Having a great camera phone is essential for taking amazing photos wherever you are whenever you’d like. After all, not everyone can carry around a big DSLR at all times. Here at Digital Camera World, we love a good camera phone because they’re simply convenient and as the technology continues to progress the best camera phones have powerful image sensors, incredible features, and the ability to process and edit the images with the touch of a button.
With all that technology out there though, it can be hard to make a decision on what phone is best for you. That’s where I come in. At DCW we’ve tested all of these camera phones first hand so you can be sure that I know which ones truly take the best photos. And since I am also a photographer, I really do know how to distinguish a good photo from a bad one.
If you want to get right into it, my favorite overall pick for both photo and video is the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max with stunning quality and ease of use – although with the launch of the Apple iPhone 16 range this month, you can bet this list will change when we finish reviewing the new models. If you’re an avid Android enthusiast, then the Google Pixel 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL are the way to go as I love their AI photography and editing smarts.
No matter whether you're looking for a high-end camera phone that will help you capture great social media content, or you're simply looking for an everyday handset that will capture beautiful family snaps, here are the best camera phones currently available...
Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World – and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. As an experienced photographer, he is always on the lookout for top camera phone quality to rival his mirrorless cameras, and always jumping between Android and iOS, he knows each system's strengths and weaknesses when it comes to photo and video.
The Quick List
The Pixel 9 Pros have identical camera setups but different screen sizes, so you can pick the size that works for you, without having to compromise on one of the best phone cameras. With excellent AI smarts, the Pixel 9 Pros take consistent photos, at a slightly lower price than Apple rivals.
For anyone looking for the best phone for videos, there is the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Pipping the Pixel 8 Pro to the top spot, the Pro Max edges it out with superior video, but loses the crown for photos to the latest Pixels.
Samsung fans look no further – the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is one pretty phone that also benefits from an impressive 200MP camera which you can actually use every pixel of (if you have the storage) for mind-blowing detail from a phone camera.
If you're looking for a great image-maker for an amazing price then the Google Pixel 8a takes the crown as my top pick for affordable phone photography with two very impressive cameras for the affordable pricetag.
The iPhone 16 might not be the top-spec phone on this list, but it is the best shooter for casual everyday phone photographers who want an excellent camera for content creation. However, if you aren't loyal then I think the Pixel 8a above is the better snapper.
The OnePlus Open manages to take the foldable crown from big hitter Samsung with its excellent array of cameras showing that cameras on foldables don't have to be an afterthought, while also beating the competition on price.
The best camera phone in 2024
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The best phone for photography
This year Google has released its flagship in two sizes, but in perhaps a challenge to rivals, has equipped both sized phones with identical camera setups and other specs. With simply no trade-offs to make between the two – you just need to decide if a 6.3-inch Pixel 9 Pro or 6.8-inch Pixel 9 Pro XL screen suits your hands and pockets more comfortably.
The Pixel 9 Pros have seen a very modest update in cameras from last year's models, with the same trio of sensors in the rear – although in a new pill-shaped design. It's only in the front where an improved 42MP front camera offers bigger selfies and more detailed video chats.
However the Pixel 8 Pro was simply the best photography experience on a phone, and with the same camera setup, Google is keeping the good times rolling. The quality and consistency of its cameras are sublime, with the phones particularly excelling in night-time photography. But where Google is improving is with its ever-increasing stable of AI-enhanced modes like blur reduction which uses machine learning to unblur images, and 'Best Take' which lets you swap the expressions of photo participants so everyone looks their best, means that it is also one of the simplest cameras to guarantee good snaps. Google is leaps and bounds ahead here and everyone else is playing catchup.
For anyone who wants to get a bit more serious with their photography, the Pixel 9 Pros also have a RAW capture letting you take full advantage of the megapixel-packed sensor, as well as a new pro controls mode giving you manual control over the look of your images just like you might get with a mirrorless camera.
Although video has also taken a big step up from the Pixel 8 Pro it still can't quite compete with the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Google has added a neat new video night night mode though, which uses AI to clean up dark video to improve clarity which works nicely but is not a make-or-break feature – although this doesn't work on the ultra-wide camera.
With a sleek new design that flattens out the sides and the screen, this is also the best-looking Pixel yet. The screen is beautiful to use and gives Apple a run for its money in clarity and color. Google is also now future-proofing its phones by way of continued software support for up to 7 years, you do get a lot for your money here, as well as some peace of mind, as yet again the Pixel range has gone up in price, although, still remain slightly cheaper than their Apple equivalents.
Read more: Google Pixel 9 Pro & 9 Pro XL review
The best phone for video
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max offer a highly advanced camera system, making them one of the top choices for photography enthusiasts looking for a powerful smartphone. With two 48MP cameras (main and ultra-wide) and significant improvements to computational photography, the device delivers sharp, vibrant photos under most conditions. The new "Camera Control" button is a notable addition, allowing for better handling and control during photo and video capture, which can help reduce camera shake.
One of the major strengths of the iPhone 16 Pro Max is its excellent processing power, making it capable of shooting in RAW and ProRes Log video formats. It also supports 120fps 4K recording, ensuring that both stills and video are captured with high detail. Additionally, the large 6.9-inch display with 120Hz refresh rate offers a fantastic viewing experience, whether you’re editing photos or watching videos.
However, it's not without drawbacks. The telephoto lens, while capable, doesn’t stand out against some competitors, and the device comes with a hefty price tag, making it less accessible for casual users. For US customers, the absence of a SIM slot might also be a downside. While the device is packed with powerful features, some, such as the new Apple Intelligence capabilities, were not available at launch, leaving users waiting for updates to unlock the phone’s full potential.
Overall, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is a premium choice for those seeking top-tier performance and professional-level photo capabilities in a smartphone, though its high price and a few missing features may make it less appealing for the average user.
Read more: Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max review
The best phone for high resolution photos
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers a delightful experience from both its Samsung-tuned version of Android to its selection of five different cameras, positioning itself as one of the most well-rounded and feature-complete Android phones currently available. For existing S23 Ultra owners, the incremental updates may not justify the price increase, but for those upgrading from an older model, you will find a lot more to love.
While I was personally holding out a desire for more significant changes in the camera system over the S23, such as a large main sensor like Chinese rivals. Samsung has opted for an approach reminiscent of Apple – refining a familiar and popular design, but this has inched the phone closer to photography perfection.
The S24 Ultra consistently delivers impressive photos and videos, although some will find Samsung's processing and colors a little less natural than Apple or Google, with a more heavily processed look. So I would check out some image samples before you buy. Like every other phone right now, the S24 also has a number of fun and practical AI tools that make correcting photos that much easier, although these aren't quite as strong as Google's offerings.
Outside of the cameras, the phone boasts rapid performance, features a top-notch display, and exudes a premium feel. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is a formidable phone – and another fantastic entry into Samsung's Galaxy S legacy.
Read more: Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review
The best camera phone for affordability
The Pixel 8a is quite an impressive camera phone despite not having the most powerful camera hardware. Thanks to Google's smart processing, it can capture good point-and-shoot pictures in a variety of lighting conditions. Its 4K video performance is also notable when the lighting is on its side, and the day-to-day user experience is quite snappy.
The phone is packed with smart features, and the extent to which you utilize them will depend on your comfort with integrating AI into your daily life. If you're considering the Pixel 8a, you'll find that it offers exceptional value for money and stands as one of the best camera phones of 2024.
Those open to alternatives may also explore deals on the Pixel 8, which offers a different build with glass and metal, as opposed to the 8a's plastic back. Overall, the Pixel 8a is a reliably solid all-around phone with an excellent camera and remarkably intelligent AI features straight out of the box.
Read our full Google Pixel 8a review
The best everyday camera phone for novice shooters
From a photography point of view, the iPhone 16 is a great piece of kit, especially if you just want to point, shoot, and share great-looking shots via social media without doing much post-processing.
However, the more serious photographer will miss the ability to shoot in RAW format so that they can enjoy fine-tuning the look of their images in a digital darkroom such as Adobe Camera Raw.
Images on the iPhone 16’s Super Retina XDR display look great, but you may need to view them on a larger display if you want to discover and remove noise artifacts or retouch a portrait more effectively. In this instance, you might consider paying extra for the iPhone 15 Plus, which boasts a true optical 3x camera, rather than the iPhone 15's pixel-binning trickery.
The iPhone 16’s video especially shines and produces amazingly smooth handheld footage which alleviates the need to stabilize it in a non-linear editing app, but serious filmmakers may also want the option to shoot in HDR Dolby Vision, which will lead them in the direction of the iPhone 16 Pro or Pro Max.
Read our full Apple iPhone 16 review
The best foldable phone
The OnePlus Open stands out as the top camera phone among foldables largely thanks to its impressive photo processing and hardware. With three rear cameras, including a 52MP main sensor, 48MP ultra-wide, and 3x telephoto lens, it excels in detail and versatility. The main camera delivers excellent shadow detail and performs well in mixed lighting conditions. Low-light performance is particularly notable, thanks to its reliable auto night mode, ensuring you get clear shots without needing a tripod.
The telephoto lens shines with its ability to capture sharp, product-like images even up close, though it doesn't perform as strongly in low-light settings compared to the wide lens. The ultra-wide, while less remarkable, still offers useful macro capabilities for extreme close-ups, and the 10-bit Dolby Vision HDR video support is a plus for video creators.
However, it's not without drawbacks. The biggest criticism is color inconsistency across lenses, and the zoom capabilities fall short when compared to non-folding flagship models like the Google Pixel 8 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.
If you're primarily after a foldable phone, and you want the best camera experience currently on the market, then the OnePlus Open is the strongest contender – but if the absolute best camera is your priority, non-folding options might serve you better.
Read more: OnePlus Open review
The best flip phone
When we tried out the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, it felt like a slight step up from its predecessor rather than a revolutionary change. While we appreciated its compact and stylish foldable design, which still feels premium and solid. The performance boost from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor was noticeable – it made everything run faster and smoother.
The 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display looked fantastic, but the crease in the hinge was still visible, which slightly detracted from the experience. The cover screen was functional, but I couldn’t help but wish for more – it’s smaller and less advanced than what Motorola offers on their Razr Ultra. The cameras were decent, with the main and ultra-wide lenses still at 12MP. They performed reliably, especially in low light, thanks to the optical image stabilization, but there weren’t any big improvements from the previous version.
The battery life worked fine for my daily needs, though it wasn’t groundbreaking. We missed having an SD card slot for expandable storage. Starting at 256GB was a nice touch, but the price hike compared to the Flip 5 made me hesitate. Overall, it’s a great phone for those prioritizing style and performance but not seeking major innovations
Read more: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 review
The best phone for cinematographers
Sony’s 2024 flagship impresses with its seamless user experience and solid build quality. However, the hefty price tag stands out as a significant drawback. While the Xperia 1 VI excels in macro photography, it falls short of being the ultimate camera phone due to its subpar lowlight performance from the telephoto and ultra-wide lenses, as well as the absence of pro video features.
Photographers who appreciate minimal photo processing and desire a top-notch screen and speaker setup will also find Sony’s offering appealing. Additionally, the phone caters to gamers and multimedia enthusiasts, while Alpha camera owners seeking an external monitor and recorder might find the price acceptable.
For most other users, a more affordable Xperia 1 VI would make it an attractive all-around choice, and the Xperia 1 VI remains a niche option. Sony needs to either outperform competitors in specifications and features or adjust the pricing to broaden its appeal.
Read more: Sony Xperia 1 VI review
The best underdog camera phone
The OnePlus 12 is a standout phone in 2024, It strikes a great balance with high-end features, impressive performance, and a powerful camera system. If you are in the US then there isn't much that can compete at this price point, however, if you're in the UK or Europe, its recommended price puts it up against competitors like the Pixel 8 Pro and Honor Magic 5 Pro, which give it a run for its money, and it will come down to which phone design and flavor of Android skin you prefer.
Still, if you're after a flagship phone with excellent performance, a versatile camera setup, and a premium design, the OnePlus 12 delivers. Its Hasselblad-tuned camera system and new Master Mode update make it a capable imaging tool for those who want to dig into manual photography on their phone. But standard photo and video won't disappoint with strong colors, great clarity, solid dynamic range and excellent stabilization. OnePlus keeps its skin in the game as a challenger to the best flagships.
Read more: OnePlus 12 review
Honorary mentions
Comparisons and Data
This graph compares the megapixels of the three main cameras you'll find on most smartphones – the ultra-wide, standard wide camera, and telephoto camera. These are the full pixels available on the sensor, although not all cameras give you access to every pixel, with lots of phones offering clever pixel-binning techniques for better images. Although many manufacturers do offer a pro mode to access the full power of the sensor. Megapixels aren't the only thing that makes a phone camera great, that's often down to each manufacturer's processing of images, but higher megapixel cameras offer more detailed images.
How to choose the best camera phone
First things first, you need to pick if you prefer an Android or an Apple phone.
This will depend on how much you currently rely on Apple services like iMessage, iCloud, or even Apple's Notes app. If you can't give them up, then you are best sticking with the iPhone, and which one you get depends on if you want a big or a medium-sized phone, how advanced you need the cameras to be, and how much you are willing to spend. We rate all of Apple's cameras very highly, going from the iPhone 15 Pro Max at the top end to the more affordable iPhone 15 model.
If you don't use Apple services (or can live without them), then you might want to take a look at an Android phone. Your choices are very broad here, and include new devices like folding phones. The two best Android phones for photography at the moment are the Google Pixel 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Google includes more of its own services as standard like Google Photos and the amazing Google Pixel camera. Samsung also has its own set of Samsung apps that fulfill the same purposes in their own style. So pick the phone and apps whose design appeals most to you.
What's the best camera phone?
If you're looking for the best camera phone that offers the best price and performance on the market there is no arguing with the Google Pixel 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL, but we understand not everyone is a fan of Android, so if love Apple devices, I'd recommend the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Which is better, Apple iOS or Android?
Well, this is a question that has and will be debated seemingly forever. The truth is, they are both fantastic operating systems, that provide nearly all of the exact same functionality, just in slightly different ways, and both have all the major apps you are likely to use. There is no better OS, the one to pick is just the one that you enjoy using more on a day-to-day basis.
How we test camera phones
As a photography website, we pay special attention to the photo and video quality of camera phones. We rate resolution, noise, and color rendition in the context of what rival phone cameras can do, and where there are any special features, such as ‘night modes’ or ‘portrait modes’, we check that these perform as the makers describe. We also take a look at what features the phone might include for viewing and editing photos and video.
Camera phones are all-around digital assistants too, of course, so we also check out how smart the operating system is at handling general day-to-day usage. Finally, we look at phone usability, and practicality – such as design, screen, ports, and battery life.
