iPhone 13 vs 14 Plus: Which iPhone Should You Buy?
Choosing a new iPhone can be a tough decision, especially when comparing models with similar names. If you’re torn between the iPhone 13 and the newer iPhone 14 Plus, you’re in the right place to find out which one reigns supreme.
This in-depth comparison will break down everything you need to know, from performance and battery life to display quality and camera capabilities. We’ll explore the key differences between the iPhone 13 and 14 Plus to help you make an informed choice.
The iPhone 13 offers a fantastic user experience with its powerful A15 Bionic chip and a vibrant display. On the other hand, the iPhone 14 Plus brings a larger screen and improved battery life to the table, making it a compelling option for those who prioritize these features.
Get ready to dive into the details and discover which iPhone best suits your needs and budget. Let’s find out which iPhone comes out on top in the ultimate iPhone 13 vs 14 Plus showdown!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | iPhone 13 | 14 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1-inch | 6.7-inch |
| Chip | A15 Bionic | A15 Bionic |
| Main Camera | 12MP Dual-Camera | 12MP Dual-Camera |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 12MP |
| Video Recording | 4K Dolby Vision HDR | 4K Dolby Vision HDR |
| Storage Options | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Weight | 174 grams | 203 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Connectivity | 5G | 5G |
| Display Technology | Super Retina XDR | Super Retina XDR |
| Battery Life (Video Playback) | Up to 19 hours | Up to 26 hours |
| MagSafe | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- iPhone 13: Features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with a resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels. It offers excellent color accuracy and brightness. However, it’s smaller than the 14 Plus.
- 14 Plus: Boasts a larger 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with a resolution of 2778 x 1284 pixels. The bigger screen is great for media consumption and gaming.
- Winner: 14 Plus
Processor
- iPhone 13: Powered by the A15 Bionic chip, providing fast and efficient performance for everyday tasks and gaming. It remains a very capable processor.
- 14 Plus: Also features the A15 Bionic chip, the same as the iPhone 13. While still powerful, this means there is no performance upgrade.
- Winner: Tie
Camera System
- iPhone 13: Features a dual 12MP camera system with wide and ultrawide lenses. Delivers excellent image quality in various lighting conditions.
- 14 Plus: Also has a dual 12MP camera system, but with improved low-light performance and enhanced image processing via the Photonic Engine.
- Winner: 14 Plus
Battery Life
- iPhone 13: Offers good battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. Not as long as the 14 Plus.
- 14 Plus: Provides significantly improved battery life due to its larger size, easily lasting a full day and often longer with regular use.
- Winner: 14 Plus
Design and Size
- iPhone 13: Has a classic iPhone design with flat edges and a smaller overall footprint. More compact and pocketable.
- 14 Plus: Features a larger design to accommodate the bigger display. Is significantly larger, which is a trade-off for the display size and battery.
- Winner: Tie (preference-based)
Connectivity
- iPhone 13: Supports 5G connectivity for fast data speeds. Includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
- 14 Plus: Also supports 5G connectivity. Includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 for improved connections.
- Winner: 14 Plus
Video Recording
- iPhone 13: Capable of recording 4K video at up to 60fps, with cinematic mode for shallow depth of field.
- 14 Plus: Offers similar 4K video recording capabilities, but with improved stabilization and the new Action mode for smoother handheld video.
- Winner: 14 Plus
Starting Price
- iPhone 13: Generally available at a lower price point, especially used or refurbished, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- 14 Plus: Typically has a higher starting price due to its larger size and newer features.
- Winner: iphone 13
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | 14 Plus |
| Battery Life | 14 Plus |
| Performance | Tie |
| Camera Quality | Tie |
| Portability | iPhone 13 |
| Value | iPhone 13 (potentially) |
What They Have in Common
- Chip: Both phones feature the A15 Bionic chip, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications.
- 5g Connectivity: Both models support 5G, providing fast download and streaming speeds where available.
- Main Camera System: Both devices share a 12MP dual-camera system, capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos in various lighting conditions.
- Water Resistance: Both the iPhone 13 and 14 Plus are rated IP68 for water resistance, offering protection against splashes and submersion.
- Magsafe: Both phones are compatible with MagSafe accessories, allowing for convenient charging and attachment of accessories.
- Display Technology: Both devices use Super Retina XDR displays, providing vibrant colors and sharp details.
iPhone 13 vs 14 Plus Buying Guide
Performance
The iPhone 13, powered by the A15 Bionic chip, delivers impressive performance, handling everyday tasks and demanding games with ease. The iPhone 14 Plus, while also featuring the A15 Bionic chip, may benefit from software optimizations and a larger chassis, potentially leading to slightly better sustained performance under heavy loads. Both phones offer a smooth and responsive user experience, with minimal lag. Consider your usage patterns; if you’re a heavy gamer or video editor, the 14 Plus’s potential thermal advantages might be noticeable. However, for most users, the performance difference will be negligible.
Display
The iPhone 13 features a compact 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, offering vibrant colors and excellent brightness. The iPhone 14 Plus boasts a larger 6.7-inch display, providing more screen real estate for content consumption and improved visibility, especially for those with vision impairments or those who enjoy watching videos. While both displays offer excellent quality, the 14 Plus’s bigger screen provides a more immersive viewing experience. Consider your preference for screen size and portability when making your decision; the 13 is more pocket-friendly.
Camera
Both phones boast excellent camera systems, capable of capturing stunning photos and videos in various lighting conditions. The iPhone 13’s dual-camera system is renowned for its image quality, offering impressive detail and dynamic range. The iPhone 14 Plus, while featuring a similar camera setup, may include some software enhancements and improvements to the image processing pipeline, potentially resulting in slightly better low-light performance and video stabilization. Both phones are excellent choices for mobile photography, but if photography is a key feature, review image samples.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for many users, and the iPhone 14 Plus excels in this area. Its larger body allows for a significantly bigger battery, providing substantially longer usage times compared to the iPhone 13. The iPhone 13 offers respectable battery life, easily lasting a full day for moderate users. However, the 14 Plus can comfortably extend battery life to a full day and beyond, making it ideal for users who prioritize extended use without frequent charging. Consider how you will use the phone throughout the day.
Design and Build Quality
Both phones share the same premium design language, with a sleek, flat-edged design and durable build materials. The iPhone 13 and 14 Plus are both constructed with Ceramic Shield front cover for increased drop resistance. The primary difference lies in their size; the 13 is more compact and easier to handle with one hand, while the 14 Plus is larger and offers a more immersive experience. Both phones are water-resistant and built to withstand everyday wear and tear. Choose the phone that best fits the size and handling preferences.
Price and Value
The iPhone 13 often comes at a lower price point compared to the newer iPhone 14 Plus, making it a more budget-friendly option. While the 14 Plus offers a larger display and improved battery life, the iPhone 13 still delivers excellent value for its price, offering top-tier performance and features. Consider your budget and the importance of screen size and battery life when evaluating the value proposition of each phone. If the budget is a concern, the iPhone 13 remains a very attractive option, offering significant savings.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy iPhone 13 If…
- You prefer a more compact phone size for easier one-handed use.
- You want a slightly more affordable option.
- You don’t prioritize a larger screen and extended battery life.
Buy 14 Plus If…
- You want the largest screen in a non-Pro iPhone for better media consumption and gaming.
- You prioritize significantly longer battery life.
- You want the latest iPhone model with a larger display.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 Plus?
The primary differences lie in the screen size and battery life. The iPhone 14 Plus has a larger 6.7-inch display and a larger battery, providing significantly longer battery life compared to the iPhone 13’s 6.1-inch display. The iPhone 14 Plus offers a more immersive viewing experience and extends usage time.
Does the iPhone 14 Plus have a better camera than the iPhone 13?
While both phones share a similar camera system, the iPhone 14 Plus may have some software enhancements that result in slightly improved low-light performance and video stabilization. However, the core camera hardware is very similar, and both phones capture excellent photos and videos.
Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones are capable of handling demanding games with ease, thanks to the A15 Bionic chip. The iPhone 14 Plus’s larger size might provide a more comfortable gaming experience. Its potential thermal advantages could lead to better sustained performance under intense gaming sessions. The iPhone 13 is still a great option.
How does the battery life compare between the two phones?
The iPhone 14 Plus boasts significantly better battery life than the iPhone 13. Its larger battery can easily last a full day and often beyond, while the iPhone 13 provides a full day of usage for most users. The 14 Plus is the clear winner if long battery life is a priority.
Is the iPhone 14 Plus worth the extra cost?
That depends on your priorities. If you value a larger screen and extended battery life, the iPhone 14 Plus is worth the extra cost. However, if you prefer a more compact phone and are on a budget, the iPhone 13 offers excellent value and performance for its price point. Consider what features are most important.
Do both phones support 5G connectivity?
Yes, both the iPhone 13 and the iPhone 14 Plus support 5G connectivity, allowing for fast download and upload speeds, as well as improved streaming and online gaming experiences. Both devices are compatible with the latest 5G networks and offer robust network performance.
What are the storage options available?
Both iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 Plus offer various storage options, typically starting with 128GB and going up to 512GB. The availability of specific storage configurations may vary depending on the region and the retailer. Consider your storage needs when making your choice.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the iPhone 13 and the 14 Plus depends on individual needs. The iPhone 13 offers a great balance of performance and price, making it a solid choice. The iPhone 14 Plus shines with its larger display and superior battery life, making it ideal for media consumption and users needing extended use. The 14 Plus is a better buy for most.
Winner: iPhone 14 Plus