Apple’s latest iPhone 16e incorporates many advanced features from the iPhone 16 into a budget-friendly format that may attract those looking to upgrade, particularly users of the iPhone 14. Here’s an in-depth comparison between the iPhone 16e and the 14.
iPhone 16e vs 14: Mostly advantages
Even though the iPhone 14 is just over two years old and was available at a starting price of $599 until recently, the newly released iPhone 16e is positioned as an improved alternative at the same price point.
Here are the standout improvements of the 16e over the iPhone 14:
| iPhone 16e | iPhone 14 | |
| Chip | A18 | A15 Bionic |
| Main Camera | 48MP Fusion with 2x optical | 12MP |
| Button | Action Button | Ring/Silent switch |
| AI | Apple Intelligence support | No AI |
| Battery | 26 hours video playback | 20 hours video playback |
| Charging | USB-C port | Lightning port |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB |
| Photos | Smart HDR 5 | Smart HDR 4 |
| Video | Audio Mix and wind noise reduction | No advanced audio features |
There are some features that remain consistent between the iPhone 16e and 14, showcasing significant similarities:
- Display: Super Retina XDR display (OLED)
- Size: 6.1-inch display with identical overall dimensions
- Notch: Both models feature a notch instead of Dynamic Island
- Front Camera: Both have the same 12MP front camera
- In addition to several other details where both phones offer the same functionality
Given the above comparisons, for many users with an iPhone 14, upgrading to the iPhone 16e appears to be an obvious choice.
However, there are a few minor setbacks with the 16e compared to the 14.
Concise but critical drawbacks of the iPhone 16e
Since the iPhone 16e largely serves as the successor to the iPhone SE, it carries some typical SE-style limitations.
For those moving from the iPhone 14, there are several features you may have to forgo.
These include:
- No Ultra Wide camera (or Macro photography)
- No MagSafe support (it supports wireless charging, but at a slower rate)
- No Cinematic mode or Action mode for video
- No Ultra Wideband chip
- One fewer GPU core
Depending on your preferences, this list could contain some dealbreakers or be relatively inconsequential.
If you frequently utilize your Ultra Wide (0.5x) camera or have cherished MagSafe accessories, it’s unfortunate that upgrading to the iPhone 16e means making these sacrifices.
iPhone 16e vs 14: Conclusion
Ultimately, the iPhone 16e provides excellent value for those looking to upgrade from the iPhone 14. The devices share many similarities that will ease the transition, while the 16e features potent enhancements not available on the 14—highlighting better performance, Apple Intelligence support, a superior camera, and extended battery life.
Are you considering an upgrade from the iPhone 14 to the iPhone 16e? Share your thoughts in the comments.
