Honestly, the iPhone 14 Plus was the "middle child" nobody quite understood when it first dropped. It didn't have the fancy Dynamic Island or the triple-lens camera that made the Pro Max look like a piece of sci-fi tech. It just... sat there. But now that we’re in 2026, the perspective has shifted dramatically. If you're looking to buy iPhone 14 Plus today, you aren't just buying a "cheaper" phone; you're essentially grabbing a massive OLED canvas and a legendary battery for a fraction of what a new flagship costs.
It’s weird. Most people assume that because it’s a few years old, it’s basically a paperweight. That couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, with the recent rollout of iOS 26, this specific model has found a second life. While it doesn't support the full suite of Apple Intelligence features that require the latest 8GB RAM chips, it handles the new "Adaptive Power" management system surprisingly well.
The screen is the real hero here. You get that sprawling 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display. It’s the same physical size as the Pro Max models but without the heavy stainless steel or titanium weight that makes your wrist ache after twenty minutes of scrolling TikTok.
Why Buy iPhone 14 Plus in 2026?
Let’s talk money. In the current market, you can find an iPhone 14 Plus starting as low as $302 on sites like Back Market or Swappa. Compare that to the $899 it cost at launch. You are getting nearly the same everyday experience—iMessage, FaceTime, high-end mobile gaming, and great photos—for about a third of the original price.
The A15 Bionic chip inside is the "enhanced" version with a 5-core GPU. It’s the same brain that was in the 13 Pro. Even in 2026, it absolutely rips through apps. You’re not going to see lag when switching between Instagram and your email. It’s smooth. Kinda makes you wonder why people spend $1,000 every single year.
👉 See also: LG UltraGear OLED 27GX700A: The 480Hz Speed King That Actually Makes Sense
The Battery Life Mystery
People used to call this the battery king. Is that still true? Yes and no. If you buy a brand-new unit, it still outlasts almost anything in its price bracket, offering up to 26 hours of video playback.
However, if you're buying refurbished, you have to be careful. Lithium-ion batteries degrade. A "Good" condition unit might only have 85% battery health. That's why I always tell people to look for "Excellent" or "Premium" listings. Better yet, Apple's own Certified Refurbished store sells them with a brand-new battery and outer shell for around $529. It feels like a brand-new phone. No scratches. No "who owned this before me?" vibes.
What You Lose (And What You Don't)
You have to be realistic. You're giving up some stuff. The notch is still there. It’s that little black "tab" at the top of the screen. In a world where the Dynamic Island is the standard, the notch looks a bit old-school. Does it actually stop you from watching Netflix? No. You stop noticing it after three minutes.
- Camera Tech: You get a dual 12MP system. It lacks the 48MP main sensor found on the iPhone 15 and 16. You also miss out on the dedicated telephoto lens for zooming in on things far away.
- Charging: It still uses a Lightning port. By now, most of the world has moved to USB-C. You'll need to keep that one specific cable in your backpack.
- Screen Refresh: It’s a 60Hz panel. If you’ve spent time using a ProMotion 120Hz screen, the 14 Plus might feel slightly "slower" or less fluid when scrolling.
But here is the thing: the Photonic Engine is present. This was the software magic Apple introduced to make low-light photos look way better by processing pixels earlier in the chain. Your night shots at a concert or a dimly lit restaurant are still going to look great. It’s not "budget" quality; it’s just not "pro" quality.
✨ Don't miss: How to Remove Yourself From Group Text Messages Without Looking Like a Jerk
The iOS 26 Factor
There’s a lot of chatter on Reddit about older phones struggling with the latest software. Some users in the Apple Support communities have complained about battery drain on iOS 26. This usually happens because the phone is busy indexing files in the background after the update.
On the flip side, many 14 Plus owners are reporting that the new "Adaptive Power" feature—a tool that uses on-device intelligence to trim energy usage—is actually helping them squeeze an extra 10% out of their day. It’s basically a smarter version of Low Power Mode that you don't have to turn on manually.
Is the iPhone 14 Plus Future-Proof?
Apple usually supports phones for 6 to 7 years. Since this came out in late 2022, you're likely looking at software updates until 2028 or 2029. That is a long time. If you buy iPhone 14 Plus now, you aren't buying a dead-end product. You're buying a long-term tool.
It’s also surprisingly durable. The Ceramic Shield front is legit. I’ve seen these things take tumbles onto pavement and come out with just a scuff on the aluminum frame. Plus, the internal design was overhauled compared to the 13 series, making it much easier (and cheaper) to repair the back glass if you do happen to smash it.
🔗 Read more: How to Make Your Own iPhone Emoji Without Losing Your Mind
How to Get the Best Deal Right Now
Don't just walk into a random shop and pay whatever they ask. Prices fluctuate daily.
- Check Swappa: This is where the enthusiasts hang out. You can see the actual photos of the device you’re buying. Look for "Mint" condition.
- Carrier Deals: Sometimes T-Mobile or Verizon will give you an iPhone 14 Plus for "free" with a new line. Just read the fine print—you're usually locked in for 36 months.
- The "Excellent" Tier: On Back Market, the "Excellent" condition is worth the extra twenty bucks. They guarantee the screen is flawless.
If you want a big screen for reading, gaming, or just because your eyes aren't what they used to be, this is the smartest move. You avoid the "Pro Max Tax" but keep the real estate. It’s the pragmatic choice.
Your Next Steps
- Check your current battery health: If your current phone is below 80%, a 14 Plus will feel like a massive upgrade regardless of the specs.
- Verify the Seller: If buying used, ask for the IMEI number to ensure the phone isn't blacklisted or stolen.
- Audit your cables: Remember you’ll need Lightning cables. If you’ve already switched everything to USB-C, factor in the cost of a few new adapters or cables.
- Compare to iPhone 15 Plus: If the price gap is less than $100, the 15 Plus is worth it for the USB-C port and the 48MP camera. If the gap is $200 or more, stick with the 14 Plus.