
Apple introduced its new iOS devices in early September. In 2022, there will be four models: the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max. What are the differences between these models? As in previous years, there are two “Pro” variants in addition to the regular model. What’s new in the 2022 generation is the “Plus” iPhone, replacing the small “Mini” model. So, there won’t be an iPhone 14 Mini, and there are currently no plans for one.
iPhone 14, Plus, Pro & Pro Max: Overview of Differences
Size & Weight
The new iOS devices come in two different sizes: the standard iPhone and the iPhone 14 Pro have a screen size of 6.1 inches (approximately 14.5 cm), while the Plus and Pro Max devices have a screen size of 6.7 inches (approximately 17 cm). When it comes to weight, only the iPhone 14 weighs less than 200 grams, specifically 172 grams. All other iPhones are slightly heavier.
Display & Design
Apple hasn’t made any major leaps in design. All the new iPhones look quite similar and are hardly distinguishable from the previous generation. Apple has little reason to change the design since the visual appeal is what you expect from high-end devices. The housing is made of aluminum and glass. The IP68 certification provides the necessary water protection, allowing the new iOS device to withstand being submerged in water up to 6 meters deep for half an hour. According to Apple, the “Ceramic Shield” front is more durable “than any smartphone glass.” As for the display, Apple introduces two new features in the Pro models: “Dynamic Island” brings some movement to the previously “dead” notch.
Various functions such as route directions or incoming call information can be displayed in the black bar. In addition, the displays of the Pro models are equipped with an “Always on” function, showing the time, date, and other information even when the screen is locked and turned off. All devices support Face ID. None of the new iPhones have Touch ID. Similar to the iPhone 13, the 120Hz feature is limited to the Pro models in this year’s generation as well. This provides exceptionally smooth scrolling and playback on the screen. The iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, on the other hand, have to make do with a meager 60Hz. As for colors, there are also differences between the iPhone 14 / 14 Plus and the iPhone 14 Pro / Pro Max. The Pro models come in four color variants (Dark Lilac, Silver, Gold, Black). The regular and Plus iPhones offer a choice of five colors: Black, Blue, Cream White, Purple, and Red.
Performance
Only the two Pro devices receive a completely new processor, the A16 Bionic. The redesigned chip set is expected to provide the usual performance boost while reducing battery consumption by up to 20 percent. The iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus use the A15 Bionic chip, which already delivers decent performance in the iPhone 13. However, the processors for the 14 series iPhones have also been upgraded and improved. It is only with the A16 Bionic processor in the two Pro iPhones that you get peak performance in terms of CPU power.
Camera
On paper, Apple hasn’t made many changes to the cameras. The iPhone 14 still lacks a telephoto zoom. However, the iPhone 14 Pro / Pro Max achieves sharp results with its telephoto lens. The standard models have 12 megapixels, while the Pro versions have 48 megapixels with the main camera. The “Photonic Engine” and the improved interaction between the camera software and the Bionic processor are expected to result in better images through enhanced processing of the raw footage. Optical image stabilization ensures robust and steady recordings, even during vibrations and movements. Videos can be created in full HD.
Battery
While Apple doesn’t excel in pure battery capacity with the iPhone 14, the optimization between iOS and hardware ensures exceptionally long battery life. With extensive use, all the new iPhones last significantly longer than their direct predecessors. If you use your iPhone normally throughout the day, you can easily go without a charger for two days. You can find detailed information about runtime and capacity here.
Storage
When it comes to storage, as with all iPhones before, you need to consider your needs before making a purchase. There is no option for storage expansion. The iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus are available in models with sizes of 128, 256, or 512 gigabytes. The Pro models also offer a gigantic 1 terabyte option.
Prices
The “cheapest” iPhone 14 is the iPhone 14 version with 128 gigabytes of storage space. The suggested retail price for the device is 999 euros, which is 100 euros higher than last year’s starting price. The iPhone 14 Pro starts at 1299 euros, while the iPhone 14 Pro Max starts at 1449 euros. For the first time in 2022, Apple breaks the 2000 euro mark: the huge iPhone 14 Pro Max with 1 terabyte of storage space costs 2099 euros.
Conclusion – Which Device to Buy?
The only differences between the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus are the size and battery life. The Plus model is larger and has a longer battery life. The Plus model is ideal for those who need a device from the current generation but don’t require the most technically advanced and expensive iPhone. Those who need the high-end device of this year’s generation will need to opt for the iPhone 14 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro Max. The Pro devices also differ in terms of size and battery life. They are technically superior to the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus. Only the Pro models feature the latest A16 processor. In addition, the Pro models excel in terms of the 120Hz refresh rate, better camera equipment, and the “Dynamic Island” function in the display. So, if you want the currently most powerful iPhone in terms of technology, you should choose the iPhone 14 Plus. If 6.1 inches is too small and you want maximum battery life, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is also a good choice.