In the past, choosing an iPhone was simpler - opt for the latest model with the highest affordable storage capacity. While we still suggest investing in ample storage, selecting the ideal iPhone model has become more complex. Currently, Apple provides a range of eight iPhone models, including four released in the fall of 2023, one in spring 2023, two from 2021, and one from 2020. Additionally, refurbished models from previous years are available through the Apple Refurbished Store and other sources. Apple offers this extensive variety because individuals have diverse priorities and preferences that guide their choices.
Within Apple's current iPhone range, you'll find the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max, alongside the iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone SE (3rd gen), and iPhone 12. It's important to note that selecting the "best" iPhone depends on your individual preferences. The top-ranked iPhone may not necessarily be the ideal choice for you. To help you determine which iPhone suits your needs, this comprehensive evaluation of all the iPhones available from Apple will provide valuable insights. It will guide you in making a decision that balances cost-effectiveness and potential benefits, enabling you to decide whether you can save money or if investing more would be worthwhile.
To make an informed decision about which iPhone is the right fit for you, we recommend referring to our detailed Buying Guide. This guide delves into the distinctions among the various iPhone models, including factors such as price, specifications, features, camera capabilities, screen quality, and durability. By exploring our comprehensive guide titled "Which iPhone? iPhone buying guide," you'll gain valuable insights that will assist you in selecting the perfect iPhone that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
iPhone specs compared
| iPhone SE (3) | iPhone 14 | iPhone 14 Plus | iPhone 14 Pro | iPhone 14 Pro Max | iPhone 13 | iPhone 13 mini | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $429/£449 | $799/£849 | $899/£949 | $999/£1,099 | $1,099/£1,199 | $699/£749 | $599/£649 |
| Screen size | 4.7″ | 6.1″ | 6.7″ | 6.1″ | 6.7″ | 6.1″ | 5.4″ |
| Size (H x W x D) | 5.45″ x 2.65″ x 0.29″ | 5.78″ x 2.82″ x 0.31″ | 6.33″ x 3.07″ x 0.31″ | 5.81″ x 2.81″ x 0.31″ | 6.33″ x 3.05″ x 0.31″ | 5.78″ x 2.82″ x 0.30″ | 5.18″ x 2.53″ x 0.30″ |
| Weight | 5.09 oz | 6.07 oz | 6.14 oz | 7.27 oz | 8.47 oz | 6.14 oz | 4.97 oz |
| Colors | Starlight, midnight, red | Blue, purple, midnight, starlight, red | Blue, purple, midnight, starlight, red | Deep purple, gold, silver, Space Black | Deep purple, gold, silver, Space Black | Pink, blue, midnight, starlight, red | Pink, blue, midnight, starlight, red |
| Display | LCD (326 ppi) | OLED with HDR (460 ppi) | OLED with HDR (458 ppi) | OLED with HDR (460 ppi), ProMotion 120Hz | OLED with HDR (460 ppi), ProMotion, 120Hz | OLED with HDR (460 ppi) | OLED with HDR (476 ppi) |
| Processor | A15 Bionic (4-core GPU) | A15 Bionic (5-core GPU) | A15 Bionic (5-core GPU) | A16 Bionic (5-core GPU) | A16 Bionic (5-core GPU) | A15 Bionic (4-core GPU) | A15 Bionic (4-core GPU) |
| Storage | 64/128/256GB | 128/256/512GB | 128/256/512GB | 128/256/512GB/1TB | 128/256/512GB/1TB | 128/256/512GB | 128/256/512GB |
| Authentication | Touch ID | Face ID | Face ID | Face ID | Face ID | Face ID | Face ID |
| Rear Camera | 12MP f/1.8 Wide camera | 12MP f/1.5 Wide camera, 12MP f/2.4 Ultra Wide camera | 12MP f/1.5 Wide camera, 12MP f/2.4 Ultra Wide camera | 12MP f/1.78 Wide camera, 12MP f/2.2 Ultra Wide camera (macro), 12MP f/2.8 Telephoto (3x) | 12MP f/1.78 Wide camera, 12MP f/2.2 Ultra Wide camera (macro), 12MP f/2.8 Telephoto (3x) | 12MP f/1.6 Wide camera, 12MP f/2.4 Ultra Wide camera | 12MP f/1.6 Wide camera, 12MP f/2.4 Ultra Wide camera |
| Front Camera | 7MP f/2.2 camera, 1080p | 12MP f/1.9 camera, 4K HDR | 12MP f/1.9 camera, 4K HDR | 12MP f/1.9 camera, 4K HDR | 12MP f/1.9 camera, 4K HDR | 12MP f/2.2 camera, 4K HDR | 12MP f/2.2 camera, 4K HDR |
| Battery capacity | 1,821mAh | 3,279 mAh | 4,325 mAh | 3,200 mAh | 4,323 mAh | 3240mAh | 2348mAh |
| Wireless features | 5G (sub-6 only), Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, Ultra Wideband | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, Ultra Wideband | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, Ultra Wideband | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, Ultra Wideband | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, Ultra Wideband | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, Ultra Wideband |
| MagSafe | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
1. iPhone 14 Pro – Best new iPhone
Pros
- Dynamic Island is a big step forward for the iPhone interface
- Always-on display, finally
- 48MP camera shines in ProRAW format
- Excellent battery life
Cons
- Photos are a bit over-processed
- Big cameras can get in the way
- Some features are waiting on software updates
The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max introduce two exclusive features, the always-on display and Dynamic Island, which revolutionize the iPhone user experience. The implementation of the always-on display is excellent, and Dynamic Island proves to be a game-changer.
Dynamic Island is made possible by shrinking the notch that houses the Face ID sensors and front-facing camera. It is now located in a small pill-shaped cutout that can display useful information like timers, sports scores, and music track details. This feature has been well-received by users.
With the always-on display, essential information such as time, date, lock screen widgets, and notifications remain visible even when the phone is not in use. The screen is dimmed significantly, minimizing battery impact. When the iPhone is placed face-down or detects an Apple Watch connected to it, the screen turns off.
The screen technology has also seen improvements. Notably, the iPhone 14 Pro can reach up to 2,000 nits of brightness, allowing for better visibility even in bright sunlight.
The iPhone 14 Pro (and Max) boasts the best cameras ever seen on an iPhone. The main wide-angle camera now features a 48MP sensor with a larger aperture, resulting in better low-light photography. While it can capture 48MP shots in ProRAW format, it utilizes the additional detail to create superior 12MP photos. Additionally, macro photography has been enhanced and can now be used for video as well.
The front camera receives an upgrade with a wider aperture and autofocus, improving selfie quality. Video recording also benefits from features like 4K at 30fps in Cinematic Mode and Action Mode for stabilized recordings on the move.
Under the hood, the iPhone 14 Pro (and Max) houses the A16 Bionic chip, a newer generation than the A15 Bionic found in the iPhone 14. While the performance leap may not be significant, battery life has improved. In tests, the iPhone 14 Pro lasted an impressive 9 hours and 44 minutes.
The iPhone 14 Pro offers additional features, including the ability to detect car crashes and satellite SOS capabilities (limited to the U.S. and Canada). The absence of a SIM tray in the U.S. means eSIM is required. Dual-band precision GPS is exclusive to the 14 Pro and Max, improving location accuracy in areas with tall buildings and trees.
Overall, the always-on display and Dynamic Island, coupled with other advancements, elevate the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max to a new level of usability and performance, making them a significant upgrade over previous iPhone models.
2. iPhone 14 Pro Max – Best battery life
Pros
- Excellent battery life; longest of all iPhones (for now)
- Dynamic Island is a big step forward for the iPhone interface
- Always-on display, finally
- 48MP camera shines in ProRAW format
Cons
- May be too big for some users
- Camera array protrudes farther out than previously
- Photos are a bit over-processed
- Some features require software updates and are not yet available
When comparing the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, many features are shared, such as the always-on display, Dynamic Island, and camera improvements. However, there are significant advantages that the iPhone 14 Pro Max holds over the iPhone 14 Pro, namely in terms of battery life and a larger display. Choosing between the two models ultimately comes down to personal preference, as some may find the Max too large while others may consider the Pro too small.
Price difference is another factor to consider. Opting for the larger Pro iPhone means paying a higher price, unless one considers the iPhone 14 Plus as an alternative. In the 2022 iPhone lineup, both the Pro Max and Plus offer a 6.7-inch display, eliminating the need for additional payment for a bigger screen. Despite this, there are reasons to lean towards the Max over the Plus.
One notable advantage of the Max is the inclusion of Dynamic Island, while the Plus retains the traditional notch. Dynamic Island, as discussed earlier, has been praised for its innovative nature and adds significant value to the iPhone experience.
Similar to the iPhone 14 Pro, the Max also features the always-on display, which provides the convenience of checking the time and important notifications without needing to wake the phone. Although there are battery implications, they are not substantial. In terms of battery life, the Max outperforms the Plus, with Apple claiming up to 29 hours of video playback compared to the Plus's 26 hours. In tests conducted, the iPhone 14 Pro Max lasted approximately 12 hours and 40 minutes, about an hour longer than the iPhone 13 Pro Max and significantly longer than the 14 Pro, which lasted 9 hours and 44 minutes. While the battery life of the iPhone 14 Plus has not been tested yet, it possesses the same 4,325 mAh battery as the Pro Max, suggesting the potential for even better battery performance in tests due to the absence of power-consuming features like ProMotion and the always-on display.
All iPhones support fast charging with a separate USB-C 20W power brick (not included). Larger phones take about 35 minutes to charge to 50%, while smaller phones take around 30 minutes, considering their smaller batteries.
The entire iPhone 14 series benefits from various camera updates, as mentioned in the iPhone 14 Pro section. However, the main distinguishing feature for the Pro models is the ability to capture 48MP photos, specifically when using ProRAW mode. It's worth noting that 48MP photos require significant storage space, so it's advisable to choose an iPhone with ample memory if you intend to utilize this feature.
The iPhone 14 Pro Max offers more value for the money, with a larger size accommodating a bigger battery and the allure of additional screen real estate. However, the size and bulk of the device may deter some users, and it is the most expensive handset in Apple's lineup, particularly if more than 128GB of storage is desired.
3. iPhone 14 – Good enough
Pros
- Action Mode is brilliant
- Faster low light shots so you don’t have to hold the iPhone still for as long
Cons
- Price increase in many parts of the world
- No Dynamic Island or always-on display
- Few changes as compared to the now cheaper iPhone 13
Although Apple skipped the "S" naming convention for the iPhone 14, it could have easily been called the iPhone 13s. The iPhone 14 (and Plus) retains the A15 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 13 Pro, instead of upgrading to the A16 Bionic chip seen in the iPhone 14 Pro (and Max). The A15 Bionic variant used in the iPhone 14 models includes an additional graphics core compared to the standard iPhone 13, which is still available for purchase.
The biggest challenge facing the iPhone 14 in 2022 is its similarity to the iPhone 13, which is still being sold. If you are upgrading from an older iPhone, you have the choice between two models, with one option saving you $100/£100.
However, there are features offered by the iPhone 14 that justify the additional expense. The most significant difference lies in the cameras. The iPhone 14 boasts a faster aperture (ƒ/1.5 compared to ƒ/1.6) and a larger sensor on the main camera, resulting in better overall performance and improved low-light shooting capabilities. The iPhone 14 also benefits from a new computational system called the Photonic Engine, which enhances detail capture in challenging lighting conditions and aids features like the new Foreground Blur. These improvements not only enhance low-light photography but also reduce the need to hold the iPhone steady for extended periods, which is a significant advantage.
Another noteworthy feature that sets the iPhone 14 apart is Action Mode. This mode allows you to capture videos while walking or even running, while still maintaining a steady result. It's a fun feature that many users will likely enjoy. Additionally, the front-facing selfie camera on the iPhone 14 has been improved with a larger aperture and autofocus.
The iPhone 14 also introduces other features that are absent in the iPhone 13, such as the Crash Detection feature. If you find yourself in such a situation, having the iPhone 14 could prove beneficial.
Despite the advantages of the iPhone 14, there are reasons why someone might choose the iPhone 13 over the newer model, which will be discussed in the following section.
4. iPhone 14 Plus – a reasonable compromise
Pros
- Large format at a lower price
- Great battery life
Cons
- No Dynamic Island
- No always-on display
As mentioned in the section on the iPhone 14 Pro Max, the introduction of the iPhone 14 Plus has stirred things up by offering consumers a choice for a larger iPhone. This means that individuals who desire a big iPhone now have the option to save $200/£250 and purchase a new iPhone with standard features. Alternatively, they can choose between a 512GB iPhone 14 Plus priced at $1,199/£1,279 or a 256GB iPhone 14 Pro Max priced at $1,199/£1,309. For some, having more storage may outweigh the additional Pro features.
One of the main challenges with the iPhone 14 Plus is its pricing, which is not significantly different from that of the iPhone 14 Pro. The iPhone 14 Pro offers a better overall experience for $999/£1,099, compared to $899/£949 for the iPhone 14 Plus. With just a $100/£150 difference, one would need a strong preference for the larger handset to justify the choice.
The iPhone 14 Plus, like the iPhone 14, features two rear cameras, whereas the Pro models offer three cameras. For some users, the added flexibility of the Pro cameras may be a compelling reason to choose that model. Photography capabilities have been improved across the board compared to the previous generation, with a significant difference seen in low-light photography (particularly in terms of how long the phone needs to be held still while capturing the photo). The iPhone 14 and 14 Plus also benefit from Action Mode, which allows for stable video recording while in motion, eliminating shaky footage. The front-facing camera also receives an upgrade with autofocus and a wider aperture.
According to Apple, the iPhone 14 Plus can achieve up to 26 hours of video playback, whereas the iPhone 14 Pro Max offers up to 29 hours. In tests, the Plus model performed slightly below the Pro Max, with battery life scores similar to the iPhone 13 Pro Max.
While the iPhone 14 Plus is a good phone, its main drawback is the pricing, especially when compared to the iPhone 14 Pro, which offers a more compelling package for just a slightly higher cost. However, the iPhone 14 Plus may still be attractive to those who were considering the iPhone 14 Pro Max but are currently trying to be mindful of overspending.
5. Apple iPhone 13 mini – Best small iPhone
Pros
- Portable size
- Last mini iPhone Apple is likely to sell
Cons
- Lower battery life
Pros
- Portable size
- Last mini iPhone Apple is likely to sell
Cons
- Lower battery life
The iPhone 13 mini holds a special place as the last of its kind, and for individuals seeking a small-sized iPhone, it remains a viable option. Apple offers two small iPhones: the iPhone 13 mini and the iPhone SE 3rd generation. While the iPhone 13 mini sports a larger 5.4-inch screen compared to the iPhone SE's 4.7-inch screen, the difference in size is not significant.
The iPhone 13 mini is the only small iPhone equipped with Face ID, and it offers several advantages over the iPhone SE. These include improved water resistance, with the iPhone 13 mini capable of being submerged to a depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes, whereas the iPhone SE is rated for water resistance to a depth of 1 meter for the same duration. Additionally, the iPhone 13 mini features a Ceramic Shield front, which enhances its durability and makes it less prone to shattering upon impact compared to the iPhone SE.
The display on the iPhone 13 mini is also a major improvement over the iPhone SE. It boasts a Super Retina XDR OLED display with HDR support, featuring a resolution of 2,340-by-1,080 pixels at 476 pixels per inch (ppi). The contrast ratio is 2,000,000:1, and it offers a maximum brightness of 800 nits (typical) and 1200 nits (peak) for HDR content. In contrast, the iPhone SE has a Retina HD LCD display with IPS technology, offering a resolution of 1,334-by-750 pixels at 326 ppi, a contrast ratio of 1400:1, and a maximum brightness of 625 nits (typical).
The iPhone 13 mini also provides a range of appealing color finishes, including Green, Pink, Blue, Midnight, Starlight, and Red. The iPhone SE, on the other hand, is available in Midnight, Starlight, and Red.
One crucial reason to choose the iPhone 13 mini over the iPhone SE, particularly for those seeking a small iPhone, is the significantly improved camera system. The iPhone 13 mini features dual cameras on the rear, whereas the iPhone SE only has a single rear camera. This allows for more versatile photography capabilities and a better overall imaging experience.
In summary, the iPhone 13 mini offers a compelling package for those who prefer a small-sized iPhone. It excels over the iPhone SE in various aspects, including Face ID, water resistance, display quality, color options, and camera capabilities.
6. Apple iPhone 13 – Good value option
Pros
- Same generation processor as the iPhone 14
- Can get more storage for your money
Cons
- Lacks Action Mode
- Lacks the camera improvements of the iPhone 14
Indeed, choosing the iPhone 13 over the iPhone 14 can be a sensible decision for several reasons. While the iPhone 14 offers more features and improvements, there are factors that make the iPhone 13 a compelling choice.
One significant reason is the option to invest the extra money that would be spent on the iPhone 14 into increasing the storage capacity of the iPhone 13. The iPhone 14 starts at $799/£849 with 128GB of storage, whereas the same price can get you an iPhone 13 with 256GB of storage, providing more room for your apps, photos, and files. Opting for higher storage capacity may be a priority, especially if you're coming from a device with more storage.
Despite the arrival of the iPhone 14, the iPhone 13 remains a solid device, especially when compared to the iPhone 12, which is still available for purchase. Both the iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 feature a smaller notch compared to the iPhone 12, making them visually similar. In fact, at a glance, it may be challenging to distinguish between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14, allowing you to maintain a modern appearance even with the previous year's model. Additionally, some individuals may prefer the deeper and more vibrant color options offered by the 2021 iPhone lineup in contrast to the more muted shades introduced in 2022.
One noticeable design difference between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 is the camera protrusion on the back. The cameras on the iPhone 14 stick out more prominently, causing the device to lie less flat when placed on a surface without a case. While this design choice serves a purpose, it can detract from the overall aesthetic. However, once you use a case to protect your iPhone (which is recommended), the camera protrusion becomes less of an issue.
If you are upgrading from an older iPhone, it's worth noting that choosing the iPhone 13 over the iPhone 14 in 2022 won't result in sacrificing as much as in previous years. The iPhone 13 still offers a robust set of features and performance, making it a cost-effective option without compromising significantly on functionality.
In conclusion, selecting the iPhone 13 over the iPhone 14 allows you to save money while still obtaining a reliable and capable device. With the option to invest in higher storage capacity and the overall similarity in appearance, the iPhone 13 remains an attractive choice for individuals seeking a solid iPhone experience.
7. Apple iPhone SE (2022) – The cheapest iPhone
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Pros
- A15 chip
- Cheapest iPhone
Cons
- Old, mediocre quality cameras
- Dated display with huge bezels
- No mmWave support
- Disappointing battery life
The iPhone SE and iPhone 13 mini are indeed the only small-sized iPhones currently offered by Apple. If you prefer a compact device similar in size to the iPhone 8, these models are worth considering. However, it's worth noting that opting for an iPhone with a 6.1-inch screen, such as the iPhone 12, 13, or 14, would provide a larger display without a significant increase in overall device size.
One significant advantage of the iPhone SE, particularly for those accustomed to the Home button, is its inclusion of a physical button. While many users have adjusted to Face ID and gesture-based navigation, some individuals find the accessibility and familiarity of a physical button beneficial. It's worth noting that Apple continues to offer an iPhone with a Home button primarily to cater to this user preference, although it remains uncertain how long this option will be available. For users who prefer a physical Home button, it's also possible to add a software Home button to any iPhone through the device's settings.
Additionally, the affordability of the iPhone SE makes it an attractive choice for some users. It is Apple's most budget-friendly new iPhone, priced at $429/£449 (although prices may vary by location). However, it's worth mentioning that the iPhone SE's price has increased since its launch, and previous generations were even more affordable. At one point, the iPhone SE was priced at $399.
While it may not be a top recommendation, the iPhone SE serves as a suitable option, particularly for those who prioritize the presence of a Home button. It is a modern device and offers a more preferable choice compared to older models like the iPhone 8, which may no longer receive software updates beyond 2023.
8. Apple iPhone 12 – Cheapest iPhone with Face ID
Pros
- Face ID
- MagSafe charging
Cons
- Outdated chip
- Large notch
The iPhone 12, starting at $599/£649, is the second cheapest iPhone available after the iPhone SE. Although it was released in 2020, it still offers many popular features and serves as an affordable option for those who want an iPhone with Face ID. Additionally, it is the most affordable iPhone with a 6.1-inch screen, which is the same as the screens found on the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14.
The iPhone 12 is equipped with the A14 Bionic chip, providing respectable performance. While it may not match the power of newer iPhone models, users upgrading from much older iPhones are still likely to experience notable improvements. However, it's important to note that Apple's support for devices with the A14 chip may be shorter compared to devices with the A15 chip. Consequently, the iPhone 12 may receive one less year of software updates. To learn more about the longevity of Apple iPhones, you can refer to our article on the topic.
In terms of camera capabilities, the iPhone 12 includes popular features such as Night Mode, which is absent in the iPhone SE. While it lacks Photographic Styles (found in the SE), Night Mode is generally considered more essential. The iPhone 12 also benefits from having two rear cameras, including a wide-angle lens that allows you to capture wider shots. These cameras are the same as those found in the iPhone 13: a 12MP main camera with an ƒ/1.6 aperture and a 12MP ultra-wide camera with an ƒ/2.4 aperture. In comparison, all other iPhone models offer two or more cameras on the rear. You can find a detailed comparison between the iPhone 12 and the iPhone 13 mini, both starting at the same price of $599/£649, to help you make a more informed decision.
Pros
- Face ID
- MagSafe charging
Cons
- Outdated chip
- Large notch
The iPhone 12, starting at $599/£649, is the second cheapest iPhone available after the iPhone SE. Although it was released in 2020, it still offers many popular features and serves as an affordable option for those who want an iPhone with Face ID. Additionally, it is the most affordable iPhone with a 6.1-inch screen, which is the same as the screens found on the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14.
The iPhone 12 is equipped with the A14 Bionic chip, providing respectable performance. While it may not match the power of newer iPhone models, users upgrading from much older iPhones are still likely to experience notable improvements. However, it's important to note that Apple's support for devices with the A14 chip may be shorter compared to devices with the A15 chip. Consequently, the iPhone 12 may receive one less year of software updates. To learn more about the longevity of Apple iPhones, you can refer to our article on the topic.
In terms of camera capabilities, the iPhone 12 includes popular features such as Night Mode, which is absent in the iPhone SE. While it lacks Photographic Styles (found in the SE), Night Mode is generally considered more essential. The iPhone 12 also benefits from having two rear cameras, including a wide-angle lens that allows you to capture wider shots. These cameras are the same as those found in the iPhone 13: a 12MP main camera with an ƒ/1.6 aperture and a 12MP ultra-wide camera with an ƒ/2.4 aperture. In comparison, all other iPhone models offer two or more cameras on the rear. You can find a detailed comparison between the iPhone 12 and the iPhone 13 mini, both starting at the same price of $599/£649, to help you make a more informed decision.
