iPhone 14 Plus Review (2025): The Big iPhone That Isn’t Trying Too Hard

Let’s be honest—Apple has built its reputation on sleek design and shiny technology upgrades year after year. But with the iPhone 14 Plus, the narrative is a bit different. It doesn't flaunt flashy features or complex animations. And yet, here we are in 2025… still discussing it.

Why? Because sometimes, delivering the essentials is exactly what users crave.

Big Screen, Less Drama

You know that friend who always arrives on time, doesn’t dominate the conversation, yet still leaves an impression because they’re just… dependable? That’s the essence of the iPhone 14 Plus.

Large Display for Everyday Use

The iPhone 14 Plus boasts a sizeable 6.7-inch display, making it ideal for watching Netflix, scrolling through Instagram, or engaging in a bit of social media discourse. It achieves this without nudging your budget into the Pro/Pro Max range, reinforcing its position as the most economical gateway into the "big iPhone" realm.

While it lacks ProMotion (the silky 120Hz refresh rate), many users find that the standard 60Hz isn’t unbearable. The Super Retina XDR OLED still delivers crisp, vibrant visuals and impressively bright performance under direct sunlight.

Battery Life That Actually Lasts

In the arena of smartphones, "all-day battery life" has become a common catchphrase. What it often means is, “brace yourself for a mid-evening recharge if you’ve been texting too much.”

Impressive Longevity

However, the iPhone 14 Plus operates in a different league.

Equipped with a larger chassis and powered by Apple’s energy-efficient A15 Bionic chip, this device elegantly manages its power consumption. Most users can confidently enter day two on a single charge—refreshing, particularly when charging cables permanently occupy the corners of various rooms.

Ideal for Diverse Users

Travelers, students, and those navigating 12-hour workdays will particularly appreciate this freedom. However, pairing it with a quality charger ensures you’re well-prepared for long trips—no battery anxiety necessary.

Performance: Still a Speed Demon

Now, you might be wondering—“A15 Bionic? Wasn’t that used in the iPhone 13 Pro?” Yes, indeed! And here’s the deal: that chip remains an exceptional performer.

Smooth Operation Across the Board

Apps launch quickly, demanding games run smoothly (even graphically intense ones like Call of Duty: Mobile or Genshin Impact), and multitasking is effortless. Apple’s chips maintain their excellence over time, a testament to their longevity and reliability. Although you might not be chasing benchmark scores, the A15 continues to perform flawlessly for virtually any task you throw its way.

And let’s not forget 5G compatibility—assuming your service provider offers reliable coverage, downloads and streaming are nearly instantaneous.

The Camera? A Balanced Approach

Expectations require a little adjustment here.

The iPhone 14 Plus doesn’t sport a triple-lens setup. There’s no telephoto zoom, no LiDAR scanner, and certainly no jaw-dropping software tricks that the Pro models boast.

Reliable Dual-Camera System

What it does provide is a dependable dual 12MP camera system complete with Smart HDR, Night Mode, Deep Fusion, and Cinematic Mode for video. This combination is sufficient for the vast majority of casual photographers.

• Food Photos: Ideal for those Zomato reviews? Absolutely.
• Cute Pets: Capturing your dog’s adorable golden hour moments? Check.
• Wedding Fireworks: Surprising clarity, even in low-light scenarios? You bet.

Sure, serious photography enthusiasts might wish for a telephoto lens or ProRAW capabilities. But for 99% of users, the dual setup is adequate, with software optimizing the overall photography experience thanks to the seamless integration between hardware and iOS.

iOS Updates = Long-Term Commitment

One of the understated advantages of choosing the iPhone 14 Plus? Long-term software support.

Longevity Assured

Purchasing this phone in 2025 guarantees at least another 3–4 years of iOS updates—most likely longer. Apple’s reputation for generous software support means security patches and new features are consistently rolled out, even for older devices.

If you aren't one to swap phones each year (and honestly, who has the time or money for that?), this steadfast oversized partner can accompany you for years.

Who’s Actually Buying This in 2025?

Here’s where things get intriguing. The iPhone 14 Plus isn't exactly Apple's favorite.

Market Perception

• Search volume? Lower than the iPhone 14 Pro or Pro Max.
• Retail buzz? Rather subdued.
• Pop culture status? Largely absent.

Yet, it makes a compelling case for the everyday user. This is an iPhone that appeals to individuals seeking:

• A device priced under a lakh
• The largest display available within their budget
• Enhanced battery life
• A premium feel without cutting-edge features

Consider students, older adults upgrading from earlier models (hello, iPhone 8!), or Android users transitioning to iOS without experiencing sticker shock.

And you know what? That’s a more-than-decent niche. Not glamorous, but solid. Kind of like a Maruti Suzuki—you might not brag about it, but it will definitely get you where you need to go.

The Misses: No Illusions of Perfection

Let’s lift the curtain a bit:

• Refresh Rate: Lacking high refresh rate means motion doesn’t feel as smooth compared to the 14 Pro or Pro Max.
• Dynamic Island: The absence of this feature makes the user interface feel a bit outdated.
• Camera Limitations: The absence of a telephoto lens restricts zoom capabilities.
• Size Concerns: Its dimensions may challenge smaller-handed users or those in tight jeans.
• Competitor Models: The iPhone 15 and 15 Pro are already offering more captivating designs and advancements.

However, all these points are trade-offs—intentional and strategic. The theme here is clear: the 14 Plus isn’t attempting to be something it isn’t.

Final Word: A Chill Giant That Plays the Long Game

The iPhone 14 Plus may not be dominating headlines in 2025—but it silently matures like a classic. With its generous screen size, exceptional battery longevity, and polished performance, it adeptly addresses the core essentials.

It might not be the flashiest iPhone, but sometimes, that’s precisely the aim. For those who don’t require a telephoto lens or ultra-smooth refresh rates—or simply desire a substantial screen experience without straining their finances—the 14 Plus offers a straightforward, no-drama solution.

In a world filled with excessively hyped specifications and “game-changing” features, the iPhone 14 Plus serves as a refreshing reminder: it just works—like a phone should.

FAQs

Is the iPhone 14 Plus worth buying in 2025?

Absolutely! It’s a perfect choice for users transitioning from older models or seeking a large-screen iPhone without splurging on the Pro Max. It boasts exceptional battery life, a quality display, and performance that endures through 2025.

How does the 14 Plus battery life compare to other iPhones?

It ranks among the best, comparable to the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Most users can easily complete a full day and then some, making it a standout in battery performance.

Does it support the latest iOS version?

Yes, the iPhone 14 Plus continues to receive new iOS updates and will be supported for several more years, courtesy of Apple’s software policies.

What key features are missing compared to the Pro models?

The 14 Plus notably lacks advanced camera options (no telephoto), high refresh rate (standard at 60Hz), and the aesthetically pleasing Dynamic Island interface. However, for many everyday users, these compromises are worth it.

Is it adequate for gaming and entertainment?

Definitely! The large OLED screen, coupled with the A15 Bionic chip, ensures smooth gameplay and excellent streaming experiences. Unless you’re a hardcore, pro-level gamer, you probably won’t even notice what’s lacking.

So, what's the verdict? If you want a spacious iPhone that prioritizes function over flash—and doesn't require budget acrobatics—the iPhone 14 Plus remains a sensible choice in 2025. It doesn’t seek attention. But it certainly excels where it matters.

Ready to elevate your smartphone experience? Consider the iPhone 14 Plus for a reliable, user-friendly addition to your tech collection.