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2022 - iPhone 14 - Time to Upgrade already?

Gear Review

iPhone 14 Pro Upgrade Journey

*Reflecting on a two-year leap from the iPhone 11 to the 14 Pro*

~2
Years between upgrades
3
Years planned lifespan
$200
Upgrade price
 
Section I

Research and Options

After owning the iPhone 11 since 2020, it was finally time for an upgrade. The aging 4G connectivity and lack of an OLED screen made me feel the tech was dated, so I began exploring options for a new device. With the iPhone 14 series about to be released in September, I had several choices:

  • →iPhone 14 Pro — The primary contender featuring a faster chip and improved display.
  • →iPhone 14 Pro Max — The larger variant, considered for its screen utility.
  • →iPhone 13 Pro — The previous generation model, reviewed as a budget-conscious alternative.
Evaluating the Choices
  • →iPhone 14 Pro — This became my top choice. It promised a faster chip, 120 Hz OLED display, and significant enhancements in battery, camera, and processing power while maintaining the familiar 6.1-inch form factor.
  • →iPhone 14 Pro Max — While the 6.7-inch screen is great for media, the "phablet" size felt more like an iPad Mini than a phone to me.
  • →iPhone 13 Pro — While capable, I felt that sticking with last year's model wouldn't satisfy my desire for the latest technological advancements.
Decision Note: Despite my history of waiting 3-4 years between upgrades, I felt this two-year cycle was justified by the substantial improvements from the 11 to the 14 models.
Section II

Purchase and Technical Specifications

Pre-Purchase Insights (9/10/22)

By this point, I concluded that the base iPhone 14 didn't offer enough over the 13, but the 14 Pro stood out. Key upgrades included the 120 Hz OLED display, the new pill-shaped cutout, and the 48 MP rear camera. I noted my disappointment regarding the shift to eSIM-only and the lack of a USB Type-C port, but ultimately deemed them minor trade-offs.

Final Decision (9/17/22)

I officially moved forward with the iPhone 14 Pro. Alongside the phone, I also purchased the Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen with cellular capability.

FeatureConsideration
14 ProChosen for balance of features and size
14 Pro MaxDismissed due to excessive size
13 ProDismissed to ensure the latest tech
Section III

Long-term Ownership

Initial Review

Upon receiving the device, I was struck by the camera bump and the refined front screen design. While my initial reaction was somewhat lukewarm, viewing it as an iterative improvement, I was content with the $200 out-of-pocket cost.

One Year Later (7/20/23)

Fast forward ten months, and the iPhone 14 Pro has exceeded my expectations. I have grown to appreciate its performance and expect to keep it beyond my typical two-year cycle. While the jump from the 11 was significant, it felt slightly less groundbreaking than my previous leap from the 6s. Ultimately, owning only four iPhone models over the years proves how durable these devices remain, and I am satisfied with this upgrade.

A reliable successor that proves the value of long-term Apple ecosystem investment.
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