Are you faced with the decision of whether to choose the iPhone 14 Pro (Max) or the brand new iPhone 15 Pro (Max)? Both models have their strengths - but which one is really right for you? In this buying guide, we compare the most important features, from design and display to performance, camera and battery life. Whether you're a tech fan who always needs the latest, or someone who looks for good value for money - we'll help you make the right choice. Let's find out which iPhone suits your lifestyle best!
Technical Facts at a Glance
iPhone 14 Pro (Max)
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Display: 6.1 inch (Pro) or 6.7 inch (Pro Max) Super Retina XDR with ProMotion – sharp, colorful and smooth thanks to adaptive 120 Hz.
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Camera: Triple camera system with 48-megapixel main camera, ultra-wide angle and 3x optical zoom – ideal for razor-sharp photos and videos.
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Processor: A16 Bionic – powerful and energy efficient, ideal for apps, games and multitasking.
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Material: Stainless steel and Ceramic Shield – robust, elegant and resistant to falls and scratches.
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Connections: Lightning connector – reliable but less versatile than USB-C.
If you want to learn more about the iPhone 14 Pro (Max), read our buying guide through to it.
iPhone 15 Pro (Max)
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Display: 6.1 inch (Pro) or 6.7 inch (Pro Max) Super Retina XDR with ProMotion – thin bezels, adaptive 120 Hz and up to 2000 nits brightness for perfect outdoor readability.
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Camera: Triple camera system with 48-megapixel main camera, ultra-wide angle and 3x (Pro) or 5x (Pro Max) optical zoom – optimized for low-light shots and impressive details.
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Processor: A17 Pro – the first 3nm chip with improved GPU performance, ideal for mobile gaming and AR experiences.
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Material: Titanium frame and Ceramic Shield – lighter and even more robust than stainless steel.
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connections: USB-C with USB 3 support – up to 10 Gbit/s for super-fast data transfer.
If you want to learn more about the iPhone 15 Pro (Max), read our buying guide through to it.
New Features – What makes the iPhone 15 Pro (Max) stand out
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The Action Button – More than just a mute switch: The iPhone 15 Pro (Max) replaces the classic mute switch with the new Action Button. This can be individually configured to trigger functions such as camera, flashlight, voice memos or shortcuts with just one click. Particularly practical for users who want to personalize their iPhone.
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USB-C instead of Lightning: While the iPhone 14 Pro (Max) still uses the Lightning connector, the iPhone 15 Pro (Max) comes with USB-C. This standard brings faster transfer rates (up to 10 Gbit/s with USB 3) and opens up new possibilities, e.g.the direct connection of external storage media. A real game changer for content creators.
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Advanced Connectivity: The iPhone 15 Pro (Max) is the first iPhone to support Wi-Fi 6E, which ensures faster and more stable connections in compatible networks. The device is also equipped with Thread, which makes it perfect for integration into smart home systems.
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console-quality gaming: Thanks to the new A17 Pro chip, the iPhone 15 Pro (Max) becomes a mobile gaming console. Features such as hardware-based ray tracing and support for high-end games such as "Resident Evil Village" offer an impressive gaming experience that has never been seen on smartphones before.
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Improvements in camera and image quality: In addition to the new periscope telephoto lens on the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which enables 5x optical zoom, the device also offers super-high-resolution photo options with 24 MP and 48 MP - perfect for professional and detailed shots.
Which battery lasts the longest?
The Tech YouTuber In one of his videos, Mrwhosetheboss compared the battery life of various iPhone models tested under intensive use and delivered exciting results. According to his comparison, the iPhone 15 Pro lasts about 9 hours and 20 minutes - that's about 30 minutes less than the iPhone 15, which has a runtime of 9 hours and 50 minutes. The iPhone 14 Pro has a battery life of almost 8 hours, like a another video by Mrwhosetheboss and ends up in last place.
Things get interesting when comparing the Max models: The iPhone 14 Pro Max impresses with a runtime of almost 11 hours, while the iPhone 15 Pro Max lasts even longer, reaching the peak value of 11 hours and 41 minutes.
The difference between the Pro models could be due to the increased performance of the A17 Pro chip and the slightly smaller battery capacity in the iPhone 15 Pro. At the same time, it is clear that the larger Max models not only offer space for more battery thanks to their larger design, but also score points in terms of energy efficiency.
These results make it clear: If the longest possible battery life is important to you, the Max models - especially the iPhone 15 Pro Max - offer the best performance. For most users, however, the battery life of the smaller models is completely sufficient for everyday use.
Which model is worthwhile for whom?
For those looking for a powerful device at a low price
The iPhone 14 Pro is much more than a smartphone for everyday use. With the A16 Bionic chip, it offers impressive performance for apps, games and even professional applications. The 48 MP camera enables you to take razor-sharp photos and videos, whether you are an amateur photographer or just want to capture the best memories. The Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion ensures smooth scrolling and excellent content display - perfect for streaming, video editing and more.
For high-end users
Do you always want to have the latest and greatest in your hands? Then there is no way around the iPhone 15 Pro Max.The A17 Pro chip delivers unbeatable performance, and USB-C with USB 3 opens up completely new possibilities, especially for content creators. The Action Button and the lightweight titanium design are other highlights that make the user experience even better. If you are looking for a high-tech device that meets all requirements and is future-proof, the iPhone 15 Pro Max is just the thing.
For those who want to get a lot for their money
The iPhone 14 Pro Max offers premium technology at a much lower price, especially as a refurbished model. With its A16 Bionic chip, it delivers top performance that will easily handle demanding apps, games and multitasking even in 2025. The 48 MP camera ensures razor-sharp photos and brilliant videos - perfect for amateur photographers and content creators.
The Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology makes streaming, scrolling and gaming smooth and easy on the eyes. And thanks to the high-quality design made of stainless steel and Ceramic Shield, you get a smartphone that is not only powerful, but also robust and elegant.
For those who want a high-end iPhone but don't want to pay the price for the latest model, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is a smart choice - maximum performance, minimum price.
For all those who are looking for the perfect middle ground
The iPhone 15 Pro offers you the best of both worlds: It is smaller and more manageable than the Max model, but still has all the premium features you would expect from a high-end device. With the new titanium case, it is lighter and more robust, the A17 Pro chip ensures impressive performance, and the USB-C port enables fast data transfers - a clear advantage over the iPhone 14 Pro.
Compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, you only miss out on the larger 6.7-inch display and 5x optical zoom, but you still get the same powerful camera system with 3x optical zoom and super high-resolution photos.
If you're looking for a smartphone that offers cutting-edge technology without being too big or too heavy, the iPhone 15 Pro is the perfect middle ground. It combines compact size with high-end features - ideal for those who don't want to compromise on comfort or performance.
Conclusion: iPhone 14 Pro (Max) or iPhone 15 Pro (Max)?
Why the iPhone 14 Pro (Max)?
The iPhone 14 Pro (Max) is still an excellent device that impresses in terms of performance, camera and display. It offers you a 48 MP camera, the powerful A16 Bionic chip and the proven stainless steel design. Especially as a refurbished device, it is an attractive option if you want premium quality at a cheaper price.
Why the iPhone 15 Pro (Max)?
If you value the latest technology, the iPhone 15 Pro (Max) is the better choice. The titanium housing makes it lighter and more robust, the A17 Pro chip brings high-end performance, and the USB-C port ensures faster data transfers. The Pro Max model also offers a 5x optical zoom, which is ideal for photography enthusiasts.
FAQ
Is the performance difference between the A16 Bionic and the A17 Pro chip noticeable?
Yes, the A17 Pro shows its strengths especially in graphics-intensive applications such as high-end games or AR apps.The new chip also has an impact on energy efficiency, meaning the iPhone 15 Pro (Max) lasts longer, especially with intensive use.
Is the iPhone 15 Pro Max's 5x optical zoom a big advantage?
That depends on how you use your smartphone. For photography enthusiasts and anyone who often takes pictures of distant subjects, the 5x zoom is a clear advantage. However, for everyday photos and videos, the 3x zoom of the iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 14 Pro (Max) is completely sufficient.
Are there any disadvantages to the iPhone 15 Pro (Max)?
The iPhone 15 Pro (Max) is more expensive than the 14 Pro (Max), especially if you choose the Max variant with more storage. In addition, the 5x zoom of the Pro Max may not be crucial for some users, which could put the additional cost of this feature into perspective.
Which iPhone model is best for gaming?
The iPhone 15 Pro (Max) is the best choice for gaming. The A17 Pro chip is specially optimized for graphics-intensive applications and supports hardware-based ray tracing, which makes games more realistic.
Is the titanium case a noticeable difference?
Definitely. The titanium casing makes the iPhone 15 Pro (Max) significantly lighter than the stainless steel casings of the previous models. At the same time, it is robust and offers a better feel. The lower weight is particularly noticeable when used for longer periods.
