Once Premium, Always Premium - iPhone 14 Pro Max or iPhone 16e?
In our previous articles, we compared the iPhone 16e, Apple’s new budget phone, with one of the simplest models that still supports the latest iOS 18 operating system. In other words, we answered whether it's worth getting the new model for its budget-friendly features or if a Refurbished iPhone 12 is the better choice. To read that article, follow the link.
Next, we took a look at our prices for refurbished premium iPhones and were pleasantly surprised that we can also compete in the premium segment. That means, for the price of a new budget phone, you can own a premium Apple device from our store. So, in this article, we’ll compare the new iPhone 16e with the Apple Refurbished iPhone 14 Pro Max. Let’s dive in!
Refurbished iPhone is still cheaper
Why did we choose to compare the Apple Refurbished iPhone 14 Pro Max? Because the 256GB "Very Good" condition model costs $579 on CostPlusPhones.com, while the new iPhone 16e starts at $599 for the 128GB version. So, for nearly the same price, choosing a refurbished iPhone gives you double the storage.
Now, let’s compare equivalent storage options:
- Refurbished iPhone 14 Pro Max 256GB – $579
- iPhone 16e 256GB – $699
That means, by choosing the premium refurbished iPhone 14 Pro Max 256GB, you save $120. Just imagine—getting a premium phone instead of a budget one for less money. But is the new budget phone technically better than the premium model? Hmm, I’d say the opposite—keep reading!
A boxing match—who wins?
📌 Colors – The iPhone 14 Pro Max comes in Deep Purple, Gold, Silver, and Space Black, while the iPhone 16e has only two colors. Score: 1-0 for iPhone 14 Pro Max.
📌 Display – The iPhone 14 Pro Max features a 6.7” display, while the iPhone 16e has only 6.1”. Score: 2-0 for iPhone 14 Pro Max. Plus, the winner has additional features like ProMotion technology and Always-On display.
📌 Build Materials – This depends on personal preference, but the iPhone 14 Pro Max is made of stainless steel and glass, while the iPhone 16e uses aluminum and glass. We’ll call this a tie. Score: 3-1 for iPhone 14 Pro Max.
📌 Apple Intelligence – Available only in iPhone 16e. A point for the newcomer. Score: 3-2, still in favor of iPhone 14 Pro Max.
📌 Processor – While the processor names differ, the iPhone 14 Pro Max has one extra GPU core, giving it an edge. Score: 4-2 for iPhone 14 Pro Max.
📌 Camera – The iPhone 14 Pro Max features three cameras (48MP Main, Ultra Wide, and Telephoto) with superior zoom, compared to the iPhone 16e’s 48MP Fusion 2-in-1 camera system. Another win. Score: 5-2 for iPhone 14 Pro Max.
📌 Dynamic Island – Exclusive to the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Score: 6-2.
📌 Battery – A crucial factor. The iPhone 14 Pro Max (new) lasts 29 hours, while the iPhone 16e lasts 26 hours. However, a refurbished model in "Excellent" or "Very Good" condition retains 85%+ battery health, so we’ll call this a tie. Score: 7-3.
📌 Charging Port – The iPhone 14 Pro Max has Lightning, while the iPhone 16e uses USB-C. Another tie. Score: 8-4.
📌 Wireless Charging – The iPhone 14 Pro Max supports 15W wireless charging, nearly twice as fast as the iPhone 16e’s 7.5W. Score: 9-4 for Refurbished iPhone 14 Pro Max.
Final Thoughts
There are many smaller differences between these two devices, like screen brightness, where the iPhone 14 Pro Max reaches 1000 nits (typical)—200 nits more than its competitor.
But the key takeaway is this:
- By choosing a Refurbished iPhone 14 Pro Max, you get a premium Apple device with the largest screen in its lineup.
- You save money while getting a superior phone compared to the budget model.
- A premium phone in your hands is always premium.
Visit our online store at CostPlusPhones.com and find the perfect phone for you—whether it’s the premium Refurbished iPhone 14 Pro Max or a classic Refurbished iPhone 12, we’re sure you’ll find something you love.
— CostPlusPhones Team
