Although Apple launched the iPhone 15, its predecessor, the iPhone 14, is still worth considering for those looking to bring home a new smartphone today. The iPhone 14 series has four brilliant models, each offering powerful performance, quality cameras, great design, and several other features that come in handy. This brief guide lists the best features of the iPhone 14 to help customers decide whether it’s suitable for their needs.

Features of the iPhone 14 series
The iPhone 14 series comprises the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max. While each model is great, customers must understand that their features differ, especially between the base and Pro models. Hence, one must assess their needs and research well before choosing. It also helps to know that Apple no longer sells the Pro and Pro Max variants on its website, and one must visit authorized retailers or carriers to get them.

Below are the key specs and features of the iPhone 14 series:

1. New A16 Bionic chip
Processors play an essential role in determining a phone’s performance. The better the processor, the more efficient the device. While Apple’s iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus retain the older A15 Bionic processor, the Pro and Pro Max variants have a new A16 Bionic chip, which improves the camera performance and increases processing speed. It also improves the gaming experience and facilitates multitasking.

2. Improved camera
The iPhone 14 series is said to perform two to three times better in mid-to-low light than the iPhone 13 series due to its Photonic Engine camera system. This technology makes colors brighter and details sharper.

While every model is equipped with Photonic Engine, the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max’s camera setup stands out. It has an improved 48 MP main camera, letting users zoom in or crop photos without compromising quality. It also has 2x and 3x zoom capability in addition to the standard 1x and 2x available across trims.

A better 48 MP camera and zoom capabilities aren’t the only highlights of the Pro models. These devices also get a new ProRAW mode, further improving the photography experience. This mode can capture more detail and reduce noise, especially when zoomed in for processing. Action mode, Apple’s new video stabilization feature, reduces jarring motion when jogging. Unlike ProRAW, Action mode is available in every model.

3. Always On Display
Apple introduced Always On Display for the first time in the iPhone 14. However, the feature is restricted to the higher variants of the series: the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max. When locked, the display dims but continues to show the time and widgets. It eliminates the need to wake up the phone and tap the screen to check the time or widget. Always On Display was a standard feature on many Android devices, and its addition to the iPhone was welcomed by users.

4. Better battery life
Although every model has a built-in rechargeable lithium‑ion battery, the battery life varies. The iPhone 14 Plus and Pro Max have the longest battery life. Apple claims these devices can play videos for up to 26 and 29 hours, respectively. These numbers are a great improvement over the phones’ predecessors.

5. Large screen
The Plus and Pro Max variants have a big display of 6.7 inches each, making them suitable for reading and streaming videos. Interestingly, Apple last had a “Plus” variant in the iPhone 8 series. The iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro both have a 6.1-inch display.

6. High refresh rate
Customers were happy to see a high refresh rate of 120 Hz finally make it to the iPhone with the launch of the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max. Many assumed this feature would be made available on the base models of the iPhone 14. However, the 120 Hz ProMotion display continues to feature on the top-end models of the iPhone 14: the Pro and Pro Max.

Most people might not notice the difference between a 60 Hz and 120 Hz refresh rate. The 60 Hz option is fine for those who haven’t used a high refresh rate display before. However, returning to 60 Hz can be difficult for someone used to a 120 Hz display.

A 120 Hz screen doesn’t significantly impact the experience of watching videos or playing games. However, ProMotion can make tasks like navigating the iPhone’s home page or scrolling through social media smoother.

iPhone 14 base vs. Pro models
The base variants of the iPhone 14 (iPhone 14 and 14 Plus) differ significantly from the top-end Pro models (Pro and Pro Max). For instance, the base models have an A15 Bionic chip, aluminum chassis, standard refresh rate, and up to 512 GB of storage. On the other hand, the Pro models have the A16 Bionic chip, stainless steel chassis, 120 Hz refresh rate, and up to 1 TB of storage. Consequently, the top-end models cost more. Customers should consider their budget and needs when selecting a model.

Individuals who want to save money on the iPhone 14 series should look for offers at shopping websites, mobile carriers, and even the Apple online store. Customers will likely enjoy better deals during the upcoming Black Friday sale, so it might be wise to hold off purchasing until then.