NEXT DAY DELIVERY*
Recorded delivery
UK Phoneline
We're here to help
£150M+ SOLD
That's a lot of gadgets
Interest Free Options
Choose At Checkout
Loved by customers
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot

iPhone 15 vs. Refurbished iPhone 14: Is it worth the upgrade?

Thinking about upgrading your iPhone? If you’re torn between the iPhone 15 and a refurbished iPhone 14, you’re not alone—and with a big price gap between the two, is it worth the upgrade?

We’re putting them head-to-head so you can decide what’s best for your budget, your lifestyle—and the planet too.

Design and Display

iPhone 15:

The iPhone 15 has had a bit of a glow-up. It’s lighter, sleeker, and features contoured edges with colour-infused glass that makes it feel premium in the hand. One of the standout changes is Apple’s Dynamic Island, now standard across all models (previously only available on the Pro versions). This clever little feature sits at the top of your screen and adapts in real time, showing you useful live updates without interrupting what you’re doing. Whether you’re tracking your Uber, managing a call, or controlling your music, it keeps everything just a tap away.

iPhone 14:

It might not have the flashy Dynamic Island, but the iPhone 14 still looks the part. You get the same screen size and crisp OLED display. The only real visual difference? It keeps the classic black notch at the top of the screen for the camera and Face ID, instead of switching to the newer pill-shaped Dynamic Island.

Verdict: If you love the idea of Dynamic Island and a slightly more refined design, the 15 wins. Otherwise, the 14 still looks and feels like a modern, high-end iPhone.

Performance and Power

iPhone 15:

This model runs on Apple’s A16 Bionic chip (previously exclusive to the iPhone 14 Pro), making it faster and more efficient—especially for gaming and video editing.

iPhone 14:

The iPhone 14 with its A15 Bionic chip still outperforms most other smartphones. Everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and multitasking feel seamless.

Verdict: Unless you’re using demanding apps, the iPhone 14 is more than up to the job.

Camera Comparison

iPhone 15:

Here’s where the iPhone 15 pulls ahead. A 48 Megapixles main camera means better detail, improved low-light photos, and more zoom power—great if you’re into content creation or love a good sunset snap.

iPhone 14:

With a 12 Megapixles camera, it still delivers fab results—smart HDR, Night mode and Cinematic mode are all included. Perfect for selfies, social snaps and day-to-day use.

Verdict: If photography is your thing, go for the 15. But if you just want great everyday photos, the 14 holds its own.

Battery and Charging

Both models offer all-day battery life, but the iPhone 15 has a slight edge when it comes to power efficiency. However, the real game-changer is the iPhone 15’s switch to USB-C charging, aligning it with other devices and making charging more universal.

Verdict: USB-C is super handy, but probably not a must-have unless you’re all about cable minimalism.

Price

  • iPhone 15 (New): From £699
  • Refurbished iPhone 15: From £489.99 at the iOutlet
  • Refurbished iPhone 14: From £319.99 at the iOutlet

Verdict: If you want the latest features without paying full whack, a refurbished iPhone 15 is a clever pick. But if you want the best value for money, a refurbished iPhone 14 is the winner.

Which model should you choose?

There’s no wrong choice here—both models are excellent. The iPhone 15 offers a few extra bells and whistles, especially for camera lovers and those after the newest tech. But the refurbished iPhone 14 delivers serious performance, looks great, and saves you a chunk of money.

 

Why go refurbished?

When you buy a refurbished iPhone from the iOutlet, you’re not just getting a great deal—you’re making a smarter, more sustainable choice, too.

✔ Save money compared to buying new

✔ Enjoy a free 12-month warranty for peace of mind

✔ Know your phone’s been fully tested and certified by experts

✔ Help reduce e-waste and lower your carbon footprint

Ready to make the switch? Explore our range of refurbished iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models at the iOutlet and enjoy premium tech for less—backed by warranty, expert testing, and a more sustainable choice.


Browse all our refurbished tech

The iOutlet is an award-winning online and wholesale-retail company focusing on refurbished phones, tablets, game consoles, and other tech. The iOutlet is the place to go for certified pre-owned devices where quality and performance are guaranteed. Every device is rigorously tested and nothing is shipped out to you short of perfect working order.

Trust our customers, not just us


“Absolutely amazing company. Have used them for years.”

Jade Plummer

“Quick and friendly service from Holly. Called me back within a couple of hours…”

T H

“Definitely recommend and will come back for the future! Thank you again!”

Aoife May
NEXT DAY DELIVERY*
Recorded delivery
UK Phoneline
We're here to help
£150M+ SOLD
That's a lot of gadgets
Interest Free Options
Choose At Checkout
Loved by customers
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot