Here are some of the best accessories to go with your iPhone SE (2020)
You’ve got a new iPhone SE, now what? At the very least, you’ll want a new case. Since the dimensions of both the iPhone SE 2 released in 2020 and the newer 2022 iPhone SE 3 match the iPhone 7 and iPhone 8, cases will be interchangeable between all of these models. One of my all-time favorite cases is OtterBox’s Otter + Pop Symmetry Case because it’s tough, functional, and good-looking.
Best Overall: OtterBox Otter + Pop Symmetry Case
Of course, you’ll need a case for your iPhone SE. I love this case because it’s as if OtterBox and PopSocket had a baby. Get trusted OtterBox protection with the classic Symmetry series, plus a built-in PopSocket for a secure grip and a kickstand for video viewing. You can even purchase multiple PopSockets to change up the look. Note that even though the PopSocket folds flat, it still may interfere with some wireless chargers. Choose from six different case colors and many more PopSocket designs that suit your tastes.
Pros:
Trusted protection without excess bulk
Secure PopSocket grip/stand built-in
Lots of colors and designs from which to choose
Cons:
May be too bulky for some
May not work with some wireless chargers
Best Overall
OtterBox Otter + Pop Symmetry Case
Fabulous protection
Get OtterBox’s famed protection with PopSocket’s convenient grip and stand built right in.
Best Fit: Apple iPhone SE Silicone Case
There is no more perfect fit for an iPhone than a case designed by Apple itself specifically for the iPhone SE. The case is quite thin and elegant, so it doesn’t obscure the iPhone’s beautiful lines. This is for the careful user who is unlikely to have any major iPhone drops and doesn’t want a lot of extra bulk. Wireless charging works perfectly, and of course, the case has that famous Apple logo on the back. Apple always offers a selection of colors designed to match or contrast beautifully with the iPhone colors.
Pros:
Beautiful and slim
Wireless charging compatible
Perfect fit
Apple logo
Cons:
No additional functionality
Not as protective as bulkier cases
Best Fit
Apple’s iPhone SE Silicone Case
Apple designed
You can’t go wrong with a case designed by Apple for the iPhone SE.
Best Screen Protector: Power Theory iPhone SE Screen Protector (2-pack)
A screen protector is a must for your iPhone SE. Not only does it offer some protection in case you drop your phone, but it also keeps your screen from developing micro-scratches and nicks from just normal wear and tear over time. I like this one from Power Theory because it comes with an installation kit that makes it dead simple to apply your screen protector perfectly every time. You get two in a package so you can share with a friend or keep one as a spare.
Pros:
Installation kit guides perfect application
Tempered glass rated at 9H hardness
Compatible with any case
Cons:
Not edge-to-edge
Best Screen Protector
Power Theory iPhone SE Screen Protector (2-pack)
Clear protection
You’ll want to protect that gorgeous screen; this installation kit makes it easy to apply.
Best Wireless Charging Stand: Anker PowerWave II Wireless Charger
While a wireless charger isn’t a must, it sure is a convenience. I like the Anker PowerWave II Wireless Charger because it’s fairly future-proof — even though iPhones currently can use only 7.5 watts, this charger actually goes up to 15 watts, so your next several phones are probably going to be able to charge quickly as well. This charging stand charges up your iPhone quickly and in an upright position so you can still use your phone easily while it charges. Unlike most wireless charging stands, this one allows you to charge your iPhone horizontally or vertically.
Pros:
Fast wireless charging
Uses just the right amount of power for your device, up to 15 watts
Charges upright and horizontal or vertical for easy access while charging
Comes with its own power adapter
Cons:
Somewhat pricey
Best Wireless Charging Stand
Anker PowerWave II Wireless Charger
Fast wireless charging
This charging stand is fast and convenient; charge your iPhone vertically or horizontally.
Best Wireless Headphones: Apple AirPods
If you want good wireless headphones, you’re going to have to spend a decent amount of money. Apple’s AirPods (second generation) are a great product for the money. Sure, the AirPods 3 are even better but much pricier. The AirPods Pro are excellent with active noise cancellation but substantially more expensive. The regular AirPods are the ones to get if you want Apple technology without spending a ton of money, much like the iPhone SE itself is a great way to get modern Apple technology without breaking the bank. AirPods are so easy to pair with the iPhone, and they just work in an almost magical way. Listen to music, videos, and podcasts, make and take phone calls and video calls, and access Siri with your voice. If you wish to spend a little more, you can get them with a wireless charging case.
Pros:
Easy pairing setup
High-quality audio and voice
Control your music with a tap
Siri access
Charge quickly within case
Cons:
Still somewhat pricey
One size doesn’t necessarily fit all
Best Wireless Headphones
Apple AirPods 2 – white
Made for iPhone
The simply elegant AirPods go perfectly with your iPhone and cover all of your audio needs.
Best Selfie Stick/Stand: Adonit V-Grip
The Adonit V-Grip is a nice addition to any iPhoneographer’s dream toolkit. It holds any model iPhone tenaciously and gives you a better grip on your phone. It also acts as a stand, which can be oriented vertically or horizontally so you can FaceTime or watch videos. It’s a telescoping selfie stick that extends to nearly 20 inches. A detachable Bluetooth remote shutter is included. Plus, it’s compatible with several other photography accessories. You can attach it to just about any sort of camera rig since the 1/4-inch standard screw on the bottom attaches to tripods, monopods, video sliders, stabilizers, and more. The universal cold shoe mount on top lets you attach standard camera lights and microphones. A thoughtful little hole on the bottom even allows you to attach a wrist loop.
Pros:
Compact and secure stand, both horizontal and vertical orientation
Selfie stick extends to nearly 20 inches (500 millimeters)
Bluetooth shutter remote
1/4-inch standard screw attaches to tripods and more
Universal cold shoe mount
Cons:
Somewhat pricey
Best Selfie Stick/Stand
Adonit V-Grip
Handy tool
Set up the perfect shot, using the V-Grip as a stand or a selfie stick and the wireless remote to operate the shutter.
Best Fitness Armband: Trianium Armband
The Trianium Armband is universal, designed to fit virtually any model iPhone or other smartphones on the market. Constructed from neoprene and fastened with velcro, it adjusts to fit any arm up to 14 inches around. The built-in protective screen cover is touchscreen compatible, so you can change your music, answer calls, and more without removing your phone. However, the phone cannot read your fingerprint through the screen cover, so keep that in mind. The water-resistant design holds up to sweaty workouts. A tiny pocket lets you store a key or other small items. Headphone and charger cutouts conveniently allow you to plug in without removing your phone. Comfort grip dots hold the armband in place on your arm so it doesn’t slip down. Trianium even has you covered with a lifetime warranty.
Pros:
Touchscreen compatible screen cover
Universal fit
Key pocket
Lifetime warranty
Cons:
Can’t read fingerprint through cover
Best Fitness Armband
Trianium Armband
Lifetime warranty
This water-resistant, universal fit armband covers all the bases with a touchscreen compatible screen cover, key pocket, and lifetime warranty.
Best Car Mount: Totallee Wireless Car Charger
Totallee’s Wireless Car Charger is an elegantly designed vent car mount plus a wireless charger for iPhone and other smartphones. Attach it to your car’s air vent and adjust the ball-and-socket joint any way you like it. Point it left or right, set it horizontally or vertically — whatever works best for you. Twist the neck to tighten it in exactly the spot you want it. Place your iPhone into the cradle and watch the powered arms close around your phone. Turn off the car, and the arms release. Don’t want to wait? Tap the release button on either side to power the arms open or closed anytime. When you arrive at your destination, your phone will be charged up and ready to go.
Pros:
Wireless charger
Secure vent phone mount
Opens and closes automatically or with a tap
Streamlined good looks
Fast charging up to 10 watts
Cons:
Somewhat pricey
Best Car Mount
Totallee Wireless Car Charger – black
Charge while you drive
Totallee’s Wireless Car Charger fast-charges your iPhone and holds it securely, opening and closing automatically or with a gentle tap.
Accessorize it right
The second-generation iPhone SE (2020) features a 4.7-inch Retina HD display, Touch ID, A13 Bionic chip, and Apple’s best single-camera system yet. Yet, the price point is incredibly reasonable for a new iPhone. You’ll want to accessorize this special little phone from the start. If nothing else, be sure to get a great iPhone SE case.
If you only get one accessory for your iPhone SE, make it a case. I really like the Otter + Pop Symmetry Case for its excellent protection and convenient built-in PopSocket. I admit to using the PopSocket as a fidget sometimes, pulling it in and out, but it does really come in handy when taking photos or even texting. Instead of using my pinkie as a shelf, I can hold the phone securely in a more balanced way. It’s also great for propping up my phone to watch videos.
Credits — The person that worked on this guide
Karen S. Freeman is a teacher, writer, social media person, and family woman. She loves to travel, play with tech stuff, drink coffee, discover amazing new restaurants, and experience new things.
