While the iPhone 15 is one of the most popular phones on the market, not everyone needs the newest and most expensive device. Savvy customers know that last year's phones —like the Apple iPhone 14 and Google Pixel 7—offer excellent features at a cheaper price. That said, you may wonder which of these iPhone 15 alternatives is the best.
We think the Pixel 7 is the best choice for customers looking for value. It beats the standard iPhone 14 in many of the most important categories, such as pricing and camera features. One the other hand, the iPhone 14 made a strong showing in processing power and connectivity.
We’ve done the legwork for you and compared prices, hardware, software, camera features, and more. Read on to check out our findings.
Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14 Summary
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| Pixel 7 Plans | iPhone 14 Plans |
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: Specs
Let’s do a quick rundown on how the specs of the Google Pixel 7 compare with those of the base model iPhone 14.
Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: Specs
| Pixel 7 | iPhone 14 | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $599 | From $699 |
| Display | 6.3” 90Hz Smooth Display 1,400 nits peak brightness |
6.1” 60Hz Super Retina XDR 1,200 nits peak brightness |
| Processor | Google Tensor G2 |
Apple A15 Bionic |
| Main camera | 50MP main @ ƒ/1.85 12MP ultra-wide @ ƒ/2.2 Super Res Zoom up to 8x |
12MP main @ ƒ/1.5 12MP ultra-wide @ ƒ/2.4 2x optical/5x digital zoom |
| Front camera | 10.8MP @ ƒ/2.2 Fixed focus |
12MP @ ƒ/1.9 Autofocus Photonic Engine |
| Video recording | 4K @ 30 FPS, 60 FPS Cinematic Blur Active Stabilization |
4K HDR Cinematic Mode (up to 4K) Action Mode |
| Internal memory | 128GB 256GB |
128GB 256GB 512GB |
| Battery life | 24-hour battery life (standard use) | Up to 20 hours of video |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE
5G (sub-6 GHz, mmWave) Bluetooth 5.2 Nano SIM and eSIM |
4G LTE 5G (sub-6 GHz, mmWave) Bluetooth 5.3 Emergency SOS via Satellite eSIM |
| Water resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Colors | Obsidian Snow Lemongrass |
Blue Purple Midnight Starlight (PRODUCT) RED |
The Google Pixel 7 offers a lower price point and outstanding camera features while the iPhone 14 includes a powerful processor and Emergency satellite SOS connectivity.
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14 Price
Google’s devices are typically budget-friendly, and the Google Pixel 7 lineup is no different. It includes three devices—the Google Pixel 7, the budget-model Pixel 7a, and the beefed-up Google Pixel 7 Pro—that cost less than comparable Apple phones. The pricing starts as follows:
- Google Pixel 7a: $499
- Google Pixel 7: $599
- Google Pixel 7 Pro: $899
Google Pixel 7 128GB
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.3" |
| Available On | 34 Plans from 3 carriers |
| Available From |
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| Priced From | $8 per month + $309 upfront |
| View Full Details |
Google's 2022 model powered by Google's newest processor, Tensor G2, featuring Android 13, a built-in VPN by Google One, and improved camera technology with photo un-blur, cinematic blur, speech enhancement, and 10-bit HDR
Apple includes four devices in its iPhone 14 series lineup. The standard iPhone 14, a plus-sized larger edition, and two Pro Models. All of them are fairly expensive, with the Pro models at the top of the price scale. Here’s how the pricing starts:
- iPhone 14: $699
- iPhone 14 Plus: $799
- iPhone 14 Pro: $899
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: $999
iPhone 14 128GB
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.1" |
| Available On | 44 Plans from 4 carriers |
| Available From |
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| Priced From | $8 per month + $449 upfront |
| View Full Details |
Apple's 2022 model featuring new dual camera system with improved technology for low light photos, increased battery life, access to emergency services via satellite, and recycled gold wiring
As you can see, the Pixel 7 is the winner in this category. That said, the iPhone 14 received a discount when the iPhone 15 series was released, so this isn't quite as big a victory as it once was. Its starting price is only $100 cheaper than the starting price of the iPhone 14. For budget-conscious customers, the Pixel 7 is the best option. That said, if you don't mind spending a little more money for access to Apple's ecosystem, the iPhone 14 is a great entry model.
Winner: Pixel 7
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: Display
The Google Pixel 7 includes a 6.3-inch display. Its Smooth Display screen has a 90Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,400 nits. That makes the screen’s movement silky smooth and responsive to your touch, plus it has excellent visibility in bright conditions. As for the phone’s interface, it is similar to the Pixel 6 series.
The iPhone 14 has a smaller size, clocking in at 6.1-inches—though the screen size isn’t something that matters to everyone. Its Super Retina XDR display has a 60Hz refresh rate and its peak brightness maxes out at 1,200 nits. Both of those values are slightly lower than the specs of the Pixel 7. The interface of the iPhone 14 is also identical to the iPhone 13 series. Additionally, the Dynamic Island, a major display innovation that shows a live look at the background processes on your phone, is only available on the 14 Pro models.
Always-On display
One new feature of the iPhone 14 series is the Always-On display. This feature keeps your phone’s lock screen on so you can see the time and active widgets. However, Apple limited this feature to the 14 Pro models, so the standard iPhone 14 doesn’t have it.
The Google Pixel 7 includes an always-on display with both phone models. It’s a feature that Androids have had for quite some time.
Overall, the Google Pixel 7 wins here. It has a higher refresh rate and brighter screen capabilities. Not to mention it includes the always-on display feature that Apple limited to its most expensive models.
Winner: Pixel 7
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: Processors
The Pixel 7 uses the Google Tensor G2 processor, while the iPhone 14 runs on the Apple A15 Bionic chip.
Processor comparisons
| Google Pixel 7 |
iPhone 14 |
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|---|---|---|
| Processor | Google Tensor G2 | A15 Bionic chip |
| CPU cores | 2x ARM Cortex-X1 2x ARM Cortex-A78 4x ARM Cortex-A55 |
6-core CPU (2 performance and 4 efficiency cores) |
| GPU | ARM Mali-G710 MP7 | 5-core GPU |
Google Tensor G2
The new Google Tensor G2 processor is the second generation of the processor Google introduced with the Pixel 6. It has two new Cortex-A78 CPU cores and a Mali-G710 GPU. These upgrades provide a solid performance boost over the Pixel 6 generation.
While not the most powerful processor on the market, it excels in running the machine learning and AI capabilities of the Pixel 7. Features like translating languages in real-time, the Magic Eraser for photos, and removing background noise from phone calls are all possible because of the Tensor G2.
A15 Bionic chip
The iPhone 14 includes the A15 Bionic chip, which is the same processor used in the iPhone 13 Pro models (the A16 Bionic chip is only available in 14 Pro models and the iPhone 15 base models). In the past, Apple used the same processor for all its flagship phones, but that strategy seems to have ended.
However, don’t let the iPhone 14 using a previous generation’s processor fool you. The A15 Bionic chip is still one of the most powerful processors on the market. Its 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU make the iPhone 14 18% faster than the previous generation and offer better performance during mobile gaming or other tasks requiring a lot of processing power. Plus, it still offers higher benchmarks than the Tensor G2.
Overall, the Google Tensor G2 can’t compete with the power of the A15 Bionic chip. The iPhone 14 handily wins this category.
Winner: iPhone 14
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: Cameras
Camera quality is a top concern for most smartphone users, and the Pixel 7 and iPhone 14 have a lot to offer.
Google Pixel 7 camera
Pixel 7 series camera specs
| Google Pixel 7 |
Google Pixel 7 Pro |
|
|---|---|---|
| Main camera | 50MP main @ ƒ/1.85 12MP ultra-wide @ ƒ/2.2 Super Res Zoom up to 8x |
50MP main @ ƒ/1.85 12MP ultra-wide @ ƒ/2.2 48MP telephoto @ ƒ/3.5 Super Res Zoom up to 30x |
| Front camera | 10.8MP @ ƒ/2.2 Fixed focus |
10.8MP @ ƒ/2.2
Fixed focus |
| New features | Guided Frame
Photo Unblur |
Guided Frame Photo Unblur Macro Focus |
The Google Pixel 7 includes a 50MP camera in its dual-camera array, resulting in stunningly clear shots. It also performs well with low-light photography and picking up diverse skin tones.
Where the Pixel 7 shines is with its Super Res Zoom, relying on AI rather than camera hardware. This swap to AI means a zoomed image is really a cropped version of a regular photo. But because the original images have such a high resolution from Google’s camera, you’ll still end up with a crisp zoomed image.
Google also introduced some great new camera features for the Pixel 7. Guided Frame is an accessibility feature that makes selfies easier for visually-impaired people. Another feature, Photo Unblur, removes blurred areas and background noise from images, even in old images taken with other cameras. Finally, Macro Focus allows you to zoom in and take breathtaking photos of raindrops or flower petals from as close as three centimeters away. However, Macro Focus is only available on the Pixel 7 Pro.
iPhone 14 camera
iPhone 14 series camera specs
| iPhone 14/14 Plus |
iPhone 14 Pro/Pro Max |
|
|---|---|---|
| Main camera | 12MP main @ ƒ/1.5 12MP ultra-wide @ ƒ/2.4 2x optical/5x digital zoom |
48MP main @ ƒ/1.78 12MP ultra-wide @ ƒ/2.2 12MP telephoto @ ƒ/1.78 3x optical/15x digital zoom |
| Front camera | 12MP @ ƒ/1.9 Autofocus Photonic Engine |
12MP @ ƒ/1.9 Autofocus Photonic Engine |
| New features | Low light improvements | Low light improvements Adaptive True Tone flash |
The base iPhone 14 includes a 12MP main camera, which falls below the resolution of the Google Pixel 7. However, Apple’s Photonic Engine software still allows the cameras to take incredibly sharp images at a higher shutter speed than the Pixel. The iPhone 14 also includes improvements to low-light photography that bring it on par with the capabilities of the Google Pixel 7. On the iPhone 14 Pro, its 48MP main camera and new Adaptive True Tone flash technology take all Apple’s advantages to an even higher level that the Pixel 7 Pro struggles to match.
Where the iPhone 14 falls behind is with zoom capabilities and software features. The 5x digital zoom of the standard model isn’t as good as the Pixel 7. Plus, Apple did not introduce many new features on its cameras with this generation, instead choosing to continue perfecting the ones it already has. Things like macro photography and cinematic mode, which Google just introduced with the Pixel 7, were already present on iPhones.
Video recording
Video recording for the Pixel 7 and iPhone 14 is virtually identical. They are both capable of 4K recording, include stabilization modes, and offer a cinematic mode for your video’s subjects.
For an average user, the Pixel 7 and iPhone 14 work perfectly. However, for those who need their images to be perfect every time, the Pixel 7 is the better choice. The increased zoom capabilities and all the extra photo editing features—like Magic Eraser, Guided Frame, and Photo Unblur—allow the Pixel 7 to eke out a win over the base iPhone 14 in this category. That said, for customers picking between the iPhone 14 Pro and Pixel 7 Pro—which both now start at $899—the 14 Pro is the much better model.
Winner: Pixel 7
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: Battery Life
The Google Pixel 7 boasts a beyond-24-hour battery life. According to its tests, the battery life lasts an average of 31 hours under normal use. However, what’s extremely impressive is the Extreme Battery Saver feature, which allows a 72-hour battery life. The battery for the Pixel is larger than the iPhone’s, but in past generations, that did not result in it lasting longer.
Apple claims the iPhone 14 includes the best battery life ever put into an iPhone, with 20 hours of video playback or 80 hours of audio playback. The iPhone does have a smaller battery than the Pixel 7, but it’s also a more efficient phone requiring less power.
The power of battery testing
Apple and Google test their battery strength in different ways, which can lead to skewed results. Google relies on a mix of attributes in its test, including voice features, data usage, and standby mode. Apple measures how long the phone’s battery will last with a looped video or series of songs streaming on the device.
Most people don’t watch videos on their phones for 20 hours a day, so it’s safe to say the iPhone’s battery life is a little longer than that measurement.
This match is close, but we’re giving the Pixel 7 the win in this category because of its Extreme Battery Saver feature.
Winner: Pixel 7
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: Connectivity
The connectivity capabilities of the Google Pixel 7 and iPhone 14 are extremely similar. Both can connect to the 4G LTE and 5G networks of major carriers. Apple’s iPhone 14 lineup has features like Emergency SOS via satellite and only offering eSIM technology that set it apart from the Pixel line.
Emergency SOS via satellite
The Emergency SOS via satellite feature gets you help when you’re in remote, outdoor locations without a standard cell signal. Instead, you can point your iPhone at low-orbit satellites to send text-based emergency messages. This debuted on the iPhone 14 series and Apple Watch Series 8. With the release of iOS 17, the 14 series also has access to Apple's Roadside Assistance via satellite which allows you to contact AAA through the Emergency SOS feature.
eSIM technology
The iPhone 14 lineup is the first to rely solely on dual-eSIM technology—meaning there is no physical SIM card slot on the phone. It’s easier to change networks digitally than using a physical card, but it may alienate some customers. This change is not a big problem in the US, but it’s something to keep in mind if you frequently travel to destinations without networks supporting eSIM capabilities. The Google Pixel 7 also has dual-SIM capabilities, but it maintains a physical SIM card slot.
For most customers, the lack of a physical SIM slot is not a deal breaker. However, the inclusion of satellite-based emergency services in places with no cell signal is a major leap forward in safety, so we’re giving the iPhone 14 the victory here.
Winner: iPhone 14
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: Design
Design-wise, these devices retained the look of their previous generations. The camera array and button locations are the same, and all devices have an IP68 water-resistance rating. That rating means they should withstand 4 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. This category really comes down to personal preference and color options.
Google Pixel 7 color options
The Pixel 7 is available in three colors. Your options are lemongrass (light yellow), snow (white), and obsidian (black). You’ll find snow and obsidian in the color options for the Pixel 7 Pro, but hazel (a greenish-gray color) replaces lemongrass. One thing to note is that the camera bar and frame also have different metal finishes depending on the color you pick. Lemongrass and hazel come with a gold frame, snow has a silver frame, and obsidian has a dark gray frame.
iPhone 14 color options
The iPhone 14 offers more color options than the Google Pixel 7. iPhone 14 and 14 Plus models include blue, midnight, starlight, (PRODUCT) RED, and purple options. The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max come in space black, silver, gold, and a new deep purple.
The iPhone 14 series offers more color options, so it takes the win in this category.
Winner: iPhone 14
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: Verdict
There is a lot to love about these phones, but the Google Pixel 7 is the winner. Boasting a slightly lower starting price, a great display, and phenomenal camera features, the standard iPhone 14 doesn’t quite match up.
That said, there are certainly some areas where the iPhone 14 stands out, such as its extremely powerful processor and emergency satellite connection capabilities.
It’s also important to note that much of the comparison here was between the Google Pixel 7 and the base model iPhone 14. Apple packed most of its best features into the 14 Pro models, like the new A16 Bionic processor and 48MP main camera. Now that the iPhone 15 has been released, the 14 Pro received a discount that puts it on par with the Pixel 7 Pro. If you've got a little extra cash and are picking between premium models, the iPhone 14 Pro handily beats anything the Pixel 7 Pro can offer.
Still, for basic phones the choice is clear. While the Pixel 7 may not be enough to win over diehard iPhone fans, it will do everything an average user needs.
Winner: Pixel 7
iPhone 14 and Pixel 7 data plans
No matter what device you choose, you’ll need a 5G data plan to go along with it. While you may think of massive carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon with expensive plans as your only options for high-speed data, there are some better–and cheaper–choices. Smaller carriers called MVNOs offer service at discounted rates on the big carrier’s networks. While they may not have as many perks, you can typically find great plan options with plenty of priority data at much friendlier prices.
Best MVNO plans
Mint Mobile offers service on T-Mobile’s network, which is the largest 5G network in the nation. You can snag an Unlimited Data plan with 50GB of premium data and a 20GB mobile hotspot for just $30/month ($15/month for new customers). You will need to prepay for at least three months in advance for Mint, but the overall cost is typically much cheaper than other carriers.
Mint Mobile Unlimited Data Plan
| Carrier | Mint Mobile |
|---|---|
| Data | Unlimited Data |
| Type | No Contract |
| Current Deal | Get this plan for just $25/mo. when you switch to Mint Mobile using promo code 15OFF at checkout. Upfront payment required |
| Total Price |
$25 per month
$75.00 upfront payment for 3 months (equals to $25.00/month). Intro pricing for new customers only.
|
| View Plan |
Visible operates on Verizon’s network, which offers the largest 4G LTE network in the nation. It offers multiple unlimited options. The mid-tier Visible+ and top-tier Visible+ Pro plans offer unlimited premium 5G ultra-wideband data for just $35/month and $45/month. Plus, it includes an unlimited mobile hotspot with speeds limited to 5-15Mbps, depending on which plan you choose. That's 4G speed.
Visible $35 Visible+ Plan
| Carrier | Visible |
|---|---|
| Data | Unlimited Data |
| Type | No Contract |
| Total Price |
$35 per month
Taxes & Fees included
|
| View Plan |
Google Pixel 7 vs. iPhone 14: FAQs
Which is better Google Pixel or iPhone?
We think the Google Pixel 7 is a little better than the base model iPhone 14 because of its lower cost and camera features. However, both are great devices and have features the other lacks.
Which camera is better Google Pixel or iPhone?
We think the Google Pixel 7 has a slightly better camera than the base iPhone 14 because of its zoom capabilities and photo editing tools, such as Magic Eraser.
Is it worth buying a Google Pixel?
Yes, it is worth buying a Google Pixel if you want a powerful phone at a lower price than iOS devices.
How much does the iPhone 14 cost?
The iPhone 14 pricing depends on the model and storage amount:
- Apple iPhone 14: Starting at $699
- Apple iPhone 14 Plus: Starting at $799
- Apple iPhone 14 Pro: Starting at $899
- Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max: Starting at $999
How much does the Google Pixel 7 cost?
The Google Pixel 7 pricing depends on the model and storage amount:
- Google Pixel 7a: Starting at $499
- Google Pixel 7: Starting at $599
- Google Pixel 7 Pro: Starting at $899
Is the iPhone 14 5G compatible?
Yes, the iPhone 14 series is 5G compatible.
Is the Pixel 7 5G compatible?
Yes, the Pixel 7 series is 5G compatible.
What operating system does Google Pixel 7 use?
The Google Pixel 7 uses Android 13 (Tiramisu).
What operating system does iPhone 14 use?
The iPhone 14 uses iOS 17.
Max McCaskill
Sr. Staff Writer
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