Buying the best camera phone instead of a professional camera to save your money and fulfill your photography and videography needs is a wiser decision only because of the diverse usability that cell phones offer. Otherwise, the best camera phones aren’t cheap, either!
Despite that, some best camera phones are now not only worthy competitors of point-and-shoot cameras because of their smaller size and lighter weight but are also forcing professional DSLRs and Mirrorless Cameras to push their boundaries to meet up with the excellent compatibility and connectivity that these devices offer. These small powerhouses now carry more pixels and can boast 8k videos. And even though they can’t compete with professional cameras yet because of the smaller sensor technology, you can still easily create professional content with them and compete on a professional level if you’re skilled.
But choosing the best camera phone for its camera capability isn’t an easy job because specs and capability on paper don’t necessarily give you the full picture. Besides, these specs, post-optimization, and image processing can be crucial in delivering the best pictures, and video quality and video modes are also important to consider. Also, the availability of micro-SD slots and battery life plays an important role in how effective and good a phone is for photography. With all being said, let us introduce you to the best camera cell phones available in the market.
Top 7 Best Camera Phones In 2023
1. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Display size: 6.8-inch Super AMOLED (3088 x 1440) | CPU: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy | RAM: 8GB, 12GB Storage / Expandable: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB / No | Rear cameras: 200 MP (f/1.7), 12MP (f/2.2), 10MP (f/2.4) 3x telephoto, 10MP (f/2.4) 10x telephoto | Front camera: 12MP (f/2.2) | Weight: 8.3 ounces
Pros:
- Impressive 10x optical zoom lens for 30x and above zoom.
- Outstanding 200MP main camera.
- Advanced computational photography features.
Cons:
- Older hardware for secondary rear lenses.
- Megapixels overshadow sensor size.
Introducing the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra – a true marvel of technological innovation and a masterpiece of modern design. This flagship smartphone redefines what’s possible in mobile photography, boasting an unparalleled camera system that elevates your visual storytelling to new heights.
At the heart of the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s camera prowess is its groundbreaking 200MP Tetra2pixel main sensor, a true game-changer in the world of smartphone photography. This sensor introduces an ingenious 16-to-1 pixel binning technique, resulting in breathtaking images that exhibit wide dynamic range and exceptional clarity, both in well-lit environments and even during nighttime escapades. The result? Your moments are captured with stunning detail and vividness.
Equipped with not one, but two dedicated telephoto lenses, the Galaxy S23 Ultra delivers an unmatched zooming experience. The short 3X lens, perfect for capturing intimate portraits, works harmoniously with the long 10X lens, built using cutting-edge Periscope camera technology, to bring distant subjects astonishingly close. And don’t be fooled – while many phones claim to handle 10X zoom, it’s the Galaxy S23 Ultra’s prowess in the realm of 30X and beyond that truly sets it apart. Your faraway adventures become vivid memories, preserving the tiniest nuances even at extended magnifications.
The Ultrawide camera is a triumph in its own right. Samsung’s engineering finesse has produced a lens that captures sweeping vistas with unrivaled sharpness and clarity, elevating your landscape shots to true artistry. With the added magic of autofocus, your creativity knows no bounds – be it macro marvels or wide-angle wonders, the Galaxy S23 Ultra delivers brilliance in every frame.
Selfies take on a new dimension with the 12MP front camera, offering the same great quality found in its predecessors, albeit at a lower resolution. Yet, the captivating self-portraits you create remain as exceptional as ever, radiating your personality and style.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra isn’t just a smartphone; it’s a masterpiece of technology, a gateway to extraordinary photography, and an embodiment of limitless creativity. With its awe-inspiring camera capabilities, from the revolutionary 200MP main sensor to the unmatched zooming prowess and ultrawide brilliance, this device isn’t just a phone – it’s your visual companion on a journey to capture life’s most remarkable moments in stunning clarity and boundless artistry. Embrace the future of photography with the Galaxy S23 Ultra – where innovation meets imagination, and your stories are painted in pixels of pure brilliance.
2. Xiaomi 13 Pro
Display size: 6.73 inches OLED (1440 x 3200) | CPU: Qualcomm SM8550-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | RAM: 8GB 12GB Storage / Expandable: 128GB, 256GB, 256GB, 512GB/No | Rear cameras: 50.3 MP, f/1.9, 23mm (wide), 50 MP, f/2.0, 75mm (telephoto), 50 MP, f/2.2, 14mm, 115˚ (ultrawide) | Front camera: 32 MP, f/2.0, 22mm (wide) | Weight: 210 g
Pros:
- The largest 1-inch sensor in smartphones
- Innovative “floating” telephoto lens that doubles as a macro lens
- Captures more detailed images compared to the S23 Ultra
Cons:
- Subpar performance of the ultrawide camera
- Software processing doesn’t match Google’s level of quality
The Xiaomi 13 Pro is another masterpiece of technological innovation and timeless design. This flagship smartphone redefines your photography experience with a harmonious blend of cutting-edge features and aesthetics.
The result of a remarkable collaboration with Sony lies the remarkable Sony IMX989 1-inch sensor at the core of the Xiaomi 13 Pro. This sensor is a game-changer, capturing intricate details and vibrant realism that breathe life into every photograph. It excels even in challenging lighting conditions, delivering stunning clarity in every shot.
To further enhance your visuals, Xiaomi has collaborated with Leica, renowned for its meticulous color science. The result? Your photos are infused with captivating, true-to-life tones that evoke emotions and tell stories, making your photography truly impactful.
The Xiaomi 13 Pro truly shines in low-light photography, revealing the magic in dimly lit environments. Say farewell to unwanted noise, and welcome unmatched clarity even in the darkest of settings.
When you hold the Xiaomi 13 Pro in your hands, you’ll be captivated by its 1440p OLED display, boasting a dynamic 120Hz refresh rate. This immersive canvas responds fluidly to your touch, making every interaction an absolute delight.
With global accessibility, the Xiaomi 13 Pro transcends boundaries, enabling you to capture the world’s beauty with uncompromised quality wherever your journey takes you.
Even your selfies are elevated to an art form, thanks to the Xiaomi 13 Pro’s advanced front-facing camera. It effortlessly captures your essence with clarity and precision, celebrating your uniqueness.
The Xiaomi 13 Pro isn’t just a smartphone; it’s an embodiment of your artistic expression. With its exceptional imaging capabilities, it invites you to explore the world through a lens of boundless potential. Redefine photography, reshape your perspective, and embrace the Xiaomi 13 Pro – your tool for capturing life’s most exquisite moments.
3. iPhone 14 Pro Max
Display size: 6.7-inch OLED (2796 x 1290) | CPU: A16 Bionic RAM: 6GB | Storage / Expandable: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB / No | Rear cameras: 48MP (f/1.8) main with 2x optical zoom, 12MP (f/2.2) ultrawide, 12MP (f/2.8) telephoto with 3x optical zoom | Front camera: 12MP (f/1.9) | Weight: 8.5 ounces
Pros:
- Impressive Smooth Zoom Functionality
- Unmatched Stabilization Performance Among Smartphone Cameras
- Demonstrates Exceptional Photography Capabilities
Cons:
- Occasional Overexposure Issues with Highlights
- Falls Slightly Short in Creating Natural Depth-of-Field When Compared to Leading Android Devices
Introducing the epitome of technological brilliance, the iPhone 14 Pro Max. Elevating your smartphone experience to unparalleled heights, this masterpiece is a symphony of innovation and elegance.
Capture life’s moments with absolute precision using the iPhone 14 Pro Max’s revolutionary camera system. Immerse yourself in a world of visual perfection as it flawlessly merges cutting-edge hardware and software synergy. The camera trifecta, equipped with wide, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses, transforms every shot into a masterpiece.
Experience photography like never before, with enhancements that refine each pixel with meticulous care. From vibrant landscapes to intricate details, the Pro Max captures it all with stunning clarity. Thanks to the prowess of its sensor and state-of-the-art chipset, low-light scenarios are conquered effortlessly, unveiling vivid details even in the shadows.
Unleash your creative vision with the all-new Cinematic Mode. With a touch of a button, your videos transcend into cinematic wonders, embracing artificial bokeh that gives your content a professional edge. Action Mode takes stabilization to unprecedented levels, allowing you to capture every move with remarkable steadiness and precision.
The iPhone 14 Pro Max’s prowess isn’t confined to photography; it’s a storytelling marvel. Seamlessly transition between scenes with varying exposures, and delve into a realm where every video is a work of art. Your vlogs and content creations deserve nothing less than the best, and the Pro Max rises to the occasion with unmatched video quality, audio excellence, and stability that redefines possibilities.
Crafted to perfection, the Pro Max boasts a magnificent display that dazzles even in the brightest sunlight. With the introduction of the Always-on Display (AoD), your notifications are elegantly at your fingertips, blending convenience with sophistication. The meticulously designed hardware, coupled with the enduring battery life, ensures your journey remains uninterrupted.
As you venture into the realm of the iPhone 14 Pro Max, you’re embracing a world where technology becomes artistry, and innovation becomes a companion. Your desires, ambitions, and moments are captured in unprecedented brilliance, resonating with the power and elegance that only the Pro Max can deliver.
Experience the future today – the iPhone 14 Pro Max awaits, ready to redefine your perception of possibility. Indulge in excellence, seize the moment, and let your creativity flow with a device that mirrors your aspirations. Elevate your world with the unmatched capabilities of the iPhone 14 Pro Max – where innovation meets perfection.
4. Google Pixel 7 Pro
Display: 6.7-inch OLED (3120 x 1440; 10-120Hz) | CPU: Tensor G2 | RAM: 12GB Storage / Expandable: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB / No | Rear cameras: 50MP (f/1.85) main, 12MP (f/2.2) ultrawide, 48MP (f/3.5) with 5x optical zoom | Front camera: 10.8MP (f/2.2) | Weight: 7.3 ounces
Pros:
- Google’s software ensures precise exposure.
- Offers a wide range of color options due to Google’s advanced color science.
- The Tensor G2 chip excels in computational photography.
Cons:
- Night Sight can activate frequently, potentially affecting user experience.
- Color accuracy can be inconsistent in certain situations.
The Google Pixel 7 Pro, is a true marvel in the world of mobile photography and is designed to immerse you in a world of visual wonders. This exceptional device combines cutting-edge camera features with unparalleled capabilities, setting new standards for capturing life’s moments.
At the core of the Pixel 7 Pro’s photographic excellence is a carefully crafted camera system that marries top-notch hardware with ingenious software. The result? Exceptional image quality with incredible detail and vibrant colors that pop in every frame. But that’s just the beginning.
Step into the realm of low-light photography mastery with the Pixel 7 Pro’s groundbreaking “Night Sight” technology. This innovation employs a multi-stack digital photography technique, capturing a series of images at varying exposures and seamlessly stitching them together. The outcome is nothing short of breathtaking night photos that brim with vivid hues and intricate details, regardless of the lighting conditions.
But it’s not just about technical prowess; the Pixel 7 Pro has an artist’s touch when it comes to color. Thanks to its Leica-inspired color science, this device delivers stunning day shots that rival those of professional cameras. As the sun sets, the Pixel 7 Pro’s cooler color grading lends a dramatic allure to your nighttime cityscapes, transforming each shot into a visual masterpiece.
Powered by cutting-edge machine learning algorithms, the Pixel 7 Pro’s camera adapts to your unique style, learning your preferences and optimizing its settings to ensure the perfect shot every time. It’s more than just a smartphone; it’s your creative companion, always ready to deliver excellence with each click.
The Google Pixel 7 Pro isn’t just a phone; it’s your gateway to a world of photography like no other. With its exceptional camera capabilities, innovative technology, and artistic finesse, the Pixel 7 Pro invites you to embark on a new era of visual storytelling. Embrace the future of photography, capture moments with unparalleled brilliance, and elevate your photographic journey with the Pixel 7 Pro.
Unleash the photographer within you and experience the Pixel 7 Pro today.
5. Google Pixel Fold
Display size: 7.6 inches OLED (1080 x 2092) | CPU: Google Tensor G2 RAM: 12GB | Storage / Expandable: 256GB, 512GB/No | Rear cameras: main 8 MP, f/2.0, Cover camera 9.5 MP, f/2.2 (f/2.2) | Front camera: 48 MP, f/1.7 | Weight: 283 g
Pros:
- Consistently great photos in various situations.
- Excellent low-light performance with Night Sight
- Superior quality from hole-punch camera compared to competing under-display sensors
Cons:
- Dim post-processing
- Limited camera app customization
Discover the cutting-edge innovation of the Google Pixel Fold, an exceptional fusion of style and substance that redefines mobile photography. With a camera system that outshines the competition, the Pixel Fold is poised to captivate your visual senses like never before. Not only does it outshine its rival Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 with its revolutionary photography but also produces better shots than the new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 in most situations because of its excellent post-processing and optimization capabilities.
At the heart of the Pixel Fold’s camera prowess is its groundbreaking triple-camera setup. Harnessing the power of a 12-megapixel main camera, an expansive ultrawide lens, and a game-changing 5x optical zoom camera – a first for foldable devices – this ensemble empowers you to capture the world from multiple perspectives with astonishing clarity and precision.
Crafting moments in high-definition brilliance is the Pixel Fold’s specialty. The main camera effortlessly captures intricate details, translating into breathtaking shots across varying lighting conditions. Whether it’s vivid landscapes under the sun or captivating cityscapes beneath the moonlight, the Pixel Fold consistently delivers.
Venture into the unknown with the ultrawide camera, which expands your creative horizons. While it excels in well-lit environments, even in lower light settings, it showcases its versatility by maintaining sharpness and clarity, revealing your surroundings with authenticity.
The star of the show, the 5x optical zoom camera, thrusts you closer to your subjects like never before. Unveil the hidden beauty in distant landscapes, candid moments, or intricate details, with results that resonate with lifelike clarity. Elevating your experience, digital zoom extends the boundaries to 10x and beyond, crafting an incredible visual journey.
Complementing its exceptional hardware, the Pixel Fold thrives in the realm of low-light photography. It harnesses Google’s best-in-class low-light mode, illuminating scenes that were once shrouded in darkness. The result? Astonishing nightscapes that evoke awe and admiration.
Elevating the art of selfies, the Pixel Fold boasts dual selfie cameras—one for each screen. Elevate your video calls with sharp, detailed visuals, while the external screen serves as a real-time viewfinder for those unrivaled selfie moments, when the main cameras are in play, delivering stunning self-portraits that truly shine.
Foldability meets creativity, as the Pixel Fold offers a range of modes tailored to your photographic adventures. Whether it’s capturing starlit wonders, crafting dynamic group selfies, or experimenting with unique angles, the Pixel Fold’s versatility empowers you to explore uncharted territories of photography.
Incorporating user-friendly adjustments, the Pixel Fold empowers you to tailor your shots to perfection. While a full manual mode is absent, the array of customizable settings ensures that enthusiasts and casual users alike can achieve their desired results effortlessly. And let’s not forget its prowess in video capture, solidifying its status as an all-inclusive creative powerhouse.
Embrace a new era of mobile photography with the Google Pixel Fold. It’s not just a device; it’s a revolution that brings the art of capturing life’s moments to an unprecedented level. Elevate your photography game with the Pixel Fold’s remarkable camera capabilities – a true masterpiece that sets the stage for your visual journey.
6. Sony Xperia 1 V
Display size: 6.5 inches OLED (1644 x 3840) | CPU: Qualcomm SM8550-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | RAM: 12GB Storage / Expandable: 256GB, 512GB / Yes | Rear cameras: 48 MP, f/1.9, 24mm (wide), 12 MP, f/2.3, 85mm (telephoto), f/2.8, 125mm (telephoto), 12 MP, f/2.2, 16mm (ultrawide) | Front camera: 12 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide) | Weight: 187 g
Pros:
- Vivid 4K 21:9 OLED Display
- Great Day and Night Photography
- Dependable Video Performance
- Abundance of Professional Camera Apps
- Versatile Connectivity
Cons:
- No Camera Macro Mode
- Night View Falls Short
- Throttling Under Heavy Loads
- Video Processing Needs Improvement
Introducing the Sony Xperia 1 V – a true testament to innovation that sets new standards in smartphone photography. Meticulously crafted to perfection, this exceptional device brings together a remarkable array of cutting-edge features that will undoubtedly captivate both tech enthusiasts and photography aficionados.
At the heart of the Xperia 1 V lies its exceptional camera system, a perfect blend of artistry and technology. With its primary 52MP sensor, the Xperia 1 V captures every moment with breathtaking detail, turning ordinary memories into visual masterpieces. Complementing this prowess are the 12MP ultrawide and variable telephoto lenses, elevating your photography experience to unparalleled heights.
Unleash your creative potential with the Xperia 1 V’s unmatched camera performance. Sony’s commitment to excellence shines through in every shot, as enhanced processing capabilities bring out the clarity and brilliance of each image. Whether you’re capturing sweeping landscapes or zooming in on distant subjects, the Xperia 1 V’s camera system excels with its 3.5x to 5.2x optical magnification.
In the realm of low-light photography, the Xperia 1 V stands as a beacon of innovation. Even in less-than-ideal conditions, this camera remains a steadfast companion, preserving details with minimal noise, even during the darkest moments. It truly proves its versatility as a reliable tool for any photographic endeavor.
What truly sets the Xperia 1 V apart is its intuitive software interface. With the Photo Pro, Video Pro, and Cinema Pro apps, Sony empowers users to take control of their artistic vision. Effortlessly adjust white balance, ISO, and exposure compensation, sculpting each frame to perfection. This seamless software integration complements the Xperia 1 V’s hardware, offering an unmatched experience for both budding creators and seasoned professionals.
Elevate your videography with the Xperia 1 V’s Video Pro feature, which excels even in challenging conditions. Record in pristine 4K at up to 120fps, allowing your memories to come to life with unparalleled clarity. Even in low-light situations, this device remains a dependable companion, consistently delivering exceptional video quality.
7. Google Pixel 7a
Display size: 6.1-inch OLED (2400 x 1080) | CPU: Tensor G2 RAM: 8GB | Storage / Expandable: 128GB / No | Rear cameras: 64MP main (f/1.89), 13MP ultrawide (f/2.2) | Front camera: 13MP (f/2.2) Weight: 6.8 ounces
Pros:
- Impressive software boosts photo quality.
- Outstanding 64MP main sensor for a midrange phone.
- Night Sight excels in low-light photography.
Cons:
- Smaller camera sensor compared to flagships.
- Software partially compensates for weaker hardware.
The Google Pixel 7a is a game-changing mid-range smartphone that redefines your photography experience. Priced at just under $500, it’s not just a phone; it’s a pocket-sized powerhouse designed to capture life’s most precious moments in breathtaking detail.
At the heart of the Pixel 7a lies its camera prowess, featuring a cutting-edge 64-megapixel main camera and a 13-megapixel ultrawide lens. These aren’t just numbers; they’re your gateway to a world of stunning visual storytelling. With the main camera, you can effortlessly capture well-exposed and dramatic images, whether you’re under the brilliant sun or in the soft glow of indoor lighting. It excels in rendering portraits and object photography with exceptional clarity, ensuring each photo is a masterpiece.
But the innovation doesn’t stop there. The ultrawide camera complements the main shooter beautifully, handling high-contrast scenes with ease. It might be slightly softer on detail compared to the main camera, but it still manages to deliver striking results, making it a versatile addition to your creative toolkit.
When it comes to zooming, the Pixel 7a relies on digital zoom technology, and it does so impeccably. Zoom in at 2x, and you’ll experience pristine quality that remains impressive even at 3 or 4x magnification.
Selfie enthusiasts fear not! The Pixel 7a features a 13-megapixel front camera that ensures you look your absolute best in every selfie, empowering you to shine on social media and video calls.
Video enthusiasts will also find much to love here. The Pixel 7a excels at capturing high-quality video content across all three of its cameras, proving its worth as an all-in-one creative tool.
But it doesn’t end with exceptional hardware. Google has introduced exciting new features, including a dynamic long-exposure mode that adds captivating motion to your photos. The significantly improved low-light mode turns even the darkest scenes into brilliantly illuminated masterpieces.
In conclusion, the Google Pixel 7a isn’t just a smartphone; it’s a visual storyteller’s dream. With flagship-level camera capabilities, innovative features, and a budget-friendly price tag, it outshines the competition and ensures that you’re always ready to capture and share life’s most incredible moments.
Other worth considering options
8. Huawei P40 Pro
Main camera: 50MP (f/1.9) | Telephoto: 12MP (f/3.4) | Ultra-wide: 40MP (f/1.8) | Front camera: 32MP | Max video quality: 4K 60fps | OIS: Yes | Storage: 128GB / 256GB | Weight: 209 g
Pros
- Excellent resolution
- Phenomenal battery life
Cons
- Limited Software
While some blogs may prefer the Huawei Mate 40 Pro over the Huawei P40 Pro for its overall performance, if the camera is the deciding factor for you then the Huawei P40 Pro still remains the best camera phone. Though Mate 40 Pro might show a slightly better performance in video quality, it is clearly out-beaten by P40 for Slow-Mo videos and front camera resolution.
Huawei P40 Pro is considered without a doubt to be one of the best cell cameras, the reason being that it shows great performance under all conditions in all of its cameras. The primary camera embodies a large 1/1.28″ 50MP Quad-Bayer sensor that produces 12MP image output, and there is a high-resolution image sensor (40MP 1/1.54″) in its ultra-wide camera, which combined with a fast f/1.8 lens, gives excellent low-light image quality. The P40 Pro’s Tele-camera uses folded optics to achieve a 5x optical zoom factor (125mm equivalent), which may not be as good as the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, but when the phone is under 1000 $ only, it becomes hard to resist.
Video quality is also excellent at 30 fps with perfect stabilization, however, its 4k60 videos are not up to the mark and the Huawei Mate 40 Pro performs better. Similarly, the lack of Google services for Huawei products is another problem that is hardest to swallow. However, when it comes to shooting in low-light situations, it is undoubtedly an easy topper on our list of the best camera phones.
9. OnePlus 8 Pro
Main camera: 48MP (f/1.8) | Telephoto: 8MP (f/2.4) | Ultra wide: 48MP (f/2.2) | Depth: 5MP (f/2.4) Front camera: 16MP (f/2.5 | Max video quality: 4K 60fps | Storage: 128GB / 256GB | Weight: 199g
Pros
- One of the best displays
- Excellent cameras
Cons
- Expensive
We previously didn’t upgrade from the OnePlus 8 Pro to the OnePlus 9 Pro despite all the hype around its collaboration with Hasselblad for color calibration and App design, and we are still not upgrading to the new OnePlus 10 Pro. The reason is that we don’t see much of a notice-worthy difference in the picture results. Even though the OnePlus Pro’s an eye-catching new camera module, however, the internal hardware remains the same, with a slight difference in the ultrawide sensor with a very wide 150-degree field of view but arguably inferior to the OnePlus 9 Pro because of its smaller image sensor size.
OnePlus 8 Pro still remains the most accomplished smartphone of the company ever. The video stabilization and quality of the OnePlus 8 Pro are top-notch. The 3x optical zoom of one plus 8 gives it much credit during zooming in. Its night-time performance is also remarkable; even without light, its shots are outstanding.
Having Sony’s latest 48MP sensor assimilated in its camera puts the OnePlus 8 Pro at the top of the line for its camera. And you may want to go for its OnePlus 9 Pro if you prefer the latest but if you like saving money and still searching for the best then the OnePlus 8 is the way to go.
10. Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus
Main camera: 12MP (f/1.8) | Telephoto: 64MP (f/2.0) | Ultra wide: 12MP (f/2.2) | TOF: 0.3MP | Front camera: 10MP + 10MP (f/2.2) | OIS: Yes | Max video quality: 8K 24fps | Storage:128GB | Weight: 186g
Pros
- Powerful but sleek design
- Superb 120Hz AMOLED display
- Versatile and excellent triple camera setup
Cons
- Gets hot under load
Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus is cheaper in price than Galaxy S20 Ultra and iPhone 11, yet its camera’s capabilities are on par with aforesaid phones. Its photos are impressive and top-notch. The Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus has four cameras- a 12MP main shooter joined by a 64MP cell phone telephoto lens, 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and time-of-flight sensor — together, these produce impressive cell phone images. Its results of zooming in are astonishingly superb, even at 10x power.
It shoots 8K video at 24fps and 4K video at up to 60fps, and it is also loaded with HDR video. So if you want an amazing Android cellphone, the Samsung Galaxy S20 is the best camera phone.
Our Verdict: Which is the best camera phone that you can buy?
If you are an Android user, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra remains the best camera phone that you can buy for its all-round camera performance. The camera shines in the realm of both photography and videography and offers zoom capabilities that no other camera phone can offer.
For Apple’s users, the new iPhone 14 Pro Max is undoubtedly the supreme choice for its camera capabilities. The camera captures great photos, however, where it shines the most is its video-capturing capabilities.
For budget users, we’d recommend Google Pixel 7a. With its 64MP main camera, 34MP ultra-wide, and 13MP front camera, this phone is one of the best budget camera phones that you can buy.
Buyers Guide: Things to consider before buying the best camera phone
Various phone manufacturers claim that their smartphones come with a lot of features and some of them can compete with the camera of our digital compact cameras. But what are these features? What makes an electronic device to be called a good camera? How does it compare with our traditional system cameras or DSLR cameras? Let us take a look at the smartphone camera features to look for when buying a new camera phone.
Megapixel
The number of pixels that the image sensor can capture determines how much information will be captured by the device and it is one of the most common measurements used to compare cameras from different brands. Yes, more megapixels means better quality images but these numbers are not always directly proportional to the image quality. For smartphones, a good number of MP is around 8 or more. This means that if our subject fills 8 megapixels of the frame it will be reproduced faithfully without losing its details at 100%.
Lens Quality and Focal length
The lenses play a major role in determining how much information is captured by the device. A good lens in a camera will ensure that no unnecessary light rays can seep in so as to reduce noise in our images. But when it comes to lenses for smartphones, they are fixed and that means that there is not much we can do about it other than choose which brand we want to buy. So if you are not keen on lens quality, take note of the aperture size. The smaller the aperture number (f-stop), it means the more light will enter the device, and this together with its microphone sensitivity is what we call a good camera for low lighting conditions.
Zoom
Most cameras use digital zoom which is just the magnification of pixels through software. The most effective zoom that you can get on a smartphone camera however is optical zoom. Some smartphone manufacturers are also using these two in combination and have come up with hybrid zoom. But optical zoom still remains the most effective one. So, before getting surprised by the high zoom capability of your smartphone camera, do check what type of zoom it actually is.
Display
Displays are generally measured in inches, but there’s talk of Quad HD now – with four times the resolution of Full HD. The higher the resolution, the crisper and sharper everything will look on the screen. Standard displays have a pixel density of 217ppi, while Full-HD screens have 400ppi, and Quad HD measures in at a whopping 538ppi.
Image Stabilization
Hand-held shots for smartphones are tricky because of their small size and it is difficult to grip it perfectly without causing a shake. Image stabilization was first introduced by Canon to reduce the effects of camera shake that cause blurry images ( read more ). This feature can be found in other electronic devices like smartphones. There are 3 types of image stabilization offered today, namely optical, digital, and sensor-shift.
Later on, other manufacturers introduced their own versions of stabilization technology like Sony with its Steady Shot and Samsung with its OIS. Smartphones that offer electronic image stabilization claim to compensate for camera shake through software but it also increases the noise in images which you need to take note of if you are using high ISO settings.
Manual Control
Do not just look at the features offered by an electronic device but it is also important to check when the feature becomes useful in saving your images under certain circumstances. As smartphones today are designed with touchscreen technology, some manufacturers offer their own version of manual control which you can find in advanced models. This comes in handy when you are shooting in conditions that need exposure compensation because it allows us to quickly change the shutter speed and aperture without having to go through multiple steps. When it comes to taking great phone pictures at night or in low-light conditions. This can be done via three methods, namely manual control, image stabilization, and high ISO.
Storage
It took phone manufacturers a while to catch up with the idea of cloud storage, but it’s here now and it has revolutionized the way we use smartphones. You can buy handsets with as much as 128GB of internal storage – more than enough for all your apps, videos, and pictures – but you’ll have to pay top dollar for that privilege. However, it’s always better to look for the best camera phone that comes with support for SD cards.
Battery
Along with storage capacity, battery life is one of the biggest complaints about smartphone users – especially those who are never within reach of a charger. You can’t do much about your phone’s battery capacity, but you can research how long it will last on average – and look for handsets that have batteries with higher capacities or that support quick charging features that let you recharge in less than two hours.
Types of cameras that come in modern smartphones
Gone are the days when smartphones came with two cameras, front and rear mainly. Now expect your phone to come packed with multiple cameras. Let’s talk about them.
Main camera/Rear camera
Jack of all trades, this camera is which usually decides how good your camera phone is. This camera usually offers the highest megapixels in your smartphone.
Front Camera/Selfie camera
Dual-lens camera phones also have a front camera. This camera is the second higher resolution camera on most smartphones and is getting better and better in megapixels. This camera is used for taking selfies and video calls.
Ultra-wide camera
Ideal for group photos and landscape photography these cameras come with an ultra-wide field of view. Using this camera means you don’t need to create tedious panoramic effects to capture wide angles.
Zoom camera
Smartphones these days come with a separate telephoto camera that can usually offer 2x to 3x optical zoom or a periscope camera that offers 3x to 10x optical zoom. Some cameras now offer variable zoom while others combine optical zoom with digital zoom to provide further magnification. However optical zoom always yields better results than digital zoom. So, always check the times and type of zoom that your best camera phone offers.
Macro Camera
A recent addition to the phone cameras is the macro lens that takes macro shots such as insects and tinny objects. These cameras usually have a low resolution from 2MP to 5MP.
Monochrome camera
You may not see it on many camera phones but this type of camera offers straight out-of-the-camera black and white photography instead of turning them black and white through filters. These cameras can be helpful in low-light photography as well for improved depth effects.
People Also Ask
Which best camera phone offers excellent low-light performance?
Google Pixel 7 Pro is known for its exceptional low-light performance. Its ‘Night Sight’ technology with its multi-stacking technique delivers breathtaking photos even in the dark of night.
Can camera phones compete with professional cameras?
While camera phones cannot yet fully compete with professional cameras, they have made significant advancements and can produce professional-level content in the hands of a skilled photographer. The smaller sensors in camera phones may limit certain capabilities, but with the right skills and techniques, you can still achieve impressive results.
Which camera phone has the best zoom camera?
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra stands out for its unrivaled zoom capability. With its multiple telephoto cameras, including one with a 30x optical magnification, this Samsung Camera Phone allows you to capture faraway details that are usually difficult to capture with other devices.
Is the iPhone 14 Pro Max a good choice for photography?
Yes, the iPhone 14 Pro Max is highly regarded as one of the best camera phones on the market right now. If you are an Apple user you certainly can’t get better than this. Its camera captures excellent details, however, its key selling point is its video capability which comes with great image stability.
Is there any best budget phone camera with great photography features?
Google Pixel 7a is the best budget camera phone that stands out for its exceptional main camera. It boasts a high-quality 64MP main camera, 13MP ultrawide camera, and 13MP front camera. Despite its lower price point compared to flagship models, this budget camera phone still delivers impressive photographic performance.
Our Review Methodology
Our approach to selecting, testing, and ranking the best camera phones was a comprehensive and meticulously crafted process that combined both objective analysis and subjective evaluation. We initiated our methodology by conducting extensive research into the latest smartphone models, examining camera specifications, software enhancements, and user feedback. Following this, we procured a diverse range of these devices, ensuring representation across various brands and price points. A rigorous testing phase ensued, covering various shooting conditions, including challenging low-light scenarios, fast-motion situations, and more, to assess each phone’s camera performance objectively. Additionally, we considered factors such as user-friendliness, software features, and post-processing capabilities. Real-world usage scenarios and insights from experienced photographers further shaped our rankings. In the end, our results were derived from a comprehensive evaluation of all these elements, providing users with a well-informed and trustworthy assessment of the top camera phones available in today’s market.
