The iPhone 14 Plus was Apple’s answer to a specific complaint: people wanted a big-screen iPhone without paying Pro Max prices. It replaced the discontinued Mini in the line-up and gave the standard iPhone a 6.7-inch option for the first time.
Its real selling point is battery life. A large body with standard-model internals means less power draw across a bigger battery, and the 14 Plus was among the longest-lasting iPhones Apple had made at that point.
What you give up against a Pro Max is the telephoto lens, the 120Hz display and the always-on screen. What you save is substantial.
Brand or model deal overview
| Consideration | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.7-inch OLED, 60Hz — Pro Max size, standard-model refresh rate |
| Battery | Exceptional; the model’s standout characteristic |
| Chip | A15 Bionic |
| Cameras | Dual rear system; no telephoto lens |
| Build | Aluminium frame — lighter than a stainless steel Pro Max |
| Charging | Lightning, not USB-C |
| Notch | Standard notch, not the Dynamic Island (that was 14 Pro only) |
| Storage | 128GB up to 512GB, not expandable |
Pricing and stock on previous-generation models change frequently. Confirm the current monthly cost, storage size and condition before applying.
Compare by network
Network options
The Plus models tend to be stocked less deeply than the standard and Pro variants, so availability is worth checking across networks. Compare:
- whether the listing is new or certified pre-owned;
- the monthly instalment and the data attached;
- storage size on the specific listing;
- battery health if pre-owned — though this model started with a large reserve;
- the warranty offered;
- contract term options;
- coverage at your usual locations.
Because the 14 Plus is lighter than a Pro Max of the same size, it is worth handling one if you have only ever used a Pro Max and assumed big meant heavy.
Compare by budget
Budget options
Big screen without Pro Max pricing. The core argument, and the reason the Plus exists.
Best battery life for the money. If a phone that lasts is your priority over camera hardware, this is a strong and often overlooked pick.
Compare against the 14 Pro Max. Adds a telephoto lens, 120Hz always-on display and the Dynamic Island, at a considerably higher cost. See iPhone 14 Pro Max contract deals.
Compare against the standard iPhone 14. Same internals in a 6.1-inch body, cheaper, with less battery life. See iPhone 14 contract deals.
Compare against the 15 Plus. Adds USB-C, the Dynamic Island and a 48MP camera. See iPhone 15 Plus contract deals.
Current and older alternatives
Alternative models
iPhone 15 Plus. The next generation — USB-C, Dynamic Island, 48MP main camera. See iPhone 15 Plus contract deals.
iPhone 16 Plus. Newer again. See iPhone 16 Plus contract deals.
iPhone 14. The 6.1-inch version of the same phone, cheaper. See iPhone 14 contract deals.
iPhone 14 Pro Max. The premium large model. See iPhone 14 Pro Max contract deals.
The Plus line is consistently the least-discussed part of the iPhone range and often the best value in it — you are paying for size and battery rather than for camera hardware you may not use.
What to check before applying
- Total contract cost — monthly × term, plus upfront.
- Whether the listing is new or certified pre-owned, and the warranty.
- Storage capacity — not expandable.
- That you want a 6.7-inch phone — handle one, as it is a large device.
- Data allocation and out-of-bundle rates.
- iOS support status for this generation.
- Early cancellation terms and the outstanding handset balance.
- Insurance, given the handset value.
- Coverage at your home and work addresses.
Contract applications are subject to the provider’s own checks — identification, proof of address, banking details, RICA registration, and generally a credit and affordability assessment. Approval is not guaranteed.
FAQs
What is the difference between the iPhone 14 and 14 Plus?
Screen size and battery. The Plus has a 6.7-inch display against the standard model’s 6.1 inches, and considerably longer battery life. Chip, cameras and software are the same.
Is the 14 Plus the same as the 14 Pro Max?
No. They share a screen size but the Pro Max adds a telephoto lens, a 120Hz always-on display, the Dynamic Island and a stainless steel frame, at a much higher price.
How good is the battery life?
It was among the best of any iPhone at launch, because standard-model internals draw less power across a large battery. This remains the model’s strongest argument.
Does the 14 Plus have the Dynamic Island?
No. The Dynamic Island was exclusive to the 14 Pro models. The 14 Plus has the standard notch.
Does it have USB-C?
No, it uses Lightning. USB-C arrived with the iPhone 15 generation, including the 15 Plus.
Is the Plus worth it over the standard model?
If you want a bigger screen and longer battery life, yes. If you prefer a phone that is easier to use one-handed, the standard model is the better fit.
What happens at the end of the contract?
The handset is paid off and becomes yours. The plan usually rolls on month-to-month at the same price unless you act, so diarise the date and move to SIM-only or upgrade.
Is insurance worth it on a Plus model?
Worth pricing. The outstanding contract balance remains payable if the handset is lost or stolen, and a 6.7-inch screen is a larger and more expensive panel to replace than a standard model’s.
Compare your options: see all iPhone contract deals, or browse contract deals South Africa.
Last updated: August 2026 — pricing, stock and availability can change.