iPhone 14 Plus • Locked T-Mobile vs iPhone 14 Pro Max • Locked AT&T

iPhone 14 Plus • Locked T-Mobile
iPhone 14 Plus • Locked T-Mobile
Starting at

Refurbished price:$344.23

Versus $699.00 new

See options
iPhone 14 Pro Max • Locked AT&T
iPhone 14 Pro Max • Locked AT&T
Starting at

Refurbished price:$409.00

Versus $1,399.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 14 Pro Max, both released in late 2022, represent distinct offerings within Apple's smartphone lineup. While both devices feature large displays, the iPhone 14 Pro Max introduces more advanced display technology, a significantly upgraded camera system, and a more powerful internal processor compared to the iPhone 14 Plus. Both operate on Apple's iOS ecosystem, providing a consistent software experience.

Scores

Durability

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

  • Release Timeline: Both the iPhone 14 Plus and iPhone 14 Pro Max were announced in September 2022. The iPhone 14 Pro Max became available shortly after on September 16, 2022, while the iPhone 14 Plus followed on October 7, 2022. This means both devices will receive software updates for a similar duration, typically 5-6 years from their release.
  • Software Longevity: Both models launched with iOS 16 and are expected to receive major iOS updates for several years, likely until 2027 or 2028, ensuring continued access to new features and security enhancements.
  • Durability Features: Both devices feature a Ceramic Shield front cover, which offers enhanced drop performance. They also share an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, allowing submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The iPhone 14 Plus utilizes an aluminum frame, while the iPhone 14 Pro Max features a more robust stainless steel frame.

Release Year

2022

2022

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The internal components of these two iPhones contribute to differing levels of performance, particularly in demanding tasks and overall system responsiveness.

  • Processor Capabilities: The iPhone 14 Plus is equipped with a powerful processor that handles everyday applications, media consumption, and moderate gaming smoothly. The iPhone 14 Pro Max, however, features a newer generation processor, which provides faster processing speeds and improved efficiency, particularly beneficial for intensive applications, advanced camera computations, and graphically demanding games.
  • Multitasking and Storage: Both models come with 6GB of RAM, allowing for efficient multitasking and app management. Storage options for both include 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, with the iPhone 14 Pro Max also offering a 1TB option for users with extensive storage needs.
  • Battery Behavior: Both devices offer impressive battery life. The iPhone 14 Plus, with its 4325 mAh battery, is noted for its excellent endurance, often lasting through a full day of heavy use and sometimes longer. The iPhone 14 Pro Max, with a 4323 mAh battery, also delivers exceptional battery performance, often surpassing the Plus model in video playback duration due to its more efficient processor and adaptive display technology.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

Both iPhones feature large, vibrant displays, but the Pro Max model incorporates several advanced technologies that enhance the visual experience.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: Both devices feature a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, offering deep blacks and vibrant colors. The iPhone 14 Plus has a resolution of 2778 by 1284 pixels at 458 pixels per inch (ppi), while the iPhone 14 Pro Max offers a slightly higher resolution of 2796 by 1290 pixels at 460 ppi.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The iPhone 14 Plus provides a typical maximum brightness of 800 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 1200 nits, with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The iPhone 14 Pro Max elevates this with a typical maximum brightness of 1000 nits, a peak HDR brightness of 1600 nits, and an impressive 2000 nits peak brightness for outdoor viewing. It also features ProMotion technology, offering an adaptive refresh rate that can scale from 1Hz to 120Hz for smoother scrolling and more fluid animations.
  • Unique Display Features: The iPhone 14 Pro Max introduces the Dynamic Island, a re-imagined notch area that dynamically adapts to show alerts, notifications, and background activities. It also includes an Always-On display feature, which allows users to see essential information without fully waking the screen. The iPhone 14 Plus retains the traditional notch design.

Resolution

1284 x 2778

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems are a significant differentiator, with the iPhone 14 Pro Max offering a more versatile and advanced setup.

  • Main Camera System: The iPhone 14 Plus features a dual-camera system with a 12MP main wide lens (f/1.5 aperture) and a 12MP ultra-wide lens (f/2.4 aperture). The iPhone 14 Pro Max boasts a triple-camera system, including a 48MP main wide lens (f/1.78 aperture), a 12MP ultra-wide lens (f/2.2 aperture), and a 12MP telephoto lens (f/2.8 aperture) with 3x optical zoom. Both benefit from features like Photonic Engine, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR 4 for improved image processing.
  • Photography and Video Capabilities: The iPhone 14 Pro Max's 48MP main sensor allows for greater detail capture and offers a 2x telephoto option by cropping the main sensor. It also supports Apple ProRAW for more professional photo editing and includes a LiDAR scanner for improved depth sensing in low light and augmented reality applications. Both models offer Cinematic Mode for video recording up to 4K HDR at 30 frames per second and Action Mode for stabilized video. The Pro Max further supports ProRes video recording up to 4K at 30 frames per second.
  • Zoom and Low-Light Performance: The iPhone 14 Plus offers 2x optical zoom out and up to 5x digital zoom. The iPhone 14 Pro Max provides 3x optical zoom in, 2x optical zoom out, and up to 15x digital zoom, offering greater flexibility for capturing distant subjects. The Pro Max also shows improved low-light performance across its lenses.

Main camera

12 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core features, several practical elements distinguish these two iPhone models.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G cellular connectivity, advanced Wi-Fi standards, and Bluetooth. In the US, both models are eSIM-only, meaning they do not use physical SIM cards. Both utilize the Lightning port for charging and data transfer.
  • Physical Design and Handling: The iPhone 14 Plus measures 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.8 mm and weighs 203 grams, featuring an aluminum frame. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is very similar in size at 160.7 x 77.6 x 7.85 mm but is heavier at 240 grams due to its stainless steel frame. The weight difference can impact one-handed use and overall feel.
  • Additional Sensors: Both phones include Face ID for secure authentication. The iPhone 14 Pro Max additionally incorporates a LiDAR scanner, which enhances depth perception for photography and augmented reality applications.

Weight

7 oz

8 oz

Width

3.07 in

3.05 in

Height

6.33 in

6.33 in

Depth

0.31 in

0.31 in

Screen size (inches)

6.7

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

T-Mobile

AT&T

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

User feedback for the iPhone 14 Plus often highlights its appeal for those seeking a large screen and extended battery life without the additional features and associated weight of the Pro Max model. Many users appreciate its balance of size and endurance, making it a practical choice for daily use and media consumption. Criticisms sometimes point to its display lacking the higher refresh rate found in more premium devices.

The iPhone 14 Pro Max is frequently praised for its cutting-edge display, advanced camera capabilities, and robust performance, making it a favorite among users who prioritize the latest technology and professional-grade features. Its exceptional battery life is also a consistent highlight. Some users have noted that the Always-On Display can impact battery performance, and its heavier build might be a consideration for some.

Users prioritizing a large display and excellent battery life for general use, streaming, and casual photography may find the iPhone 14 Plus well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users who require the most advanced camera system, a highly responsive display with adaptive refresh rates, and top-tier processing power for demanding tasks will likely lean toward the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Both models offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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