We know that deciding between the iPhone 14 Plus and the iPhone 14 Pro Max can be a bit tough. Both are large-screen powerhouses, but significant differences exist in price, features, and design. With this in mind, we have written a comprehensive breakdown of their key distinctions. Keep reading!
Table of contents
iPhone 14 Plus vs. Pro Max: Comparison table
| Feature | iPhone 14 Plus | iPhone 14 Pro Max |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display, ProMotion (up to 120Hz), Always-On Display |
| Display type | OLED | OLED |
| Brightness | 800 nits max brightness (typical), 1200 nits peak | 1,000 nits max brightness (typical), 2,000 nits peak |
| Rear cameras | Dual: 12MP (main), 12MP (ultrawide) | Triple: 48MP (main), 12MP (ultrawide), 12MP (telephoto), LiDAR scanner |
| Front cameras | 12MP TrueDepth with autofocus | 12MP TrueDepth with autofocus |
| Processor | A15 Bionic Chip | A16 Bionic Chip |
| Design | Aluminum frame, glass back | Stainless steel frame, textured matte glass back |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Battery | Up to 26 hours video playback | Up to 29 hours of video playback |
| Water resistance | IP68 (up to 6 meters for 30 minutes) | IP68 (up to 6 meters for 30 minutes) |
| Special features | Action Mode video stabilization | Action Mode, Cinematic Mode, Macro photo/video, ProRAW, ProRes, Dynamic Island |
| Colors | Blue Purple Starlight Midnight (PRODUCT)RED | Silver Gold Deep Purple Space Black |
| Price (new) | Starts at | Starts at |
| Price (refurbished) | Starts at | Starts at |
Reasons to choose the iPhone 14 Plus
- Large, bright display
- Powerful enough for most of today’s tasks
- Excellent dual camera system
- Lighter and potentially more comfortable to hold
- More affordable than the Pro Max
128GB storage
Purple
128GB storage
Purple
Reasons to choose the iPhone 14 Pro Max
- Much better display (high resolution, ProMotion, Always-On).
- More advanced camera system (telephoto, 48MP main sensor, advanced video)
- Better performance with A16 chip
- Longer battery life
- Stainless steel design
- Dynamic Island
256GB storage
Deep Purple
512GB storage
Gold
128GB storage
Space Black
iPhone 14 Plus vs. Pro Max: Reviewing the key points
When choosing between the iPhone 14 Plus and the Pro Max, consider whether you prioritize budget or cutting-edge tech features. The Pro Max offers more features but comes at a higher cost.
1. The performance of the iPhone 14 Pro Max is considerably better
In terms of performance, the iPhone 14 Pro Max has a notable edge due to its A16 Bionic chip, which offers advanced processing power and efficiency. In fact, Apple states that the chip is 40% more powerful than the A15. This makes it ideal for demanding tasks like high-resolution photo processing, advanced gaming, and intensive multitasking.
The iPhone 14 Plus, while equipped with the slightly older A15 Bionic chip, still delivers robust performance suitable for everyday usage, including standard photo processing, gaming, and general multitasking.
2. Both iPhones have the same screen size
The iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 14 Pro Max both boast expansive 6.7-inch OLED displays. This generous screen size, in addition to the Bionic chips, delivers a fantastic experience whether you’re focused on productivity or enjoying your downtime.
3. The iPhone 14 Pro Max offers a refresh rate up to 120Hz and more resolution
While both feature Apple’s Super Retina XDR technology for vibrant colors and deep blacks, the Pro Max takes things further with its ProMotion display.
This means it can dynamically adjust its refresh rate up to 120Hz instead of 60Hz, resulting in smoother scrolling and more responsive animations. This is something you will surely notice when watching a video, but also when scrolling or changing apps.
Additionally, the Pro Max features a slightly higher resolution of 2796×1290 pixels at 460 ppi, offering sharper and more detailed visuals than the 2778×1284 pixel resolution at 458 ppi of the iPhone 14 Plus. These display enhancements make the Pro Max a more appealing choice for users who prioritize top-tier screen performance for their multimedia and gaming experiences.
4. The iPhone 14 Pro Max offers advanced display features
While the iPhone 14 Plus has a fantastic display, the Pro Max offers three additional and interesting features:
- Always-On Display: This power-efficient feature subtly illuminates a portion of your screen even when it’s locked. This allows you to quickly glance at the time, date, notifications, and even customized widgets, without having to fully wake up your phone. It’s a small change, but incredibly convenient for getting those quick bits of information throughout the day.
- Higher peak brightness: The Pro Max display can get remarkably bright – up to an astonishing 2000 nits! This means that even in the harshest direct sunlight, the screen remains perfectly readable. Whether you’re using your phone at the beach or on a snowy mountain, you won’t have to struggle to see what’s on the display.
- Dynamic Island: This innovative replacement for the traditional notch cleverly integrates with software, displaying notifications and information in a way that feels interactive and seamless.
5. The cameras of the iPhone 14 Plus may be enough
The iPhone 14 Plus boasts a capable dual-lens camera system that’s perfect for everyday photography and videos. Its 12MP main and 12MP ultrawide lenses deliver vibrant images and smooth 4K video recording up to 60 FPS. More than enough for casual photographers and even social media professionals and artists.
So, why consider the Pro Max?
The iPhone 14 Pro Max takes mobile photography to a professional level. Here’s what it offers beyond the Plus:
- Higher resolution main sensor: The 48MP main camera packs in greater detail and allows for flexible cropping.
- Telephoto lens: Get closer to your subjects without compromising image quality, thanks to the dedicated telephoto lens.
- Pro-level features: ProRAW image capture and ProRes video recording unlock powerful editing capabilities for enthusiasts and professionals.
- LiDAR Scanner: Improved low-light autofocus, enhanced AR experiences, and more natural-looking Portrait mode effects.
Keep in mind that some users may not see huge differences between the cameras of the Plus and the Pro Max, especially when the iPhone 14 Plus also offers the Action and Cinematic mode in 4K.
6. Their battery life is similar
Apple claims both the iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 14 Pro Max deliver excellent all-day battery life, with up to 26 hours and 29 hours of video playback, respectively. In real-world use, these numbers typically translate to most users easily getting through a full day on a single charge with both models.
For the average user, the difference in battery life between the two models may not be drastically significant. For those primarily concerned with battery longevity, the higher price tag of the iPhone 14 Pro Max may not be justified solely on this.
Conclusion
The iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 14 Pro Max both offer fantastic large displays and top-tier performance. Ultimately, the best choice for you comes down to how much you value the Pro Max’s cutting-edge features and how significant the price difference is to you.
- If you want the absolute best display, camera system, and performance, the iPhone 14 Pro Max can be your choice.
- If you prioritize a great all-around experience and want to save some money, the iPhone 14 Plus is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.
Want to save money without sacrificing the iPhone experience? Buying a refurbished model can provide incredible value. Refurbished iPhones undergo a rigorous testing and restoration process to ensure they function like new ones. At RefurbMe, we compare all available Apple refurbished deals, helping you find the best prices, and with a warranty.
Good luck!
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