The best camera phones capture photos and videos that can rival traditional cameras—a significant advantage (or perhaps a drawback) for professional photographers. Mobile photography has become one of the main battlegrounds for manufacturers, each striving to outdo the competition.
While the megapixel count continues to reach new heights, the true test lies in how effectively your phone’s software can transform those pixels into a “wow” factor. There are plenty of smartphones with “good” cameras, but truly “great” ones are far rarer—and the difference is often striking. As technology evolves, the best phones come equipped with powerful image sensors, impressive features, and the capability to process and edit photos with just a tap. The best way to evaluate a smartphone camera before buying is to read a smartphone review from a seasoned expert to see real-world examples of photos taken in different conditions.
With all these advanced technologies, it can be challenging to decide which phone is the best fit for you. That’s where I come in. As a photographer, I can confidently identify which phones will deliver truly high-quality photos. Don’t worry—I’ve included only the best camera phones in this list.
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Apple iPhone 16 Pro
If you want to jump straight to the point, my top pick for both photography and videography is the Apple iPhone 16 Pro. It delivers stunning quality and is incredibly user-friendly. As the latest and most advanced product in Apple’s iPhone lineup, it’s undoubtedly the best choice for photographers who rely on their smartphones. With its new 48-megapixel camera and a dedicated camera control button for quick access, it sets the standard for mobile photography.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
If you’re a Samsung enthusiast, your go-to option is the Galaxy S24 Ultra. As is tradition, Samsung’s Ultra series represents the pinnacle of Android smartphones for the year and serves as the primary competitor to the iPhone, with other manufacturers striving to catch up. The Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts features such as the AI Camera Assistant, built-in Generative Edit tools, exceptional low-light Nightography, and a 100x zoom with ultra-high-resolution technology and HDR imaging.
Google Pixel 9 Pro or 9 Pro XL
If you’re a dedicated Android enthusiast, the Google Pixel 9 Pro or 9 Pro XL might be worth considering. These devices stand out with their advanced photo-taking and editing features, powered by impressive AI capabilities. The Pixel 9 Pro and 9 Pro XL deliver high-quality photography at a slightly lower price point compared to competitors.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra deserves mention for its standout features, particularly its Leica-branded camera system. Equipped with a versatile set of tools, including a 1-inch primary sensor, it positions itself ahead of most competitors. Notably, the ability to adjust the aperture on the main camera is a feature rarely found outside DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Additionally, all four lenses support 50 MP shooting, offering significant flexibility for photography enthusiasts.
vivo X100 Pro
And of course, there’s vivo with its X100 Pro. This flagship features an impressive triple camera setup developed in collaboration with Zeiss. All cameras are equipped with 50-megapixel sensors with autofocus and OIS (optical image stabilization), while the 4.3x periscope camera adds macro photography capabilities.
Conclusion
With the continuous advancements in smartphone camera technology, it’s understandable to wonder whether they have caught up with or even surpassed the quality of traditional interchangeable lens cameras, such as DSLRs or mirrorless models. However, at this moment and for the foreseeable future, the answer is no, largely due to the physical limitations of the hardware. That said, smartphones do offer distinct advantages, particularly the convenience of having a camera always at hand.
Whether you’re looking for a premium smartphone with a camera to capture excellent content for social media or simply need an everyday phone for great family photos, these are the best camera phones available right now.
