Is the Apple iPhone 14 worth it in 2024?

How does the iPhone 14 Stack up against the iPhone 15?

The iPhone 14 compared to the 13 was essentially a refined version of its predecessor, with modest improvements, particularly in the camera department. But when we compare it to the iPhone 15, the differences start to become more apparent.

Price:

First things first, the iPhone 14 is obviously going to be easier on the budget than the iPhone 15. Brand new, the iPhone 14 starts at $699, which is only $100 cheaper than the iPhone 15 at $799. Alternatively, if you buy refurbished from Back Market, the iPhone 14 will cost in the range of $375-$500+ compared to iPhone 15 starting around $500-$600.

Design & display:

The iPhone 14 retains the classic Apple design, with its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display and a Ceramic Shield front. It’s still a visually appealing device, but the iPhone 15 steps things up with slightly thinner bezels, a new Dynamic Island, and a USB-C port replacing the Lightning connector. These updates, while incremental, give the iPhone 15 a more modern feel, especially when considering future compatibility with accessories.

Performance:

The iPhone 14’s A15 Bionic chip, inherited from the iPhone 13 Pro, offers solid performance that remains competitive even in 2024. However, the A16 Bionic chip in the iPhone 15 provides a noticeable speed boost, particularly in graphics-heavy applications and multitasking. For most users, the increase in performance speed isn't going to make any difference, but if you have a need for faster processing, the iPhone 15 is a clear winner.

Camera:

The camera system is where the iPhone 14 still shines. With its improved low-light performance and the introduction of the Photonic Engine, it captures stunning photos and videos. The iPhone 15, however, introduces a more advanced 48MP main camera (previously seen in the iPhone 14 Pro), offering greater detail and flexibility, especially with its ability to shoot in ProRAW. If photography is a key consideration, the iPhone 15 offers more, but the iPhone 14 is still more than capable for everyday use.

Battery Life & Charging:

While the iPhone 14’s battery life was a slight improvement over the iPhone 13, it lags behind the iPhone 15. The iPhone 15 offers better battery efficiency thanks to the A16 chip and comes with slightly faster charging capabilities. If you’re someone who’s constantly on the go, the iPhone 15 might offer the longevity you need.

Should I wait for the iPhone 14 price to drop?

If you don't have any immediate need to replace your current phone, your best bet to save money is to wait a few months for the iPhone 14 price to drop. The iPhone 16 will be released in September, and typically we see price drops immediately after for older iPhone models.

This year won't be any different, and you'll likely see Apple drop their prices for the iPhone 14 by $100+. You'll see a similar trend in dropping prices from refurbished retail sites like Back Market.

Of course, if you need a replacement phone more immediately, then the current iPhone 14 prices still offer a great value.

Alternative options to the iPhone 14

Today, the smartphone market offers plenty of alternatives to the iPhone 14, especially as prices fluctuate.

• iPhone 13 Pro: If you’re looking for a more premium experience at a lower cost, the iPhone 13 Pro is a strong contender. It offers a ProMotion display, superior camera capabilities, and better build quality compared to the iPhone 14, making it a better option for most average iPhone users.

• iPhone 15: If you’re willing to spend a bit more, the iPhone 15 offers more future-proofing with its updated design, improved performance, and better camera system. Some people may find it well worth it for only an extra ~$100.

• Refurbished iPhone 14 Pro: The iPhone 14 Pro is a more similar smartphone to the iPhone 15, but for a slightly lower average cost. For those who prioritize camera quality and a smoother display, a refurbished iPhone 14 Pro could be a great middle ground.

• Android smartphones: If you’re open to switching ecosystems, there are numerous Android devices that offer excellent value in 2024. Samsung’s Galaxy S23 and Google’s Pixel 7 series, for example, are strong contenders with top-tier specs and competitive pricing.

Final verdict: is the iPhone 14 worth it?

So, is the iPhone 14 worth it in 2024? The answer largely depends on your needs and budget. If you can find a good deal, especially after the iPhone 16 launches, the iPhone 14 is still a highly capable device that will serve you well for years to come. However, if you’re looking for the latest features, better performance, and enhanced camera capabilities, it might be worth spending a bit more on the iPhone 15 or waiting for the iPhone 16.

Ultimately, the iPhone 14 remains a solid choice, but with new models and price drops on the horizon, timing your purchase wisely could save you money while still getting a great phone. If you need a replacement iPhone more immediately, then you might be better off with an alternative lower cost option like the iPhone 13 or 13 Pro.

What our experts think

Our in-house tech expert and Lead Refurbishment & Operations Manager, Kewin Charron, weighs in with his thoughts of the iPhone 14:

Overall, the iPhone 13 Pro is a better deal than the iPhone 14. It has the same performance and better camera features, offering great value for your money.

Back Market iPhone 14 reviews

Based on the 10 most recent iPhone 14 reviews from Back Market customers, the iPhone 14 scored 4.85/5 stars and made a positive impression on users who mainly appreciated the excellent condition, cost savings, and reliable customer service provided with their purchases.

The iPhone 14 performance was also appreciated for being excellent:

Kathryn W. mentioned that despite a scratch on the screen, the phone "works literally perfectly," indicating satisfaction with the device's performance.

Ryan A. stated that the phone "works great and looks great," which implies that the performance of the iPhone 14 met his expectations.

Shermi K. highlighted that everything, including the camera and cellular network, works perfectly on the iPhone 14 they received.

Afrikka B. also confirmed that "everything works properly" and that they had no complaints regarding the phone's functionality.

Reddit feedback about the iPhone 14

Based on a Reddit post 1 month ago asking if you should buy the iPhone 14 or 13 in 2024, the overall sentiment leans toward sticking with the iPhone 13, especially for those looking for value. The iPhone 14, while slightly better in terms of RAM and future-proofing, does not offer enough improvements to make it a compelling upgrade from the iPhone 13. For those who already own an iPhone 13 or are considering a new purchase, many users feel that it remains a solid choice in 2024.

Many users favor the iPhone 13 over the iPhone 14, citing it as a better value for money. They feel that the iPhone 14 doesn't offer significant upgrades to justify its higher price, particularly since it closely resembles the iPhone 13.

Similar to our expert Kewin's opinion and the information in this article, some users, like J539 and C4mine, recommended the iPhone 13 Pro if budget permits, citing it as a superior option due to its additional features, like 6GB of RAM. WhirledNews suggested waiting for the iPhone 16’s release, which would lower the iPhone 15’s price and introduce USB-C, making it a better long-term investment.