iPhone 14 Pro Max Vs iPhone 15

iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 14 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:£330.00

Versus £1,199.00 new

See options
iPhone 15
iPhone 15
Starting at

Refurbished price:£324.00

Versus £699.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 14 Pro Max, released in September 2022, and the iPhone 15, launched in September 2023, represent different tiers within Apple's smartphone lineup. While the iPhone 14 Pro Max was a flagship 'Pro' model from the previous generation, the iPhone 15 is the standard model from the subsequent year. Both devices operate on Apple's iOS, offering a consistent software experience, but they diverge significantly in display technology, camera capabilities, and physical design.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, several factors contribute to their expected lifespan.

  • Release Timeline and OS Support: The iPhone 14 Pro Max was released in September 2022, while the iPhone 15 followed in September 2023. This means the iPhone 15 will likely receive major iOS software updates for approximately one year longer than the iPhone 14 Pro Max, extending its software longevity.
  • Software Longevity Expectations: Both devices are expected to receive several years of software support, ensuring access to new features and security updates. The iPhone 15, being a year newer, naturally benefits from an extended period of official support.
  • Repairability and Durability: Both models feature Ceramic Shield front covers, offering enhanced drop protection. The iPhone 14 Pro Max utilizes a stainless steel frame, while the iPhone 15 features an aluminum frame with a color-infused glass back. Both carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.

Year of Release

2022

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the iPhone 14 Pro Max and the iPhone 15 deliver robust performance for daily tasks and demanding applications, largely due to sharing the same core processing unit.

  • Processor Capabilities: The iPhone 15 incorporates the same A16 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 14 Pro Max. This means both devices handle demanding apps, multitasking, and graphics-intensive games with comparable smoothness and efficiency.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 14 Pro Max is equipped with a larger battery, offering up to 29 hours of video playback on a single charge. The iPhone 15, with its smaller battery, provides up to 20 hours of video playback. This difference translates to the iPhone 14 Pro Max generally offering longer usage times between charges for heavy users.
  • Storage Options: Both models offer various internal storage configurations, typically starting from 128GB and extending to 512GB. The iPhone 14 Pro Max also had a 1TB option available. Neither device supports expandable storage via memory cards.

Memory

6 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on these two iPhones presents notable differences, primarily in screen size and display fluidity.

  • Display Technology and Size: The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a larger 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, while the iPhone 15 has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display. Both displays offer vibrant colors and deep blacks.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: A key distinction is the refresh rate. The iPhone 14 Pro Max includes ProMotion technology, allowing for an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, which results in smoother scrolling and more fluid animations. The iPhone 15 maintains a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
  • Brightness and Clarity: Both devices offer high peak brightness levels, reaching up to 2000 nits for outdoor visibility, ensuring content remains clear even in bright conditions. They both feature resolutions that provide sharp text and detailed images, with approximately 460 pixels per inch.

Resolution

1290 x 2796

1179 x 2556

Screen type

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems on the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 15 offer distinct capabilities, catering to different photographic needs.

  • Camera System Capabilities: The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a triple-lens rear camera system, including a 48MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a dedicated 12MP telephoto lens capable of 3x optical zoom. The iPhone 15 has a dual-lens system with a 48MP main camera and a 12MP ultrawide camera. Its 48MP main sensor can achieve 2x telephoto quality zoom by cropping into the high-resolution image.
  • Photography Performance: Both devices excel in everyday photography, producing detailed and color-accurate images. The iPhone 14 Pro Max's dedicated telephoto lens provides true optical zoom, which can be beneficial for capturing distant subjects with greater clarity. The iPhone 15's larger main sensor and improved image processing also deliver strong results, particularly in well-lit conditions.
  • Video Recording Quality: Both models support high-quality video recording. The iPhone 14 Pro Max offers additional features like ProRes video recording, which provides more flexibility for professional video editing. Both have 12MP front cameras for selfies and video calls.

Main camera

48 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several practical elements differentiate the user experience between these two iPhone models.

  • Connectivity Options: Both the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 15 support 5G cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring fast and reliable wireless communication.
  • Port Types: A significant difference is the charging and data port. The iPhone 14 Pro Max uses Apple's proprietary Lightning port, while the iPhone 15 has transitioned to a USB-C port, offering broader compatibility with other electronic devices.
  • Weight and Dimensions: The iPhone 14 Pro Max is a larger and heavier device, measuring 160.7 x 77.6 x 7.85mm and weighing 240g. The iPhone 15 is more compact and lighter at 147.6 x 71.6 x 7.8mm and 171g, making it potentially easier to handle for some users.

Weight

120 g

171 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C (USB 2)

User sentiment often highlights the iPhone 14 Pro Max for its expansive display and advanced camera system, particularly the dedicated telephoto lens and ProMotion display. Users appreciate its robust build and extended battery life, making it a strong choice for those who prioritize media consumption and photography. Some common criticisms, however, include its larger size and weight, which can make one-handed use challenging for some individuals.

The iPhone 15 is frequently praised for its more manageable size, lighter build, and the adoption of the versatile USB-C port. Its updated main camera, capable of 2x telephoto quality zoom, is also a notable improvement over previous standard models. Users generally find it to be a well-rounded device for everyday use. Some discussions point to the 60Hz display as a potential drawback for those accustomed to higher refresh rates.

For users who prioritize a larger, more fluid display with a dedicated optical telephoto camera and maximum battery endurance, the iPhone 14 Pro Max remains a compelling option. Its 'Pro' features from the previous generation still offer a premium experience. Conversely, individuals seeking a more compact and lighter device with the convenience of USB-C connectivity and a slightly longer software support window may find the iPhone 15 better suited to their needs. Both devices offer a reliable iOS experience, and choosing between them often comes down to preferences regarding screen size, camera versatility, and physical form factor. Exploring quality-assured refurbished options for either model can also be a sustainable choice for consumers.

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