Long-Term Review of the used iPhone 14 Pro: Is It Worth Upgrading to the 15 Pro?
12/04/2025
9 Mins
Long-Term Review of the Used iPhone 14 Pro: Is It Worth Upgrading to the 15 Pro?
As someone who’s a strong advocate for mobile photography, I’ve written countless articles about the subject, from the basics of composition to more advanced editing tips. However, I’ve never actually reviewed the device that I use to take almost all my photos. The used iPhone 14 Pro has been my go-to device for the past year, and now it’s time to offer a detailed long-term review. In this review, I will also weigh the pros and cons of upgrading to the iPhone 15 Pro, especially in terms of photography, performance, and features.
Introduction
When Apple launched the used iPhone 14 Pro, it immediately became a topic of conversation in the tech world. And rightly so. The 14 Pro was a substantial upgrade over its predecessor, the iPhone 13 Pro. There were numerous improvements across various features, with one of the most notable being the significant camera enhancements. Not only did the 14 Pro boast hardware improvements, but it also featured software advancements that elevated its photography capabilities. Additionally, Apple made the display even better with the introduction of the ProMotion 120Hz technology, and the phone’s design was updated with the introduction of the Dynamic Island. All of these enhancements had the used iPhone 14 Pro standing out as one of the most exciting releases of 2022.
Note: Every image in this review was taken and edited using the native iPhone camera app and Photos.
Interestingly, I never intended to upgrade to the used iPhone 14 Pro. In fact, I was quite content with my iPhone 12 Mini, which I had planned on using for a couple more years. However, life had other plans, and my 12 Mini was unfortunately damaged beyond repair (but that’s a tale for another time). With no phone, I was left to use an old iPhone 6 until the used iPhone 14 Pro was released. There were several choices at the time, including the iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 14, and used iPhone 14 Pro. Given my passion for mobile photography, I always found the iPhone 12 Mini lacking in some of the advanced features I wanted, particularly in terms of the camera. So, after much deliberation, I decided to upgrade to the used iPhone 14 Pro, and I haven’t looked back since.
Now, after using the used iPhone 14 Pro for a full year, it’s time to dive into my long-term thoughts. I’ll also discuss whether upgrading to the iPhone 15 Pro is a worthy investment, or if the used iPhone 14 Pro is still the better choice.
Build Quality
The design and build quality of the used iPhone 14 Pro are some of the standout aspects of this device. Apple has always prided itself on the sleek and minimalist design of its products, and the used iPhone 14 Pro is no exception. The body of the used iPhone 14 Pro is crafted from a combination of glass and aluminum, giving it a premium look and feel. However, it’s worth noting that the used iPhone 14 Pro isn’t built with titanium, as seen in the iPhone 15 Pro, which gives it a slight edge in terms of weight and sturdiness. While titanium would certainly add a layer of elegance and durability, the aluminum frame of the used iPhone 14 Pro strikes a good balance between lightweight design and structural integrity.
One of the key differences between the used iPhone 14 Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro is the construction material. Titanium, which is used in the 15 Pro, is stronger and more durable than aluminum, but it can be more prone to scratches. The used iPhone 14 Pro, on the other hand, is incredibly sturdy and holds up well to daily wear and tear. That said, the glass back of the phone is a bit more fragile than I would have liked. If you’re someone who doesn’t use a case (like myself), you’ll want to be extra careful with the used iPhone 14 Pro. I’ve had the phone for over a year, and it’s been dropped a few times. Fortunately, the glass has remained free of cracks, and the phone still looks pristine.
That said, I strongly recommend purchasing a case, especially given the repair costs of an iPhone. Apple’s pricing for repairs can be quite steep, and even a minor crack or scratch can lead to expensive repairs. A case will help mitigate the risk of damage and ensure that your iPhone stays in good condition. Personally, I prefer slim cases that offer protection without compromising the overall design of the device.
One of the more interesting features of the used iPhone 14 Pro is its water resistance. The device is rated with an IP68 rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in water for up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. I’ve tested this on a few occasions, taking my used iPhone 14 Pro underwater for shots and even using it in the shower to listen to music. It has performed admirably in all situations. The used iPhone 14 Pro can easily double as a quick underwater camera, making it a viable alternative to a dedicated waterproof camera like a GoPro.
Features
The used iPhone 14 Pro is packed with features that make it a standout device in the smartphone market. Whether it’s the stunning display, the lightning-fast performance, or the innovative design of the Dynamic Island, the used iPhone 14 Pro delivers on all fronts. Let’s break down some of the standout features of the device.
Dynamic Island
One of the most talked-about features of the used iPhone 14 Pro is the Dynamic Island. This design innovation replaces the traditional notch that was present in previous models, offering a more interactive and engaging experience. The Dynamic Island seamlessly blends hardware and software, displaying alerts, notifications, and system status updates in a visually appealing manner. It’s a small change, but one that adds a great deal of functionality and flair to the device. It enhances the overall user experience and makes the used iPhone 14 Pro feel more responsive and modern.
Display
The used iPhone 14 Pro features a 6.1-inch OLED display with ProMotion technology, offering a 120Hz refresh rate. This makes scrolling, swiping, and interacting with the phone feel incredibly smooth and fluid. Whether you’re browsing social media, playing games, or watching videos, the display is vibrant and responsive. The increased brightness is also a significant improvement, making it easier to use the device in direct sunlight or bright environments. The display is one of the used iPhone 14 Pro’s biggest strengths, and it continues to impress even a year after its release.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the used iPhone 14 Pro is incredibly fast. Powered by the A16 Bionic chip, the device handles everything from gaming to multi-tasking with ease. Apps load quickly, and transitions between tasks are seamless. Whether you’re editing photos, playing graphics-intensive games, or using demanding apps, the used iPhone 14 Pro will keep up without skipping a beat. The device feels future-proof, and even with the release of newer iPhone models, the used iPhone 14 Pro continues to perform at a high level.
Camera
As a mobile photographer, the camera is one of the most important aspects of the used iPhone 14 Pro for me. Apple made significant improvements in the camera department, and these upgrades have proven to be incredibly useful. The used iPhone 14 Pro comes equipped with a 48MP main sensor, which is a notable leap over the previous generation’s 12MP camera. The larger sensor allows for more detailed images, improved low-light performance, and better dynamic range.
In particular, the low-light capabilities of the used iPhone 14 Pro are impressive. Whether you’re taking photos indoors, during the evening, or in dimly lit environments, the camera performs exceptionally well. Colors are accurate, and there’s minimal noise, even when shooting in challenging lighting conditions. The used iPhone 14 Pro’s night mode is one of the best I’ve used on any smartphone, and it rivals even some dedicated point-and-shoot cameras.
Another area where the used iPhone 14 Pro excels is in portrait photography. The device’s advanced software allows it to create a stunning bokeh effect, simulating a shallow depth of field that you typically find on professional DSLR cameras. The LiDAR sensor also plays a key role in improving focus and ensuring accurate subject detection in portrait shots.
While the camera on the used iPhone 14 Pro is undoubtedly impressive, it’s not without its flaws. The 3x zoom lens, for example, can struggle in low-light situations, producing grainy and underwhelming images. This is something that I’ve noticed when trying to zoom in on subjects during the night or in poorly lit environments. For those situations, the main 1x camera is often the better option.
Another criticism I have is Apple’s default image sharpening. Photos can sometimes appear overly sharp and processed, which isn’t always desirable for those who prefer a more natural look. Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate this by adjusting the settings and shooting in black and white, which tends to soften the contrast and sharpening. I personally love shooting in black and white because it removes the unnecessary contrast that Apple’s default processing applies.
Battery Life
Battery life is another area where the used iPhone 14 Pro excels. Thanks to its efficient A16 chip and a larger battery, the used iPhone 14 Pro offers all-day battery life, even with heavy use. I typically find that I can get through an entire day without needing to charge the device, and that includes taking a lot of photos, texting, using social media, and watching videos. The battery life is robust enough to handle a full day of work and leisure without any issues.
The device also supports fast charging, which is always a bonus. If you need to top up your battery quickly, the used iPhone 14 Pro can go from 0% to 50% in just 30 minutes with a compatible charger. While I don’t necessarily rely on fast charging every day, it’s nice to know that it’s there if I need it.
The Bad
No device is perfect, and the used iPhone 14 Pro is no exception. There are a few areas where the device could be improved, and one of the most noticeable shortcomings is the lack of a USB-C port. While Apple has continued to use the proprietary Lightning port, many users, including myself, feel that a USB-C port would be a more versatile and future-proof option. USB-C is becoming the standard across many devices, and it would make sense for Apple to adopt it across all of its products, including the iPhone.
Another issue is that the used iPhone 14 Pro, like most Apple products, requires a case to protect the device. While the phone is water-resistant and fairly durable, the glass back can be fragile. If you don’t use a case, there’s a significant risk of cracking the back or damaging the camera lenses. So, while the phone is built well, it’s still vulnerable to accidents, and you’ll need to spend extra to protect it.
What I Liked
- Camera: Exceptional low-light performance, accurate color reproduction, and stunning portrait shots.
- Battery Life: Lasts an entire day with heavy use, and supports fast charging.
- Dynamic Island: An innovative feature that enhances the user experience.
- Build Quality: Premium design with a sleek glass and aluminum body, plus excellent water resistance.
What Could Be Improved
- USB-C Connectivity: A switch to USB-C would enhance versatility and make charging and data transfer more convenient.
- Sharpening: The default image processing is often too aggressive, especially when shooting in color.
Closing Thoughts
After using the used iPhone 14 Pro for an entire year, I can confidently say that it’s still a fantastic phone in 2023. It offers an excellent camera, impressive battery life, and a smooth, responsive user experience. While the iPhone 15 Pro brings some new features, including USB-C and improved video capabilities, it doesn’t offer a significant enough upgrade to warrant an immediate switch for most users.
If you’re currently using the used iPhone 14 Pro, there’s no immediate need to upgrade to the 15 Pro unless you absolutely need the new features. If your phone is still in great condition, I’d suggest holding on to it for another couple of years. The used iPhone 14 Pro is an outstanding device and will remain relevant for the foreseeable future.
If you’re in the market for a new phone in 2023, the used iPhone 14 Pro is still a solid choice. With a USB-C port, this phone would be nearly perfect. Should you purchase it in 2023? Absolutely! If you’re debating between the used iPhone 14 Pro and the 15 Pro, I’d say go for the used iPhone 14 Pro and save a bit of money. It’s an exceptional phone that can last you for years to come.
