iPhone SE vs Mi A1: Which is the best phone under Rs 20,000

Xiaomi is undoubtedly winning the budget and mid-range segment in India right now, bringing value for money offerings this year like the Redmi 5A and Mi A1. The Mi A1, in particular, is arguably one of the best options under Rs 20,000, offering stock Android and impressive dual rear cameras. But there is one phone that has entered the picture now that seemingly gives the Mi A1 a run for its money -- the iPhone SE.

Apple's most affordable iPhone got even more affordable this week with a Rs 8,000 price cut. You can now find the iPhone SE at Rs 17,999 on e-commerce stores like Amazon India. At this price, the iPhone is just a few notches higher than the Mi A1, but still within competitive range. There are a few reasons that make the iPhone SE seem like a more attractive buy than the Mi A1, for those who are willing to step outside the Android platform. Here's what both the phones have to offer.

-- The iPhone SE features a striking yet classic design that has been regarded one of Apple's best so far. The rectangular-shaped block design and compact form-factor make it an attractive buy for anyone looking for a small smartphone. It is also a very premium-looking smartphone, if not the most premium-looking right now under Rs 20,000. The Mi A1, interestingly, has a very iPhone 7 Plus-like metal unibody design, which does make it quite attractive in this price range, but isn't as inspiring or unique as the iPhone SE.

-- Apple's mid-range iPhone sports a small 4-inch retina display, which is perfect for smartphone users who want a phone that feels compact and personalised. The retina display is crisp and gorgeous despite its 750p resolution. The Mi A1, on the other hand, sports a 5.5-inch full-HD (1080x1920) display, which is the obvious choice if you want the regular-sized smartphone with a bright and vivid display. The colours are sharp here and the phone has good visibility under sunlight.