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Our curated list of top smartphones with exceptional cameras, spanning budget to premium options for every photographer.
Imagine pulling out your phone and capturing Instagram-worthy portraits, breathtaking landscapes, or crystal-clear 4K videos without lugging around a DSLR. In 2025, smartphone cameras have evolved into powerful creative tools, blending massive sensors, AI smarts, and pro-grade features to rival dedicated cameras. Whether you're chasing golden-hour shots or low-light magic, the best camera phones make it effortless.
That's why we've hands-on tested dozens of 2025 models, scrutinizing raw image quality, dynamic range, color accuracy, zoom capabilities, video stabilization, and computational photography. Our selection criteria emphasize real-world performance over specs sheets, ensuring picks that deliver value across use cases—from casual snaps to professional workflows.
From sub-$500 budget champs like the Pixel 8a to flagship powerhouses over $1,200, we've included Android and iOS options, established giants, and innovative alternatives. Discover diverse picks for everyday users, pros, zoom obsessives, and more, complete with actionable insights to find your perfect match.
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL reigns supreme with Google's unmatched AI photography, delivering natural colors, insane detail, and low-light wizardry via features like Magic Editor and Best Take. Its 50MP main sensor, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP 5x telephoto excel in every scenario. Ideal for those seeking the most reliable point-and-shoot experience without fuss.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max is our Editor's Choice for its cinematic video prowess and seamless iOS integration, with a 48MP fusion main camera that nails portraits and 4K ProRes footage. Photographic Styles and macro mode add creative flair. Perfect for Apple ecosystem fans who prioritize buttery-smooth video and reliability.
The Google Pixel 8a punches way above its weight with Pixel-exclusive AI cameras, offering flagship-level photos in low light and Magic Eraser on a shoestring budget. 64MP main and 13MP ultrawide deliver sharp, vibrant results. Budget buyers won't sacrifice quality here.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra dominates zoom with its 200MP main sensor and 100x Space Zoom, plus pro tools like Expert RAW for manual control. Versatile quad-camera setup shines in portraits and astrophotography. A must for pros needing telephoto reach and editing flexibility.
OnePlus 13 offers premium Hasselblad-tuned cameras at mid-range pricing, with a 50MP Sony LYT-808 main sensor for stunning clarity and color science. 3x periscope telephoto adds pro versatility. Great for value hunters wanting flagship performance without the premium tag.
The Sony Xperia 1 VII brings DSLR-like control with its pro camera app, eye AF, and 48MP Exmor T sensor stack for zero-shutter-lag bursts. Dedicated shutter button and manual modes appeal to enthusiasts. Sony's alpha heritage shines for serious shooters.
Google Pixel 9 is the compact powerhouse for daily use, packing the same AI smarts as its Pro sibling in a 6.3-inch form with stellar 50MP camera performance. Effortless portraits and night shots make it a pocketable pro. Balances size, battery, and photo quality perfectly.
Compare key specs and features of all our recommendations side-by-side
| Product | Recommendation | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Rank #1 | 🏆 Top Pick | N/A | Check price |
 Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Rank #2 | ⭐ Editor's Choice | 4.4 4.4 | Check price |
 Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Rank #3 | — | 4.5 4.5 | Check price |
Google Pixel 8a Rank #4 | 💰 Budget Pick | N/A | Check price |
OnePlus 13 Rank #5 | — | N/A | Check price |
Sony Xperia 1 VII Rank #6 | — | N/A | Check price |
Google Pixel 9 Rank #7 | — | N/A | Check price |
