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Written by: Emily Chen

iPhone 14 vs iPhone 13

Updated: 9月 30, 2023 | Published: 9月 9, 2022

The iPhone 14 series is coming and the differences in some models are really only in the details! So would a change be worth it? We clarify these questions and more in this “iPhone 13 vs. iPhone 14” comparison.

This year, the decision might even be easier for many people, because not much really changes in a model lineup. At least for fans who want to opt for Apple’s normal iPhone 14 model. Nevertheless, there is one big difference: The iPhone 14 mini is no longer an issue, but an iPhone 14 Plus that is almost twice as big. We will now clarify all questions in the “iPhone 14 vs. iPhone 13” comparison.

iPhone 14 (Pro) vs. iPhone 13 (Pro): Decisions taken away?

While there were still significant differences in the hardware between the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13, as our iPhone 13 vs. iPhone 12 comparison also shows, it is not quite as easy this time, or maybe that is why? Especially the “normal” models without a Pro in the name are so similar in a direct comparison that it might make your decision easier from the start.

The new iPhone 14 Pro variants are much more interesting! And there is a newcomer that competes for the hearts of users with a significantly larger display. The iPhone 14 Plus!

iPhone 14 and iPhone 13 are almost identical in terms of hardware

Therefore, let’s take a look at the obvious horse in the room already. Apple uses exactly the same processor for the new iPhone 14 compared to the iPhone 13. The Apple A15 Bionic from the predecessor is used, which does not increase the performance. The AMOLED screen is also the same: 6.1 inches and the familiar Retina resolution including the 60 hertz.

Performance and display remain the same, but there is a small improvement in the camera. Although the specs are identical at first glance, the sensor uses technologies from the iPhone 13 Pro, at least for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus. Among other things, a larger sensor for improved image quality. The models themselves only differ in size. Otherwise, the technology is extremely similar to the iPhone 13.

iPhone 14 Pro (Max) vs. iPhone 13 Pro (Max) comparison - Biggest changes!

With the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, by far the biggest changes are coming our way. It starts with the design of the front, where we now see the new “Dynamic Island” notch instead of the recess flap for Face ID of the past years. The 6.1-inch and 6.7-inch AMOLED displays can now regulate down to 1 Hertz instead of 24 Hertz, thus saving even more power.

In addition, the Apple A16 Bionic is used, whereas all iPhone 13 models in the comparison and also the iPhone 14 as well as iPhone 14 Plus have to make do with the predecessor CPU. The Apple A16 is more efficient due to the new 4 nanometer process (instead of 5 nanometers) and offers more performance. In addition, the chipset for the graphics (GPU) has become a bit faster. A bit more performance, but less power consumption. However, there does not seem to be any drastic differences in speed compared with the iPhone 13 Pro.

New camera with significantly higher resolution sensors in iPhone 14 Pro (Max)

By the way, Apple breaks with a tradition of many years, because sensors with 12 megapixels were used for many years. Now, however, the resolution is significantly higher for the first time. We are talking about 48 megapixels for the main sensor. Ultra-wide angle and zoom, however, are still at 12 megapixels. An improved image processor raises the image quality in all areas. In addition, the new sensors have grown significantly to capture more light. Apple probably relies on technology from Sony’s upper class IMX800 series here.

The increased internal camera technology could also be the reason why the already large hump on the back of the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max models has grown again. The larger sensor and the new technology probably require this.

iPhone 14 Plus in comparison: Literally the biggest innovation

However, there was one extreme change in the “normal” iPhone, even if it is only reflected in the dimensions. Instead of an iPhone 14 mini, the iPhone 14 Plus has appeared on the scene. Just like the Pro Max, it offers a 6.7-inch display and is thus probably the more affordable large model of the two. It seems as if the iPhone SE (2022) will now take over the role of the smaller devices. In addition, the older iPhone 12 mini as well as iPhone 13 mini models are still available.

But what should also speak for the iPhone 14 Plus is the enormously increased battery life. We assume that the new runtime will be on par with the iPhone 13 Pro Max. The model can then easily last for 2 to 3 days of moderate use. However, our review of the iPhone 14 Plus will have to clarify that.

Conclusion of the "iPhone 14 vs. iPhone 13" comparison: Upgrade only makes sense for the Pro?

Apple sets the bar enormously low on one side and very high on the other. The Pro models improve significantly on all levels. The camera and processor are completely new, and the display has also improved a lot. However, there is hardly anything different between the iPhone 14 and the iPhone 13. Probably also to achieve a greater distinction between Pro and “normal”.

So if you have an iPhone 13, you can completely disregard the iPhone 14, unless you absolutely want to use the significantly larger screen and the associated larger battery in the iPhone 14 Plus. If you were hoping for a mini model, you should most likely rather wait for the next iPhone SE (probably 2024) or consider one of the predecessors. Only the Pro model stands out with many changes, but even here we advise against switching from an iPhone 13 Pro (Max) to the new model for now.

On the other hand, if you are coming from a much older device, things look different again. In that case, it would make sense to enter Apple’s direct upper class.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below.

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About The Author

Meet Emily Chen, a travel writer and eSIM enthusiast. Emily’s love for exploring new places has taken her all over the world. She now shares her experiences and tips for staying connected while traveling through her writing on eSIMradar.