It’s 2025, and we’re two generations ahead of the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Newer models like the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro Max are stealing headlines with titanium frames and fancy AI tools.
But here’s the question a lot of buyers (especially in Pakistan) are asking: “Is the iPhone 14 Pro Max still a smart buy right now?”
After using this phone for over a year and comparing it to newer models, the answer might surprise you.
Design & build still feels premium
Let’s start with the basics: the iPhone 14 Pro Max was Apple’s first “Pro Max” with the Dynamic Island, replacing the old notch. That alone makes it look modern, even in 2025.
- Stainless steel frame: heavier than the titanium iPhone 15 Pro Max, but it still feels incredibly solid and premium.
- Frosted back glass: helps avoid fingerprints and feels smooth to touch.
- IP68 water resistance: a feature that’s still standard in new iPhones.
In daily use, it still looks and feels every bit like a flagship.
Display big, bright & beautiful
The 6.7‑inch Super Retina XDR OLED display is excellent:
- 120Hz ProMotion makes scrolling and animations smooth.
- Up to 2000 nits peak brightness for outdoor use.
- Deep blacks and punchy colors for streaming, gaming, and editing.
Unless you put it next to the newest iPhone 15 Pro Max, you won’t really notice a difference in screen quality.
Camera real world results still hold up
The iPhone 14 Pro Max was the first iPhone with a 48MP main sensor, and even in 2025, its camera is still competitive.
- Main camera: Detailed, balanced colors, and excellent HDR.
- Ultra‑wide lens: Great for landscape shots, although slightly weaker in low light than newer models.
- 3x telephoto: Not as far‑reaching as the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s 5x periscope, but still useful for portraits.
In night mode and video:
- Low‑light photos look natural without too much noise.
- Video quality is fantastic: smooth stabilization and great dynamic range.
- Cinematic mode adds professional‑looking background blur.
Compared to newer iPhones, you mainly miss out on the extra zoom and some of the new AI photography tricks. But for most daily users, the difference is small.
Performance A16 Bionic still flies
The iPhone 14 Pro Max is powered by the A16 Bionic chip, which is the same chip used in the standard iPhone 15.
- Apps launch instantly.
- Games run smoothly, even demanding titles like Genshin Impact.
- Video editing, AR, and multitasking feel seamless.
Even in 2025, this chip easily handles everything a normal or power user throws at it.
Battery life big phone, big battery
Battery life was one of the 14 Pro Max’s biggest selling points:
- Around 6.5–7.5 hours of screen‑on time on a single charge.
- Easily lasts a full day, sometimes more.
Newer models like the 15 Pro Max have small efficiency gains, but the difference isn’t dramatic.
Features you still get
Despite being an older model, the iPhone 14 Pro Max keeps many features buyers want in 2025:
- Face ID (fast and secure)
- MagSafe for accessories and wireless charging
- Dynamic Island (adds character and useful notifications)
- 5G support
What you miss compared to newer models
To be fair, here’s what the newer iPhone 15 Pro Max (and rumored iPhone 16 Pro Max) offer that you won’t get:
- Titanium frame: lighter, easier to hold
- USB‑C port: faster data transfer & universal charging
- 5x periscope zoom lens: better distant shots
- New AI photo and video tools in iOS 18
- Slightly better low‑light camera performance
But ask yourself: do you really need these for your daily routine?
For most casual users, probably not.
Price in 2025 best part
In Pakistan and worldwide, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is finally getting affordable:
- PTA‑approved: PKR ~290,000–340,000 (depending on condition and storage)
- Non‑PTA: PKR ~190,000–230,000 (for Wi‑Fi use or with a SIM solution)
That’s around PKR 150,000–200,000 cheaper than a brand‑new iPhone 15 Pro Max which is a big saving.
Globally:
- Used unlocked models in the US: around $500–600.
- UAE used market: AED ~1800–2200.
For students, freelancers, and buyers who want a premium iPhone without breaking the bank, it’s a very attractive price point.
Pros & cons summary
Pros:
✔ Premium design & excellent display
✔ Strong camera that still competes
✔ Smooth performance with A16 chip
✔ Dynamic Island feels modern
✔ Lower price & still gets iOS updates
Cons:
✘ No USB‑C port
✘ Heavier than new models
✘ Limited to 3x zoom; no periscope lens
✘ Slightly less efficient battery
Verdict still a smart choice
If you:
- Want an iPhone with a big, beautiful display
- Care about video quality and reliable performance
- Don’t mind missing out on the newest periscope zoom
- Want to save serious money
Then yes the iPhone 14 Pro Max is absolutely still a smart buy in 2025.
You’ll still get iOS updates for at least 3–4 more years, excellent cameras, and a design that doesn’t feel outdated.
If you need the newest camera tricks, USB‑C, and lighter feel go for the 15 Pro Max or wait for the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
But for everyone else, the 14 Pro Max remains a surprisingly good deal.
