iPhone 14 Plus • Unlocked vs iPhone 15 Plus • Unlocked

iPhone 14 Plus • Unlocked
iPhone 14 Plus • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$288.00

Versus $729.00 new

See options
iPhone 15 Plus • Unlocked
iPhone 15 Plus • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$389.99

Versus $829.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 14 Plus, released in October 2022, and the iPhone 15 Plus, launched in September 2023, are both large-screen smartphones from Apple. While they share a similar form factor, the iPhone 15 Plus introduces an updated processor, a significantly upgraded main camera, and a redesigned display interaction area. Both devices operate on Apple's iOS ecosystem, offering a consistent user experience.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical resilience.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 14 Plus was released in October 2022, making it approximately one year older than the iPhone 15 Plus, which launched in September 2023. This difference means the iPhone 15 Plus will likely receive software updates for a longer period.
  • Software Support: Apple typically provides iOS updates for 5-6 years from a device's release. The iPhone 15 Plus, being a newer model, is expected to receive software support for at least one year longer than the iPhone 14 Plus, extending its functional lifespan.
  • Repairability and Durability: Both models feature Ceramic Shield front covers for enhanced drop protection and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The iPhone 14 Plus initially received a favorable repairability score due to its internal redesign allowing easier access to components, but this was later downgraded due to software restrictions on third-party parts. The iPhone 15 Plus also demonstrated robust structural integrity in durability tests, with its aluminum frame proving resilient. The iPhone 15 series saw its repairability score improve after initial concerns, due to advancements in Apple's Repair Assistant tool.

Release Year

2022

2023

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating apps to demanding gaming sessions. Both the iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus offer capable performance, though with some distinctions.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 14 Plus is powered by a capable processor that handles everyday applications and multitasking smoothly. The iPhone 15 Plus features a more advanced processor, which was previously used in the iPhone 14 Pro models. This newer processor offers improved efficiency and faster performance, particularly noticeable in more intensive applications and gaming.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices come with 6GB of RAM, allowing for efficient multitasking and smooth transitions between applications. Users can expect a responsive experience on both phones for typical usage, such as browsing, social media, and streaming.
  • Storage Options: Both models are available with 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage configurations, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos.

Memory

6 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for any smartphone, and both Plus models offer a large, immersive viewing experience with notable differences.

  • Display Technology and Size: Both the iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus feature a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, providing deep blacks and vibrant colors. The larger screen size is well-suited for media consumption and productivity.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The iPhone 14 Plus has a resolution of 2778x1284 pixels, while the iPhone 15 Plus offers a slightly higher resolution of 2796x1290 pixels, resulting in a similar pixel density for sharp visuals.
  • Brightness and Features: The iPhone 14 Plus offers a peak brightness of 1200 nits for HDR content. The iPhone 15 Plus enhances this with a peak outdoor brightness of up to 2000 nits, making it easier to view content in bright sunlight. A key visual difference is the iPhone 15 Plus's adoption of the Dynamic Island, which replaces the traditional notch found on the iPhone 14 Plus, integrating alerts and background activities into an interactive area. Both models maintain a 60Hz refresh rate.

Resolution

1284 x 2778

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many users, and the iPhone 15 Plus brings substantial advancements over its predecessor.

  • Main Camera System: The iPhone 14 Plus features a dual-camera system with a 12-megapixel main wide camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera. The iPhone 15 Plus significantly upgrades its main camera to a 48-megapixel sensor, which can capture more detail and offers a 2x optical zoom option by cropping the high-resolution sensor. It also retains a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera.
  • Photography Performance: Both phones deliver good photo quality in well-lit conditions. The iPhone 15 Plus, with its larger main sensor, shows improved performance in low-light scenarios and offers more flexibility for editing and zooming. Both models include features like Photonic Engine for improved low-light performance and Cinematic mode for video.
  • Front Camera and Video: Both devices feature a 12-megapixel TrueDepth front camera with autofocus, capable of good quality selfies and video calls. Video recording quality is strong on both, with good stabilization.
  • Audio Experience: Both models provide good speaker output for media consumption and clear microphone quality for calls and recordings.

Main camera

12 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements differentiate these two large-screen iPhones.

  • Connectivity: Both the iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus support 5G cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring fast and reliable wireless connections.
  • Charging Port: A notable change is the charging port. The iPhone 14 Plus uses Apple's proprietary Lightning port. The iPhone 15 Plus transitions to a USB-C port, aligning with industry standards and offering broader compatibility with accessories.
  • Biometric Security: Both devices rely on Face ID for secure authentication and unlocking.
  • Design and Handling: Both phones feature an aluminum frame and glass back. The iPhone 15 Plus introduces a color-infused glass back with a matte finish, which some users find more resistant to fingerprints and comfortable to hold. The dimensions and weight are very similar, offering a large-screen experience that may require two-handed use for some.

Weight

7 oz

201 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.7

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C (USB 2)

User feedback for the iPhone 14 Plus often highlights its excellent battery life and large display as key advantages, making it a solid choice for those prioritizing screen size and endurance. Some common criticisms included the retention of the notch and the 60Hz refresh rate, which some users felt made the display feel less modern compared to other devices.

The iPhone 15 Plus generally receives praise for its significant camera upgrade, the integration of the Dynamic Island, and the switch to USB-C, which are seen as meaningful improvements. Its strong battery life is also frequently commended. However, some users note that the 60Hz refresh rate remains a point of contention, and the USB-C port on this model offers slower data transfer speeds compared to the Pro models.

Users prioritizing a large display and exceptional battery life for extended use will find either device well-suited to their needs. Those who value the latest camera technology, the interactive Dynamic Island, and the convenience of a USB-C port may lean towards the iPhone 15 Plus. For individuals seeking a quality-assured refurbished option, both models offer a sustainable choice to access these features.

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