iPhone 14 Pro vs iPhone 15

iPhone 14 Pro
iPhone 14 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$669.00

Versus A$1,749.00 new

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iPhone 15
iPhone 15
Starting at

Refurbished price:A$689.00

Versus A$1,249.00 new

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Ratings

The iPhone 14 Pro (released in September 2022) and the iPhone 15 (released in September 2023) represent different tiers within Apple's smartphone lineup, with the 14 Pro being a previous-generation flagship and the 15 being the current standard model. While both devices offer a premium experience, key distinctions lie in their display technology, camera capabilities, and connectivity options. Both operate on Apple's iOS ecosystem, ensuring a consistent software experience with regular updates.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline and OS Support: The iPhone 14 Pro, launched in September 2022, will likely receive major iOS updates for approximately 5-6 years from its release. The iPhone 15, released a year later in September 2023, is expected to receive software support for a year longer than the 14 Pro, extending its functional lifespan in terms of new features and security updates.
  • Software Longevity Expectations: Both devices benefit from Apple's long-term software commitment, ensuring they remain capable of running current applications and services for several years. Users can expect consistent performance and access to the latest iOS features for an extended period, though the iPhone 15 will naturally have a longer runway for these updates.
  • Repairability and Practical Lifespan: Both models feature a Ceramic Shield front cover and are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, indicating a similar level of protection against environmental elements. The practical lifespan for either device often extends beyond official software support, depending on individual usage and care.

Release year

2022

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Operating system

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 deliver robust performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications, though there are nuances in their underlying hardware and real-world usage.

  • Processor Capabilities: Both devices are powered by the same A16 Bionic chip, which means they offer comparable processing power for general use, gaming, and multitasking. Users can expect smooth app loading, fluid navigation, and efficient handling of graphically intensive games on either model.
  • Overall System Responsiveness: The shared processor ensures that both phones maintain a high level of responsiveness across the operating system and within applications. The efficiency cores contribute to power savings during lighter tasks, while performance cores handle more intensive workloads.
  • Storage Options and RAM: Both the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 are available with storage capacities ranging from 128GB to 512GB, with the 14 Pro also offering a 1TB option. Both models feature 6GB of RAM, which is sufficient for managing multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 14 Pro has a reported battery capacity of 3200 mAh, while the iPhone 15 has a slightly larger 3349 mAh battery. While the 14 Pro was initially rated for longer video playback, user reports suggest the iPhone 15's battery chemistry is designed for greater long-term durability, rated for 1000 charge cycles to 80% health compared to the 14 Pro's 500 cycles. This means the iPhone 15's battery may maintain its capacity more effectively over an extended period.

Memory

6 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphones, and both the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 offer high-quality visual experiences, albeit with some key differences.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: Both devices feature a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2556x1179 pixels at 460 pixels per inch, providing sharp text and vibrant colors. The OLED technology ensures deep blacks and excellent contrast ratios.
  • Brightness Levels: Both models achieve a typical maximum brightness of 1000 nits, a peak HDR brightness of 1600 nits, and an impressive peak outdoor brightness of 2000 nits, making them highly visible even in bright sunlight.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: A significant difference lies in the refresh rate. The iPhone 14 Pro features ProMotion technology, offering an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, which results in smoother scrolling and more fluid animations. The iPhone 15, on the other hand, has a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
  • Additional Display Features: The iPhone 14 Pro includes an Always-On Display, which the iPhone 15 lacks. Both devices incorporate the Dynamic Island, a pill-shaped cutout that dynamically displays alerts and background activities.

Resolution

1179 x 2556

1179 x 2556

Screen type

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 offer advanced camera systems capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos, with the Pro model providing additional versatility.

  • Main Camera System: Both phones feature a 48-megapixel main camera sensor. The iPhone 14 Pro's main sensor typically combines four pixels into one to produce 12-megapixel photos, but can capture full 48-megapixel images in ProRAW format. The iPhone 15's 48-megapixel main camera defaults to capturing 24-megapixel super-high-resolution photos, offering a balance of detail and file size.
  • Telephoto Capabilities: The iPhone 14 Pro includes a dedicated 12-megapixel 3x optical telephoto lens, providing true optical zoom for distant subjects. The iPhone 15 achieves a 2x optical quality telephoto zoom by cropping from its 48-megapixel main sensor.
  • Ultra-Wide and Front Cameras: Both models feature a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera and a 12-megapixel TrueDepth front camera with autofocus.
  • Photography Features: Both benefit from Apple's Photonic Engine for improved low-light performance. The iPhone 14 Pro offers ProRAW for advanced users, while the iPhone 15 introduces Smart HDR 5 and next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control. Both support Cinematic mode for video with shallow depth of field and Action mode for stabilized video.

Main camera

48 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several practical elements differentiate the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15, impacting daily usability and connectivity.

  • Connectivity and Ports: A notable difference is the charging and data port. The iPhone 14 Pro uses Apple's proprietary Lightning port. The iPhone 15, in compliance with new regulations, features a USB-C port, offering broader compatibility with accessories and potentially faster data transfer speeds. Both support 5G cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3.
  • Build Materials and Dimensions: The iPhone 14 Pro features a stainless steel frame, contributing to its solid feel and slightly heavier weight (206 grams). The iPhone 15 uses an aluminum design with a color-infused glass back and slightly rounded edges, making it lighter (171 grams) and potentially more comfortable to hold for some users.
  • Useful Sensors and Features: Both devices include Face ID for secure authentication, a barometer, gyroscope, accelerometer, and ambient light sensor. The iPhone 14 Pro also features a LiDAR scanner, which enhances augmented reality experiences and improves autofocus in low-light conditions.
  • Emergency Features: Both models include emergency SOS via satellite and crash detection features, enhancing user safety.

Weight

206 oz

171 oz

Screen size (in)

6,1

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

USB-C (USB 2)

The iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 each offer compelling features, catering to slightly different user priorities. User feedback for the iPhone 14 Pro often praises its advanced display with ProMotion and Always-On capabilities, as well as its versatile camera system with a dedicated telephoto lens. Some users, however, have noted concerns about its battery degradation over time and the weight of its stainless steel frame.

The iPhone 15 is frequently lauded for its modern USB-C port, improved battery longevity design, and the inclusion of the Dynamic Island, which was previously exclusive to Pro models. Users appreciate its lighter build and the enhanced 48-megapixel main camera that defaults to 24-megapixel photos. Criticisms sometimes point to the 60Hz display, which some users find less fluid compared to higher refresh rate screens.

Users who prioritize a smoother visual experience with an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate and a dedicated optical telephoto lens for photography may find the iPhone 14 Pro better suited to their needs. Its stainless steel construction also offers a distinct feel. Conversely, users who value the latest connectivity standard with USB-C, a battery designed for greater long-term health, and a slightly lighter design will likely lean towards the iPhone 15. It also offers a strong camera system for everyday photography and a more comfortable in-hand feel. Both devices represent quality-assured options, and choosing a refurbished model can be an eco-friendly alternative for either device, allowing users to make a sustainable choice while still enjoying advanced technology.

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