One of the most common questions we get is: Is this a good time to buy an iPhone? Of course if you need one–your old one is irreparably broken and you can’t go without, for example–then just get the iPhone that’s right for you.
But if you’re just craving an upgrade and don’t want to buy an iPhone right before the new model comes out, this article will tell you what you need to know.
Update 08/31/23: We’re less than two weeks away from the iPhone 15 announcement, making this a terrible time to buy an iPhone 14.
iPhone 14: Pricing and features
Released: September 2022 (yellow March 2023)
The iPhone 14 comes in four varieties: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max. The smallest “mini” size seen previously has been replaced by a non-Pro 6.7-inch “Plus” model.
The standard iPhone 14 models feature modest improvements over the iPhone 13, including slightly better performance and cameras. The iPhone 14 Pro models have more to recommend them, including an always-on display, the new “dynamic island” front camera interface element, and better cameras (including a 48 megapixel Wide camera).
As with previous years, the regular iPhone 14 starts at $799, and the Pro model is $999. Instead of a less expensive “mini” variant, Apple has a larger iPhone 14 Plus starting at $899. The iPhone 14 Pro Max is $1,099.
iPhone 14: Why you should buy
The only reason to buy the iPhone 14 today is if you need a new phone now. As in, your old phone is broken beyond reasonable repair and you need to have it for daily use.
iPhone 14: Why you should wait
You’ll only be waiting a couple weeks for the iPhone 15 to become available. At that point, you can get a superior phone for the same price as the iPhone 14 today, or buy an iPhone 14 at a new lower price.
Macworld recommends: WAIT
Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 15 lineup at its “Wonderlust” event on September 12. They will go on sale at the end of that week and ship a week later. So if you buy an iPhone 14 now, it will be old news in less than three weeks.
Even if you wanted to buy an iPhone 14, you’re better off waiting, as the price is likely to drop as soon as the iPhone 15 becomes available.
Also read: When is the best time to buy an iPhone?
Author: Jason Cross, Senior Editor
I have written about technology for my entire professional life - over 25 years. I enjoy learning about how complicated technology works and explaining it in a way anyone can understand.