iPhone 14 Vs iPhone 16 Plus

iPhone 14
iPhone 14
Starting at

Refurbished price:£229.00

Versus £599.00 new

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iPhone 16 Plus
iPhone 16 Plus
Starting at

Refurbished price:£503.46

Versus £799.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 14, released in 2022, and the iPhone 16 Plus, launched in 2024, represent two different generations and size categories within the Apple smartphone ecosystem. While the iPhone 14 serves as a standard-sized, reliable daily device, the iPhone 16 Plus introduces a larger form factor and significant hardware advancements that reflect two years of technological evolution. Both devices run the latest iOS software, but the iPhone 16 Plus is designed to support more advanced system-wide features and integrated tools that are not available on the older model.

The primary differentiators between these two models are the screen dimensions and the internal processing capabilities. The iPhone 14 is built for portability and familiarity, whereas the iPhone 16 Plus targets users who desire a more expansive viewing area and longer-lasting battery performance for intensive daily use.

Scores

Durability

The two-year gap between these models significantly impacts their long-term software support and physical design resilience.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 16 Plus is expected to receive official software updates until approximately 2031, whereas the iPhone 14 will likely see its final major update around 2028 or 2029, making the newer model a better choice for long-term use.
  • Physical Resilience: Both phones feature a Ceramic Shield front and aerospace-grade aluminium, but the iPhone 16 Plus benefits from an updated internal architecture that improves heat dissipation and makes certain internal repairs more straightforward for technicians.
  • Maintenance: Users can expect both devices to remain functional for many years, though the iPhone 16 Plus offers a longer runway for those who want to stay current with the latest security patches and interface changes.

Year of Release

2022

2024

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The difference in performance is most noticeable when handling demanding applications or multitasking between several resource-heavy tools.

  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone 16 Plus utilizes a much more powerful internal processor that handles complex tasks, such as high-end gaming or video editing, with greater ease and speed than the iPhone 14.
  • Multitasking Capabilities: With a higher amount of temporary memory, the iPhone 16 Plus keeps more apps open in the background without needing to refresh them, providing a smoother experience for power users.
  • Battery Endurance: The larger physical size of the iPhone 16 Plus allows for a significantly higher battery capacity, often lasting well into a second day of moderate use, while the iPhone 14 typically requires a nightly charge. Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either model ensures the battery has been tested to meet high functional standards.

Memory (GB)

6 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience differs primarily in terms of physical size, brightness levels, and how the interface interacts with the front-facing hardware.

  • Display Dimensions: The iPhone 16 Plus features a 6.7-inch display, offering a much larger canvas for watching videos or reading, compared to the more compact 6.1-inch screen on the iPhone 14.
  • Outdoor Visibility: The newer model can reach much higher peak brightness levels, making the screen significantly easier to read under direct sunlight or in very bright environments.
  • Interface Integration: While the iPhone 14 retains the traditional notch at the top of the screen, the iPhone 16 Plus uses a dynamic interface element that changes shape to show alerts and background activities, providing a more interactive feel.

Resolution

1170 x 2532

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Photography and media consumption have seen notable upgrades in the two years separating these two smartphone generations.

  • Image Detail: The iPhone 16 Plus features a main camera sensor with four times the resolution of the iPhone 14, allowing for much more detailed photos and the ability to crop into images without losing clarity.
  • Zoom Versatility: Although neither has a dedicated telephoto lens, the iPhone 16 Plus uses its high-resolution sensor to provide a virtual optical-quality zoom, a feature the iPhone 14 lacks.
  • Audio and Video: Both devices offer clear stereo sound and high-quality video recording, but the iPhone 16 Plus includes advanced microphones that better isolate voices from background noise during recordings.

Main camera

12 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical hardware changes, including port types and physical buttons, define the daily handling experience of these two devices.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The iPhone 16 Plus has transitioned to the universal USB-C standard for charging and data transfer, whereas the iPhone 14 uses the proprietary Lightning port.
  • Physical Controls: The iPhone 16 Plus introduces a customisable Action Button and a dedicated touch-sensitive control for camera functions, offering quicker access to tools than the traditional silent switch on the iPhone 14.
  • Handling and Weight: The iPhone 14 is lighter and easier to use with one hand, while the iPhone 16 Plus requires a bit more grip due to its larger dimensions and increased weight.

Weight

172 g

199 g

Screen size (in)

6.1

6.7

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C (USB 2)

User feedback from various community forums highlights a clear distinction in how these devices are perceived in real-world scenarios. Owners of the iPhone 14 often praise its comfortable size and reliable performance for standard communication and social media. However, some users note that the battery life can feel limited during heavy travel or long workdays. Conversely, the iPhone 16 Plus receives high marks for its expansive screen and exceptional battery endurance, though some find the larger size a bit cumbersome for smaller pockets or one-handed use.

Users who prioritise a lightweight device that is easy to manage with one hand will find the iPhone 14 well-suited to their needs. It remains a capable choice for those who do not require the latest software-driven intelligence features or the largest possible screen. On the other hand, users who frequently consume media, play mobile games, or need a phone that can last through intensive use without a charger will likely prefer the iPhone 16 Plus. Selecting a sustainable choice through a refurbished model allows users to access these technologies while supporting a more circular economy. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether the user values portability and simplicity or screen real estate and long-term performance headroom.

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