iPhone 11 Pro Max Vs iPhone 14 Plus

iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone 11 Pro Max
Starting at

Refurbished price:219.00

Versus €939.00 new

See options
iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Plus
Starting at

Refurbished price:317.00

Versus €879.00 new

See options

Ratings

The iPhone 11 Pro Max, released in September 2019, and the iPhone 14 Plus, launched in October 2022, represent different generations of Apple's large-screen smartphone offerings. While both devices provide an expansive viewing experience, the iPhone 14 Plus introduces advancements in processing power, camera technology, and overall durability. Both operate on Apple's iOS ecosystem, ensuring a consistent software experience, though the newer model benefits from a longer support window.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and physical resilience. These two models, separated by three years, offer different expectations in these areas.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 11 Pro Max debuted in September 2019, while the iPhone 14 Plus arrived in October 2022. This difference means the iPhone 14 Plus benefits from a more recent design and component selection.
  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 11 Pro Max is expected to receive major iOS updates until approximately 2026. The iPhone 14 Plus, being a newer device, will continue to receive software and security updates for a longer period, extending its functional lifespan further into the future.
  • Physical Durability: The iPhone 14 Plus incorporates a Ceramic Shield front cover, offering enhanced drop performance compared to the iPhone 11 Pro Max. Both devices feature an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, though the iPhone 14 Plus is rated for submersion at greater depths for the same duration.

Year of Release

2019

2022

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

iOS

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance is a key differentiator, impacting how smoothly applications run and how efficiently the device handles demanding tasks. The three-year gap between these models brings notable improvements.

  • Processing Capabilities: The iPhone 14 Plus features a more advanced processor, which translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and more efficient handling of graphics-intensive games and applications. The iPhone 11 Pro Max, while still capable, may exhibit slower performance with newer, more demanding software over time.
  • Multitasking Efficiency: The iPhone 14 Plus includes more internal memory, which allows it to keep more applications open in the background without needing to reload them, contributing to a more fluid user experience during heavy multitasking. The iPhone 11 Pro Max has less internal memory, which might lead to more frequent app refreshes when switching between many applications.
  • Storage Options: Both models offer various storage configurations. The iPhone 14 Plus starts with a higher base storage capacity, providing more room for apps, photos, and videos from the outset.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

Both devices offer large, vibrant displays, but there are differences in their underlying technology and user experience.

  • Display Technology and Size: Both phones feature Super Retina XDR OLED displays, known for deep blacks and vibrant colors. The iPhone 14 Plus has a slightly larger 6.7-inch display compared to the iPhone 11 Pro Max's 6.5-inch screen, offering a marginally more expansive viewing area.
  • Resolution and Clarity: Both displays offer high resolutions, resulting in sharp text and detailed images with a pixel density of approximately 458 pixels per inch. This ensures a clear viewing experience for everyday use, from reading to watching videos.
  • Refresh Rate: The iPhone 14 Plus maintains a standard 60Hz refresh rate, similar to the iPhone 11 Pro Max. This means the screen updates 60 times per second. While adequate for most users, it does not offer the smoother scrolling experience found on devices with higher refresh rates.

Resolution

1242 x 2688

1284 x 2778

Screen type

Super Retina XDR OLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities have seen significant evolution between these two generations, impacting photo and video quality in various conditions.

  • Rear Camera System: The iPhone 11 Pro Max features a versatile triple-camera system with wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lenses, providing optical zoom capabilities. The iPhone 14 Plus has a dual-camera system, including an improved main wide lens with a larger sensor and faster aperture, along with an ultra-wide lens, but it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens.
  • Low-Light Performance and Features: The iPhone 14 Plus benefits from newer image processing technologies like Photonic Engine, which significantly enhances low-light photography compared to the iPhone 11 Pro Max's Night mode. The iPhone 11 Pro Max was praised for its Night mode at the time of its release.
  • Video Recording and Front Camera: Both phones offer high-quality video recording. The iPhone 14 Plus introduces Action mode for enhanced video stabilization and its front-facing camera includes autofocus, improving selfie clarity. The iPhone 11 Pro Max also offered good video stabilization for its time.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and daily convenience.

  • Connectivity Standards: The iPhone 14 Plus supports 5G cellular connectivity, offering faster download and upload speeds in compatible areas, a feature not available on the iPhone 11 Pro Max, which is limited to 4G LTE. Both support Wi-Fi 6 for faster wireless internet connections.
  • Physical Design and Handling: The iPhone 14 Plus is notably lighter than the iPhone 11 Pro Max, which can make a difference in daily handling and comfort, especially during extended use. Both devices retain the Lightning port for charging and data transfer.
  • Security and Other Features: Both models utilize Face ID for secure facial recognition. The iPhone 14 Plus also includes additional safety features such as Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite, which are not present in the older model.

Weight

226 g

150 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.7

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

Lightning

Lightning

Users often praise the iPhone 11 Pro Max for its robust build and impressive battery life, which was a significant highlight at its launch. Some users upgrading from the 11 Pro Max to newer models have noted its considerable weight. Its triple-camera system, including a telephoto lens, was also a strong point for photography enthusiasts.

The iPhone 14 Plus is frequently lauded for its exceptional battery life, often cited as one of the best in Apple's lineup, and its large, immersive display. Users appreciate its lighter design compared to previous large iPhone models. However, some users coming from 'Pro' models, like the 11 Pro Max, have expressed missing the dedicated telephoto lens and the higher refresh rate display found on more premium devices.

Users prioritizing a comprehensive camera system with optical zoom and who are content with 4G connectivity may find the iPhone 11 Pro Max well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users who value extended battery life, a slightly larger display, 5G connectivity, and enhanced durability features will likely lean towards the iPhone 14 Plus. For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, extending the life cycle of these capable smartphones.

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