Apple iPhone 16e: Benchmark test shows the graphics performance
The first Geekbench test of the new Apple iPhone 16e has surfaced. It clearly shows the disadvantages of the new 4-core GPU. Apple has opted for a binned version of the A18 chip on the cheapest iPhone, with fewer GPU cores compared to the standard iPhone 16 models.
The benchmark results are based on the Geekbench 6 Metal test and scored 24,188 points in the graphics test, which is about 15% less than the more expensive iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. This performance difference is likely due to Apple using a binned version of the A18 chip. Chip binning is a common industry practice in which chips with disabled or non-functional components are reused for lower-end products, in this case the Apple iPhone 16e. It allows manufacturers to reduce electronic waste and maximize yield in chip production.
In this case, the A18 chip in the Apple iPhone 16e has four GPU cores compared to five cores in the regular iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. However, as the Geekbench test shows, the number of six CPU cores remains unchanged.
Despite the weaker GPU performance, the Apple iPhone 16e should deliver strong performance overall, especially considering its relatively affordable starting price of €699 / $599. The Geekbench test also confirms that the iPhone 16e has 8GB of RAM. This is exactly the minimum requirement for devices that are supposed to run Apple Intelligence. The tested device also ran iOS 18.3.1.
Of course, more benchmark results and real-world testing will be needed to fully assess the impact of the reduced number of GPU cores on everyday tasks and gaming performance. Pre-orders for the iPhone 16e are already underway. Delivery will begin on Friday, February 28, to 59 countries and regions worldwide.
