Honestly, the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus got a bad rap from day one. Critics called them "boring." People complained they were just rebadged 13s. But here we are in 2026, and these things are still kicking around in a way that’s actually kinda impressive. It's funny how time changes the narrative.
When they launched back in late 2022, the tech world was obsessed with the "Dynamic Island" and the 48MP sensors on the Pro models. The standard 14 was the awkward middle child. It didn't have the fancy new cutout. It didn't have the latest A16 chip. It basically looked like its older brother but cost more.
But if you look at the secondary market right now, or even just what people are carrying in their pockets, these phones are everywhere. They're the workhorses.
The Chip "Scandal" That Wasn't
Everyone made a huge deal about Apple reusing the A15 Bionic. It was the first time they didn't put a brand-new processor in the base model flagship. People were worried it would be obsolete in a year.
Spoiler: it wasn’t.
The A15 in the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus isn't even the exact same one from the base 13. It’s the 5-core GPU version from the 13 Pro. That extra core actually helps with gaming and image processing more than you'd think. Even now, running iOS 18 or the early versions of iOS 26 (depending on how you track Apple's new naming conventions), it doesn't feel sluggish.
Apps open fast. Video editing in CapCut or Blackmagic Camera is smooth. Sure, it’s not the "Pro" silicon, but most users aren't running complex 3D renders. They’re scrolling TikTok and answering emails. For that, the A15 is basically overkill.
Why the iPhone 14 Plus Actually Won
The Plus was a gamble. Apple killed the "mini" (RIP to the small phone fans) and replaced it with a 6.7-inch giant that wasn't a "Pro Max."
At first, it flopped. Sales were dismal. But then people realized something: you could get the massive screen and the legendary battery life without the heavy stainless steel frame and the $1,100 price tag.
Battery life on the iPhone 14 Plus is still its secret weapon. Even with a bit of battery degradation after a few years, a well-maintained 14 Plus can easily sail through a full day. Some users on Reddit still report getting nearly two days of light use. It’s significantly lighter than the 14 Pro Max too. If you’ve ever dropped a Pro Max on your face while lying in bed, you know those 30 extra grams matter.
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The Repairability Win Nobody Talks About
Here is a weird fact: the iPhone 14 was actually more advanced than the 14 Pro in one specific way. It was the first to get a completely redesigned internal structure.
The back glass is a separate piece.
Before the 14, if you cracked the back of an iPhone, a repair tech basically had to gut the entire phone or use a laser to melt the glue. It was a nightmare. With the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus, Apple made it so the back glass could be swapped easily. This dropped repair costs significantly. It’s why you see so many "Renewed" units on Amazon for around $300-$350 today. They’re just easier to keep alive.
The Cameras are "Just Fine" (And That's Okay)
We need to talk about the 12MP sensors.
By 2026 standards, 12MP sounds ancient. Everything is 48MP or 100MP now. But let's be real—unless you're printing a billboard, you don't need those extra pixels.
The main sensor on the 14 is actually the one from the 13 Pro. It has an $f/1.5$ aperture and larger pixels than the old base models. It takes great low-light photos. The Photonic Engine (Apple's fancy word for their image processing) does a lot of heavy lifting here.
- Action Mode: This was the big 14 feature. It’s gimbal-like stabilization for video. It still works amazingly well for chasing your dog or kids around.
- Autofocus on the Selfie Camera: This was a first for the 14 series. It actually makes a huge difference for FaceTime calls and social media. No more blurry faces because you held the phone too close.
- Cinematic Mode: It does 4K now. On the 13, it was stuck at 1080p.
Is it a professional film camera? No. Does it take better video than 90% of mid-range phones released today? Yeah, honestly, it does.
Should You Still Care About the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus?
If you're looking for a bargain in 2026, the answer is a weirdly enthusiastic "yes."
Newer phones have the "Apple Intelligence" features that require 8GB of RAM. The iPhone 14 only has 6GB. That is the one real limitation. If you absolutely need AI-generated emojis or advanced Siri features, the 14 is going to leave you hanging.
But if you want a phone that:
- Costs under $400.
- Will get security updates until at least 2029.
- Has a screen that doesn't look "old" (it still uses the notch, but it's the slim one).
- Just works.
Then these are great.
The 14 Plus specifically is the "grandparent phone" of choice. Big text, big buttons, and a battery that doesn't die at 4:00 PM. It’s also great for teenagers who are going to drop it anyway—at least the repair won't bankrupt you.
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Real-World Value Today
Market prices for these have settled into a very comfortable spot. You can find a base iPhone 14 for around $275 in "Good" condition. The Plus usually commands a $50 to $75 premium.
Comparing that to a brand new budget phone? There's no contest. The build quality of the aerospace-grade aluminum and Ceramic Shield glass still feels premium. Most "cheap" new phones are plastic and have screens that look washed out compared to the Super Retina XDR OLED on the 14.
The Satellite Safety Net
One thing people forget until they're in trouble: Emergency SOS via satellite.
Apple introduced it with the 14. It has saved a lot of people in the wilderness who had no cell signal. Even if you never use it, knowing it's there is a huge plus for hikers or people who live in rural areas. It’s a feature that didn't "age" because the hardware is still the same as what's in the newer models.
How to Get the Most Out of an iPhone 14 in 2026
If you’re still rocking one or just bought a used one, don't just treat it like an old phone. It can do more than you think.
First, check your battery health. If it's below 80%, spend the $90 to get a genuine Apple replacement. It’ll make the phone feel brand new. Second, don't be afraid of the latest iOS. The A15 can handle it. Just stay away from those "AI" features that aren't supported anyway; they'll just clutter your settings.
Actionable Steps for Buyers:
- Check the RAM: Remember that the 14 has 6GB of RAM. It won't run "Apple Intelligence" (AI). If that's a dealbreaker, look at a used 15 Pro or 16.
- Look for "Excellent" Refurbished: Since the 14 is so easy to repair, many "Renewed" units are basically new shells with original internals.
- Avoid the 128GB if you take video: 4K video eats storage fast. Try to find a 256GB model; the price difference on the used market is often less than $40.
- Test the Satellite Link: You can run a "Demo" of the satellite SOS in the settings. Do it once so you know how it works before you actually need it.
Ultimately, the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus weren't revolutionary, but they were the peak of a specific era of Apple design. They are reliable, durable, and now, finally, affordable.
To maximize your device's longevity, ensure you are using a 20W USB-C power adapter for the fastest safe charging, and consider a high-quality screen protector to preserve the Ceramic Shield's resale value. Check your local carrier for "Bring Your Own Device" (BYOD) credits, as these models are highly compatible with modern 5G bands.