Apple makes great phones, but, more importantly, they have easily the best support in the business. I won't buy a phone unless the display is 5" or so or smaller, so I'd be ok with the new SE (though honestly the 6s I think is a perfect size.)
The other great thing about Apple is that the phone is unlocked and not subject to Verizon's update schedule.
There are issues with iPhones - the home button/Touch ID remains mechanical, and can have issues, plus the new SE I believe is using the older, slower Touch ID from the iPhone 5s. Still, the price is great for the performance. It's a great choice, particularly for people who really like a smaller form factor (frankly, it's the only choice these days, particularly if you're on Verizon, unless you want a three year old Droid Mini that is vastly inferior to the SE.)