Apple’s incremental changes make it hard to spot the differences between the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15. So, let’s compare the two and see what’s new.
The iPhone 15 is simply a slightly improved version of the iPhone 14. While most cutting-edge features have been directed toward the more expensive iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models, the standard iPhone 15 has received notable upgrades.
So, if you’re considering purchasing a new device and can’t decide, we’ll help you choose between the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15.
Unfortunately, Apple hasn’t made any major display changes to the standard iPhones since the iPhone 12. Besides adopting the iPhone 14 Pro’s Dynamic Island, the iPhone 15 looks almost identical to its predecessor.
Both models have a 6.1″ Super Retina XDR Display and share the same dimensions. However, the iPhone 15 can deliver 2,000 nits of peak brightness, compared to 1,200 nits offered by its predecessor, making it better for outdoor use.
While both models sport an aluminum frame with a glass back, the iPhone 15 ditched the glossy back for a matte textured finish. It also features slightly contoured edges, making it more comfortable to hold.
Camera configurationiPhone 15 on a tableImage Credit: Apple
The iPhone 14 features a dual-camera system, with a 12MP primary camera and an ultra-wide lens. On the other hand, the iPhone 15’s main camera takes a leap forward because Apple has bumped the resolution to 48 megapixels. This means you can capture pictures with immaculate detail and more accurate and realistic colors, with the flexibility to shoot at both 24MP and 48MP.
The iPhone 15’s 12MP ultra-wide camera, however, remains unchanged from its predecessor. You can capture great selfies with both devices, though, since both feature the same 12MP selfie camera.
However, Apple has introduced next-generation portraits on the iPhone 15, allowing you to take portrait shots in the default camera mode that you can tweak later on in the Photos app.
Pricing, Colors, and Storage Optionsiphone 15 and 15 plus colorsImage Credit: AppleAfter the launch of the iPhone 15, Apple dropped the starting price of the iPhone 14 to $699. The base 128GB model of the iPhone 15 retails for $799, the same as the iPhone 14 did at launch. Both models come in three different storage variants : 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB.
The iPhone 15 comes in five different colors: Yellow, Green, Blue, Black, and Pink. Besides the Black option, all the colors appear muted this time. So, if you’re struggling to decide on a color, make sure to check out which iPhone 15 color is best for you.
On the other hand, the iPhone 14 is available in six bright color options: Blue, Purple, Yellow, Midnight, Starlight, and (PRODUCT)RED. The iPhone 15’s Black color option no longer carries the subtle navy blue visible in the Midnight iPhone 14.
Performance and Battery LifeUSB-C port on the iPhone 15Image Credit: Apple/YouTubeThe iPhone 15 is powered by the A16 Bionic chip, the same processor that shipped with the iPhone 14 Pro models. The iPhone 14, on the other hand, features the same A15 Bionic chip that Apple introduced alongside the iPhone 13 Pro models. Apple claims the A16 chip consumes 20% less power than the A15.
Given the 4nm architecture of the A16 chip, you can expect better performance than the 5nm A15 chip. All in all, the iPhone 14 is equipped with all the power you need for daily use. However, upgrading to the iPhone 15 might be a good idea if you plan to use it for several years.
Apple has also ditched the Lightning port for USB-C on the iPhone 15. While this change does mean that you can use one cable to charge all your devices, there are no improvements to data transfer and charging speeds.
When it comes to battery life, both devices boast up to 20 hours of video playback and 80 hours of audio playback, according to Apple’s claims. This is surprising, considering the iPhone 15 packs a slightly larger battery. The charging speed remains the same for both devices—up to 50% charge within 30 minutes using a 20W adapter or higher.
Unless you want the slight performance advantage and all the perks USB-C brings to iPhones, you’ll likely notice no improvements if you choose the iPhone 15 over its predecessor.
Is Upgrading to the iPhone 15 Worth It?
You may be wondering if minor design tweaks, similar battery life, and slight performance improvements justify upgrading to the iPhone 15. When deciding whether the upgrade is worth it, you must consider the specific features that matter to you most.
If you want a newer device that’ll support iOS updates for slightly longer, the iPhone 15 is a no-brainer. However, if you simply need a device for daily use at a cheaper price, the iPhone 14 won’t disappoint.
Finally, if you already own an iPhone 14, it’s better to skip the iPhone 15 altogether and save your hard-earned money, as there’s no point upgrading to a new iPhone every year.