The iPhone 14 Plus is Apple’s larger yet more affordable alternative to the iPhone 14 Pro Max, offering a 6.7-inch display without the premium price tag. Released in October 2022, this device bridges the gap between the standard iPhone 14 and the high-end Pro models, catering to users who prefer a bigger screen for media consumption, gaming, and productivity. Unlike the Pro variants, the iPhone 14 Plus lacks the Dynamic Island, ProMotion display, and 48MP camera, but it still delivers a powerful A15 Bionic chip, improved battery life, and advanced software features like Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite.
Key Highlights
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Apple Inc. |
| Release Date | October 7, 2022 |
| Display | 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED (2778 x 1284 pixels) |
| Processor | A15 Bionic Chip (5-core GPU) |
| Join WhatsApp | Click Here |
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| Official Website | apple.com |
Price and Availability
The iPhone 14 Plus was launched at a starting price of $899 for the base 128GB model, making it $100 cheaper than the iPhone 14 Pro Max. However, prices vary depending on storage capacity, with the 256GB version priced at $999 and the 512GB variant at $1,199. In India, the device was initially sold at ₹89,900 for the 128GB model, though prices have dropped significantly since then due to newer iPhone releases.
Unlike the Pro models, the iPhone 14 Plus did not see the same level of demand, leading to frequent discounts and trade-in offers from carriers and retailers. For budget-conscious buyers, purchasing a refurbished or pre-owned iPhone 14 Plus can be a cost-effective alternative, with prices sometimes dipping below $600 in excellent condition. Apple also offers financing options and exchange programs, making it easier to upgrade from older iPhones.
Design and Display
The iPhone 14 Plus retains the same flat-edge design as its predecessor, featuring an aerospace-grade aluminum frame and a Ceramic Shield-protected front glass. It is available in six colors: Midnight, Starlight, Blue, Purple, (PRODUCT)RED, and later-added Yellow. The 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent brightness levels, reaching up to 1200 nits peak HDR brightness. However, unlike the Pro models, it lacks a 120Hz ProMotion display, sticking with a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which may disappoint users accustomed to smoother scrolling.
Despite missing out on the Dynamic Island, the iPhone 14 Plus offers a notch design, which houses the Face ID sensors and 12MP front camera. The device is also IP68-rated, meaning it can withstand dust and water resistance up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The larger form factor makes it ideal for multitasking, video streaming, and gaming, though some users may find it less comfortable for one-handed use compared to the smaller iPhone 14.
Performance and Battery Life
Powered by the A15 Bionic chip (5-core GPU variant), the iPhone 14 Plus delivers exceptional performance for everyday tasks, including gaming, video editing, and multitasking. While it doesn’t feature the newer A16 Bionic found in the Pro models, real-world usage shows minimal differences in speed and efficiency for most applications. The device runs iOS 16 out of the box (upgradable to the latest iOS 17), offering features like Customizable Lock Screen, Live Activities, and improved Focus Modes.
One of the standout features of the iPhone 14 Plus is its battery life. Thanks to its larger 4,325mAh battery, it outperforms even the iPhone 14 Pro Max in some endurance tests, providing up to 26 hours of talk time and 100 hours of audio playback. For heavy users, the device can comfortably last a full day with moderate to high usage, making it one of the best iPhones for battery longevity.
Camera System
The iPhone 14 Plus features a dual-camera setup, including a 12MP wide lens (f/1.5 aperture) and a 12MP ultra-wide lens (f/2.4 aperture). While it lacks the 48MP sensor and telephoto lens of the Pro models, it still captures sharp, detailed photos with excellent dynamic range. The Photonic Engine enhances low-light performance, producing brighter and more natural-looking images in challenging lighting conditions.
For video enthusiasts, the device supports 4K Dolby Vision HDR recording, Action Mode for stabilized footage, and Cinematic Mode (up to 4K at 30fps). The 12MP TrueDepth front camera also benefits from improved low-light capabilities, making it ideal for selfies and FaceTime calls. While the camera system is not as advanced as the Pro models, it remains one of the best in its price range, especially for casual photographers and social media users.
User Experience: Is It Worth Buying in 2024?
The iPhone 14 Plus is an excellent choice for users who prioritize a large display, long battery life, and smooth iOS performance without needing ProMotion or a telephoto lens. While it may not be the most innovative iPhone, it offers great value for those upgrading from an iPhone 11 or older. However, if you want cutting-edge features like the Dynamic Island, Always-On Display, or 48MP camera, the iPhone 15 Plus or iPhone 15 Pro Max might be better options.
