs to Redmi. The iPhone SE 4’s compact design limits battery capacity, and while Apple’s optimisation helps, it won’t match the Redmi 15’s two-day life. For heavy users who rely on long screen time, the Redmi offers a more practical solution.

Price will be the deciding factor for many UK buyers. The Redmi 15 is priced around £159, making it one of the best-value phones available. The iPhone SE 4, meanwhile, is expected to start around £500, positioning it as an affordable flagship rather than a budget phone. The gap reflects Apple’s brand premium but also the long-term performance advantage.

For users focused on durability, large screens, and long battery life, the Redmi 15 stands as an unbeatable deal. It’s ideal for students, professionals, and anyone wanting dependable power at a low cost. Those seeking smoother performance, better cameras, and a premium ecosystem experience will find the iPhone SE 4 worth the investment.

In the end, it comes down to lifestyle. The Redmi 15 wins on practicality, endurance, and affordability, while the iPhone SE 4 excels in polish, software, and longevity. If you value value-for-money above all, choose Redmi. If you’re after refinement and future-proof performance, the iPhone SE 4 is the smarter pick.