Choosing between a compact iPhone and a modern Pixel isn’t easy in Bangladesh, especially when daily use matters more than spec sheets. I personally used both Apple iPhone SE (2022) and Google Pixel 8a for over a month in real Bangladeshi conditions, heat, outdoor brightness, busy networks, and mixed app usage. The iPhone SE (2022) felt faster and more responsive for long-term performance and gaming stability, while the Pixel 8a clearly delivered a better display, camera consistency, and longer software future. Price in Bangladesh is a major factor, especially since both phones are mostly available through unofficial imports.

In this comparison, I’ll share the real pricing, gaming performance, network stability, camera and display experience, and practical buying advice, all based on my hands-on use.

I visited Bashundhara City, Jamuna Future Park outlets, and checked trusted online stores like Pickaboo and Daraz listings to understand real pricing. According to MbileDokan, Apple iPhone SE (2022) launched globally in March 2022 with an official price around BDT 52,000 for the base variant. It was never widely available officially, so gray-market pricing dominated in Bangladesh. Initially, it sold between BDT 50,000 - 52,000, but in 2026 the current unofficial price has dropped to around BDT 46,000 - 50,000, depending on storage and condition.

The Google Pixel 8a launched in May 2024 with an international price close to BDT 69,900. Google has no official presence in Bangladesh, so all units are unofficial. Early prices were BDT 69,900+, but current market pricing has stabilized around BDT 47,500 - 55,000. Unofficial status means no local warranty, which directly affects resale and repair confidence.

The iPhone SE (2022) runs Apple’s A15 Bionic, while the Pixel 8a uses Google Tensor G3. On paper they target different users, but gaming tells the real story.

In my testing, PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty Mobile, Free Fire, and Genshin Impact were played for long sessions in warm rooms without cooling. The Apple iPhone SE (2022) consistently delivered smoother frame pacing. Geekbench scores on NanoReview show the iPhone SE (2022) scoring around 2228 (single-core) / 5045 (multi-core) at the lowest recorded range, while AnTuTu stays near 1165100. The Pixel 8a’s cheapest NanoReview scores show 1683 / 4330 on Geekbench and around 1179223 on AnTuTu.

Practically, PUBG and CODM ran smoothly on both, but Genshin Impact exposed the difference. The iPhone maintained higher frame stability with less throttling, while the Pixel 8a heated faster and dropped frames after 20–25 minutes. Touch response also felt quicker on the iPhone. Compared to rivals like the Galaxy A55 or Redmi Note 13 Pro, both phones are mid-tier gamers, but the iPhone SE (2022) clearly wins for sustained performance.

• Performance: Apple iPhone SE (2022) feels faster and more responsive in daily use. Pixel 8a is smooth but prioritizes stability over raw speed.

• Design & Comfort: iPhone SE wins for compact, one-hand use. Pixel 8a feels more modern and comfortable for media and typing.

• Battery: Google Pixel 8a clearly lasts longer through a full day. iPhone SE often needs an evening recharge.

• Camera: Pixel 8a delivers more consistent photos, especially at night. iPhone SE remains stronger for video quality.

• Longevity: Pixel 8a offers better future value with longer updates, while iPhone SE relies on performance longevity.

I tested both phones using Grameenphone, Banglalink, Robi, and Airtel SIMs across Dhaka and nearby areas. On 4G LTE, both delivered stable speeds, but the Pixel 8a consistently held signals better indoors. Call quality was clean on both, though the iPhone felt slightly clearer during voice calls.

Neither phone supports full 5G bands usable in Bangladesh yet, but Pixel 8a is more future-ready on paper. Wi-Fi stability was stronger on the Pixel, especially on crowded networks. Compared to phones like Google Pixel 7a or Galaxy A55. Google Pixel 8a offers better radio consistency overall.

I tested both Apple iPhone SE (2022) and Google Pixel 8a as my primary camera phones for everyday shots in Dhaka street photos, family moments, food, night scenes, and short videos. The difference wasn’t about megapixels on paper, but about consistency and confidence when pulling the phone out quickly.

• Daylight photos: Pixel 8a captures more detail with better dynamic range. iPhone SE (2022) delivers natural colors but looks simpler side-by-side.

• Low light & night: Pixel 8a clearly wins with Night Sight, producing brighter, cleaner shots. iPhone struggles more with noise.

• Portraits: Pixel 8a handles edge detection better. iPhone portraits are decent but less flexible.

• Video: iPhone SE (2022) still leads with steadier video, better motion handling, and consistent colors.

One evening in Dhaka traffic, I was using both phones for Google Maps and quick message replies while moving between bright street lights and darker indoor spaces. Switching back and forth made the difference obvious. The Google Pixel 8a felt easier on the eyes and clearer at a glance, while the Apple iPhone SE (2022) remained usable but required more brightness and attention. This daily mix of outdoor glare and night usage highlights how much display quality matters beyond specs.

• Panel & sharpness: Google Pixel 8a’s OLED looks richer and more detailed. iPhone SE’s LCD feels clean but clearly older.

• Outdoor visibility: Pixel 8a stays readable under sunlight. iPhone SE struggles more in bright conditions.

• Night comfort: OLED display on Pixel 8a is softer on the eyes. iPhone SE’s LCD display feels harsher in dark rooms.

• Everyday feel: Pixel 8a feels more immersive for media. iPhone SE focuses more on speed than visual comfort.

Choose the Apple iPhone SE (2022) if you want maximum performance, smooth gaming, and iOS reliability in a compact size. Pick the Google Pixel 8a if you prefer better camera, display, battery life, and long-term value.

Does Pixel 8a heat more than iPhone SE (2022)?

Yes, during gaming Pixel 8a heats faster, while iPhone SE maintains more stable performance under long sessions.

Which phone has better battery backup in daily use?

Pixel 8a lasts noticeably longer with mixed use, while iPhone SE usually needs charging before night.

Is iPhone SE (2022) still good in 2026?

Performance-wise yes, but its old design and small display feel outdated compared to newer phones.

Which phone camera is more reliable?

Pixel 8a delivers more consistent photos, especially in low light, while iPhone is better for video.

Do both phones work well on Bangladeshi networks?

Yes, both are stable on 4G LTE, but Pixel 8a holds signals better indoors.