iPhone 15 Pro vs. iPhone 14 Pro: Which is the smarter budget choice?

With the iPhone 16 now on store shelves, the spotlight has shifted to Apple's latest smartphone, but that doesn't mean the older models are obsolete. The iPhone 14 Proand iPhone 15 Pro still hold a strong appeal for those looking for a budget-friendly entry point into the iOS ecosystem. 

Both devices offer robust features, solid performance, and sleek designs, making them worthy options for shoppers interested in a premium experience. However, there are some major differences between the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro that could influence your buying decision -- especially with the holiday season just around the corner.

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For example, the iPhone 15 Pro is 9% lighter than the iPhone 14 Pro, houses Apple's most capable phone processor, the A17 Pro, and is the first in the iPhone family to feature a USB-C port. There are other great features as well like a longer battery life and enhanced camera quality, but before we get ahead of ourselves, let's dive into all the differences to help you make the right choice.

Specifications

You should buy the iPhone 14 Pro if...

1. You want the cheaper option

Shortly after Apple announced the iPhone 15 lineup, iPhone 14 prices saw a deep discount. You can expect all previous iPhone models to be several hundred dollars cheaper moving forward. If you want the closest thing to an iPhone 15, you can purchase the iPhone 14 Pro. Aside from an upgraded chip and a few cosmetic upgrades, the iPhone 14's internal components are very similar to its successor.

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Apple typically discontinues older Pro models shortly after announcing a new iPhone lineup to avoid interference with the new device's sales. So, if you want to buy an iPhone 14 Pro, you'll have to consult third-party vendors like Amazon, Best Buy, or your cell service provider while supplies last.

2. You're not ready to give up your Lightning cable(s)

With the launch of the iPhone 15, Apple decided to ditch Lightning ports and embrace USB-C inputs instead. The switch to USB-C is mostly important to iPhone users outside of the US, since it resulted from a law passed by the European Parliament mandating all electronic devices be USB-C compatible by the end of 2024.

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However, most iPhone users in the US and other countries aren't being pressured to get rid of their Lightning charging cords. If you have an Apple Watch, AirPods, Magic Mouse, Magic Keyboard, iPhone 14, or Magic Trackpad, you probably have plenty of Lightning cords lying around. If you want to stick with the Lightning cable, buy the iPhone 14 Pro.

3. You're a fan of gold-colored iPhones

Apple first debuted gold-colored iPhones in 2013 with the release of the iPhone 5s. This design decision was heavily influenced by Asian consumers who associate the color gold with wealth and luxury. Shortly after, Apple only offered gold iPhones in "Plus" and "Pro" models, signaling to consumers that to acquire a gold iPhone, they'd need to pay extra for it.

But that all changes with the iPhone 15 Pro, which is now available in Titan Gray, Blue, Silver, and Space Black -- Gold not included. So, if you want to get your hands on a golden smartphone, you'll have to buy the iPhone 14 Pro.

You should buy the iPhone 15 Pro if...

1. You just have to have the Action Button

The Action Button, first introduced on the Apple Watch Ultra, is a button that performs a specific action when pressed. On the iPhone 15 Pro, the Action Button replaces the mute switch but can still act as a mute switch if you configure it.

Also: iPhone 15 review: Why I recommend this model even to 'Pro' users in 2024

You can toggle between actions that can interact with Dynamic Island, like Voice Memos and Camera, and run shortcuts created in the Shortcuts app. Instead of a switch, the iPhone 15 Pro's Action Button looks like the volume up and down buttons.

2. You want USB-C charging

The iPhone 15 Pro is in the first generation of iPhones to utilize USB-C charging. The USB-C charging port is very common among almost all non-Apple consumer tech products. So if you have a non-Apple tablet, pair of headphones, or smartwatch, chances are you have a small collection of USB-C cables.

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Additionally, the iPhone 15 USB-C cables are color-coordinated with the iPhone color you purchase. So, not only do you now have universal charging, but you also have a matching cable. Cute.

3. You want better performance

In traditional Apple fashion, any device followed by the "Pro" modifier is guaranteed to have premium, pro-level features. The iPhone 15 Pro has Apple's upgraded A17 Pro chip under its hood, which offers increased efficiency and performance. 

Couple the new chip with increased RAM, and iPhone 15 Pro users should experience smoother multitasking as apps can run in the background longer without crashing or lagging. 

FAQs

Alternatives to consider