A recent release from the Antutu benchmark team highlights which Apple devices earned the highest user satisfaction in May, with the top spot held by the first generation iPhone SE.
Even though the iPhone SE first appeared over six years ago, it has consistently topped satisfaction charts for several months. The original SE combined a 4-inch display with the established design of the iPhone 5s, and its standout upgrade was the Apple A9 chip, the same processor found in the iPhone 6s. Antutu reports that 97.99% of users expressed satisfaction with this classic model, underscoring its lasting appeal in the market.
Right behind it sits the 2020 iPad Air, achieving 97.5% favorable reviews. This tablet brought a modern, bezel-free look inspired by the iPad Pro, a 10.9-inch screen, and the convenience of Touch ID integrated into the power button, enhancing day-to-day usability for many owners.
In third place is the 2015 iPhone 6s Plus, with a satisfaction rate of 97.18%. The list also includes other notable devices from Apple, such as the 2017 10.5-inch iPad Pro, the second-generation iPhone 12 mini, along with the iPhone 6s, iPhone 7, iPhone SE, and the larger iPad Pro models in 12.9 and 11-inch sizes. These devices collectively demonstrate enduring user loyalty and continued relevance in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
The focus on these rankings reflects broader consumer trends toward devices that balance performance with practical usability. Satisfaction often correlates with reliable software updates, strong hardware longevity, and a user experience that remains consistent across years of use. Apple’s ecosystem continues to be a strong driver behind high ratings, as customers value seamless integration across iPhone, iPad, and accessories, along with robust app availability and security features.
Market observers note that older devices can still perform well in real-world tasks, emphasizing that the gap between early models and newer iterations is narrowing for many everyday applications. The data from Antutu suggests that a well-supported device with durable design can outlast newer models in the eyes of users, particularly when performance remains smooth and dependable. This trend reinforces the importance of software optimization and long-term support in shaping satisfaction scores across the Apple lineup.
In assessing these results, readers should consider how device longevity, consistent firmware updates, and the breadth of available apps contribute to a positive user experience. While hardware specifications matter, the practical day-to-day value delivered by a device often determines long-term satisfaction more than raw specifications alone. These insights offer a useful lens for evaluating whether upgrading is necessary, or whether keeping an older model remains a sensible choice for many households.
Overall, the May ranking underscores that Apple devices continue to command strong user approval, with several older products still delivering compelling value. For consumers in North America, these trends translate into practical guidance when weighing device purchases, trade-ins, or upgrades in a fast-moving market. Citations: Antutu analytics and device satisfaction reports, as summarized by industry reviewers.