When I upgraded to the iPhone 14, the first question that came to my mind was whether my iPhone 14 case fit my iPhone 13 case. I'm sure many of you are wondering the same thing. After all, both phones look very similar from the outside.
The short answer is: No, iPhone 13 cases do NOT perfectly fit iPhone 14 models due to small but important differences in size and camera placement.
Let me explain everything you need to know about iPhone case compatibility between these two models.
Do You Need a Case for iPhone 14?
Before we talk about case compatibility, let me tell you why you absolutely need a case for your iPhone 14.
I learned this the hard way when I dropped my first iPhone without a case. The repair costs were way more than what I would have spent on a good protective case.
Your iPhone 14 needs protection from:
- Daily drops and bumps
- Scratches from keys and coins
- Screen cracks from falls
- Camera lens damage
- Dust and moisture
A good case can save you hundreds of dollars in repair costs. Trust me on this one.
Do iPhone 13 Cases Fit iPhone 14?
Here's what I found when I tried using my iPhone 13 case on my new iPhone 14:
The case technically fits, but it's not a perfect match. The iPhone 14 is slightly thicker than the iPhone 13, which means:
- The case feels loose around the edges
- Buttons don't align properly
- Camera cutouts may not line up correctly
- Charging port access might be restricted
While you might be able to squeeze your iPhone 14 into an iPhone 13 case, I don't follow this approach. The loose fit won't provide proper protection, and you risk damaging your new phone.
Does iPhone 13 Pro Case Fit iPhone 14 Pro?
The iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro have more significant differences than the regular models.
Here's what makes them incompatible:
Camera System Changes: The iPhone 14 Pro has a larger camera bump than the iPhone 13 Pro. When I tried using my old Pro case, the camera cutout was too small for the new camera system.
Size Differences:
- iPhone 13 Pro: 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65mm
- iPhone 14 Pro: 147.5 x 71.5 x 7.85mm
The iPhone 14 Pro is both taller and thicker, making iPhone 13 Pro cases a poor fit.
Button Placement: The volume and power buttons have slightly different positions, which affects case compatibility.
Does iPhone 13 Pro Max Case Fit iPhone 14 Pro Max?
I tested this combination too, and the results were similar to the Pro models.
The iPhone 14 Pro Max is slightly larger than the iPhone 13 Pro Max:
- iPhone 13 Pro Max: 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.65mm
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: 160.7 x 77.6 x 7.85mm
Even though the width is actually smaller, the increased thickness makes iPhone 13 Pro Max cases incompatible with the iPhone 14 Pro Max.
The camera bump on the iPhone 14 Pro Max is also significantly larger, making old cases unsuitable.
Size Guide for iPhone 13 and iPhone 14
Let me break down the exact measurements for all models:
iPhone 13 Series:
- iPhone 13: 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65mm
- iPhone 13 Pro: 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.65mm
- iPhone 13 Pro Max: 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.65mm
iPhone 14 Series:
- iPhone 14: 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.80mm
- iPhone 14 Pro: 147.5 x 71.5 x 7.85mm
- iPhone 14 Pro Max: 160.7 x 77.6 x 7.85mm
- iPhone 14 Plus: 160.8 x 78.1 x 7.80mm
As you can see, all iPhone 14 models are thicker than their iPhone 13 counterparts.
iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 Cases Compatibility
Based on my testing and research, here's the compatibility breakdown:
Not Compatible:
- iPhone 13 case with iPhone 14
- iPhone 13 Pro case with iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max case with iPhone 14 Pro Max
Why They Don't Work:
- Thickness differences affect fit
- Camera cutouts don't align properly
- Button placement variations
- Loose fit reduces protection
What About iPhone 14 Plus? The iPhone 14 Plus is a new model with no direct iPhone 13 equivalent. It's closest in size to the iPhone 13 Pro Max, but the cases still aren't compatible due to different camera systems and thickness.
What Cases Work Best for iPhone 14?
Since old cases don't work properly, you'll need to buy new ones. Here are the types I recommend:
For Maximum Protection:
- Rugged cases with reinforced corners
- Cases with raised edges around screen and camera
- Drop-tested cases from reputable brands
For Style and Protection:
- Clear cases that show off your phone's color
- Leather cases for a premium look
- Wallet cases for carrying cards
Key Features to Look For:
- Precise cutouts for all ports and buttons
- Raised bezels for screen protection
- Camera ring protection
- Wireless charging compatibility
- Easy grip texture
FAQs: iPhone 13 vs iPhone 14 Case
1. Can I force my iPhone 14 into an iPhone 13 case?
While you might be able to squeeze it in, I strongly advise against it. The loose fit won't protect your phone properly, and you could damage both the case and your iPhone.
2. Are there any iPhone 13 cases that work with iPhone 14?
Some very flexible silicone cases might accommodate the size difference, but they won't provide optimal protection. It's better to invest in a case designed specifically for your iPhone 14.
3. What's the biggest difference between iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 cases?
The main differences are thickness and camera cutout size. iPhone 14 models are thicker, and Pro models have larger camera bumps that require bigger cutouts.
4. Do screen protectors for iPhone 13 work on iPhone 14?
Yes! The screen sizes are identical between iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 (and iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro). You can reuse your screen protector.
5. Should I buy a cheap case or invest in an expensive one?
I always recommend investing in a quality case. A $50 case is much cheaper than a $200+ screen replacement or $300+ back glass repair.
6. Can I use iPhone 12 cases on iPhone 14?
No, iPhone 12 cases won't fit iPhone 14 models. The camera systems and overall thickness are different.
7. When should I replace my iPhone case?
Replace your case when you see cracks, worn corners, loose fit, or if it no longer provides adequate protection. I usually replace mine every 12-18 months.
Conclusion
After testing various combinations, I can confidently say that iPhone 13 cases don't properly fit iPhone 14 models. While they might seem compatible at first glance, the size differences make them unsuitable for proper protection.
The small investment in a new case designed specifically for your iPhone 14 will save you money in the long run. Your phone deserves protection that fits perfectly and looks great too.
Don't risk damaging your expensive new iPhone by using an ill-fitting old case. Get a proper iPhone 14 case that provides the protection and functionality your device deserves.
Remember, when it comes to protecting your iPhone 14, the right case makes all the difference. Choose wisely, and your phone will thank you for it.
