The iPhone 11 and iPhone 14 Pro represent two different eras in Apple’s smartphone evolution. While the iPhone 11, launched in 2019, offered a balance of performance, camera quality, and affordability, the iPhone 14 Pro, introduced in 2023, sets new standards in technology and innovation. This comparison aims to shed light on the advancements made over the years and help users decide which device suits their needs best.
In this analysis, we’ll delve into every aspect of these devices, from their design and display to performance and software, culminating in a detailed pros and cons list. Whether you’re considering an upgrade or curious about the technological leaps between generations, this article is your ultimate guide.
Related: Compare iPhone 13 Pro Max to iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 11 vs iPhone 14 Pro
Choosing the right iPhone can be overwhelming, especially when comparing older and newer models. Let’s delve into the key differences between the iPhone 11 and iPhone 14 Pro to help you decide which one is best for you.
Design and Display:
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Display Technology | LCD | OLED (Super Retina XDR) |
| Resolution | 1792 x 828 | 2532 x 1170 |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Design | Aluminum back, wider notch | Stainless steel frame, pill-and-hole cutout |
The journey from iPhone 11 to iPhone 14 Pro showcases Apple’s relentless pursuit of sleeker, more robust designs. The iPhone 11, with its dual-camera setup and aluminum frame, set a high standard for build quality and aesthetics. However, the iPhone 14 Pro elevates this further with a stainless steel frame and a smaller, more sophisticated notch, indicating a significant evolution in Apple’s design language.
Display technology has seen remarkable advancements between these two models. While the iPhone 11 boasts a Liquid Retina HD display, the iPhone 14 Pro dazzles with its Super Retina XDR display, featuring ProMotion technology and a higher contrast ratio. This leap not only enhances visual clarity but also improves the user experience with smoother animations and more vibrant colors.
Camera:
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | Dual-lens (12MP wide + 12MP ultrawide) | Triple-lens (48MP main + 12MP ultrawide + 12MP telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 12MP TrueDepth | 12MP TrueDepth with autofocus |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K at 60fps | Up to 8K at 24fps |
The camera system on any iPhone is a major selling point, and comparing the iPhone 11 to the iPhone 14 Pro highlights significant upgrades. Apple has consistently focused on improving photography and videography capabilities, and the evolution from the iPhone 11’s dual-camera setup to the iPhone 14 Pro’s triple-camera array with LiDAR scanner underscores this commitment.
The iPhone 11 introduced Night Mode and Deep Fusion technology, setting new standards for low-light photography and texture processing. Its dual-camera system was praised for producing stunning images with minimal effort, catering well to casual photographers and enthusiasts alike.
Moving to the iPhone 14 Pro, Apple introduced a larger sensor, Photonic Engine for enhanced low-light performance, and ProRAW for more creative control over images. The addition of a 3x telephoto lens and macro photography capabilities further distinguish the iPhone 14 Pro as a powerhouse for photography enthusiasts and professionals.
Performance and Battery Life:
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | A13 Bionic | A16 Bionic |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 17 hours video playback | Up to 28 hours video playback |
The A13 Bionic chip in the iPhone 11 was a marvel of its time, offering fast processing speeds and efficient performance. Fast forward to the iPhone 14 Pro, and the A16 Bionic chip takes everything to the next level with improved energy efficiency, faster graphics rendering, and better overall performance, making it a beast for gaming and professional applications.
Battery life is crucial for smartphone users, and both the iPhone 11 and iPhone 14 Pro make significant strides in this area. Despite the more powerful hardware and brighter display, the iPhone 14 Pro manages to offer comparable, if not better, battery life than the iPhone 11, thanks to optimizations in iOS and more efficient components.
Software:
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | iOS 16 (supported) | iOS 16 |
| Software Updates | Eligible for several years | Likely to receive longer updates |
At launch, the iPhone 11 ran on iOS 13, introducing features like Dark Mode and a redesigned Photos app. The iPhone 14 Pro, on the other hand, comes with iOS 16 out of the box, bringing more customization options, improved privacy features, and enhancements across the board.
Apple’s commitment to software updates means both the iPhone 11 and iPhone 14 Pro benefit from new features and security patches. However, the newer hardware of the iPhone 14 Pro allows it to take full advantage of the latest software capabilities, including AR applications and more immersive gaming experiences.
Other Features:
| Feature | iPhone 11 | iPhone 14 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Water Resistance | Up to 2 meters for 30 minutes | Up to 6 meters for 30 minutes |
| Face ID | Yes | Yes, with improvements |
The iPhone 14 Pro boasts 5G connectivity, offering faster download and upload speeds compared to the 4G LTE capabilities of the iPhone 11. In terms of security, both models feature Face ID, but the iPhone 14 Pro’s version is faster and more accurate, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Pros & Cons:
iPhone 11:
Pros:
- More affordable
- Excellent battery life
- Still capable cameras
Cons:
- Older design with a larger notch
- Lower resolution display
- Slower processor
iPhone 14 Pro:
Pros:
- Superior camera system with telephoto lens and better low-light performance
- Faster processor and smoother performance
- Higher refresh rate display for a more fluid experience
- Longer software support
Cons:
- Significantly more expensive
- Smaller battery capacity
Which Should You Buy?
Upgrade to iPhone 14 Pro if:
- You prioritize the best camera experience
- You want the latest and fastest iPhone
- You value a high refresh rate display
- You need a phone that will be supported with software updates for longer
Stick with iPhone 11 if:
- You are on a budget
- You are satisfied with the camera quality
- You value long battery life
- You don’t mind the older design
Who Can Stick With the iPhone 11?
If your iPhone 11 is still functioning well and meets your needs, you can likely hold onto it for a while longer. The A13 Bionic chip is still powerful for most everyday tasks, and the camera system is still capable of capturing decent photos.
Final Thoughts:
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and budget. If you require the absolute best performance, camera, and display, the iPhone 14 Pro is the clear winner. However, the iPhone 11 remains a compelling option for those seeking a more affordable and still capable iPhone experience.
Related: How to Compare Photos on iPhone
iPhone 11 vs iPhone 14 Pro: FAQs
1. Which iPhone is bigger, the iPhone 11 or iPhone 14 Pro?
Both phones have a 6.1-inch display, so there’s no size difference in terms of screen real estate.
2. Does the iPhone 11 have Face ID?
Yes, both the iPhone 11 and iPhone 14 Pro have Face ID for secure unlocking. However, the iPhone 14 Pro boasts improvements in Face ID speed and performance.
3. Is the iPhone 11 camera good enough?
The iPhone 11 still packs a punch with its dual-lens camera system, offering good image quality for everyday use. However, the iPhone 14 Pro surpasses it with a superior triple-lens system, including a telephoto lens and better low-light performance.
4. How much longer will the iPhone 11 receive software updates?
Apple typically supports its iPhones with software updates for several years. While the exact duration is subject to change, the iPhone 11 is currently eligible for iOS 16 and is likely to receive updates for a few more years.
5. Which phone has better battery life?
The iPhone 11 offers impressive battery life, lasting up to 17 hours of video playback. While the iPhone 14 Pro boasts a slightly smaller battery capacity, its efficiency improvements translate to a similar video playback duration of up to 28 hours.
6. Is the iPhone 14 Pro worth the upgrade from iPhone 11?
It depends on your needs and priorities. If you’re a casual user satisfied with your iPhone 11’s performance and camera, upgrading might not be necessary. However, if you crave the latest technology, a superior camera, a smoother display, and longer software support, the iPhone 14 Pro offers a significant leap forward.
