When it comes to choosing the best camera phoneS, it’s about more than just hardware specifications. The quality of the final image is what truly matters, and that’s where a phone’s photo-processing features and computational photography capabilities come into play. That’s why we put every camera phone we test through rigorous head-to-head comparisons, capturing a wide range of shots in various conditions to see how each device’s camera performance stacks up against the competition.
Our in-depth testing allows us to identify the camera phones that masterfully combine top-notch sensors with advanced image processing to deliver the best possible light, color, and detail in every scenario – from outdoor landscapes to low-light portraits and beyond. Whether you’re an avid mobile photographer or simply want a smartphone that can capture breathtaking shots, our list of the best camera phones has you covered.
LIST OF PRODUCTS IN THE ARTICLE
The Best Overall Camera Phone
(Best Camera Phones)iPhone 15 Pro Max
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Triple-lens system with 12MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto cameras
- Front Camera: 12MP TrueDepth camera
- Optical Zoom: 3x
- Digital Zoom: 15x
- Sensor-shift optical image stabilization (OIS)
- Sensor-based autofocus
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
- Dolby Vision, HDR, and HLG video support
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent overall image quality, with impressive detail, dynamic range, and color accuracy
- Versatile camera system with a great telephoto lens
- Reliable and fast autofocus
- Robust computational photography features, including Smart HDR 4 and Photographic Styles
- Impressive low-light performance
Reasons to Avoid:
- Expensive price tag
- No true optical zoom beyond 3x
The iPhone 15 Pro Max is our top pick for the best camera phone overall, narrowly edging out the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra in our latest 200-photo camera face-off. Apple’s flagship smartphone delivers exceptional image quality, with a versatile triple-lens system that captures stunning detail, vibrant colors, and impressive dynamic range in a wide range of scenarios.
The 12MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto lenses work in harmony, backed by the powerful A17 Bionic chip and Apple’s advanced computational photography algorithms. The 3x optical zoom and up to 15x digital zoom provide the flexibility to capture subjects from a distance, while the sensor-shift optical image stabilization helps to minimize blur in low-light conditions.
Additionally, features like Smart HDR 4, Photographic Styles, and Dolby Vision video recording contribute to the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s impressive camera performance. While its price tag may be out of reach for some, the remarkable image quality and versatility make the iPhone 15 Pro Max the best camera phone on the market.
(Best Camera Phones)Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Quad-lens system with 200MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, 10MP 3x telephoto, and 10MP 10x telephoto cameras
- Front Camera: 40MP selfie camera
- Optical Zoom: 10x
- Digital Zoom: 100x
- Laser autofocus, dual-pixel PDAF, and OIS
- 8K video recording at up to 24 fps
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional image quality, with impressive detail and dynamic range
- Versatile camera system with a powerful 10x telephoto lens
- Excellent low-light performance
- Advanced camera features, including Expert RAW and 8K video recording
- Large, high-resolution 40MP selfie camera
Reasons to Avoid:
- Expensive price tag
- Bulky design due to the large camera module
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a close second to the iPhone 15 Pro Max in our ranking of the best camera phones. The S24 Ultra boasts an impressive quad-lens camera system, headlined by a massive 200MP main sensor that captures stunning detail and resolution.
The phone’s versatile camera setup also includes a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 10MP 3x telephoto camera, and a 10MP 10x telephoto lens, providing users with an impressive optical zoom range. The combination of these lenses, along with Samsung’s advanced image processing and features like laser autofocus and optical image stabilization, result in exceptional image quality in a wide range of scenarios.
The Galaxy S24 Ultra’s low-light performance is also noteworthy, with the phone’s large sensor and advanced computational photography techniques delivering impressive results in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, the phone’s 40MP selfie camera and 8K video recording capabilities make it a versatile option for mobile photographers and videographers.
While the Galaxy S24 Ultra’s premium price tag may be a deterrent for some, its unparalleled camera capabilities and overall performance make it a top contender for the best camera phone on the market.
The Best Android Camera Phone
(Best Camera Phones)Google Pixel 8a
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Dual-lens system with 50MP main and 12MP ultra-wide cameras
- Front Camera: 8MP selfie camera
- Optical Zoom: None
- Digital Zoom: 7x
- Optical image stabilization (OIS) on the main camera
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent image quality, with impressive detail, dynamic range, and color accuracy
- Reliable and fast autofocus
- Robust computational photography features, including Night Sight and HDR+
- Affordable price point compared to flagship devices
- Clean and simple camera interface
Reasons to Avoid:
- No telephoto lens or optical zoom
- Limited video recording capabilities compared to flagship phones
The Google Pixel 8a is our pick for the best Android camera phone, delivering exceptional image quality at a more affordable price point compared to flagship devices. Google’s expertise in computational photography shines through in the Pixel 8a, with the phone’s 50MP main camera and 12MP ultra-wide lens working in tandem with the company’s advanced image processing algorithms to capture stunning photos.
The Pixel 8a’s camera performance is particularly impressive in low-light and challenging lighting conditions, thanks to features like Night Sight and HDR+. The phone’s reliable and fast autofocus also ensures that your shots are consistently sharp and in focus.
While the Pixel 8a lacks a telephoto lens and optical zoom capabilities, its digital zoom of up to 7x and the overall quality of its images make it a formidable option for mobile photographers on a budget. The phone’s clean and intuitive camera interface also adds to its appeal, making it easy for users to access and take advantage of the Pixel 8a’s impressive imaging capabilities.
Overall, the Google Pixel 8a is an excellent choice for Android users who want a high-quality camera experience without the premium price tag of flagship smartphones.
The Best Google Camera Phone
(Best Camera Phones)Google Pixel 8 Pro
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Triple-lens system with 50MP main, 48MP telephoto, and 12MP ultra-wide cameras
- Front Camera: 12MP selfie camera
- Optical Zoom: 5x
- Digital Zoom: 30x
- Optical image stabilization (OIS) on the main and telephoto cameras
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
- HDR video recording
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional image quality, with impressive detail, color accuracy, and dynamic range
- Versatile camera system with a powerful 5x telephoto lens
- Excellent computational photography features, including Night Sight and Real Tone
- Clean and intuitive camera interface
- Consistent and reliable performance
Reasons to Avoid:
- No 8K video recording
- Relatively high price tag compared to the Pixel 8a
The Google Pixel 8 Pro is the best camera phone in the company’s lineup, offering a compelling combination of advanced imaging capabilities and the signature Pixel camera experience. The phone’s triple-lens system, featuring a 50MP main camera, 48MP telephoto lens, and 12MP ultra-wide sensor, delivers exceptional image quality across a wide range of scenarios.
The Pixel 8 Pro’s standout feature is its impressive 5x optical zoom, which allows users to capture detailed and crisp telephoto shots without sacrificing image quality. The phone’s computational photography chops, including advanced HDR processing and the impressive Night Sight mode, also help it excel in low-light and challenging lighting conditions.
In addition to its impressive camera hardware, the Pixel 8 Pro benefits from Google’s expertise in image processing and its clean, user-friendly camera interface. The result is a camera experience that is consistently reliable and delivers stunning photos, making the Pixel 8 Pro one of the best camera phones for Google enthusiasts and mobile photographers alike.
While the Pixel 8 Pro’s price tag may be higher than the more affordable Pixel 8a, the phone’s versatile camera system, advanced features, and exceptional image quality make it a worthy investment for those seeking a flagship-level camera experience on an Android device.
The Best Low-Cost Camera Phone
(Best Camera Phones)iPhone SE (2024)
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Single-lens 12MP camera
- Front Camera: 7MP FaceTime HD camera
- Optical Zoom: None
- Digital Zoom: 5x
- Optical image stabilization (OIS)
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent image quality for the price, with good detail and color accuracy
- Compact and lightweight design
- Reliable and fast autofocus
- Affordable price point compared to flagship iPhones
- Long-term software support from Apple
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited camera system with no ultra-wide or telephoto lenses
- No Night Mode or other advanced computational photography features
- Relatively small battery compared to larger iPhone models
The iPhone SE (2024) is our pick for the best low-cost camera phone, offering excellent image quality and performance at a more affordable price point compared to Apple’s flagship iPhone models. While the SE’s camera system may be more basic than its higher-end counterparts, with a single 12MP rear camera and 7MP front-facing shooter, the phone’s image processing capabilities and tight integration with iOS ensure that it consistently captures great-looking photos.
The iPhone SE (2024) benefits from the same A15 Bionic chip found in the iPhone 13 series, which enables reliable and fast autofocus, as well as optical image stabilization to help minimize blur in low-light conditions. And while it may lack advanced computational photography features like Night Mode, the SE’s images still manage to deliver good detail, accurate colors, and a pleasing dynamic range.
For users who don’t require the bells and whistles of flagship iPhone models, the iPhone SE (2024) offers an excellent camera experience at a more accessible price point. Its compact and lightweight design, coupled with long-term software support from Apple, make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers in search of a capable mobile photography platform.
The Best iPhone Value
(Best Camera Phones)iPhone 14 Plus
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Dual-lens system with 12MP main and 12MP ultra-wide cameras
- Front Camera: 12MP TrueDepth camera
- Optical Zoom: None
- Digital Zoom: 5x
- Sensor-shift optical image stabilization (OIS)
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
- Dolby Vision, HDR, and HLG video support
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent overall image quality, with impressive detail and dynamic range
- Reliable and fast autofocus
- Robust computational photography features, including Deep Fusion and Photographic Styles
- Larger display and longer battery life compared to the standard iPhone 14
- More affordable price point than the Pro models
Reasons to Avoid:
- No telephoto lens or optical zoom
- Limited advanced camera features compared to the Pro models
The iPhone 14 Plus is our pick for the best iPhone value, offering a compelling balance of camera performance, overall features, and a more accessible price point compared to Apple’s flagship Pro models. While it may not have the ultra-advanced camera system of the iPhone 15 Pro Max or the telephoto lens of the iPhone 14 Pro, the iPhone 14 Plus still delivers exceptional image quality thanks to its 12MP main and ultra-wide cameras, backed by Apple’s powerful image processing algorithms.
The phone’s computational photography capabilities, including features like Deep Fusion and Photographic Styles, help it capture detailed, vibrant, and dynamic shots in a wide range of scenarios. The addition of sensor-shift optical image stabilization further enhances the iPhone 14 Plus’s low-light performance and helps to reduce camera shake for sharper images.
Where the iPhone 14 Plus really shines is in its overall value proposition. The phone’s larger display and longer battery life compared to the standard iPhone 14 make it a more well-rounded daily driver, while its more affordable price point makes it a more accessible option for those who don’t need the absolute latest and greatest camera features.
For iPhone users who want a great camera experience without the premium price tag of the Pro models, the iPhone 14 Plus is an excellent choice that delivers impressive performance and value.
Most Improved Camera Phone
(Best Camera Phones)Oppo Find X6 Pro
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Triple-lens system with 50MP main, 50MP telephoto, and 48MP ultra-wide cameras
- Front Camera: 32MP selfie camera
- Optical Zoom: 5x
- Digital Zoom: 60x
- Dual-pixel PDAF, OIS, and laser autofocus
- 8K video recording at up to 24 fps
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
Reasons to Buy:
- Significant improvement in image quality compared to previous Oppo flagships
- Versatile camera system with a powerful 5x telephoto lens
- Excellent low-light performance and dynamic range
- Advanced camera features, including RAW shooting and AI-powered scene optimization
- Sleek and premium design
Reasons to Avoid:
- Relatively high price tag compared to some competitors
- Oppo’s software and user experience may not be for everyone
The Oppo Find X6 Pro is our pick for the most improved camera phone, as the device represents a significant step up in imaging performance compared to previous Oppo flagship models. The phone’s triple-lens camera system, featuring a 50MP main camera, 50MP telephoto lens, and 48MP ultra-wide sensor, delivers impressive image quality across a wide range of scenarios.
One of the standout features of the Oppo Find X6 Pro is its powerful 5x optical zoom, which allows users to capture detailed and sharp telephoto shots without sacrificing image quality. The phone’s low-light performance has also been significantly improved, thanks to its advanced image processing algorithms and larger sensors.
In addition to its impressive hardware, the Oppo Find X6 Pro also benefits from a suite of advanced camera features, including RAW shooting, AI-powered scene optimization, and 8K video recording. These capabilities, combined with the phone’s sleek and premium design, make the Oppo Find X6 Pro a compelling option for mobile photographers who want a high-performing camera in a stylish package.
While the Oppo Find X6 Pro may not be as well-known as some of the more established flagship devices, its significant improvements in camera performance and overall image quality make it a strong contender for one of the best camera phones on the market.
The Best Value Samsung Camera Phone
(Best Camera Phones)Samsung Galaxy S24+
 "The Best Camera Phones You Can Buy in 2024")
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Triple-lens system with 50MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP telephoto cameras
- Front Camera: 12MP selfie camera
- Optical Zoom: 3x
- Digital Zoom: 30x
- Dual-pixel PDAF, OIS, and laser autofocus
- 8K video recording at up to 24 fps
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent image quality, with impressive detail, color accuracy, and dynamic range
- Versatile camera system with a useful 3x telephoto lens
- Robust computational photography features, including AI-powered scene optimization
- Relatively more affordable price point compared to the Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Sleek and premium design
Reasons to Avoid:
- No true 10x optical zoom like the S24 Ultra
- Limited advanced camera features compared to the Ultra model
The Samsung Galaxy S24+ is our pick for the best value Samsung camera phone, offering an excellent balance of camera performance, features, and price. While it may not have the ultra-premium camera system of the Galaxy S24 Ultra, the S24+’s triple-lens setup, featuring a 50MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide, and 10MP telephoto lens, delivers impressive image quality in a wide range of scenarios.
The phone’s 3x optical zoom and up to 30x digital zoom provide users with the flexibility to capture subjects from a distance, while the dual-pixel autofocus and optical image stabilization help ensure sharp and blur-free shots, even in low-light conditions.
In addition to its hardware capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ benefits from Samsung’s robust computational photography features, including AI-powered scene optimization and advanced image processing algorithms. These technologies help enhance the overall image quality, color accuracy, and dynamic range of photos taken with the device.
The S24+ also stands out for its relatively more affordable price point compared to the Galaxy S24 Ultra, making it a compelling option for users who want a high-performing camera phone without breaking the bank. The phone’s sleek and premium design further adds to its appeal, offering a stylish and modern aesthetic that complements its imaging capabilities.
While the Samsung Galaxy S24+ may not have the extreme zoom capabilities of the Ultra model, it still delivers excellent camera performance and features that make it a great value proposition for users looking for a top-tier camera phone from Samsung.
The Best Apple Camera Phone for Less
(Best Camera Phones)iPhone 13
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Dual-lens system with 12MP main and 12MP ultra-wide cameras
- Front Camera: 12MP selfie camera
- Optical Zoom: 2x
- Digital Zoom: 5x
- Dual-pixel PDAF, OIS
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
Reasons to Buy:
- Solid camera performance with Apple’s renowned image processing
- Good balance of features and price
- Compact and lightweight design
- Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem
- Reliable software updates and support
Reasons to Avoid:
- No telephoto lens for optical zoom
- Older A15 Bionic chip compared to newer models
The iPhone 13 is our choice for the best Apple camera phone for less, offering a solid camera experience and overall performance at a more accessible price point compared to the latest iPhone models. With its dual-lens camera system, featuring a 12MP main camera and 12MP ultra-wide lens, the iPhone 13 delivers reliable and consistent image quality in various lighting conditions.
Apple’s renowned image processing algorithms further enhance the camera performance, ensuring that photos taken with the iPhone 13 are detailed, vibrant, and well-balanced. The phone’s optical image stabilization and dual-pixel phase detection autofocus help capture sharp and clear images, while the 2x optical zoom provides some flexibility for framing shots.
In terms of design and usability, the iPhone 13’s compact and lightweight form factor makes it easy to handle and use one-handed. The phone’s seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, including services like iCloud and iMessage, adds to its appeal for existing Apple users looking for a reliable and familiar experience.
While the iPhone 13 may not have all the bells and whistles of the latest Pro models, it offers a compelling balance of camera performance, features, and price that makes it a great choice for users who want an Apple camera phone without paying a premium.
The Best Foldable Camera Phone
(Best Camera Phones)Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3
Specifications:
- Rear Camera: Triple-lens system with 12MP main, 12MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto cameras
- Front Camera (Cover Display): 10MP selfie camera
- Front Camera (Main Display): Under-display camera technology
- Optical Zoom: 2x
- Digital Zoom: 10x
- Dual-pixel PDAF, OIS
- 4K video recording at up to 60 fps
Reasons to Buy:
- Innovative foldable design with large immersive displays
- Versatile camera system with telephoto lens and under-display front camera
- Solid camera performance with reliable image quality
- Multi-tasking capabilities for enhanced productivity
- Premium build quality and materials
Reasons to Avoid:
- High price point compared to traditional smartphones
- Durability concerns with foldable display technology
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 is our top pick for the best foldable camera phone, combining innovative design with versatile camera capabilities to offer a unique mobile photography experience. The device features a triple-lens rear camera system, including a 12MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide lens, and 12MP telephoto camera, providing users with a range of shooting options and perspectives.
One of the standout features of the Galaxy Z Fold 3 is its under-display front camera technology, which allows for a seamless and uninterrupted viewing experience on the main foldable display. The phone’s 2x optical zoom and 10x digital zoom further enhance its versatility, enabling users to capture detailed shots from various distances.
In terms of performance, the Galaxy Z Fold 3 delivers solid camera quality with reliable image processing and stabilization features. The phone’s multi-tasking capabilities, made possible by its large foldable displays, offer enhanced productivity and creativity for users who need to juggle multiple apps and tasks simultaneously.
While the Galaxy Z Fold 3 represents the pinnacle of foldable smartphone technology, it comes with a higher price point compared to traditional smartphones and potential durability concerns associated with foldable display technology. However, for users looking for a cutting-edge device that combines innovative design with versatile camera capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 is a compelling choice.
How to Pick the Best Camera Phone
When choosing the best camera phone for your needs, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get a device that meets your photography requirements and preferences:
- Camera Specifications: Look for key specifications such as megapixel count, lens type, optical zoom capabilities, and image stabilization features to assess the camera’s performance potential.
- Software and Processing: Consider the software enhancements and image processing algorithms used by the manufacturer, as these can significantly impact the final image quality and overall camera performance.
- Additional Features: Evaluate any extra camera features such as night mode, portrait mode, AI scene recognition, and video recording capabilities to determine if they align with your photography style and needs.
- Brand Ecosystem: If you already use devices from a specific brand, such as Apple or Samsung, choosing a camera phone from the same brand can offer seamless integration and compatibility with your existing devices and services.
- Budget and Value: Set a budget for your camera phone purchase and compare the features and performance offered by different models to find the best value proposition that fits within your price range.
By considering these factors and conducting thorough research on the latest camera phone models, you can select a device that not only meets your photography requirements but also provides an enjoyable and reliable user experience.
How We Test Camera Phones
At [Publication Name], we conduct comprehensive and rigorous testing of camera phones to provide our readers with accurate and insightful evaluations of each device’s imaging capabilities. Our testing process includes the following key steps:
- Image Quality Assessment: We analyze the image quality produced by the camera phone in various lighting conditions, including daylight, low light, and indoor settings, to evaluate color accuracy, detail reproduction, dynamic range, and noise levels.
- Camera Performance Testing: We test the camera’s autofocus speed, shutter response time, and overall performance when capturing still photos and recording videos to assess its responsiveness and reliability in real-world scenarios.
- Feature Evaluation: We explore and test the additional camera features and modes offered by the device, such as night mode, portrait mode, pro mode, and AI enhancements, to understand their effectiveness and usability for different photography styles.
- Comparison Testing: We compare the camera phone’s performance against other leading models in the market to provide context and perspective on its strengths, weaknesses, and competitive positioning.
- User Experience Analysis: We consider the overall user experience of using the camera phone, including the interface design, ease of access to camera controls, and integration with other device functionalities, to assess its practicality and convenience for everyday use.
By conducting thorough and systematic testing across these key areas, we aim to deliver comprehensive and informative reviews that help our readers make informed decisions when choosing a camera phone that suits their photography preferences and needs.
the landscape of camera phones continues to evolve rapidly, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of imaging technology to deliver increasingly impressive and versatile devices. From the best overall camera phone to the most improved models and the top choices for specific budgets and preferences, there is a wide range of options available to cater to every type of mobile photographer.
Whether you prioritize camera performance, innovative design, value for money, or seamless integration with your existing devices, there is a camera phone out there that can meet your needs and exceed your expectations. By considering the key factors outlined in this guide, conducting thorough research, and exploring the latest offerings from top brands, you can find the perfect camera phone that empowers you to capture stunning photos and videos wherever you go.
We hope this guide has provided valuable insights and recommendations to help you navigate the diverse and exciting world of camera phones, empowering you to make an informed decision and choose a device that elevates your mobile photography experience to new heights. Happy shooting!