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Discover our handpicked lineup of top smartphones excelling in photography and videography across all budgets.
In 2025, your smartphone camera is more than a convenience—it's a creative powerhouse capable of rivaling professional gear. Whether you're capturing family moments, epic landscapes, or cinematic videos, the right phone can elevate your photography game without the bulk of a DSLR. We've tested dozens of models to bring you the best camera phones that deliver exceptional image quality, versatility, and ease of use.
What sets these phones apart? Our selection criteria focus on real-world performance: low-light prowess, zoom capabilities, video stabilization, computational photography, and software features like AI editing. We prioritized sensors, processing power, and lenses over raw megapixel counts, ensuring picks that shine in everyday and pro scenarios.
From budget-friendly gems under $500 to premium flagships over $1,200, this list covers Android powerhouses, iOS elegance, and unique alternatives. Whether you're a casual snapper, video creator, or pro photographer, there's a perfect match here to fit your style and wallet.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL dominates with Google's unmatched computational photography, delivering natural colors, incredible detail, and AI magic like Magic Editor. Its triple 50MP+48MP+48MP setup excels in every condition, from night skies to portraits. Paired with seven years of updates, it's the smartest camera phone for most users.
Unrivaled cinematic video with 4K 120fps ProRes and flawless stabilization makes the iPhone 16 Pro Max a filmmaker's dream. The 48MP fusion camera trio nails consistent colors and portraits, enhanced by Apple Intelligence. Seamless ecosystem integration seals its premium appeal.
Pixel magic at budget prices: the 8a punches way above with a 64MP main camera rivaling flagships in low light and AI features like Best Take. Compact and durable, it's ideal for everyday snaps without compromise. Seven years of support future-proofs it.
Boasting a 200MP main sensor and class-leading 10x optical zoom, the S25 Ultra captures distant subjects with pro-level clarity. Expert Pro mode and S Pen integration make it ideal for detailed edits on the go. It's a beast for wildlife, sports, and everything in between.
Borrowing from Sony's Alpha cameras, the Xperia 1 VII offers manual controls, eye AF, and a dedicated shutter button for DSLR-like shooting. Its 48MP Exmor sensors deliver raw power without heavy processing. Perfect for those who want full creative control.
Hasselblad-tuned 50MP triple cameras punch above their weight with vibrant Hasselblad colors and excellent dynamic range. Blazing-fast Snapdragon 8 Elite ensures smooth 8K video. At a steal for flagship performance, it's premium imaging without the premium price.
The pocketable iPhone 16 packs a 48MP main camera with macro and Spatial Photos, outperforming larger rivals in usability. Excellent video and Photographic Styles offer creative flexibility. It's the sweet spot for those who hate phablets but demand top cameras.
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 |
 Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Rank #2 | — | 4.5 4.5 | Check price |
 Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Rank #3 | ⭐ Editor's Choice | 4.4 4.4 | Check price |
Sony Xperia 1 VII Rank #4 | — | N/A | Check price |
OnePlus 13 Rank #5 | — | N/A | Check price |
Google Pixel 8a Rank #6 | 💰 Budget Pick | N/A | Check price |
Apple iPhone 16 Rank #7 | — | N/A | Check price |
