Is The iPhone 13 Worth It? Review Criteria

Whether the iPhone 13 is the right choice will depend on your budget and priorities. Released back in September 2021, it has aged considerably – but it can still be found at reduced prices and may suit certain buyers. The key criteria to consider are:

• Design and weight: The iPhone 13 features a durable build with a Ceramic Shield front and IP68 water resistance (up to 6 meters for 30 minutes), giving it solid longevity for its age.
• Hardware: Powered by Apple’s A15 Bionic chip with a 6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, and 4GB RAM, with storage options ranging from 128GB to 512GB. While no longer cutting-edge, it handles everyday tasks and streaming without issue.
• Display: The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display runs at 1170×2532 pixels and approximately 460 PPI. One notable limitation is its 60Hz refresh rate, which feels dated compared to newer models offering 120Hz ProMotion displays.
• Camera: Features a dual rear camera system with a 12MP wide (f/1.6) and 12MP ultrawide (f/2.4). The wide lens gathers 47% more light than the iPhone 12, thanks to larger 1.7μm pixels. It’s a capable system, though it lacks the versatility of more recent iPhone lineups.
• Battery life: Tom’s Guide recorded over 10 hours and 33 minutes of battery life – roughly 2 hours better than the iPhone 12 – and it supports 50% fast charging in 30 minutes with a 20W adapter.

Design

The iPhone 13 doesn’t significantly change the standard design philosophy of Apple’s devices. It keeps the sleek, rectangular shape with the iconic Apple notch. Despite the similarity to its predecessor’s design, the notch is notably smaller, and the phone introduced a diagonal dual camera arrangement on the rear. Beneath the surface, the Apple iPhone 13 has a durable construction of crack-resistant glass and aluminum. The phone carries an impressive IP68 rating under IEC standard 60529, offering water resistance at a depth of 6 meters for up to 30 minutes.

Hardware

CPU

The iPhone 13’s A15 Bionic chip is still a capable fit for work, mobile gaming, and streaming. It features a 6-core CPU that can handle multiple demanding applications at once. While it’s not as powerful as more recent releases, it remains capable for most everyday tasks you might use it for.

GPU

The 4-core GPU in the iPhone 13 offers solid graphics performance for gaming and streaming. The GPU supports complex rendering tasks and is optimized for most apps, augmented reality experiences, and other demanding uses.

RAM

With 4GB of RAM, the iPhone 13 provides sufficient memory to handle everyday tasks and more intensive applications. This ensures smooth multitasking and quick response times, even when running multiple apps simultaneously.

Storage

The iPhone 13 comes in three storage options: 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB. While this is a good range of options, you’ll need to be careful which you choose. The iPhone 13 doesn’t support expandable storage via microSD, so you’ll want to choose a model with enough storage for your long-term needs.

Battery Life

Battery life is one of the iPhone 13’s standout features. The device houses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that offers impressive longevity. In real-world testing by Tom’s Guide, the iPhone 13 delivered over 10 hours and 33 minutes of battery life — roughly 2 hours better than its predecessor, the iPhone 12.

The device supports 20W fast charging, reaching approximately 50% in 30 minutes, and also supports wireless charging for added convenience. However, battery life can vary depending on individual use, screen brightness, and network configuration.

Camera Quality

The iPhone 13 features a dual rear camera system with a 12MP wide (f/1.6) and a 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.4) camera with a 120-degree field of view. This combination works well for everything from standard shots to sweeping landscape photos. Notably, the wide camera gathers 47% more light than the iPhone 12 thanks to its larger 1.7μm pixels, making a meaningful difference in everyday and low-light shooting.

Key features include:

• Sensor shift optical image stabilization: Reduces blur in photos and videos.
• Night mode: Greatly improves low-light photography.
• Photographic Styles: Customizable photo styles that apply to new photos without affecting skin tones.
• Cinematic mode: Enables rack focus-style depth-of-field shifts in video, recorded in Dolby Vision.
• Video recording with Dolby Vision: Enhances HDR video quality across all video modes.
• Time-lapse video with stabilization: Ensures steady time-lapse shots.
• Slo-mo video support: Slow-motion video at 1080p up to 120 fps.
• 4K video recording: Supports 4K at up to 60 fps for high-resolution videos.
• Depth control portrait lighting: Provides adjustable lighting effects for portraits.

The front TrueDepth camera offers 12MP resolution, supporting Portrait mode, depth control, and Portrait Lighting with six effects. Video recording capabilities include 4K at 60 fps, 1080p HD video, and continuous autofocus. While the iPhone 13 is now a few generations old as of 2026, its camera system still holds up well for most everyday photography needs, particularly given its strong low-light performance and Cinematic mode capabilities.

Pros and Cons of iPhone 13

The iPhone 13 offers a range of impressive features, but it also has some drawbacks:

Pros:

• Bright and vibrant 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display at 460 PPI
• Excellent dual camera system featuring a 12MP wide (f/1.6) and 12MP ultrawide (f/2.4) lens, with 47% more light capture than the iPhone 12, plus optical image stabilization, sensor shift, night mode, and HDR video recording
• Control the iPhone 13 with only your voice
• Compatibility with excellent integrations and accessories such as Apple Pay, Apple TV, AirPlay, and more
• Powerful A15 Bionic chip with a 6-core CPU, 4-core GPU, and 4GB RAM for smooth performance across apps, media, and gaming
• Strong battery life – over 10 hours of real-world use, roughly 2 hours better than the iPhone 12 – with fast charging (50% in 30 minutes with a 20W adapter) and wireless charging support
• Supports Apple Pay and Apple Cash for easy transactions
• Water and dust resistant with an IP68 rating (up to 6 meters for 30 minutes)
• Improved FaceTime with SharePlay for shared viewing experiences
• Smart TV video mirroring via AirPlay

Cons:

• Locked at a 60Hz display refresh rate – no 120Hz ProMotion, unlike the Pro models
• Charging speeds still lag behind many Android competitors despite fast charge support
• No optical zoom on the standard model, only digital zoom
• Cinematic video mode capped at 1080p
• No support for physical SIM cards in some regions
• As of 2026, the iPhone 13 is several generations old and no longer receives the latest iOS feature updates available to newer models

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 13 Worth It?

The iPhone 13 isn’t the most powerful phone or the cheapest, but time has made it a solid budget-friendly option. Its A15 Bionic chip, impressive dual-camera system, and battery life that outperforms its predecessor by over two hours make it easy to forget it launched back in 2021. In all, it’s a surprisingly competitive model even in 2026.

If you do choose to go for an iPhone 13, you should choose a reputable seller like Gazelle. A certified refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle costs as little as $325, a fraction of what you’d pay for a new iPhone — making it one of the better value picks in the refurbished market right now.

Get a Refurbished iPhone 13 With Gazelle

Opting for a refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle is a wise choice, blending quality, savings, and sustainability. Here’s why purchasing a Gazelle refurbished iPhone 13 stands out.

Certified Refurbished Apple iPhone 13 from Gazelle

When you buy a refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle, you can be confident in its quality and functionality. Gazelle’s certified refurbished phones use official parts and undergo a 30-point inspection. While there may be some minor scratches, you can expect a phone in great working condition. Learn how an iPhone gets refurbished to understand what goes into the process.

Same Phone, Low Price

A refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle offers significant cost savings compared to buying new. Enjoy the powerful A15 Bionic chip with its 6-core CPU and 4-core GPU, a dual 12MP camera system with Night mode and a wide lens that gathers 47% more light than the iPhone 12, and the stunning 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display—all at a reduced price. You also get impressive real-world battery life, with over 10 hours of use on a single charge, plus IP68 water resistance up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. Enjoy the iPhone 13’s superior performance without the premium price tag.

Get a Great Phone and Help the Environment

By purchasing a pre-owned device, you help reduce electronic waste in landfills. This is a major source of groundwater contamination, so buying a refurbished phone can go a long way to protecting your local environment. Lowering demand for new devices reduces industrial pollution as well.

By choosing a refurbished iPhone 13 from Gazelle, you enjoy a great phone while helping the environment at the same time. Make the smart, responsible choice; choose a refurbished iPhone from Gazelle.

The post iPhone 13 Review: Specs and Features Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Factors That Affect Battery Life

Before we dive into which phones get the most battery life, there are a few things you should know about how we measure and discuss smartphone batteries. It’s tough to say exactly how long any phone will last someone because there are tons of factors at play. While we can tell you the size of a phone battery in milliamp-hours (mAh), that value will mean something very different between devices, people and even environments.

Simply put, your mileage may vary. Below are some of the factors that can affect it.

1. Temperature and Age

Temperature and age are two elements that can bring down even the best phone batteries. Batteries are all about chemical reactions, and over time, these chemicals can break down and the reactions become less efficient. Heat is a major reason for that. Even if you keep your phone at room temperature its whole life, the electronics in the phone produce heat, which affects the chemicals in the battery.

Manufacturers often specify how many charge cycles a battery supports and offer data on your battery’s health so you can see where you’re at and whether it’s time for a new one.

2. Hardware

Unsurprisingly, the kind of hardware your phone uses also affects how much juice it needs. Some components that can affect battery life include:

• Displays: Your phone’s display is one of the biggest culprits in reducing battery life. A huge, bright screen typically pulls more power than something smaller and dimmer. Characteristics that increase demand include size, brightness, resolution and refresh rate. Still, a phone with a large screen usually has more room for a bigger battery. You can often extend battery life by dimming your screen or reducing the refresh rate.
• Processors: The processor underpins everything your phone does, and modern processors make a big difference in how long your phone’s battery lasts. With every version, manufacturers learn to use power more efficiently and make the chips smaller, leaving room for bigger batteries.
• Battery technology: Battery chemistry itself has evolved. Silicon-carbon batteries, now found in phones like the OnePlus 15 with its 7,300 mAh cell, pack more energy into less space than traditional lithium-ion designs. This is a key reason some 2025-2026 flagships are pushing battery life to new heights without becoming bulky.
• External connections: When your phone gets a Wi-Fi or cellular signal, it uses certain hardware components that increase power demand. A common reason for a fast-draining battery is a phone that can’t get a good signal. When there’s no connection, your phone will keep trying to check for better signal strength, pulling more juice every time.
• Camera: While a camera isn’t particularly power-hungry on its own, the computational photography and AI processing that modern phones perform can add up quickly, especially during video recording or night mode captures.
• Other hardware: Even small components like speakers or flashlights will slowly but surely reduce battery life.

3. Use Habits

How you use your phone affects how long it lasts in day-to-day use and the overall life span of the battery. Of course, if you play games all day long, your phone will die faster than if you let it sit idle. Some apps are more power-hungry than others, namely those that use demanding graphics, like games and photo apps, or those that frequently need to fetch data, like GPS or video streaming platforms.

Apps that run in the background, like music players or weather forecasts, will use some power. Still, they’re well-optimized, so unless you run a lot at once, they shouldn’t be much of an issue.

When it comes to long-term battery performance, how you charge your phone is significant. Batteries are complicated, but chemistry tells us to shoot for a sweet spot, about 20%-80%. If you always keep it plugged in or let it die every day, you’re not doing your phone any favors. Most modern phones have smart charging tech to help you stay in that optimal range.

For example, Apple® iPhones can quickly charge up to 80%, then switch to trickle charging, which moves more slowly and is better for the battery. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is a strong example of how software and hardware optimization can work together — it achieves an impressive 37 hours of video playback from a battery under 5,000 mAh, proving that raw battery size isn’t everything. Many smartphones can also learn from your usage to optimize charging. If you leave your phone plugged in overnight, it might spread out the charge. Onboard power features are another reason smartphone manufacturers want you to use their official chargers. No-name brands might not have the same hardware required to run those optimized power tools. If you’re shopping for a new device with battery life in mind, it’s worth checking out the best phones under $300 to find strong performers at a lower price point.

10 Phones That Have Great Battery Life

Now that you know the nuances of smartphone batteries, we can dive into the best phones for battery life. Most phones on the market today tout “all-day battery life.” For all the reasons we just went over, battery life can vary widely, and mAh capacity isn’t a good measure of how long a phone will last.

All-day battery life is, as it sounds, a way to describe a phone that should last the average user the whole day or longer. It assumes you use a good mix of features, like some phone calls, some videos and some web browsing. As you explore the best smartphone for your needs, look beyond the mAh capacity and consider how many hours of use you can get. Manufacturer specs are usually pretty close, but you can also look at third-party tests for more details.

1. Apple(R) iPhone 17 Pro Max

First on our list is Apple’s current flagship. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is a remarkable achievement in battery efficiency – it delivers an impressive 37 hours of video playback from a battery that stays under 5,000 mAh, proving that raw capacity isn’t everything. Apple’s tight hardware-software integration, combined with its latest processor, squeezes every last drop of performance out of each charge.

Like other modern iPhones, it supports MagSafe and wireless Qi charging, along with fast charging to top up quickly when you need it.

Standout features include:

• An Always-On display: Even though the display is always on, Apple’s technology keeps it super energy-efficient, showing you the basics without draining your battery.
• ProMotion technology: This feature adapts your phone’s refresh rate for smooth visuals when you need them and power savings when you don’t.
• Dynamic Island: The pill-shaped cutout around the front camera system changes shape and content based on what you’re doing, offering a seamless way to interact with notifications and live activities.
• Satellite-based Emergency SOS: Works via satellite even when you’re completely off the grid, giving you a safety net in remote areas.

The 17 Pro Max also features the Pro camera system and Apple’s latest chip for fast, efficient performance. If the flagship price is a concern, keep an eye on certified refurbished options as they become available.

2. OnePlus 15

The OnePlus 15 is a serious contender for the best battery life of any smartphone on the market right now. In Tom’s Guide testing, it ran for an extraordinary 25 hours and 15 minutes – outpacing even dedicated gaming phones. GSMArena backed this up with an Active Use Score of 23 hours and 7 minutes, putting it at the top of their charts as well.

The secret is its massive 7,300 mAh silicon-carbon battery, a newer battery technology that packs more energy into a smaller, lighter form factor than traditional lithium-ion cells. The OnePlus 15 also supports blazing-fast wired and wireless charging, so even when you do need to top up, you won’t be waiting long.

It’s a strong pick for power users, gamers or anyone who spends long days away from an outlet.

3. Oppo Find X9 Pro

The Oppo Find X9 Pro put up one of the most impressive numbers we’ve seen in independent testing. In Tech Advisor’s PCMark battery test, it scored 26 hours and 40 minutes – beating out both the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and the OnePlus 13. That’s a stunning result for a flagship smartphone that also delivers top-tier cameras and a premium display.

If you’re outside the US where Oppo has broader availability, the Find X9 Pro is absolutely worth putting on your radar for its exceptional real-world endurance.

4. Vivo X200 Ultra

The Vivo X200 Ultra is another flagship that punches above its weight in battery performance. PhoneArena’s testing gave it an estimated 9 hours and 37 minutes of screen-on time – comfortably ahead of the iPhone 17 Pro Max at 8 hours and 30 minutes, and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra at 8 hours even. For a phone that also competes at the very top end of mobile photography, those endurance numbers are impressive.

Like the Oppo Find X9 Pro, availability in the US can be limited, but it’s worth considering if you’re shopping internationally or through import retailers.

5. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra is the go-to choice for Android fans who want a premium all-around experience with strong battery life. It features a large 5,000 mAh battery and Samsung’s latest processor, and while newer rivals like the Vivo X200 Ultra edge it out in pure endurance testing, it still delivers a full day of heavy use with room to spare.

The S25 Ultra retains the built-in S Pen, an exceptionally versatile camera system, a stunning 6.9-inch display with adaptive refresh rates and an in-display fingerprint scanner. It also supports super-fast charging and Wireless PowerShare, which lets you charge other devices directly from your phone.

For most Android users, the S25 Ultra strikes the best balance of battery life, performance, features and long-term software support.

6. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Google’s Pixel 9 Pro continues the Pixel tradition of delivering reliable all-day battery life with smart software optimizations doing much of the heavy lifting. The Extreme Battery Saver mode can stretch usage well beyond a single day when needed, and Google’s AI-driven adaptive features help manage power consumption intelligently in the background.

It also offers:

• Adaptive refresh rates to balance smoothness and efficiency
• A top-tier camera system powered by Google’s computational photography
• Google’s latest Tensor processor
• Fast wired and wireless charging
• An always-on display
• An in-display fingerprint scanner

The Pixel 9 Pro is a particularly strong choice if you want a clean Android experience with guaranteed long-term software updates directly from Google.

7. Apple(R) iPhone 16 Pro Max

The iPhone 16 Pro Max remains a solid choice in 2026, especially now that it can be found at reduced prices as the 17 series has taken over as Apple’s current lineup. In PhoneArena testing, it delivered around 8 hours and 30 minutes of screen-on time – strong numbers for a flagship, though it now trails newer competition like the Vivo X200 Ultra. It still offers ProMotion, Always-On display, Dynamic Island, MagSafe charging and Apple’s Pro camera system, making it a well-rounded option for anyone looking to save a bit compared to the 17 Pro Max.

8. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6

A big, foldable screen doesn’t have to mean sacrificing battery life. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 opens into a 7.6-inch display and offers meaningful improvements in both efficiency and endurance compared to earlier Fold models. Samsung’s power management has matured with each generation, and the Z Fold 6 is capable of getting through a full day of mixed use even with its expansive inner screen running.

It works with the S Pen and offers fast charging, wireless charging and Wireless PowerShare. If you want a phone that transforms into a mini tablet experience, the Z Fold 6 is the most practical foldable for battery life right now.

9. Motorola Moto G (2025)

If you’re shopping on a budget, the Motorola Moto G (2025) is a standout performer that punches well above its price class. PhoneArena testing found it leads affordable phones with an overall score of 8 hours and 15 minutes – and an extraordinary 22-plus hours of web browsing endurance. For a budget device, that’s a remarkable achievement.

It won’t have the camera sophistication or processing power of a flagship, but if your priority is lasting through a long day without a charge and spending as little as possible, the Moto G (2025) is hard to beat.

10. Apple(R) iPhone SE (4th Generation)

The latest iPhone SE is the most affordable way to get into the current Apple ecosystem, and it’s a meaningful upgrade over its predecessor in both design and battery life. It ditches the old home-button design in favor of a modern look with Face ID, and it runs on Apple’s current-generation chip for fast, efficient performance.

It won’t match the Pro models for endurance, but it delivers a genuine all-day battery experience for moderate users, along with wireless charging support and compatibility with the latest version of iOS. For buyers who want an iPhone without flagship pricing, the 4th-generation SE is the sensible pick.

Grab a Long-Lasting Smartphone for Less

If your smartphone battery just isn’t cutting it, you may be ready for a new one. Battery life has become one of the most important factors when choosing a phone – and the good news is that today’s top devices last longer than ever. Recent testing shows just how far things have come: the OnePlus 13 ran for over 25 hours in Tom’s Guide’s battery test, the Oppo Find X9 Pro scored nearly 27 hours in PCMark testing, and even Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max now achieves an impressive 33 hours of video playback. If you’re a heavy user, options like the Vivo X200 Ultra are averaging close to 10 hours of screen-on time – well ahead of flagships like the Galaxy S25 Ultra.

Of course, the latest flagships come with flagship price tags. That’s where buying used makes a lot of sense. Whether you’re a power user or just need something to last the day, Gazelle has plenty of options to choose from at a fraction of the retail cost.

Choose from our selection of used smartphones and save big without the hassle of buying from strangers. We offer easy 30-day returns, financing options and transparent listings. Explore our used phones today to find one that will keep up with your day – and then some!

The post Which Phone Has the Best Battery Life? Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

The good news is you don’t necessarily need to purchase the toughest cell phones on the market to get the benefits of high-quality materials, shock resistance, and waterproofing. Even base models of the Samsung Galaxy and iPhone lines have enough features to make them more damage-resistant than older smartphones. That said, the rugged smartphone market has grown significantly – valued at USD $907 million in 2024 and projected to reach USD $1.229 billion by 2032 – which means there are more purpose-built options than ever before.

Over 90% of new rugged phone models released in 2024 feature both IP68 and MIL-STD-810H certifications, meaning they’re built to withstand drops, dust, extreme temperatures, and submersion in water. It’s worth noting, however, that over 42% of consumers cite high upfront costs as a deterrent compared to standard smartphones – so knowing what you actually need before you buy is important.

When you’re ready to invest in an upgrade or treat yourself to a smartphone built to take a beating, there are a few things you should know about what makes a phone truly rugged, and which are the toughest ones on the market right now.

What are some factors that go into making a rugged phone? 

Between drop tests and water resistance tests, manufacturers put a lot of time, energy, and research into ensuring even their flagship devices can withstand wear, tear, and the occasional splash. It’s a growing market too – the global rugged and waterproof smartphone industry was valued at USD $907 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD $1.229 billion by 2032.

Modern rugged phones are typically evaluated against two key standards: IP68 water and dust resistance ratings, and MIL-STD-810H certification – a U.S. Department of Defense standard that tests devices against extreme temperatures, humidity, vibration, and drops. As of 2024, over 90% of new rugged phone models carry both certifications, making them the benchmark for what a truly rugged device should offer.

Many devices rely on materials like stainless steel, reinforced aluminum, and Gorilla Glass to create tough smartphones capable of handling everyday wear alongside serious impacts. Some devices also feature built-in bumpers or rubber housings for added protection. A strong recent example is the Samsung Galaxy XCover7 Pro, released in April 2025, which combines MIL-STD-810H and IP68 certifications with a user-replaceable 4,350mAh battery – a feature increasingly rare in mainstream smartphones.

That said, rugged phones do come with trade-offs. Over 42% of consumers cite high upfront costs as a deterrent compared to standard smartphones, and some specialized rugged devices still sacrifice certain premium features in favor of durability. Balancing toughness with everyday usability remains one of the key challenges for manufacturers in this space. If water damage is a concern with your current device, it’s worth understanding what it costs to repair a water damaged phone before deciding whether to upgrade.

What are the toughest cell phones on the market? 

There are entire lines of rugged phones, satellite phones, and tough smartphones on the market that sacrifice vital device features, style, and form to prioritize durability and functionality. While these are suitable devices for many demanding physical jobs and high-risk professions, the average smartphone user won’t necessarily need a device classified as “rugged.” In fact, over 42% of consumers cite high upfront costs compared to standard smartphones as a purchasing deterrent—and it’s a fair point worth considering before going that route.

That said, the rugged smartphone market is growing fast. Valued at USD $907 million in 2024, it’s projected to reach USD $1.229 billion by 2032, driven in part by outdoor and active lifestyles—outdoor exercise alone accounted for 25% of global rugged phone usage in 2024. Over 90% of new rugged models released in 2024 carry both IP68 and MIL-STD-810H certifications, reflecting how seriously manufacturers are taking durability standards. A notable recent example is Samsung’s Galaxy XCover7 Pro, released in April 2025, which features a removable 4,350mAh battery, MIL-STD-810H certification, and an IP68 rating.

So, outside of dedicated rugged smartphones, what are the toughest phones out there? Most often, they boil down to the two major manufacturers, Samsung and Apple. Modern iterations of both Samsung’s Galaxy line and Apple’s iPhone include added features and quality materials that help withstand drops, scratches, and water exposure. Each manufacturer also offers premium flagship editions—the Plus and Ultra lines for Samsung and the Pro and Pro Max lines for Apple—that push durability even further with stronger builds and higher-grade materials. As always, premium materials typically come with premium pricing, so it’s worth factoring that into your budget when shopping for a new smartphone.

Samsung Phone Durability

At first glance, there isn’t much to distinguish different Galaxy models except for their size. However, premium models often incorporate premium materials, design features, and add-ons that can impact durability and drive up costs. Here are some of the differences between the existing Galaxy models.

• Galaxy S22: The Galaxy S22 is a durable phone with an Armor aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ housing for a bright, crisp screen. It has an IP68 water resistance rating, meaning it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes. The S22 holds up well in drop tests and should be able to withstand everyday bumps and falls.

• Galaxy S23: The Galaxy S23 is a durable phone made with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back. It also carries an IP68 water resistance rating. The Galaxy S23 typically holds up well in drop tests, though it’s still possible to crack the screen or damage the housing on a particularly hard fall.

• Galaxy S24: The Galaxy S24 steps things up further with a titanium frame on the Ultra model and Gorilla Glass Armor on the front display, offering improved scratch and drop resistance over its predecessors. It maintains the IP68 water resistance rating standard across the lineup and performs strongly in real-world durability testing.

• Galaxy XCover7 Pro: Released in April 2025, the Galaxy XCover7 Pro is Samsung’s most rugged offering to date. It features both an IP68 rating and MIL-STD-810H certification, making it resistant to dust, water, drops, vibration, and extreme temperatures. It also includes a removable 4,350mAh battery — a rare feature in modern smartphones — making it an excellent option for users who need reliable durability in demanding environments.

As you can see, Samsung uses high-quality materials across its flagship and rugged lineups. It’s worth noting that over 90% of new rugged phone models released in 2024 feature both IP68 and MIL-STD-810H certifications, reflecting an industry-wide push toward more durable devices. Regardless of which Samsung model you choose, pairing it with a quality case and screen protector remains one of the best ways to protect your investment. But how do Samsung devices stack up against Apple’s iPhone family of competitors?

iPhone Durability

While many of Apple’s flagship devices rely on similar builds and materials, there are notable differences between the iPhone models.

• iPhone 13: The iPhone 13 features a Ceramic Shield front cover and an IP68 water resistance rating, allowing it to handle submersion in up to six meters of water for up to 30 minutes. In drop tests, the iPhone 13 performs well and can survive drops of up to six feet onto concrete, though significant drops can still cause damage.

• iPhone 14: The iPhone 14 is a durable phone constructed from glass and aluminum, complemented by a Ceramic Shield front cover designed to be more resistant to scratches and cracks than earlier iPhone models. It also carries an IP68 water resistance rating. That said, it is not indestructible – using a case and screen protector is still recommended to keep it in good shape.

• iPhone 15: The iPhone 15 continues Apple’s durability tradition with a Ceramic Shield front cover and IP68 water resistance rated to six meters for up to 30 minutes. It introduced a titanium frame on the Pro models, offering a stronger yet lighter build compared to the stainless steel used in prior generations.

• iPhone 16: Apple’s iPhone 16 lineup maintains the Ceramic Shield front cover and IP68 water resistance rating. Pro models again feature a titanium frame, reinforcing their reputation for premium durability and a refined in-hand feel compared to the standard aluminum models.

If you end up purchasing an Apple device, you’ll benefit from high-end materials across the lineup. Pro and Pro Max models carry the added advantage of a titanium frame, providing extra structural strength along with a premium feel – making them a solid choice if durability is a top priority.

Samsung Phone Water Resistance

Samsung Galaxy phones are water resistant, but it’s important to understand what that actually means before putting your device to the test. Most modern Samsung Galaxy flagship models carry an IP68 rating, meaning they can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes under controlled conditions. However, real-world conditions vary, and water resistance is not the same as being fully waterproof. Here are some tips to keep your Samsung Galaxy phone protected around water:

• Do not expose your phone to high-pressure water jets, such as from a hose or a waterfall. IP68 ratings are tested under still, controlled water conditions, not forceful water pressure. While a waterfall selfie may sound like the perfect photo-op, a broken phone can quickly spoil a trip.
• Avoid submerging your phone in saltwater, chlorinated pools, or other liquids. IP68 testing is conducted in fresh water, and exposure to other liquids can degrade seals over time and void your warranty coverage.
• Do not clean your phone with water or any other liquid. If you need to clean your phone, use a soft, dry cloth with gentle motions.
• If your phone gets wet, immediately dry it with a microfiber cloth or another soft fabric. Avoid rougher materials like a regular t-shirt, which can scratch your screen or housing.
• Keep in mind that water resistance can degrade over time. Drops, wear, and aging seals can reduce your phone’s ability to repel water, even if it passed IP68 testing when it was brand new.

If you need a Samsung device built for tougher conditions, it’s worth looking at the rugged end of their lineup. In April 2025, Samsung released the Galaxy XCover7 Pro, which combines an IP68 rating with MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability certification, making it better suited for outdoor use, active lifestyles, or work environments where the phone regularly takes a beating. It also features a removable 4,350mAh battery, which is increasingly rare in mainstream smartphones — especially if battery life is a priority for you.

For older Samsung Galaxy models that predate IP68 ratings, it’s best not to risk any water exposure at all. If you are unsure of your specific model’s rating, check Samsung’s official specs page before assuming your device can handle moisture.

iPhone Water Resistance

iPhone water resistance is a feature that has been available on iPhones since the iPhone 7. However, water resistance ratings have improved significantly across generations. Early models like the iPhone 7 and 8 were rated IP67, meaning they could withstand submersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. More recent models have raised the bar considerably – the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, for example, carry an IP68 rating with resistance up to 6 meters for 30 minutes, while the standard iPhone 15 models are rated to 6 meters as well. The iPhone 16 lineup, released in late 2024, continues this trend with IP68 certification across all models.

That said, it is important to understand that water resistance is not the same as waterproof. These IP ratings are tested under controlled laboratory conditions, which means real-world exposure – such as ocean waves, pool chemicals, or high-pressure water – can still cause damage. Salt water in particular poses a risk, as it can corrode the aluminum or titanium housing on newer models over time, even if the device survives the initial exposure. Apple also notes that liquid damage is not covered under the standard warranty, regardless of the device’s IP rating.

It is also worth noting that water resistance can degrade over time. As your iPhone ages and experiences normal wear and tear, the seals that protect against water intrusion may weaken, making older devices more vulnerable than their original IP rating might suggest.

If you need a higher level of protection – for example, for outdoor activities, water sports, or job site use – a waterproof case remains a worthwhile investment. These cases can provide additional protection beyond what Apple’s built-in water resistance offers, and can safeguard against drops, dust, and prolonged submersion in situations where an IP68 rating alone may not be sufficient.

Pick out the strongest smartphone at Gazelle. 

While there may not be such a thing as an unbreakable phone, you can still find a strong phone when you shop the certified pre-owned lineup at Gazelle. We use a 30-point inspection to ensure all of our devices pass our incredibly high standards. With over 90% of new rugged phone models now carrying both IP68 and MIL-STD-810H certifications, today’s durable smartphones are more capable than ever — and shopping pre-owned means you can save money without the high upfront cost that deters over 42% of buyers from purchasing new.

When you’re ready to upgrade your device to one that’s ready for the beach, a road trip, or a camping excursion, we’re here to help. Contact Gazelle to learn more about the rugged phones available in our inventory or to get a fresh smartphone today.

The post Rugged Phones That Can Survive Any Vacation Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

One such perk is night photography, an increasingly popular photo mode that allows you to capture stunning after-dark shots with multiple cameras. Whether you’re using a Samsung Night Mode camera or an iPhone Night Mode camera, this mode also includes auto-retouching and light balancing.

If you often take photos at night, you probably want to know which smartphone has the best low-light photography between Apple and Samsung’s popular devices. Between the Samsung Galaxy S23 camera and the iPhone 14 camera, we’ll look at options, low-light results, and device pricing so you can make the most informed decision when you’re ready for a new smartphone.

On paper, the Samsung Galaxy S23 boasts a 50MP main camera, giving it a significant megapixel advantage over the iPhone 14’s 12MP main sensor. The iPhone 14 also lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, topping out at just 5x digital zoom, while the Galaxy S23 includes a dedicated 3x optical zoom (69mm equivalent) and can reach up to an impressive 30x zoom.

When it comes to low-light performance specifically, Samsung uses advanced pixel-binning technology on the S23. At night, the S23 Ultra combines 16 pixels into one, creating a larger 2.4-micron virtual pixel that captures significantly more light for 12.5MP output shots. For astrophotography enthusiasts, the Samsung Expert RAW app even supports exposures of up to 10 minutes, enabling breathtaking night-sky captures that the iPhone 14 simply can’t match in that niche.

However, raw specs don’t always tell the whole story. According to GSMArena, Apple’s low-light image processing tends to produce more natural-looking results, and their testing found that Apple’s Night Mode performs slightly better than the standard Galaxy S23 in real-world low-light scenarios. The iPhone 14 may have fewer megapixels and no telephoto lens, but its computational photography and color accuracy in night mode remain highly competitive.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on how you plan to use your camera. If you prioritize zoom range, high-resolution night shots, and advanced astrophotography features, the Galaxy S23 has the edge. If you value natural color reproduction, ease of use, and consistent low-light results without post-processing, the iPhone 14 holds its own impressively well.

Night Mode works similarly on each device. 

iPhone and Samsung Galaxy have nighttime features allowing users to take better photos in low-light conditions. The iPhone Night Mode camera uses computational photography to combine multiple exposures into a single image that reduces noise and helps create a more stable image. The Samsung Galaxy Night Mode camera uses a similar technique, and the Scene Optimizer tool can automatically detect the type of scene you’re photographing.

Both manufacturers created phone models that take most of the guesswork out of Night Mode operation. Each smartphone similarly turns on this mode automatically when the phone’s sensors detect lower light. Users can operate them manually, too, by turning Night Mode on and off in each device’s additional photo settings.

Typically, with Night Mode on the iPhone 14 camera or the Samsung Galaxy Night Mode camera option, your phone takes the photo over several seconds, operating similarly to how HDR displays balance imagery on monitors and television screens. Then, artificial intelligence analyzes your photograph, considering several factors including the image’s lighting and any subject movement captured in the frame.

While holding the camera button in Night Mode, it may take the photo quickly, or you might have to continue pressing for several seconds. Depending on the lighting conditions, the Galaxy S23 and iPhone 14 can still take quick pictures at night, but darker environments require extra exposure time. It’s worth noting that the Galaxy S23‘s night photography is especially impressive due to its pixel-binning technology — at night, it merges 16 pixels into one, creating a larger 2.4-micron virtual pixel for brighter, cleaner 12.5MP shots. For those wanting even more control, Samsung’s Expert RAW app allows for manual long exposures, though serious night-sky photography can require exposures of up to 10 minutes.

When it comes to overall Night Mode performance, both phones deliver strong results, though each has its strengths. According to GSMArena, Apple’s low-light processing tends to yield more natural-looking photos, noting that the iPhone’s Night Mode does a bit better than the standard Galaxy S23. That said, Samsung pulls ahead in zoom versatility — the Galaxy S23 offers a dedicated 3x optical zoom lens and reaches up to 30x zoom, while the iPhone 14 relies solely on digital zoom, maxing out at 5x. This makes the S23 the stronger choice for zoomed-in low-light shots.

One thing to keep in mind about any device’s Night Mode capabilities is that many nighttime shots struggle with moving objects. Since Night Mode requires extended exposures and multiple images, movement often creates blurring and distorted pictures. Many long-exposure photographs — like Night Mode pictures, panoramic shots, and other similar features — don’t work well for action photography, especially in low-light conditions. If you’re trying to determine which phone has the best camera for your needs, it’s worth considering how often you shoot in challenging lighting.

Both device families feature high-quality camera specs. 

Depending on your chosen model, you’ll likely see quite a bit of variance between overall camera specifications. For instance, the Galaxy S23 and S23 Plus have 50MP main cameras, while the S23 Ultra steps things up dramatically with a 200MP primary camera. The Ultra also includes a 12MP Ultrawide camera for expanded shots and two 10MP telephoto lenses, giving it both 3x and 10x Optical Zoom, along with digital zoom capabilities reaching up to 100x.

The base Galaxy S23 also features a dedicated 3x zoom lens (equivalent to 69mm), making it a strong performer for zoomed shots. In low-light situations, the S23 Ultra’s pixel size adjusts to 1.12 microns for 50MP photos, and at night it bins 16 pixels into one, creating a 2.4-micron virtual pixel for 12.5MP shots — a clever way to capture more light in dark environments. Samsung’s Expert RAW app even supports long exposures, with night-sky shots capable of using exposures as long as 10 minutes.

On the Apple side, the base iPhone 14 uses a 12MP main camera and lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, maxing out at 5x digital zoom. By contrast, the standard Galaxy S23 reaches up to 30x zoom — a notable difference for users who frequently shoot at a distance. When you step up to the iPhone 14 Pro models, you gain significantly more versatility, including LiDAR, telephoto lenses, and macro photography capabilities.

It’s worth noting that raw specs don’t tell the whole story. According to GSMArena, Apple’s low-light processing tends to yield more natural-looking photos, with Night Mode on the iPhone 14 edging out the standard Galaxy S23 in real-world low-light testing. Both platforms bring serious computational photography to the table, just with different priorities — Samsung leaning toward flexibility and zoom range, while Apple focuses on color accuracy and natural rendering.

Different contrast and exposure options impact image quality. 

While both sets of devices come packed with quality camera specs, how they treat color and contrast greatly affects the final photograph. The Samsung S23’s 50MP main camera produces more true-to-life coloring in daytime photos, while Apple’s devices often increase contrast and color saturation for richer-looking photos.

The S23 can also overcorrect photos if you don’t manually adjust the correction settings, causing you to lose some finer details in your shots. However, this doesn’t mean that the iPhone 14 naturally has the better camera, as the added contrast and saturation can sometimes work against it.

Regarding Ultrawide photos, Samsung often treats its image coloring more effectively than Apple in well-lit conditions. However, when it comes to low-light and nighttime photography, things get more nuanced. The Galaxy S23 uses advanced pixel binning at night, combining 16 pixels into one to create a 2.4-micron virtual pixel, resulting in sharper 12.5MP night shots. That said, according to GSMArena, Apple’s low-light processing tends to yield more natural-looking results, noting that “Apple’s Night Mode just does a bit better” than the standard Galaxy S23 in typical nighttime scenarios.

One area where Samsung holds a clear and significant advantage is zoom. The iPhone 14 uses a 12MP main camera and lacks a dedicated telephoto lens entirely, maxing out at just 5x digital zoom. The Galaxy S23, on the other hand, features a dedicated 3x optical zoom camera and can reach up to 30x zoom overall. This is a meaningful real-world difference — if you enjoy taking zoomed-in concert photos, wildlife shots, or long-distance photography, the S23’s zoom capabilities far outpace what the iPhone 14 can offer.

There are visual differences in each manufacturer’s Night Mode. 

With this added insight into each manufacturer’s overall camera performance, you’re ready to look more closely at the Night Mode camera Samsung and Apple each offer. For the most part, both devices offer a high-quality nighttime shooting experience with rich colors and more accurate representation that older devices can’t match.

It’s worth noting that the hardware behind each phone’s camera differs significantly. The Galaxy S23 features a 50MP main camera that uses pixel-binning at night, merging 16 pixels into one to create a 2.4-micron virtual pixel, resulting in sharper 12.5MP low-light shots with improved light capture. The iPhone 14, by contrast, uses a 12MP main camera without a telephoto lens, relying more heavily on software processing to compensate in low-light conditions.

In nighttime videos, the Samsung Night Mode camera takes crisp, stable videos that add depth to the scene without losing too much detail in shadows. Comparatively, the iPhone 14 camera can pick up warmer tones in nighttime videos that add a soft glow to some shots.

These differences are also apparent in each phone’s nighttime photos. Interestingly, according to GSMArena testing, Apple’s low-light processing tends to yield more natural-looking photos overall, with reviewers noting that “Apple’s Night Mode just does a bit better” than the standard Galaxy S23 in direct comparisons. Apple devices tend to brighten subjects naturally and handle lighting in a way that feels true to the scene, though light sources can appear slightly harsher with more visible lens flare in some shots. The iPhone 14 camera may also pick up artificial lighting with a subtle greenish hue in certain environments.

The Samsung Galaxy S23’s Night Mode shines in its ability to preserve natural shadows and represent depth accurately in darker shots, diffusing both natural and artificial light across the frame rather than simply boosting overall brightness. For users who want to push night photography further, Samsung’s Expert RAW app also unlocks advanced capabilities, including astrophotography with extended exposures of up to 10 minutes for night-sky shots.

Keep in mind that Night Mode isn’t perfect on any device, with natural limitations that prevent both Samsung and Apple from delivering a flawless result every single time. Both approaches have their strengths depending on the scene, and as Night Mode technology continues to improve, we can expect even better results in future generations.

Each smartphone represents an improvement over its predecessors. 

Though the differences between the Samsung and iPhone Night Mode cameras may seem small to the casual photographer, the Galaxy S23 marks a notable jump forward compared to the S22, much like the iPhone 15 builds on the improvements introduced with the iPhone 14.

A few users prefer the S22 Ultra’s crisper indoor photos but note that its Night Mode camera tends to wash out skin tones as a result. The S23 Ultra appears less washed out while maintaining image quality for better overall nighttime hues. If you’re upgrading to the S23 from an S22 or earlier model, you’ll likely notice a clear improvement in the general quality of nighttime photos. The S23 Ultra also handles nighttime zoom more effectively – reaching up to 30x zoom – compared to the standard S23’s dedicated 3x optical zoom. It’s worth noting, however, that specific zoom options aren’t always available within the official Night Mode across all devices in the Galaxy family.

On the iPhone side, Apple has continued to refine its Night Mode processing across recent generations. The iPhone 14’s 12MP main camera – notably without a telephoto lens – holds its own in low-light conditions, and Apple’s low-light processing is generally regarded as producing more natural-looking results. According to GSMArena, Apple’s Night Mode “just does a bit better” than the standard Galaxy S23 in terms of overall natural rendering. That said, neither phone is infallible. The S23 Ultra’s advanced pixel-binning technology – combining 16 pixels into a single 2.4-micron virtual pixel for low-light shots – gives it a technical edge in very dark environments, even if Apple’s processing pipeline often produces more visually pleasing results straight out of the camera. If you’re weighing how much an iPhone will cost versus a Galaxy, it’s worth factoring in how each handles your specific shooting needs.

For those pushing night photography to its absolute limits, the Samsung Expert RAW app unlocks manual long-exposure capabilities on the S23 – capable of exposures as long as 10 minutes for night-sky photography – a feature that puts it in a league of its own for astrophotography enthusiasts. Before diving into advanced shooting modes, make sure your device has enough storage space to handle large RAW files.

Check out Gazelle for your next smartphone upgrade. 

Ultimately, your final device selection will come down to your preferences in photo quality, user interface, and other manufacturer-specific benefits. Both phones bring meaningful strengths to Night Mode photography – the Galaxy S23’s 50MP main sensor and advanced pixel-binning technology (combining 16 pixels into one for low-light shots) delivers impressive detail and versatility, while Apple’s low-light processing tends to yield more natural-looking results. According to GSMArena, Apple’s Night Mode “just does a bit better” in standard low-light conditions, though the S23’s hardware flexibility – including a dedicated 3x zoom camera and up to 30x zoom range – gives it an edge for users who want more shooting options after dark.

Whether you prefer the natural tones of the iPhone 14’s Night Mode or the powerful low-light hardware the Galaxy S23 brings to the table, you can trust Gazelle when finding your next device. We offer refurbished and lightly used devices that we back with our extensive testing and quality assurance processes. When you know what phone you want next or need help picking out your next upgrade, look to Gazelle for the best deals.

The post Which Phone Has Better Night Photography: The iPhone 14 or Galaxy S23? Scott Strandberg appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

While the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro share Apple’s core experience, there are meaningful differences in performance, cooling, and price that are worth understanding before you click the “Buy” button. Here, we’ll take a look at the MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro to help you make the most informed decision for your lifestyle and uses. The MacBook Air currently starts at $999, while the entry-level MacBook Pro starts at $1,599 — so understanding exactly what you’re paying for matters.

MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro

Both the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro continue to evolve with Apple’s ever-improving silicon, with the latest Air running the M4 chip and the Pro line now featuring M5 and M4 Pro/Max options. Each model delivers a snappy browsing experience, the signature Apple OS, and enough power for everyday tasks. Let’s compare the devices side-by-side so you can see which is best for your needs.

Display & Design

One of the most noticeable differences between the MacBook Pro and the MacBook Air is the screen size. The MacBook Air is available in 13-inch and 15-inch display options, while the MacBook Pro offers both 14-inch and 16-inch displays.

If portability is your priority – commuting, campus, or coffee shops – the 13-inch Air is hard to beat. But if you want a larger canvas without jumping to the Pro tier, the 15-inch Air is a compelling middle ground. The Pro models, meanwhile, are aimed at users who need more screen real estate alongside serious performance.

Weight differences follow screen size fairly closely. The 16-inch MacBook Pro is noticeably heavier than either Air model, while the 14-inch Pro and 13-inch Air are close enough in size and weight that the difference feels minimal in daily use.

Display quality is where the Pro pulls ahead. The MacBook Air features a Liquid Retina display, which is excellent for everyday use. The MacBook Pro upgrades to a Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology, enabling adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, along with peak brightness of up to 1,600 nits. The Air’s display does not support variable refresh rates. For users editing video, color grading, or simply wanting smoother visuals and higher brightness, the Pro’s display advantage is meaningful.

Connectivity Options

If you prioritize having the best connectivity, there’s a clear-cut winner: the MacBook Pro series. The MacBook Air covers the essentials with two Thunderbolt ports, MagSafe charging, a headphone jack, and support for one external display. The MacBook Pro steps things up considerably with three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, an SDXC card slot, MagSafe charging, and support for multiple external displays simultaneously.

That HDMI and SD card slot combination alone makes the Pro a natural fit for photographers, videographers, and anyone regularly connecting to external monitors or AV equipment. If your workflow involves plugging into a lot of external hardware, the Air’s more limited port selection may become a bottleneck.

Consider how you’ll actually use the device day to day. For charging, a mouse, and occasional screen mirroring, the Air handles everything you need. But if your work depends on HD audio and video outputs, multiple displays, or frequent card transfers, the Pro is the clear choice.

Keyboards

Both the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air feature Apple’s Magic Keyboard with a physical function key row – the Touch Bar has been fully retired across the lineup. Key feel, resistance, and overall typing experience are consistent between the two, so neither model has a meaningful edge here.

If you plan to use an external keyboard or other peripherals, keep the connectivity differences in mind. The Pro’s additional ports and superior Bluetooth stack give you more flexibility when building out a desk setup.

Speakers

Both the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro deliver impressive audio for laptop speakers, easily outclassing most of the competition. The MacBook Air features a four-speaker sound system that handles music, streaming, and video calls well. The MacBook Pro takes it further with a six-speaker high-fidelity system that includes force-canceling woofers, producing noticeably richer bass and a wider soundstage.

For casual listeners or subtitle-on streamers, the Air’s four-speaker array is more than adequate. If you work in audio, frequently watch high-quality video content without headphones, or just appreciate better built-in sound, the Pro’s speaker system is a genuine upgrade worth considering.

Battery Life

Battery life is strong across both lines, though the Pro models edge ahead. The MacBook Air typically delivers up to 18 hours of battery life per charge, which is excellent for a full day of work or travel. The MacBook Pro models generally match or exceed that, with higher-end configurations pushing up to 24 hours in Apple’s estimates.

The Air’s fanless, passively cooled design helps it manage power efficiently in lighter workloads. However, under sustained heavy tasks, the Pro’s active cooling keeps performance stable without the same thermal throttling risk, which can also help preserve battery estimates during intensive sessions.

Both lines use MagSafe charging alongside USB-C, though adapter wattage scales with the model. The Air accepts lower-wattage adapters, while the larger Pro models support up to 140-watt charging for faster top-ups.

Overall Performance

This is where the gap between the Air and Pro becomes most pronounced. Both lines now ship with a minimum of 16GB of unified memory as standard, which is a welcome baseline for all users. However, the chips and cooling solutions differ significantly.

The MacBook Air runs Apple’s M4 chip and uses a fanless passive cooling design. This works well for everyday tasks, light creative work, and even moderate gaming, but sustained heavy workloads can cause the chip to throttle performance over time without active cooling to manage heat. In benchmarks, the M4 15-inch MacBook Air scores around 14,680 in multi-core Geekbench and 3,907 in Cinebench 2024 GPU – strong numbers for an ultraportable.

The MacBook Pro uses active cooling with a fan system, allowing its chips to maintain peak performance under sustained loads. The 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M5 chip scores approximately 18,013 in multi-core Geekbench and 5,867 in Cinebench 2024 GPU. Step up to the M4 Pro in the 16-inch model and those numbers climb further to around 22,406 and 9,297 respectively. The M4 Max supports up to 128GB of unified memory, making it a genuine workstation-class machine for video editors, 3D artists, and developers working with large datasets.

One interesting note: the MacBook Air actually pulls ahead on wireless connectivity. The Air supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, while the MacBook Pro currently uses Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. For most users this won’t be a deciding factor, but it’s worth knowing if you’re investing in a Wi-Fi 7 home network or want the latest Bluetooth compatibility.

In summary, the MacBook Air starting at $999 is an exceptional value for students, professionals, and everyday users who want Apple silicon performance in a light, quiet, portable package. The MacBook Pro starting at $1,599 is built for users who push their hardware hard – video editors, musicians, developers, and power users who need sustained peak performance, more connectivity, and a superior display. Knowing which category you fall into makes the choice straightforward.

Gazelle can help you upgrade for less. 

Are you more interested in the portability and compact size of the MacBook Air, or do you need something with a little more power, such as the MacBook Pro? Check out our MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro comparison to help you decide. Both high-quality laptops offer Apple’s winning OS, sleek design hallmarks, and bright displays – and with models now starting at 16GB of RAM across the board, either is a serious machine. If you want to keep your laptop running smoothly, our guide on how to clean and speed up your laptop is worth a read. When you’re ready to upgrade to a new device or switch up your laptop, we’re here to help. Pro or Air – whichever model you choose, you can buy it for a fraction of the retail price tag at Gazelle.com.

The post MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro: What’s the Difference? Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Samsung Galaxy S22 vs Samsung Galaxy S23

The Samsung Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S23 are two of Samsung’s most well-known smartphones. While the S24 and S25 have since arrived, the S22 and S23 remain popular options for budget-conscious buyers looking for a premium Android experience at a lower price point. Let’s talk about how the two compare side-by-side.

Design and Display

Both phones feature sleek, premium designs with punch-hole AMOLED displays. The Galaxy S22 comes in at 6.1 inches while the Galaxy S23 bumps that up slightly to 6.2 inches – a nearly identical footprint. One notable difference is peak brightness: the S22 tops out at 1,500 nits, but the S23 reaches as high as 1,750 nits, which makes it noticeably easier to read outdoors in direct sunlight. Both displays share the same 2400 x 1080 resolution and adaptive refresh rate technology.

Camera

The camera systems on the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S23 are actually quite similar on paper. Both phones feature a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultrawide camera, and a 10MP telephoto sensor on the rear, plus a 10MP front-facing camera. The difference comes down to processing. The S23’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset enables better computational photography, resulting in improved low-light performance and dynamic range. So while the hardware specs look identical, the S23 produces better photos thanks to its superior image processing engine.

Performance

Performance is where the Samsung Galaxy S23 pulls ahead most. The S23 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 “for Galaxy,” a custom-tuned variant with the primary Cortex-X3 core clocked at an elevated 3.6GHz – faster than the standard 3.2GHz configuration found in other devices using this chip. The Galaxy S22, by comparison, runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 depending on region. The generational leap in performance is significant, with the S23 delivering faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better power efficiency.

Battery life also sees a modest but welcome improvement. The S23 carries a 3,900 mAh battery, up from the S22’s 3,700 mAh. The S23 Plus similarly upgrades from 4,500 mAh to 4,700 mAh. That said, wired and wireless charging speeds are identical between the two generations – the S22 and S23 charge at 25W wired and 10W wireless. Both the Plus models of both generations support 45W wired charging. If battery life is a top priority for you, it’s worth comparing these numbers against other flagship options as well.

Features and Software Support

Both phones support 5G connectivity, under-display fingerprint scanning, and Samsung’s One UI software. However, software lifespan is a slight benefit for the S23. Samsung committed to four years of Android OS updates for the S23 series, which means it will receive updates through Android 17. The S22, on the other hand, is set to receive updates through Android 16 – still a respectable run, but one generation shorter. For buyers who want to hold onto their phone longer without losing security patches and new features, the S23 has a clear edge.

Price

With the S24 and S25 now on the market, the S22 and S23 can be found at lower prices – especially when buying certified pre-owned. The S22 offers outstanding value for users who don’t need the latest performance or maximum software lifespan. The S23 is usually worth the small price premium given its faster processor, brighter display, better camera processing, and an extra year of software support. For most buyers comparing these two models, the S23 is the better long-term investment.

Is it Worth it to Upgrade?

The Galaxy S22 and S23 share more in common than you might think – both feature 50MP primary sensors, 12MP ultrawide cameras, and 10MP telephoto lenses, alongside identical wired and wireless charging speeds (25W/10W on the base models, 45W/10W on the Plus variants). That said, there are actual differences worth thinking about. The S23’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 “for Galaxy” is clocked higher than the standard version at 3.6GHz, delivering a big performance bump over the S22. The S23 also edges ahead with a slightly bigger battery – 3,900 mAh vs. the S22’s 3,700 mAh – and a brighter display, peaking at 1,750 nits compared to the S22’s 1,500 nits.

Perhaps the strongest long-term argument for upgrading is software support. Samsung’s update policy means the S23 will receive updates through Android 17, but the S22 will cap out at Android 16. If you’re looking to hold onto your phone for a few more years, that extra generation of support could make a difference in security and feature access. But if lifespan, brightness, and processing power matter to you, the S23 is the stronger long-term investment.

Upgrade for Less with Gazelle

Are you ready to upgrade to the Samsung Galaxy S22 or Galaxy S23? Gazelle has a giant inventory of refurbished Samsung smartphones so you can get a great deal without sacrificing quality. Check out our site and start saving!

The post Samsung Galaxy S22 vs. S23: Should You Upgrade? Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

To help with your decision-making process, we’ve reviewed some of the best MacBook options for students. Gazelle.com is a trusted and reputable online retailer that offers a wide selection of high-quality, pre-owned MacBooks at competitive prices.

As of spring 2026, here’s what students should know when shopping for a MacBook:

The most popular entry point is the MacBook Air, which starts at $999 and comes equipped with an 8-core GPU and 256GB of storage. For an extra $200, you can step up to a 10-core GPU and 512GB of storage – a worthwhile upgrade for most students. For the majority of student use cases, the recommended sweet spot is the 13-inch or 15-inch M4 MacBook Air with a 10-core GPU, 16GB of memory, and 512GB of storage. It handles everything from note-taking and research to video editing and coding with ease.

It’s also worth noting that in March 2026, Apple refreshed the MacBook Air lineup with the new M5 chip. The M5 MacBook Air doubles the base storage to 512GB and introduces Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 – making it an even more future-proof option for students just starting out. M4 and M5 MacBook Air models both start at 16GB of RAM, with upgrade options available up to 24GB or 32GB depending on your workload needs.

If your studies involve more demanding tasks – such as 3D rendering, music production, or software development – the 14-inch MacBook Pro (M4 Pro) is a powerful step up, with an MSRP of $1,999 and Apple’s education pricing bringing it down to $1,849. Storage on the MacBook Pro starts at 512GB and scales all the way up to 8TB, compared to the MacBook Air’s range of 256GB to 2TB.

No matter which model fits your budget and academic needs, buying a pre-owned MacBook through Gazelle is a smart way to get premium Apple performance without paying full retail price.

Top MacBooks for Students

Here are our top MacBook picks for students!

MacBook Air (M5, 2026) – Best Overall for Students

The newest MacBook Air received a meaningful update in March 2026, making it the go-to choice for most students in 2026. The M5 chip delivers exceptional performance for everyday academic tasks, and the updated model now doubles the base storage to 512GB – a significant improvement over previous generations. It also adds Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 for faster, more reliable wireless connectivity. Battery life stretches up to 18 hours, and the fanless design keeps things whisper-quiet in the library. Available in 13-inch and 15-inch sizes, it starts at $999 for the base configuration. For the best value, we recommend stepping up to the model with the 10-core GPU, 16GB of unified memory, and 512GB of storage for around $1,199 – a configuration well-suited for note-taking, research, coding, and even light creative work.

MacBook Air (M4, 2025) – Great Value Pick

If you’re looking to save a little money without sacrificing much performance, the M4 MacBook Air remains an excellent student laptop and can often be found at a discount now that the M5 has launched. It starts at 16GB of unified memory – a big step forward in future-proofing compared to older models – with storage options ranging from 256GB all the way up to 2TB. The 13-inch and 15-inch Retina displays are sharp and color-accurate, and the thin, lightweight chassis makes it easy to carry between classes. If you can find one refurbished or on sale, it’s one of the best deals in the student laptop market.

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) – Best for Power Users

Students in demanding programs like film production, architecture, music production, or software engineering should consider the 14-inch MacBook Pro with the M4 Pro chip. It’s a serious machine built for heavy workloads – video rendering, 3D modeling, compiling large codebases – without breaking a sweat. The 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is stunning, and storage starts at 512GB with options up to a massive 8TB. It retails at $1,999, though Apple’s education pricing brings it down to $1,849. It’s a bigger investment, but for students who genuinely need that level of performance, it’s well worth it. Not sure which model suits you best? Check out our MacBook Air vs. MacBook Pro breakdown to help you decide.

MacBook Air (M1, 2020) – Best Budget Buy

For students on a tight budget, a certified refurbished MacBook Air M1 is still a capable and affordable option. The M1 chip holds up well for everyday student tasks like writing papers, browsing the web, and video calls. It won’t handle the most demanding creative workloads, and it does top out at 8GB of unified memory, but for a student focused on general coursework, it gets the job done. Battery life remains impressive at up to 18 hours, and the lightweight build is easy on your bag. Just be mindful that it’s now a few generations old, so it may have a shorter useful lifespan before it starts feeling dated. If you’re considering going the refurbished route, learn more about how refurbished devices save you money.

Upgrade For Less with Gazelle

Choosing the right MacBook for your needs can be overwhelming, especially with Apple’s lineup evolving quickly. The latest M4 MacBook Air — available in 13-inch and 15-inch sizes — is the top recommendation for most students, offering a 10-core GPU, 16GB of memory, and 512GB of storage as the sweet spot configuration. And with the freshly released M5 MacBook Air (March 2026) now doubling base storage to 512GB and adding Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, there’s never been a better time to find value on previous-generation models. New MacBooks can stretch a student budget fast, with the 14-inch MacBook Pro (M4 Pro) starting at $1,999 — even with Apple’s student discount of $1,849, that’s a serious investment. That’s where Gazelle comes in. Gazelle.com offers affordable, high-quality pre-owned MacBooks that give you more performance per dollar, whether you need a lightweight machine for class or a capable laptop for heavier workloads. Make sure to weigh your needs against your budget, and remember that going pre-owned doesn’t mean compromising — it means upgrading smarter.

The post What’s The Best MacBook for Students? Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Here are our top picks for tech gifts to give a recent graduate, which will help them stay productive and focused as they embark on their new journey!

8 Awesome Tech Gifts for The Grad

Jewelry and other gifts are all fine and well, but getting the grad in your life a uselful tech gift could make a major impact with their next career move. Here are our top selections to help you decide what best fits their lifestyle!

1. MacBook Air

It’s almost a given that any graduate entering college or embarking on their next carrier will need some sort of a computer or laptop. That’s why the MacBook Air is a golden choice no matter where they may be headed. This model is a lightweight and powerful laptop that is perfect for the on-the-go graduate. With its long battery life and sleek design, you can take it anywhere and work on your projects with ease. Gazelle.com offers a range of MacBook Air and other MacBook models at affordable prices, so you can get the latest tech without breaking the bank.

2. Noise Cancelling Headphones

Whether they’re on to a noisy office or living with a roommate, your grad will certainly appreciate a pair of noise cancelling headphones. There are several different options out there depending on your budget, ranging from high-end Bluetooth headphones to more affordable options.

3. iPhone 14

The latest iPhone is a must-have for any graduate, and we recommend going with the iPhone 13 or iPhone 14. With fast processing speeds, amazing camera, and 5G capabilities, you’ll be able to stay connected and productive wherever you go with either model. Gazelle.com has a range of iPhone models available, so you can choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

4. A Smartwatch

Smartwatches have come a very long way over the past few years with a ton of helpful features for graduates and everyone else really! They help you to stay connected and multitask with some of the most used features currently on your cellphone. You can get incoming notifications, help locate a lost device and even check your heart rate and exercise levels. Explore smartwatches online and see which one is best for your grad.

5. iPad Pro

For the art or business major, a tablet is an excellent gift. Whether they’re taking notes in class or presenting ideas to clients, the iPad Pro is the perfect tool for the job. With its large screen and powerful processing capabilities, they’ll be able to work on their projects with ease. Gazelle.com has a range of iPad Pro models available, so you can choose the one that best fits your graduate’s needs.

6. A Wireless Mouse and Keyboard

Wires are so a thing of the past. That’s why gifting your grad a wireless mouse and wireless keyboard can level up their work! Your grad will be spending ours on their computer, so it’s best to set them up with something that is both mobile and efficient. Plus, many are sold in kits together and in a wide range of colors and features so that you can choose what’s best for your grad’s lifestyle.

7. Samsung Galaxy S22

If your grad is an Android user, upgrading them to a recent Samsung Galaxy is a super smart move. Gazelle currently has a large inventory of both Samsung Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S23, all less than the retail price tag. There are tons of options compatible with all major carriers to ensure that your grad has the Galaxy they need to get their work – and some play – done!

8. Smart Light Bulbs

Yep, you read that correctly – smart light bulbs. If you’re looking for something on the lower end of price tags but is just as important, consider getting your grad smart light bulbs! These light bulbs can drastically change any apartment or dorm room with different lighting options. Some recent options also work with voice control and phone apps which is perfect for setting the studying, focused mood that they will need.

Upgrade Your Grad with Gazelle

Whether your grad is off to middle school, high school, college, or the real world, keeping them connected is more important than ever. That’s why Gazelle has a large inventory of smartphones, tablets, and MacBooks at a fraction of the retail price tag. Take a look at our site and explore savings for your graduate today!

The post Grad Tech Gift Guide 2023 Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

The Pixel 7 originally started at $599 for 128GB of storage, with a 256GB option available for an additional $100. The Pixel 7 Pro originally started at $899 for 12GB RAM / 128GB storage, $999 for 256GB, and $1,099 for 512GB – though street prices have dropped significantly since launch.

The Pixel 7 Pro measures 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9mm, weighs 212g, and features a stunning 6.7″ LTPO AMOLED display running at 1440x3120px with 512ppi and a peak brightness of 1,500 nits. Both phones are powered by Google’s own Tensor G2 (5nm) octa-core chip, featuring 2×2.85 GHz Cortex-X1, 2×2.35 GHz Cortex-A78, and 4×1.80 GHz Cortex-A55 cores.

On the camera front, both phones share a 50MP main lens and a 12MP ultra-wide. However, the Pixel 7 Pro adds a dedicated 48MP telephoto lens capable of up to 30x zoom, making it the clear winner for photography enthusiasts. The Pixel 7 Pro also carries a substantial 5,000 mAh battery with a real-world tested life of around 8 hours 4 minutes and supports 30W wired charging.

Pixel 7 and 7 Pro Design & Display

When it comes to design, both the Pixel 7 and the Pixel 7 Pro have a similar look and feel. Both phones feature a metal frame and a glass back panel, giving them a sleek and modern aesthetic. The Pixel 7 Pro is slightly larger and heavier than the Pixel 7, measuring 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9mm and weighing 212g, and it also comes with a matte finish on the back, which makes it less prone to fingerprints and smudges.

The design of the Google Pixel 7 and Google Pixel 7 Pro phones is sleek, modern, and aesthetically pleasing. The displays are vibrant and accurate, providing an authentic viewing experience. Whether you’re using your phone for work or entertainment, the high-quality display ensures that everything looks clear and crisp. If you’re also considering other top best Android phones of 2024, it’s worth comparing how they stack up against the Pixel lineup.

The display is one of the more notable areas where these two phones diverge. The Pixel 7 comes with a 6.0-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels. But the Pixel 7 Pro steps things up considerably with a bigger 6.7-inch LTPO AMOLED display at a resolution of 3120 x 1440 pixels and a pixel density of 512ppi. The Pixel 7 Pro also supports a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, which makes scrolling and animations noticeably smoother, and it reaches a peak brightness of 1,500 nits, which guarantees visibility even in direct sunlight. For those who spend a lot of time outdoors, you may also want to check out rugged phones that can survive any vacation.

Cameras

The cameras on both the Pixel 7 and the Pixel 7 Pro are exceptional. Both phones come with a 50-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera. The Pixel 7 Pro, however, has an additional 48-megapixel telephoto camera with a 120mm focal length and up to 30x zoom, which allows you to zoom in and capture more detail in your photos. The Pixel 7 Pro also has a larger camera sensor, which means it can capture more light and produce better photos in low-light conditions. The Night Sight feature also allows for excellent low-light photography, making it perfect for capturing memories at any time of day.

Battery

Both the Pixel 7 and the Pixel 7 Pro come with large batteries that can easily last you through a full day of use. The Pixel 7 has a 4,000mAh battery, while the Pixel 7 Pro has a larger 5,000mAh battery. However, the Pixel 7 Pro also has a higher refresh rate LTPO AMOLED display, which can draw more power than the Pixel 7’s display. In real-world testing, the Pixel 7 Pro has recorded a battery life of around 8 hours and 4 minutes, which is solid for a flagship device. Both phones support 30W wired charging, helping you get back up to speed relatively quickly when you do need to plug in.

Software

Both the Pixel 7 and the Pixel 7 Pro launched running Android 13, and have since received updates through Google’s guaranteed update policy, which promises five years of Android OS updates and security patches. Both phones run Google’s Pixel Launcher, which delivers a clean, intuitive user interface that remains one of the more streamlined Android experiences available.

Both devices come pre-loaded with Google’s core suite of apps, including Google Photos, Google Maps, and Google Assistant. Notable software features shared across both models include Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, and Direct My Call — all powered by on-device AI made possible by the Google Tensor G2 chip.

It’s worth clarifying a couple of inaccuracies that sometimes circulate about these phones. Neither the Pixel 7 nor the Pixel 7 Pro includes an IR blaster. Both phones do feature an under-display optical fingerprint scanner, so this isn’t exclusive to the Pro model as is sometimes suggested. The Pixel 7 Pro does, however, offer a handful of exclusive software perks tied to its additional hardware, such as enhanced zoom computational photography features unlocked by its 48MP telephoto lens, capable of up to 30x Super Res Zoom.

As of April 2026, both devices are still receiving security updates as part of Google’s ongoing support commitment, making them a reasonable choice for users who prioritize long-term software support in a mid-to-premium Android handset.

Pricing and Availability

The Google Pixel 7 is priced at $599 for the 128GB storage variant, while the 256GB storage variant costs $699. The Google Pixel 7 Pro comes in three storage configurations: $899 for 128GB, $999 for 256GB, and $1,099 for 512GB, all with 12GB of RAM.

Both the Google Pixel 7 and the Google Pixel 7 Pro are available for purchase on the Google Store, as well as through various carriers and retailers in the United States, Canada, and other select markets. However, availability may vary depending on your location and carrier. It’s best to check with your carrier or retailer to confirm availability.

It’s also worth noting that as the Pixel lineup has continued to evolve – with newer generations now available – pricing on the Pixel 7 series may have shifted further, and stock availability can vary by region and retailer. Always check the Google Store or your preferred retailer for the most current pricing and availability.

Upgrade for Less with Gazelle

The Google Pixel 7 and the Google Pixel 7 Pro are both excellent smartphones that offer top-of-the-line features and specifications. If you are looking for a phone with a larger display and a more versatile camera system, the Pixel 7 Pro is the better choice – it features a stunning 6.7″ LTPO AMOLED display at 1440x3120px and a 48MP telephoto lens with up to 30x zoom that the standard Pixel 7 simply doesn’t have. However, if you prefer a more compact and affordable option, the Pixel 7 starts at just $599 for 128GB and is still a powerhouse thanks to the Google Tensor G2 chip. Both phones share a 50MP main lens and 12MP ultra-wide, so you’re getting excellent camera quality either way. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and budget, and you can’t go wrong with either of these devices.

Are you ready to upgrade to a Google Pixel 7 or Google Pixel 7 Pro for less? You’ve come to the right place. We have a huge inventory of discounted Google Pixel phones that are a fraction of the retail price tag. The Pixel 7 Pro originally launched at $899 for the base 128GB model and up to $1,099 for 512GB of storage – but with Gazelle, you can get certified pre-owned devices at a significant discount. Check out our site and start your smart shopping today!

The post Google Pixel 7 And Google Pixel 7 Pro Review Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Let’s dive into our iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 14 Pro review and explore all the details.

Design

Longtime Apple users won’t have any surprises with the iPhone 14 Pro’s physical design. It looks similar to the 13 Pro models, with squared-off edges and an edge-to-edge screen. You might notice it has a larger camera bump. All of the camera upgrades — which we’ll discuss later — resulted in bigger lenses, so your phone won’t lie flat on a surface if you set it down without a case.

Otherwise, the phone body is very similar to the older models with the following dimensions:

• iPhone 14 Pro: The iPhone 14 Pro has a 6.1-inch screen and a weight of 7.27 ounces. It’s 5.81 inches tall, 2.81 inches wide and 0.31 inches deep. It’s easy to hold and fits solidly in your grip.
• iPhone 14 Pro Max: The iPhone 14 Pro Max has a whopping 6.7-inch screen and weighs 8.47 ounces, which is about on par with the iPhone 13 Pro Max. It’s 6.33 inches tall, 3.07 inches wide and 0.3 inches deep. The Pro Max offers a huge screen, perfect for watching movies, editing photos and videos or playing games, but it can be a little unwieldy if you have smaller hands.

Both phones have shiny stainless steel frames and matte finishes on the back glass. The backing is fairly fingerprint-resistant, but expect to see some smudges on the metal frame. They come in Deep Purple, gold, silver and Space Black. These colors are all muted, offering a more mature color palette than with the standard model.

The color lineup also means you don’t get to choose from the 14’s bold, bright colors like baby blue or yellow. Still, the Pro colors are easy to match and Deep Purple is all-new. If you want to show off that you have a 14, Deep Purple should do the trick.

Display

The front display is where the iPhone 14 Pro models really shine. If you pick one up, the first thing you’ll probably notice is the new Dynamic Island. iPhones prior to the 14 have a small notch that dips in from the top of the screen. It detracts from your screen real estate, but it holds the ever-important Face ID module, so you can log in with a facial recognition scan.

The new Dynamic Island removes the notch and replaces it with a small pill-shaped cutout on your screen. The shape itself isn’t especially unique, but the way Apple uses it is pretty clever. The Dynamic Island expands and changes based on what you’re doing. If you play music, it can show the album art and offer fast controls that stay on-screen. If you have a timer running, it can show put the countdown front and center.

The island can also show animations for tasks like unlocking the phone or using Face ID for that extra bit of polish. You can even hold down on the space to get more options, like controlling your music.

The iPhone 14 Pro screens also got a big boost in brightness, which is measured in nits. The 14 Pros typically get about 1,000 maximum nits, but with high-dynamic range (HDR), you can get 1,600 nits. Going outdoors will get you a whopping 2,000 nits, so you can see the screen in nearly any condition, even in ultra-bright sunlight. These phones can handle beach days with no problem. For comparison, the 13 Pro maxed out at about 1,200 nits outdoors.

As usual, the phones get stellar contrast and gorgeous colors for unmatched viewing. Like the iPhone 13 Pro models, the 14 Pros have a 1-120 Hertz (Hz) refresh rate, which refers to how many times per second the screen updates. Since this number intelligently adapts and goes so high, it gives you an ultra-smooth scrolling experience without killing your battery. The phones will also stand up to dust and water, thanks to IP68 protection.

Camera

Apple’s new Pro camera system involves some big changes under the hood. Perhaps the most noticeable update is the new quad-pixel sensor on the Main camera. The technology is a little complicated, but it basically works by optimizing your shot for the lighting conditions. For most people, the sensor will intelligently bin pixels together into groups of four for a high-quality 12-megapixel (MP) photo. More advanced photographers can shoot in the ProRAW format, which offers a full 48-MP picture that can better withstand heavy cropping and editing.

You’ll also find some upgrades to the standard 12-MP cameras, including the Ultra Wide and Telephoto lenses. Your optical zoom options include .5x on the Ultra Wide, 1x and 2x on the Main lens and 3x on the telephoto. If you do a lot of low-light photography, you’ll probably appreciate Apple’s new Photonic Engine. It offers better performance in dim lighting and is available in the standard models, too. It uses a mix of hardware, software and machine learning to improve your nighttime and low-light photos drastically.

When it comes to new features, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Action mode in our iPhone 14 Pro camera review. This new mode offers extreme stabilization for video recording. You can jostle the phone all you want and still get a nice, smooth video. It supports up to 2.8K quality at 60 frames per second (fps), perfect for high-resolution action shots. Cinematic mode got a boost, too, and can now support up to 4K quality at 30 fps instead of just 1080p.

As usual, you’ll still get Night mode options, Portrait mode and Macro photography. On the screen side of the phone, Apple gave the selfie camera autofocus and a faster aperture, but it’s otherwise pretty similar to the previous models. This camera supports features like 4K video, Cinematic mode and HDR recording with Dolby Vision.

Battery Life

One area that didn’t get a huge upgrade was the iPhone 14 Pro models’ battery life — but they really didn’t need much more. The 13 Pro already got exceptional battery life, and the 2023 crop of iPhones stayed roughly the same. The iPhone 14 Pro’s battery life should give you up to 23 and 75 hours of video and audio playback, respectively. For the iPhone 14 Pro Max, you can expect up to 29 hours of video and 95 hours of audio playback.

According to benchmark tests, the iPhone 14 Pro can browse the web for about 16 hours and 18 minutes, while the Pro Max can surf for just over 19 hours. They comfortably outperformed other popular phones, like the Pixel 7 Pro and the Galaxy S22 Ultra — despite having physically smaller batteries! The iPhone 14 Pro models had some significant internal upgrades that let it work much more efficiently.

Both phones support MagSafe and Qi wireless charging, so you can happily go cord-free. If you’re up for finding a charging cable, Apple’s fast charging can get you to about 50% battery in 30-35 minutes, but you’ll need an adapter with 20 watts (W) or more.

Performance

Thanks to a slew of internal upgrades, the iPhone 14 Pro models blew away the competition. Most of its speed comes from the new A16 Bionic chip, which you won’t find in the standard iPhone 14 and 14 Plus. This beefed-up processor powers many of the big developments we’ve talked about, like the display and camera, while greatly improving battery efficiency. Apple says its central processing unit (CPU) is 40% faster than the competition and the chip is the fastest ever in a smartphone.

Benchmark tests seem to agree. The iPhone 14 Pro Max’s speed modestly surpassed the 13 Pro Max, but it blew top Androids out of the water. Here are some more details on the A16 Bionic’s components:

• CPU: This chip gets a 6-core CPU. It has two performance cores and four efficiency cores, which are similar to those from the iPhone 13 models and can handle multitasking beautifully.
• GPU: The graphics processing unit (GPU) sticks to the same five cores from the previous year, but it offers more memory bandwidth, which supports apps with demanding graphics.

We can also thank the A16 chip’s Display Engine for the new, high-powered screen tech. All in all, it supports a stellar experience, especially for power users who spend a lot of time gaming, editing photos or videos or doing other resource-intensive tasks. The iPhone 14 Pros can handle large 4K videos and graphics-heavy gameplay with ease.

When it comes to connectivity, you won’t find any drastic changes. The iPhone 14 Pro models use Wi-Fi 6 and sub-6 gigahertz (GHz) and mmWave 5G, the same as the iPhone 13 Pros. Many modern phones already use 5G, so it isn’t unique to the 14 Pros. Still, it could make a big difference if it’s been a while since you’ve upgraded. The 14 Pros got a slight bump from Bluetooth 5.0 to Bluetooth 5.3. The differences between the two are minor, and most users won’t notice a difference.

One notable iPhone 14 Pro feature is the use of satellite-based emergency services. Many phones have SOS systems that you can activate quickly if you need help, but they typically rely on your cellular signal. If you go off-grid, they don’t offer much help. Apple allows all iPhone 14 devices to link up with satellites instead and contact emergency services even outside of cell networks. If you often head to places with spotty service, like campgrounds, hiking trails or rural road trips, this feature could be especially helpful.

Storage and Memory

Storage options are similar to those from the iPhone 13 models, ranging from 128 gigabytes (GB) to 1 terabyte (TB). If you use cloud storage, the 128GB version will likely be plenty. Still, many users will need much more storage to save those new 48-MP photos and 4K videos. All storage options will have the same functionality, with one expectation for recordings in ProRes formats. A 128GB phone will only be able to record ProRes in 1080p rather than 4K.

Apple doesn’t officially release random access memory (RAM) specs, but all iPhone 14 models have 6GB, according to analysts. That should be plenty for most smartphone users, as 6GB is on the hefty side. In short, RAM helps your phone multitask and deal with different types of data you might be using at one time. Some phone makers brag about having more RAM, but as with battery capacities, Apple’s highly-optimized system means it doesn’t need all that much.

Price

While iPhones can cost a pretty penny, the 14 Pro is one of the best phones you can buy for under $1,000. If you’re paying retail price, expect to spend $999 for a 128GB model or up to $1,499 for a 1TB model. The 256GB model costs $1,099, and the 512GB model costs $1,299. The iPhone 14 Pro Max adds about $100 to each model, with prices that start at $1,099 for the base model. A 256GB, 512GB or 1TB model will run you $1,199, $1,399 and $1,599, respectively.

For a better deal, head to the used market. Gazelle offers used iPhone 14 Pros starting in the low-$800 range and used iPhone 14 Pro Max models at around $900. You can pick from the same colors, storage options and carriers as new phones, and you can choose the condition that’s best for you. If you plan to use a case, for example, a few minor scratches could offer big savings. We put every phone through a 30-point inspection to ensure everything works correctly.

The price point might be higher than other phones, but you’ll get fantastic bang for your buck, as these phones are jam-packed with features.

If you want a lower-cost phone without missing out on much, consider the iPhone 13 Pro or Pro Max. They look almost exactly the same as the 14, and most of the differences come down to the display and camera. Of course, the 14 got some nice upgrades in those areas, including the Dynamic Island, an Always-On display, the 48MP Main camera and a newer chip. Both are great phones that should last you a long time.

Grab the iPhone 14 Pro or Pro Max for Less at Gazelle

The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max will appeal to just about anyone. Power users and gamers will especially appreciate the unmatched speed and performance of the A16 Bionic chip, while photographers can make the most of the Pro camera system. You can get one of the best phones on the market without spending a fortune, particularly if you head to Gazelle’s catalog of used phones.

We make it easy to buy reliable used phones online — no contracts, no internet strangers and no hassles. We include transparent listings and offer a 30-day return policy if your phone isn’t quite right.

Find an iPhone 14 Pro or Pro Max online to save big on this high-powered phone today!

The post iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max Review Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.