Apple iPhone 14 Pro vs Samsung Galaxy A54 - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date September 16, 2022 March 24, 2023
Release Year 2022 2023

Physical

Volume 83.32 cm³ 99.5 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 2.96 "/g 3.17 "/g
Weight 206 g 202 g
Height 147.5 mm 158.2 mm
Width 71.5 mm 76.7 mm
Thickness 7.9 mm 8.2 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Silver
  • Gold
  • Space Black
  • Deep Purple
  • White
  • Violet
  • Graphite
  • Lime

Display

Screen Size 6.1 " 6.4 "
Resolution 1179 x 2556 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 19.5:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 86.6 % 82.9 %
Pixel Density 460 PPI 403 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness 1000 nits N/A
HBM Brightness 2000 nits 1000 nits
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 86.00 mAh/in² 122.07 mAh/in²
Battery Density 38.41 mAh/cm³ 50.25 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 3200 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Apple A16 Bionic (4 nm) Exynos 1380 (5 nm)
CPU Hexa-core (2x3.46 GHz Everest + 4x2.02 GHz Sawtooth) Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Apple GPU (5-core graphics) Mali-G68 MP5

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features Lightning 2.0 USB Type-C 2.0, OTG

Software

Operating System iOS Android
Initial OS Version 16 13
Maximum OS Version 18 17

Comparison Summary

Alright, let's dive deep into this comparison between the Apple iPhone 14 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy A54. We've got a clash of titans here – one representing the pinnacle of Apple's engineering and the other showcasing Samsung's prowess in the mid-range segment. I'll break this down for you as if we were discussing this over coffee, keeping it both technically grounded and easy to understand.

1. Specifications Breakdown

Here’s a detailed comparison, translating technical specs into practical implications for daily use:

FeatureApple iPhone 14 ProSamsung Galaxy A54Real-World Implications
Design
Launch Date2022-09-162023-03-24A54 is newer, might get software updates for longer
Physical Size147.5 × 71.5 × 7.9 mm158.2 × 76.7 × 8.2 mmA54 is noticeably larger, potentially less comfortable for single-hand use
Weight206g202gBoth are hefty; similar weight in hand
Display
Size6.1"6.4"A54's larger screen offers a more immersive viewing experience
Resolution1179x25561080x2340iPhone 14 Pro's sharper display will show finer details, especially with text and images
PPI460403iPhone 14 Pro's display is noticeably sharper, with more detail visible to the naked eye
TechnologyOLEDAMOLEDBoth offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; very similar quality
Refresh Rate120Hz120HzSmooth scrolling and animations on both
Brightness2000 nits0 nitsiPhone 14 Pro’s screen is far brighter, providing excellent readability in direct sunlight
Performance
ChipsetApple A16 Bionic (4 nm)Exynos 1380 (5 nm)iPhone 14 Pro's chip offers much faster performance, especially for intensive tasks like gaming
AnTuTu Score1,474,011578,600iPhone 14 Pro shows superior performance, app loading speed, and multitasking capabilities
GPUApple (5-core)Mali-G68 MP5iPhone 14 Pro's GPU is significantly more powerful, leading to smoother graphics in games
Battery Life
Capacity3200mAh5000mAhA54 has a much larger battery, likely offering longer battery life between charges
Charging20W fast charging25W fast chargingA54 has slightly faster-charging capabilities
Wireless Charging15W MagSafeNot AvailableiPhone 14 Pro supports wireless charging, offering convenience
Camera
Standard Camera48MP, f/1.78, 1/1.3", IMX803, 1.22µm50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56", IMX766, 1.00µmiPhone 14 Pro’s sensor gathers more light and detail, especially in low light
Selfie Camera12MP, f/1.9, IMX71432MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" IMX616, 0.80µmA54’s front camera captures more detail but has a smaller aperture.
Telephoto Lens12MP, f/2.8, IMX713Not availableiPhone 14 Pro has 3x optical zoom; better for portraits and distant subjects
Wide-Angle Lens12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", IMX633, 1.40µm13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", S5K3L6, 1.12µmiPhone has a larger sensor for wider shots with better dynamic range
Macro LensNot available5MP, f/2.4A54 has a dedicated macro lens for very close-up shots, which the iPhone lacks
VideoUp to 4K@60fps w/ HDR, Stereo SoundUp to 4K@30fps w/ EISiPhone 14 Pro offers higher frame rate video and includes HDR recording, making it better for video production
DxOMark ScoresMobile: 146, Photo: 143, Video: 149, Selfie: 145Mobile: 107, Photo: 106, Video: 115iPhone 14 Pro offers a superior camera experience than the Samsung A54
Software
OSiOS 16, upgradable to iOS 18Android 13, upgradable to 17Different OS experiences, software ecosystems; preference depends on user's requirements
Storage
Internal128/256/512/1024 GB128/256 GBiPhone offers larger storage options if you need more space for media.
RAM6 GB6 GB or 8 GBA54 has a larger RAM option which is good for multitasking and gaming
ExpandableNoNoBoth lack expandable storage capabilities
Audio
QualityDolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS / DTS X, Noise cancellation, 3 microphonesDolby Atmos, Hi-Res AudioiPhone 14 Pro’s audio features are better for spatial audio, surround sound, and voice capture for calls, while A54 has Hi-Res Audio for music enthusiasts
Security
BiometricFace IDFingerprintA54’s fingerprint sensor offers convenient unlocking; iPhone uses facial recognition. Preference varies.
Build Quality
Screen ProtectionUnknownCorning Gorilla Glass 5A54's screen is made of Corning Gorilla Glass 5; iPhone's protection is unknown.
Sensors
IncludedProximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, BarometerFingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity, Geomagnetic, HallBoth phones have all the essential sensors; preference varies on use cases.

2. Key Insights

iPhone 14 Pro Strengths:

  • Superior Performance: The A16 Bionic chip crushes the A54’s Exynos in benchmarks and real-world usage. This means smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and better performance in graphically intensive games.
  • Exceptional Display: While smaller, the iPhone’s display is significantly sharper and brighter, particularly noticeable in bright outdoor conditions.
  • Better Camera System: The iPhone 14 Pro's camera excels in image quality, especially in low light, and offers features like optical zoom and better video recording. The DxOMark scores clearly showcase its advantage.
  • Wireless Charging: The convenience of MagSafe and Qi wireless charging is a significant advantage.
  • Premium Build and Features: While screen protection is unknown, other aspects give a premium feel.
  • Ecosystem: If you're already invested in Apple’s ecosystem, the iPhone 14 Pro seamlessly integrates with other devices and services.

Samsung Galaxy A54 Strengths:

  • Larger Battery: The A54's 5000 mAh battery offers extended battery life, ideal for users who are always on the go.
  • Lower Price Point: As a mid-range device, the A54 is more budget-friendly, making it accessible to a broader range of users.
  • Larger Display: The bigger screen is perfect for users who prefer a more immersive visual experience.
  • Macro Lens: The addition of a macro lens allows for capturing detailed close-up shots which iPhone can't do.
  • Fingerprint Sensor: Many users prefer the convenience and security of a fingerprint sensor.
  • Expandable Audio Capabilities: The Hi-Res Audio is a feature that Apple doesn't have.

Trade-offs and Limitations:

  • Performance Trade-off: The A54's Exynos chip isn't as powerful as the iPhone's, leading to some slowdowns in demanding tasks.
  • Camera Trade-off: While the A54 has decent cameras, they don’t measure up to the iPhone 14 Pro in terms of overall image and video quality, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.
  • Display Trade-off: While larger, the A54's display isn't as sharp or bright as the iPhone's.
  • Battery vs. Size Trade-off: The larger battery makes A54 bigger, which could be uncomfortable for some users.

3. User Profiles and Recommendations

iPhone 14 Pro is ideal for:

  • Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks.
  • Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize camera quality and appreciate features like optical zoom and superior low-light performance.
  • Apple Ecosystem Users: Individuals who are already invested in the Apple ecosystem and prefer seamless integration between devices.
  • Professionals: Those who need a reliable, high-performing device for work, with top-notch security features.

Samsung Galaxy A54 is ideal for:

  • Budget-Conscious Users: Those who want a capable smartphone without the premium price tag.
  • Casual Users: Individuals who use their phones primarily for social media, web browsing, and everyday tasks.
  • Battery Life Seekers: Users who prioritize extended battery life and don’t want to worry about charging their phone multiple times a day.
  • Large Screen Lovers: People who prefer a bigger display for watching videos, playing games, and browsing the web.
  • Android Enthusiasts: Those who prefer the Android ecosystem and the customization it provides.

4. Buying Decision Framework

Here are three questions to guide your decision:

  1. What is my primary use case?
    • If it's demanding gaming, photo/video editing, the iPhone 14 Pro wins.
    • If it's casual use, media consumption, the A54 fits the bill well.
  2. How much are battery life and price points important?
    • If battery life is a must-have, go for the A54.
    • If the budget is an issue, the A54 is a good mid-range choice.
  3. How important is camera quality and ecosystem integration?
    • If high-quality photos and videos are needed and you're in the Apple ecosystem, go for the iPhone 14 Pro.
    • If you’re okay with good enough photos and videos, the A54 works well.

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • The "Always on the Go" User: If you need a phone that will last all day with heavy use, go with the Samsung Galaxy A54. Its superior battery life will serve you well.
  • The "Creative Content Creator": If you need excellent camera quality, superior video capabilities, the iPhone 14 Pro with the high DxOMark scores will suit you best.
  • The "Budget-Minded Gamer": If you want to play mobile games and still need a good phone, the Samsung Galaxy A54 is your phone.
  • The "Apple Enthusiast": If you're already in Apple's ecosystem and love the experience, the iPhone 14 Pro is the clear choice for you.

My Choice

Personally, if I had to choose between these two, I'd lean towards the Apple iPhone 14 Pro. While the Samsung Galaxy A54 offers a compelling package, especially its larger battery and more affordable price tag, my work involves a lot of image processing, video editing and demanding tasks. The iPhone 14 Pro's superior performance, display, and camera system are worth the premium for me. I appreciate the seamless integration with my other Apple devices and the robust software and hardware features for better productivity and media capture. Even though I will sacrifice some battery life, the benefits it gives far outweighs the cons.

Alex Griffin
Alex Griffin

Technology analyst specializing in mobile devices and consumer electronics.

Core Expertise

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Consumer electronics evaluation
  • Technical specification interpretation
  • User experience insights

Professional Mission Empowering readers to make informed technology decisions by transforming intricate specifications into understandable, practical guidance.

Demystifying technology, one device at a time.