IPhone 14 Pro Max vs. iPhone 15
The iPhone 15 has finally arrived, adding some cool new features to Apple's lineup. But for those already sporting an iPhone 14 Pro Max, is it worth the money to upgrade to the iPhone 15? We will go over a head-to-head comparison between these two flagship devices, discussing key differences that can help you come to a conclusion about whether this upgrade makes any sense.
Design and Build: Familiar or Fresh?
The iPhone 14 Pro Max and the iPhone 15 both come with Apple's signature design, although the new model does introduce a few important tweaks.
iPhone 14 Pro Max
- Materials: Stainless steel frame
- Weight: 240 grams
- Display: 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display w/ Dynamic Island
- Notable Feature: Always-on display
iPhone 15
- Materials: Aluminum and glass body
- Weight: 171 grams, a lot lighter compared to the 14 Pro Max
- Display: 6.1-inch or 6.7-inch for the iPhone 15 Plus, Super Retina XDR, Dynamic Island comes standard on all models
- New Colours: Light blue, pink, yellow, green, black
Verdict:
If weight and comfort is more of your thing, then the lighter iPhone 15 might just score a point. But in terms of pure, unadulterated premium-ness, the iPhone 14 Pro Max pulls out all the stops with its stainless steel frame-perfect for those who like things solid.
Performance: A16 vs. A17 Bionic Chip
One of the huge upgrades in the iPhone 15 is the A17 Bionic chip compared to the A16 chip in the iPhone 14 Pro Max.
A16 Bionic (iPhone 14 Pro Max)
- 5nm architecture
- Great for multitasking, gaming, and photo processing
- Performs well in most scenarios without lag
A17 Bionic (iPhone 15)
- 3nm architecture: allows for better efficiency and power performance
- Faster GPU for smoother gaming and AR apps
- Efficiency boosts that result in even better battery management
Verdict:
The A17 Bionic chip means greater performance and longer battery life for the iPhone 15. But really, the A16 chip inside the iPhone 14 Pro Max is sufficient to handle most day-to-day tasks that you'd want to do with your phone.
Battery Life and Charging: A Game-Changer?
The iPhone 15 series marks the point at which Apple finally decided to part ways with its proprietary Lightning connector in favor of USB-C.
iPhone 14 Pro Max
- Battery life: Up to 29 hours of video playback
- Charging port: Lightning port
- Wireless charging: MagSafe
iPhone 15
- Battery life: Like the iPhone 14 series, up to 26 hours on the iPhone 15 Plus
- Charging port: USB-C - thus more compatible with modern accessories
- Wireless charging: MagSafe
Verdict:
If you value port compatibility with non-Apple devices, the iPhone 15's USB-C port could be a game-changer. However, the battery life between the two models still remains fairly comparable.
Camera Comparison: Is There a Difference Worth Writing Home About?
Apple always puts an extra focus on enhancing the camera with each new release. So, yes, while both handsets boast awesome cameras, there are some subtle improvements that come with the iPhone 15.
iPhone 14 Pro Max Camera
- Primary sensor: 48MP
- Telephoto lens: 12MP w/ 3x zoom
- Night mode: Very good low-light photography
iPhone 15 Camera - Main sensor: A more superior 48MP with improved color accuracy
- Photonic Engine: Better fine-tuned for low-light shots
- Zoom: 2x zoom on the regulars
Verdict:
Both phones feature great cameras; however, the iPhone 15 makes minor improvements in terms of image processing and color representation. This upgrade might interest those who want to use their phones for photography.
Software and Features: What's New?
After all, the software experience is essentially going to be similar between the iPhone 14 Pro Max and the iPhone 15, as both run iOS 17. Admittedly, some features are going to work better on the newer hardware.
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: It heavily focuses on the always-on display and advanced camera features, including ProRAW.
- iPhone 15: This introduces Roadside Assistance via satellite and a lot of energy-efficient iOS features.
Verdict:
If you happen to be okay with the software experience on the iPhone 14 Pro Max, then the newer features on the iPhone 15 may not make you feel the need to upgrade.
Price: Worth the Money Invested?
Prices Currently
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: Close to $899, with discounts running in many stores
- iPhone 15: $799 for the base model, starts at
Verdict: If value is what you seek, the iPhone 14 Pro Max does a great job of balancing premium features with a lower price. But if it is future-proofing with USB-C and a newer chip, an investment in the iPhone 15 may be worthy.
Conclusion: Should You Upgrade to the iPhone 15?
Choices between the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 15 come down to priorities.
- Stick with the iPhone 14 Pro Max if:
- You already have one, and it is working out for you just fine.
- You prefer a premium build with a stainless steel frame.
- You are OK with Lightning accessories and do not have a problem continuing to keep the port.
- Upgrade to the iPhone 15 if:
- You need a lighter phone that is about the same in performance.
- It is paramount to you that this be USB-C compatible.
- You want the latest processor for future-proofing.
So, both are fantastic devices, but unless the USB-C port or lighter design is a game-changer for you, there isn't much reason to rush and upgrade if you already have an iPhone 14 Pro Max. But for those upgrading to at least somewhat the latest and greatest, yes, the iPhone 15 does bring in some exciting upgrades with no significant price hike.
Frequently Asked Questions: Commonly Asked Questions About iPhone 14 Pro Max vs. iPhone 15
- Is the iPhone 15 faster than the iPhone 14 Pro Max?
Yes, the iPhone 15 will run the A17 Bionic chip, both faster and more power-efficient. - Does the iPhone 15 have a better camera than the iPhone 14 Pro Max?
The iPhone 15 brings incremental improvements in image quality and color accuracy, though the difference may not be dramatic. - Should I wait for the iPhone 16 instead of upgrading to the iPhone 15?
If your iPhone 14 Pro Max is still performing well, you may want to wait for the next release to get even better value. - Will my old Lightning cables work with the iPhone 15?
- Nope, the iPhone 15 has a USB-C port to handle charging. You'll need new cables or adapters for charging.
Consider these aspects: design, performance, camera features, and pricing, and come to your own conclusion about whether the iPhone 15 is worth the upgrade or if the iPhone 14 Pro Max holds up well enough in 2024.