Comparing the iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro Max
Design and Display
The iPhone 14 Pro Max looks like old models with the same screen size, and design with flat sides and a glass and stainless steel construction. It is the new Dynamic Island pill-shaped system on the front, which replaces the notch and eats up less space, giving the new iPhone 14 Pro series a look unlike any other phone.
Another notable feature that Android has had for years, is now the iPhone also owns an always-on display compared to last year’s model. This Always-on Display function drains an average of about 5% daily, so if you use it, you might get worse battery life than with the 13 Pro Max. When talking about colors the iPhone 14 Pro Max has deep purple, gold, silver, and space black colors with five alpine green, silver, gold, graphite, and Sierra blue color variants.
The iPhone 14 Pro Max, with thinner borders, and max brightness looks more elegant, providing a more comfortable outdoor viewing experience. Both Pro models have 120Hz ProMotion, but the iPhone 14 Pro Max can drop to just 1Hz, while the 13 Pro Max stops at 10Hz.
Performance and Battery
Apple uses the new Apple A16 Bionic chip in the iPhone 14 Pro Max, which makes the jump to a 4nm technology a generational change from the 5nm tech used in previous iPhones. It lets pack A16 16 billion transistors and comes with even more efficient CPU cores. As for battery life, Apple claims both models offer similar all-day batteries, which is quite impressive for phones this large and powerful. Standby times are extended on the 14 Pro Max thanks to the Always-On display though. Estimated video playback is up to 29 hours on the 14 Pro Max versus 28 hours on the 13 Pro Max.- Charging times are comparable using a 20W adapter.
Cameras
The camera systems on both models are outstanding, but the 14 Pro Max pulls ahead in certain areas. Both have 12MP main, ultrawide, and 3x telephoto lenses that perform excellently. However, the main camera on the 14 Pro Max has a larger sensor and wider aperture, allowing for significant low-light photography and video improvements.
Another major camera upgrade on the 14 Pro Max is the addition of the Dynamic Island cutout which replaces the notch. This integrates smoothly into the interface as a multifunctional alert system for things like timers and Face ID. It brings more usability to the TrueDepth front camera.
Finally, the cinematic mode for stable focus video has been enhanced to 4K resolution at 24 frames per second, up from just 1080p on the 13 Pro Max. Overall more professional-level video capabilities with the 14 model.
Pricing and Verdict
As expected with each iPhone iteration, pricing stays at about the same tier, USD 1099 for 128GB iPhone 13 Pro Max versus $1099 for the base 14 Pro Max. Trade-in offers can sweeten upgrade deals.
Unless you specifically want the Always-On display, Dynamic Island cutout, or best available cameras and performance, most average users can likely skip this S upgrade from the 13 Pro Max to 14 Pro Max. However, both remain fantastic premium flagship iPhone options that can easily last 3 to 4 years or more. Power users and photo/video professionals will appreciate the extra capabilities packed into the iPhone 14 Pro Max though.
Conclusion
When looking at Apple’s two latest high-end flagships, the iPhone 13 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro Max share world-class displays, premium design, and excellent performance that can handle any task. However, the iPhone 14 Pro Max pushes ahead in a few key areas – it introduces clever integration of hardware and software with the Dynamic Island and Always-On display, captures better low-light photos and video with its upgraded 48MP camera, and enables new levels of speed and efficiency thanks to the state-of-the-art A16 Bionic chip. Unless some of these specific upgrades appeal to your needs base and usage, the average user may be very happy saving some money by opting for the still-superb iPhone 13 Pro Max. However, the iPhone 14 Pro Max does showcase innovation and technical capabilities that showcase the future of smartphones. So power users will find the latest and greatest features that make the 14 Pro Max a worthwhile step forward.
FAQs
Which phone has better performance and specs?
The iPhone 14 Pro Max, with a faster and upgraded A16 Bionic chip, has better performance and specifications. This chip provides the best experience and speed over other iPhone models.
Why iPhone 14 Pro Max is a Big upgrade?
Unless you want or need the Dynamic Island, Always-On display, 48MP camera, or maximum performance, it’s only an incremental upgrade over the 13 Pro Max. But both phones are fantastic choices.
Which model has better battery life?
Apple claims the battery life is comparable on both models – lasting all day on a charge. The 14 Pro Max may gain a bit of efficiency from the new chip, allowing slightly longer standby times. But performance is similar for most conditions.
