The iPhone 14 continues to be a compelling choice for those seeking a balance of performance and value. Powered by the A15 Bionic chip with a 6-core CPU, it still holds up well against newer mid-range competitors. The device has a Super Retina XDR display, 4K cinematic video stabilization, and an IP68 water and dust resistance rating – all packed into a slim 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31-inch frame weighing just 6.07 ounces. With newer models now available, the iPhone 14 has dropped in price, which makes a refurbished unit an especially good buy. Gazelle currently lists the iPhone 14 at $264.99 compared to $629 new, backed up by a 55-point quality inspection, free 2-day shipping, free 30-day returns, and a one-year warranty – giving you flagship-quality features at a fraction of the cost.
Key Takeaways
- The iPhone 14 features an A15 Bionic chip, Super Retina XDR display, 4K video stabilization, and IP68 water resistance.
- Gazelle sells refurbished iPhone 14 units for $264.99 versus $629 new, offering significant savings on flagship features.
- Every Gazelle refurbished iPhone 14 includes a 55-point inspection, one-year warranty, free 2-day shipping, and 30-day returns.
- Key drawbacks include a 60Hz refresh rate, no optical zoom, no physical SIM slot, and no expandable storage.
- Buying refurbished from Gazelle also supports sustainability by reducing e-waste and minimizing demand for new manufacturing.
Is The iPhone 14 Worth It? Review Criteria
There are plenty of factors that make a good phone. Some of the key criteria include:
- Design and weight: Build quality, aesthetics, and low weight are a must for a phone that’s fun to use. The iPhone 14 measures 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 inches and weighs 6.07 ounces, with an IP68 water and dust resistance rating.
- Hardware: Solid CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage options are necessary for leisure and work. The iPhone 14 is powered by the A15 Bionic chip with a 6-core CPU, delivering reliable performance for everyday tasks.
- Display: Screen quality and resolution are integral to the user experience. The iPhone 14 features a Super Retina XDR display, offering vibrant colors and sharp detail.
- Camera: A good camera system is standard with the latest phones from industry leaders. The iPhone 14 supports 4K video with cinematic video stabilization, making it a strong performer in this category even as a previous-generation device.
Design
The iPhone 14 retains the standard rectangular shape with a sleek aluminum and glass body. The Ceramic Shield front cover and tough glass back enhance durability, while the IP68 rating ensures splash, water, and dust resistance. If you’re ever concerned about water exposure, it’s worth understanding the cost to repair a water damaged phone. The device measures 5.78 x 2.82 x 0.31 inches and weighs 6.07 ounces, making it compact and fairly light.
The iPhone 14’s design is nearly identical to the iPhone 13, including the notch for the TrueDepth camera and Face ID. The actual viewable area of the display remains generous, providing an immersive viewing experience. It’s worth noting that Apple moved away from the notch design starting with the iPhone 15, which introduced the Dynamic Island — so the iPhone 14 represents the last of the notch-era standard iPhone lineup. If you’re weighing your options, our guide to the best Apple iPhone model to buy can help you decide which device suits you best.
Hardware
While newer phones have outclassed the iPhone 14, it’s still no slouch.
CPU
The iPhone 14 is powered by the A15 Bionic chip, featuring a 6-core CPU that delivers outstanding performance and efficiency. This chip holds up well for multitasking, gaming, and running demanding applications, even by today’s standards.
GPU
The iPhone 14’s 5-core GPU offers solid graphics performance, making it well-suited for gaming and media consumption. It handles complex rendering tasks capably and remains optimized for augmented reality experiences.
RAM
With 6GB of RAM, the iPhone 14 provides adequate memory for everyday tasks and more intensive applications, ensuring smooth multitasking and reliable responsiveness.
Storage
The iPhone 14 comes in three storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. These choices provide flexibility for users with varying storage needs, whether for apps, media, or other data.
Battery Life
Battery life remains one of the iPhone 14’s stronger suits. The device houses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that Apple rates at up to 17 hours of video playback. Real-world testing has shown around 9 hours and 28 minutes of continuous 5G web surfing. The device supports 20W fast charging, capable of reaching 54% in just 30 minutes, and also supports convenient wireless charging. Keep in mind that all batteries have limited recharge cycles, and actual battery performance depends on individual usage and network conditions.
Camera Quality
The iPhone 14’s camera system features a dual-lens setup with a 12MP wide and a 12MP ultra-wide camera. The ultra-wide camera captures a broader scene, while the wide camera offers better low-light performance thanks to its larger sensor and faster aperture.
The iPhone 14 includes a strong lineup of software camera features. Sensor shift optical image stabilization reduces blur in photos and videos, and Night mode greatly improves low-light photography. The Photonic Engine computational photography feature further enhances image quality across the board.
Video recording capabilities are also impressive, with support for 4K at 60 fps and HDR video recording with Dolby Vision. Action mode ensures smooth and steady video capture even when in motion, making it ideal for dynamic shoots. Slow-motion video support at 1080p at 120 fps adds additional creative possibilities.
The front TrueDepth camera features autofocus and an f/1.9 aperture, improving selfies and video calls. It also supports Portrait mode, Portrait Lighting with six effects, and depth control for enhanced image quality.
Overall, the iPhone 14 remains a capable camera phone for everyday use. While newer iPhone models have since raised the bar with more advanced camera hardware, the iPhone 14 still holds its own – especially at its current used price point of around $264.99 through refurbished retailers like Gazelle, compared to the original $629 retail price.
Pros and Cons of iPhone 14
The iPhone 14 specs and features are impressive, but there are also drawbacks.
Pros:
- Excellent camera system with sensor-shift optical image stabilization, depth control portrait lighting, and night mode
- Apple ecosystem integrations, such as Apple TV and MacBook integrations
- Control the phone with only your voice
- IP68 water and dust resistance – survivable up to 6 meters deep for up to 30 minutes
- Powerful A15 Bionic chip with a 6-core CPU for smooth performance and 4K cinematic video stabilization
- Good battery with fast and wireless charging support
- Robust Super Retina XDR display with vibrant colors
- Supports Apple Pay and Emergency SOS via satellite
- Crash Detection can sense a severe car accident and automatically call for help
- Action mode for smooth handheld video recording
- Supports Apple Lossless audio and Dolby Digital for high-quality sound
Cons:
- Some may find the design overly familiar compared to previous iPhone generations
- No optical zoom, only digital zoom
- 60Hz refresh rate, unlike the Pro models which offer 120Hz ProMotion
- Removal of physical SIM card slot (US models are eSIM only) may inconvenience some users
- Limited storage options with no expandable storage
Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 14 Worth It?
The iPhone 14 remains a solid choice for those seeking a high-quality iPhone at a more accessible price point. With the iPhone 16 series now firmly established as Apple’s flagship lineup, the iPhone 14 sits in a sweet spot for budget-conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise on core performance. Its A15 Bionic chip, impressive camera capabilities, and reliable battery life make it a great fit for everyday users who want a dependable device without overspending.
Get a Refurbished iPhone 14 With Gazelle
Purchasing a pre-owned iPhone 14 from Gazelle is great for you, your wallet, and the environment.
Certified Quality
Gazelle ensures that all refurbished iPhone 14 models meet rigorous standards of quality and performance. Each device undergoes a comprehensive 55-point inspection process, where certified technicians test and refurbish the phones to ensure they are fully functional, with only minor cosmetic blemishes. We back our commitment to quality with a 30-day return policy and a one-year warranty.
Cost Savings
Buying a refurbished iPhone 14 from Gazelle is a smart financial decision. You get the same high-quality phone with all its advanced features – including the Super Retina XDR display and 4K video with cinematic stabilization – starting at just $264.99, compared to $629 new. That’s significant savings without sacrificing performance. Orders also include free 2-day shipping and free 30-day returns.
Environmental Benefits
Choosing a refurbished iPhone 14 from Gazelle also supports environmental sustainability. By extending the lifecycle of electronics, you help cut e-waste and prevent pollution. Buying refurbished keeps devices out of landfills, reduces demand for new manufacturing, and minimizes industrial pollution.
Purchasing a refurbished iPhone 14 from Gazelle means getting a high-quality, cost-effective device while making an environmentally responsible choice. Explore our full line of refurbished iPhones to find the right model for you.