Apple iPhone 14 review: Everything you need to know

iPhone 14 review: Release date and price

The 14th-generation iPhone is available for preorder now and will hit stores on September 16. The basic 128GB variant of the iPhone 14 starts at $799/£849/AU$1,399. 256GB costs $899 / £959 / AU$1,579, while 512GB costs $1,099 / £1,179 / AU$1,899.

The regular iPhone 14 is presently readily available, with the only snag being the typical length of time between placing a purchase and receiving your device.

High demand has caused Apple to temporarily stop normal iPhone 14 manufacturing in an effort to ramp up production of the Pro versions. Make sure you get the best bargain possible on the new iPhone by checking out our iPhone 14 offers website, and learn when you can expect to receive your purchase by consulting our iPhone 14 arrival date schedule.

iPhone 14 review: Design and colors

The style of the iPhone 14 instantly displays this comforting similarity. The iPhone 14 retains Apple’s Ceramic Shield protecting the 6.1-inch display, as well as the metal chassis and the gap.

The rear cameras are housed in the same square enclosure as on the iPhone 13, but their slanted sensors are marginally bigger. The iPhone 14 is 0.15 mm larger and 2 g heavier than the iPhone 13, but otherwise, it is visually and tactilely identical. Nothing negative can come of this, in my opinion.

The iPhone 14 feels great in my hand, which may be due to the fact that I upgraded from the much heftier iPhone 13 Pro. It’s lightweight, robust, and the metal body resists stains.

The hue options that Apple has provided this year are also appealing to me. In reality, the purple buy iPhone 14 that Apple gave me is closer to a subdued mauve.

It’s not flashy or bright, but I’ve enjoyed having it on hand as I’ve reviewed Apple’s iPhone 14. I also think the new blue style is fantastic (much more so than the blue of the iPhone 13). This year’s crimson is much bolder, and nightfall and stars are always reliable neutrals.

The iPhone 14 feels wonderful to hold.

The iPhone 14 includes all the staples found on the iPhone 13. It has a water- and dustproof IP68 classification, works with all MagSafe devices, and has a Lightning connection instead of a USB-C socket on the bottom.

Is this a new and interesting look? Actually, no. The iPhone 14, aside from its new color options, is virtually indistinguishable from the iPhone 13. Although I can understand why some would want a new design, I’m glad Apple decided to use the same chassis for another iteration.

The iPhone 14 has been easy to use on a daily basis and has improved the user’s experience while also looking nice. The smartphone design may be simplistic, but I find myself really enjoying using it.

The 6.1-inch OLED display on the iPhone 14 has a resolution of 2532 by 1170. Similar to the iPhone 13, it supports a high dynamic range (HDR) and can reach up to 800 nits of normal brightness and 1,200 nits of maximal HDR brightness.

This screen configuration for the iPhone 14 is still excellent in almost every way. The display is easily readable even in direct sunlight or well-lit areas, with vibrant colors and well-rendered text and symbols. The screen of my iPhone 14 makes everything appear sharp and clear, whether I’m viewing a video on YouTube, browsing through old pictures, or reading an essay written by a coworker.

When it comes to the iPhone 14, the screen’s update rate is a major letdown. The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, like their predecessors from a year ago, both feature 120Hz displays. However, the iPhone 14’s basic model remains rooted in the 60Hz era.

Things like browsing and sliding appear choppy on the iPhone 14 compared to phones with 120 or 90Hz frame rates. It’s disappointing that the iPhone 14 can only run at 60Hz. It’s unfortunate that there has been no progress in this regard, but iOS 16’s fluid movements and the excellent performance of the A15 Bionic prevent the iPhone 14 from ever feeling lethargic or laggy.

In the Android market, you can find phones with 90 or 120Hz frame speeds for as little as $400. It’s disappointing that for $799, you can only get the iPhone 14 with a 60Hz display.

iPhone 14 cameras

While the iPhone 14 Pro’s new 48MP main lens has received most of the camera spotlight, that doesn’t make the standard iPhone 14 any less capable. The iPhone 14’s sensors are very similar to those of the iPhone 13, with a few significant improvements.

The main camera is still 12 megapixels, but the sensor is bigger and the aperture is f/1.5, so photos taken in low light will appear sharper. The front-facing camera has also seen significant enhancements. The resolution is the same at 12 megapixels, but the aperture has been increased to f/1.9 (from f/2.2 on prior iPhones) and focusing has been included for the first time.

The ultrawide 12MP camera on the iPhone 14 is identical to the one on the iPhone 13. That’s fantastic! But what does this imply for the standard of our photographs? The 12MP primary camera is identical to the one found in the iPhone 13 in every way. The iPhone 14 can take stunning pictures when the weather is right. The Camera app takes rapid, reliable shots with accurate colors and plenty of fine details in the pictures.

In such bright settings, the bigger sensor’s shallow depth of field makes it possible to capture some objects with a pleasing portrait effect, even when not in Portrait mode. Low-light photos have generally met with my approval, too.

The iPhone 14 takes high-quality pictures with plenty of clarity even in low light. (the photo of my cat sleeping on a pillow is a great example). The new iPhone 14 has an automated Night option that activates in low-light settings. The exposure will be held for 2–5 seconds by default, but you can extend that to 30 seconds if necessary.

The iPhone 14 does a respectable job of allowing in enough light to make even a completely dark picture legible in these conditions. However, as the brightness is decreased, finer features become less distinguishable.

How about the super wide-angle lens? It’s the same as the one in the iPhone 13, but in my trials, it has proven to be very dependable.

The hues are nearly indistinguishable from those captured by the primary camera, the extra field of view is useful, and the level of detail is surprisingly high given the ultrawide angle of view. And let’s not forget about that fancy new face camera. I’ll just come out and say it: I’m not a big fan of selfies. I’m not a big photo taker, and I don’t think the iPhone 14 will convince me to start. And yet, it’s still amazing how much superior the new face camera is on the iPhone 14.

Autofocus has greatly improved the overall sharpness of my photographs. Autofocus adds a new dimension of versatility that can truly elevate photos, allowing you to capture everything from minute details in your hair and face to up-close images of you and your companions. As with the primary camera, the bigger angle allows for more pleasing natural blur and usable images even in low light.

iPhone 14 performance

One of the most controversial changes with the iPhone 14 is something that didn’t change at all. Usually, Apple gives every new iPhone a new chipset to power it. The iPhone 12 series got the A14 chip, the iPhone 13 lineup was powered by the A15, and all iPhone 14 handsets have the A16 — right? Not exactly.

While the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max have a new A16 chipset, the iPhone 14 (and iPhone 14 Plus) still have the A15. It’s the more powerful version of the A15 used in the iPhone 13 Pro with five GPU cores instead of the four used in the normal iPhone 13, but otherwise, it’s the exact same processor.

There’s been plenty of backlash against this decision as another way for Apple to stifle innovation and save a buck. And maybe it is! But I’d be lying if I said I was upset about having the A15 in the iPhone 14.

The A15 is still an incredible mobile chipset.

In a nutshell, it’s still a fantastic smartphone processor. Twitter, Outlook, and Instagram, all of which people use regularly, function without a hiccup. Also, the activities are fantastic. I’ve put a lot of hours into Call of Duty: Mobile on my iPhone 14, and it runs the game smoothly in every way.

The iPhone 14 also features an improved cooling design in comparison to the iPhone 13. During my trials, the only time the iPhone 14 grew heated enough to be uncomfortable was when I left the screen on for 30 minutes while downloading multiple files for Call of Duty: Mobile. In all other respects, the phone has performed without a hitch, independent of the number of programs I have open.

iPhone 14 eSIM

When discussing divisive topics, we must pause to discuss eSIM. A real SIM card is not included with the purchase of an iPhone 14 in the United States.

A digital eSIM is used instead of a physical SIM card to connect to cellphone networks. Although eSIM technology has been available in smartphones for some time, the iPhone 14 is the first significant smartphone to only support eSIM and not offer a real SIM card slot.

This hasn’t been an issue for me personally. In under two minutes, I was able to move my number from my iPhone 13 Pro, where it was stored as an eSIM, to my new iPhone 14. During setup, Apple walks you through the steps necessary to activate and move your eSIM, and those options are always accessible in the Settings menu. Apple has collaborated with key U.S. providers to simplify the move procedure, even if you have an earlier iPhone that requires a real SIM card.

While I’ve had no issues with eSIM on the iPhone 14, that doesn’t mean it hasn’t been causing headaches for some people. If you have service through a smaller provider like Mint Mobile, transferring your SIM may require using your carrier’s app or having to call customer service. Transferring your SIM from an Android phone also comes with its own headaches, and there have been some reports of eSIM transfers taking hours (or even days) with some numbers.

This is one of those things where your mileage will vary. If you’re coming to the iPhone 14 from an old iPhone, the eSIM transfer process should be fairly simple — regardless if you’re already using eSIM or still have a physical SIM card. Things stand to be more complicated if you’re switching from an Android phone, and if you plan on doing a lot of international travel, there are challenges to consider there, too. There’s certainly still work to be done here, and although eSIM is far from perfect, it hasn’t done anything to tarnish my time with the iPhone 14. Here’s to hoping Apple and carriers can make that the case for everyone sooner rather than later.

iPhone 14 car crash detection and satellite connectivity

Two other big features with the iPhone 14 are car crash detection and satellite connectivity — two features I’ve been unable to try with my iPhone 14.

It’s not necessary to elaborate on the former. The iPhone 14 is equipped with a number of sensors that can identify things like abrupt changes in speed and air pressure, incredibly deafening noises, and a change in orientation if you’re in a serious vehicle accident.

If your iPhone 14 detects that you were in a collision, a crash screen will appear with options to contact 911 or ignore the alert. If you don’t answer within 10 seconds, the authorities will be contacted. Car accident recognition in the iPhone 14 was developed using allegedly 1 million hours of “real-world driving and crash data,” as claimed by Apple.

I’ll take Apple at its word that the function works as designed since I probably won’t be involved in a mishap to try it. Apple’s New Crash-Detection Technology for the iPhone 14 Pro Similarly, the iPhone 14 includes a satellite-based “Emergency SOS” feature.

The iPhone 14 has the capability to link to a satellite and transmit communication to emergency services in the event of an emergency, even if neither cellular data nor a Wi-Fi connection is available.

It’s one of those safety systems, like collision warning in cars, that you pray you never have to use. Whatever the case may be, I’m happy Apple included these features this year. It’s fantastic that every year there are advances in things like processing power, screen density, and camera photos.

However, these capabilities actually have the potential to save your life. The promotion for Apple may be heavy-handed, but there is substance to the claims being made. I hope I never have to use the iPhone 14’s emergency features, but knowing that they’re there is comforting in case I’m ever in a serious vehicle accident or wounded and stuck somewhere.

iPhone 14 review: Battery life and charging

Finally, let’s talk about battery life. Apple made significant battery strides with the iPhone 13 series, and with the iPhone 14, it claims that endurance is even better. While I’m not hitting the 20 hours of video playback Apple touts on its website, the iPhone 14 has consistently gotten me through each day I’ve used it — even when I’m really pushing it.

A normal day for me on the iPhone 14 includes the following activities: an hour or so of YouTube, 30 minutes or so of Call of Duty: Mobile, and the use of dozens of other applications, including Twitter, Safari, Microsoft Teams, Outlook, Apple Music, and dozens more.

After being on and using the screen for more than 14 hours, I am down to about 25% of my original battery life. After a shorter day of use (over 15 hours) and computer time (about 4 hours; very little gameplay), I had 38% battery life left. While most people won’t make it through a day with the iPhone 14, I’ve had no trouble using it daily despite pretty intensive utilization. Enjoy some gaming, movie-watching, and picture-taking.

The iPhone 14 has a long-lasting battery life, so you won’t have to worry about running out of juice at the end of the day unless you’re an avid user.

Apple didn’t make any charging improvements this year, but the options available are fine. You can use the Lightning port to get wired charging speeds up to 25W, Qi wireless charging delivers up to 7.5W, and a supported MagSafe charger (my preferred method of charging) delivers up to 15W of power. There’s no ultra-fast wired charging as you’ll find on the OnePlus 10T or Oppo Reno 8 Pro, but maybe Apple will get around to adding that next year with the iPhone 15.

iPhone 14 review: Performance

The iPhone 14 certainly impressed me when I initially reviewed it. Fast-forward a couple of months since then, and that positive impression hasn’t changed. The iPhone 14 still isn’t a particularly exciting or eye-catching iPhone, but it continues to be my go-to recommendation for folks who “just want an iPhone.”

Even though I’ve upgraded to an iPhone 14 Pro Max, my companion has been using the regular iPhone 14 ever since it came out, and he hasn’t had a single problem with it.

The battery is as dependable as ever, the screen remains eye-catching, and the efficiency of the A15 processor leaves little room for criticism. The cameras have also maintained their high standard, consistently producing high-quality images that are perfect for sharing on social media with a single click.

The camera on the iPhone 14 is competitive even when compared to the iPhone 14 Pro. However, I still have issues with iPhone 14. It’s still frustrating not to have a 90Hz or 120Hz monitor, particularly since I frequently compare my phone to others that do. It’s hard to suggest it over the cheaper iPhone 13 if you don’t worry about the minor improvements to the camera or the new security features.

If anything, the last couple of months has made me more excited about what the iPhone 15 could look like. It’s all but confirmed that Apple is switching to USB-C in 2023, there’s the possibility of a design refresh, and- even though the Dynamic Island hasn’t reached its full potential yet, I still want it on all iPhones across the board next year.

Ultimately, my take on the iPhone 14 in December 2022 is largely the same as it was in October. If you want the newest iPhone and don’t want to spend an absurd amount of cash, it’s a killer all-around package you’ll find little to complain about.

But the iPhone 13 is 90% as good for (at least) $100 less, and the potential for the iPhone 15 is exciting. It is a great iPhone option, but it’s not your only iPhone option.

iPhone 14 price and availability

You can get your hands on an iPhone 14 right now for a minimum of $799. For $799, you get a whopping 128GB of internal capacity, which is more than enough for the vast majority of individuals. There are 256GB and 512GB models offered for $899 and $1099, respectively, if you require more storage space.

Although Apple’s discounts aren’t the finest available, you can still save money by taking advantage of them. When you buy an iPhone directly from Apple, you can turn in your previous phone for a rebate that ranges from $40 to $720. When you buy the iPhone 14 with your Apple Card, you’ll get 3% back in the form of Daily Cash.

iPhone 14 review: iOS 16

The iPhone 14 runs iOS 16 by default, and there’s a lot to like in this new software update. You can customize the lock screen with widgets, photos, and more. Other highlights include the ability to unsend texts and edit them, a replacement for passwords called Passkeys, a new Fitness app, and (finally) the return of the battery percentage indicator.

With the release of iOS 16.1 in October, sharing pictures with loved ones is much less of a hassle than it used to be thanks to iCloud Shared Photo Library. Sports results and the live status of your meal or transportation order are just a few examples of the new Live Activities for third-party applications. A new Freeform teamwork tool and singing option for Apple Music users are just two of the new features introduced in iOS 16.2.

iPhone 14 review: is a great upgrade, if you need it

The iPhone 14 is the best iPhone for most people, but despite that, it’s not that exciting. The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max get the biggest upgrades this year, including always-on displays, a clever replacement for the notch, and a 48MP main camera.

The 14th generation iPhone. It takes better pictures, performs marginally better with intensive games, and has some remarkable safety measures that you’ll (ideally) never need. In any event, they’re on hand just in case.

That the iPhone 14 has been written off by some as an “iPhone 13S” is an argument I can comprehend. However, I do not concur with the final statement. You’re making the correct choice if you’re satisfied with your current iPhone model, the iPhone 13, and see no cause to update.

I’m delighted to suggest the iPhone 14 to anyone who already owns an iPhone XR, iPhone 11, or iPhone 12. The iPhone 14 is the best current option if you don’t need or want features like Dynamic Island, 120Hz frame speeds, or a zoom camera. Regardless of how monotonous it may be.