Is your phone's camera holding you back from capturing those perfect moments? In today's world, a smartphone's camera is more than just a feature; it's a necessity. Whether you're a budding photographer, a social media enthusiast, or simply a parent wanting to document every precious milestone of your children, having a top-tier camera in your pocket is essential. So, if image quality is your priority, look no further. Here are five smartphones that stand out solely for their exceptional camera capabilities.
NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (https://fave.co/42qXjO8)
- Rear Cameras: 200MP wide, 50MP periscope telephoto, 50MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto
- Front Camera: 12MP wide
- Standout Feature: Quadruple rear camera setup, 8K video recording
- Why this smartphone? The Galaxy S25 Ultra reigns supreme as Samsung's flagship slab phone of the year, primarily due to its unparalleled camera system. During our testing, we consistently achieved crystal-clear photos with minimal effort. The extensive camera setup eliminates frustration, allowing you to capture the best shot regardless of the lighting conditions or contrast. If you need a phone that can handle any photographic challenge, including recording stunning 8K footage, the Ultra series consistently delivers a standout camera experience.
READ MORE: An iPhone user's honest thoughts on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (https://www.nine.com.au/product-reviews/tech/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-review-pros-cons-honest-thoughts-from-iphone-user/d9cb264d-6364-4286-ab60-8790788efaa9)
2. Google Pixel 10 Pro (https://fave.co/3KvJp7j) and Pro XL (https://fave.co/4gXTzJW)
- Rear Cameras: 50MP wide, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto
- Front Camera: 42MP ultrawide
- Standout Feature: 100x Pro Res Zoom, 8K video recording, Gemini Coach
- Why this smartphone? Here's a bold claim: the Pro models of the Google Pixel 10 deliver some of the most consistently impressive results we've seen this year. The color profile of the photos captured is consistently accurate, vibrant, and clear, mirroring real-life scenes. But here's where it gets controversial... Google has doubled down on AI-powered photography, introducing two game-changing features. First, the 100x Pro Res Zoom utilizes AI to enhance zoomed-in shots, providing remarkable clarity even at extreme magnifications. Second, Gemini Coach acts as your personal photography assistant, offering real-time inspiration and step-by-step guidance on achieving optimal angles, lighting, and composition. This is a feature that could truly revolutionize how people take photos. What do you think; is AI photography cheating, or is it a helpful tool for everyone?
READ MORE: From AI sceptic to fanatic, how Google's Pixel 10 Pros convinced me (https://www.nine.com.au/product-reviews/tech/google-pixel-10-pro-vs-pro-xl-price-specs-pros-cons-ai-assisted-photography-review/747457bb-616a-4962-9ca0-ba8ad4dd6068)
3. iPhone 17 Pro (https://amzn.to/4nbAGFF) and Pro Max (https://amzn.to/4nEfrfB)
- Rear Cameras: 48MP wide, 48MP periscope telephoto, 48MP ultrawide, 48MP telephoto
- Front Camera: 18MP multi-aspect
- Standout Feature: Center Stage on selfie camera and Apple ProRes
- Why this smartphone? Apple cameras are renowned for their stunning color profiles, and the new 48MP triple camera system in the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max takes it to another level. While we haven't had hands-on experience with the 17 series yet, Apple consistently delivers significant camera upgrades each year. And this is the part most people miss... A noteworthy addition across all iPhone 17 models is the new square sensor selfie camera, enabling both portrait and landscape photos without rotating the phone. This seemingly small change significantly enhances usability and convenience. Do you think this small change is worth upgrading to the new iPhone?
READ MORE: Should you upgrade? Everything to to know about the iPhone 17 series (https://www.nine.com.au/product-reviews/tech/apple-iphone-17-price-specs-features-release-date-should-you-upgrade-everything-to-know/fd7d52b1-8d02-4e55-9a95-3b303e8ab8ed)
4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 (https://fave.co/48L5OYc)
- Rear Cameras: 200MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 10MP telephoto
- Front Camera: 10MP ultrawide and 10MP cover camera
- Standout Feature: Triple camera set-up on a foldable phone
- Why this smartphone? If you're seeking a flagship foldable experience with top-of-the-line cameras, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the result of years of research and development. This phone is incredibly thin at just 4.2mm when unfolded, feeling remarkably similar to a standard bar phone. Impressively, Samsung has managed to incorporate a triple camera setup into this sleek design. However, there is a slight trade-off: the phone may wobble when placed flat due to the camera bump. Despite the absence of a 50MP telephoto camera, you still have access to the necessary tools for capturing excellent photos. For those who want the functionality of a foldable without compromising photo quality, the Z Fold 7 is a strong contender.
READ MORE: Is the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 really worth the price? (https://www.nine.com.au/product-reviews/tech/samsung-galaxy-z-fold-7-review-price-specs-features-release-date-everything-to-know/3fac4a20-1c28-49e9-95b4-796509960ea4)
5. iPhone 15 Pro (https://fave.co/4o0QgDX)
- Rear Cameras: 48MP wide, 12MP ultrawide, 12MP telephoto
- Front Camera: 12MP wide
- Standout Feature: Apple ProRes (log footage recording)
- Why this smartphone? The iPhone 15 Pro was purchased primarily for its camera system, particularly the introduction of Apple ProRes. This feature allows creatives to film in log footage and color grade videos, similar to professional cameras. The photos are also exceptional, boasting a fantastic color profile. Beyond its camera capabilities, the iPhone 15 Pro is an extremely durable phone. The titanium feel is luxurious, although it's worth noting that the iPhone 17 has switched to aluminum, which some might consider a downgrade. The size is also perfect, featuring a 6.1-inch display with a smooth 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate. Some argue that the older iPhone 15 Pro is better than the newer models because of the material and size. Do you agree?
After a phone plan?
READ MORE: Could the Nothing Phone (3) be the most unconventional smartphone on the market? (https://www.nine.com.au/product-reviews/tech/nothing-phone-3-review-pros-cons-specs-features-prices/13a5504c-7ad8-44db-8efe-a8f49336b9a1)
