Apple’s best ever iPhones, the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro, go head to head. How do they differ? And which one is the best? Read on and we’ll reveal all in our iPhone 14 Pro Max vs iPhone 14 Pro review.
Overall winner: iPhone 14 Pro Max
They have virtually the same tech inside. But for us the iPhone 14 Pro Max just sneaks it thanks to its larger display, built for gaming and watching movies on the go, and its superior battery life. It’s a close run thing, though.
iPhone 14 Pro Max vs iPhone 14 Pro: Specs and features
The iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro both feature the same Apple A16 Bionic chipset, which delivers lightning fast performance. No other Apple devices feature this tech, setting them apart even from the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus, as well as older models.
Each device has the latest version of iOS 16 out of the box, with updated lock screen widgets, and improved Focus mode for cutting down on distractions when trying to work or do important tasks.
There are 128GB, 256GB, 512GB and 1TB models of each model available, too. In fact, it’s impossible to split the phones in this regard, as they are essentially the same inside.
iPhone 14 Pro Max vs iPhone 14 Pro: Design
The iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro each utilise the same design, with stainless steel sides, a toughened glass rear and Ceramic Shield protection for the all-screen front of the handset.
The look has been brought over from the older iPhone 12 and iPhone 13 range. It doesn’t feel outdated, but if you want a newer looking model it may be worth waiting until late 2023 and Apple’s next lineup.
The only key difference here is size. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is significantly larger than the iPhone 14 Pro. It’s 13.2mm taller, 6.1mm wider, and weighs 240g compared with 206g.
iPhone 14 Pro Max vs iPhone 14 Pro: Camera
Both the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro come with the same triple lens camera setup. That means a main 48MP lens that features quad pixel tech for boosting colour reproduction and overall imaging, plus a 12MP wide lens and a 12MP telephoto lens that can handle 3x optical zoom.
Each camera can shoot using Apple’s ProRAW mode, offers Night Mode portraits thanks to LiDAR tech, and has Apple’s new Photonic Engine for snappier processing.
As both cameras are identical, the choice really comes down to screen size. Obviously the larger iPhone 14 Pro Max display means you can appreciate your handiwork more.
iPhone 14 Pro Max vs iPhone 14 Pro: Screen and display
This is where the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro diverge. The iPhone 14 Pro comes with a 6.1-inch screen with a 1179 x 2556 pixel resolution, while the iPhone 14 Pro Max packs a 6.7-inch effort with 1290 x 2796 resolution.
In terms of screen tech, both are largely the same. They come with Apple’s new Dynamic Island feature, which replaces the old notch design and allows for control of music, maps and other key functions from a dynamic area at the top of the display.
Each one has an Always On display running at 1Hz, so you can see the time, date and key information without unlocking the phone.
Brightness tops out at 2,000 nits, meaning they both look great even in the sunniest conditions. And 120Hz top refresh rate means games and videos look ace.If it’s size you want though, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is the winner.
iPhone 14 Pro Max vs iPhone 14 Pro: Battery life and performance
The iPhone 14 Pro Max has a larger battery thanks to its bigger overall footprint. But the iPhone 14 Pro serves up similar returns, with both phones capable of running around 24 hours between charges.
There’s support for fast charging up to 20W, delivering 50% battery in just 30 minutes. And performance wise the A16 Bionic chip means things work at lightning pace.
iPhone 14 Pro Max vs iPhone 14 Pro: Software
iOS 16 comes as standard on the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro. That means a newly updated Focus mode for ensuring your phone doesn’t distract you during key tasks, while better lock screen widgets prevent you from having to constantly open the device when you need to see vital details.
The good news is that both phones will likely support iOS 16 for five years or more, making them long term propositions.
iPhone 14 Pro Max vs iPhone 14 Pro: Price and availability
The iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro are both available now. Both devices are expensive SIM free, so be sure to use our price comparison tool to see what deals you can get.
When it comes to the iPhone 14 Pro Max, you’ll pay £1,199 for 128GB, £1,309 for 256GB, £1,529 for 512GB and £1,740 for 1TB. The iPhone 14 Pro will set you back £1,099 for 128GB, rising to £1,209 for 256GB, £1,429 for 512GB and £1,649 for 1TB. (Prices correct at launch)