Recent online leaks indicate that barring unforeseen circumstances, the iPhone SE4 is poised for a likely direct release tomorrow without a press conference. Despite its lesser significance compared to flagship series, the SE4 has garnered considerable online buzz. However, many might overlook that initial rumors pegged the SE4 as an iPhone 14 derivative, inevitably sparking comparisons. Now, the question looms: for users, how to navigate the choice between these two similarly equipped models?

Firstly, there's a negligible price gap between the two. The iPhone 14, currently unavailable under PDD's billion subsidy program, retails at 4199 yuan on JD's self-operated store, dropping to 3699 yuan with national subsidies. As for the SE4, pre-release pricing is speculative, but recent whispers suggest a 64GB variant starting at 3699 yuan, with the 128GB model likely priced at 4299 yuan (or 3799 yuan post-subsidies), a mere 100 yuan premium over the iPhone 14.

Visually, both sport notched screens, rendering them indistinguishable at first glance. While the rear cameras differ – the iPhone 14 boasts a 12MP main and 12MP ultra-wide lens, the SE4 features a 48MP single camera with potential night mode – both share a 12MP front camera. The SE4 might edge out in photography, with screen quality likely identical. The key divergence lies in their CPUs: the A15 versus the A18, giving the SE4 a significant edge.

Another distinction is the SE4's support for Apple AI, albeit potentially a "stripped-down" version lacking advanced features like "Smart Vision" to safeguard iPhone 16 sales. Additionally, the SE4 boasts a Type-C port over the iPhone 14's traditional Lightning port, offering versatility despite similar capabilities.

Now, let's delve into their similarities. Both feature 6.1-inch OLED screens with a 60Hz refresh rate (a point worthy of critique; only Apple would settle for this). Rumors hint at identical 3279 mAh battery capacities, yet the iPhone 14 might offer better endurance due to the SE4's power-hungry A18 chip and AI support.

Frankly, if Apple unveils a 64GB SE4, it's merely a pricing ploy. Even 128GB struggles with daily demands, yet Apple proceeds despite the backlash. It's clear Apple prioritizes revenue over user sentiment. Users should respond accordingly.

Sticking to Apple's pricing tradition, the 256GB SE4, ideal for general users, is poised to cross the 5000 yuan mark. The predecessor's 256GB variant was priced at 4699 yuan. If the SE4 surpasses 5000 yuan, what are your thoughts?