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Discover top smartphones that excel in photography across budgets, from AI-powered computational magic to pro-grade optics.
In today's smartphone world, your phone's camera is often its most used feature—capturing life's moments, epic vacations, and shareable social media content with ease. Gone are the days of lugging around bulky DSLRs; these pocket-sized powerhouses deliver professional-quality results thanks to advanced sensors, AI processing, and versatile lens arrays. Whether you're a casual snapper or an aspiring influencer, choosing the right camera phone can elevate your photography game dramatically.
What sets the best camera phones apart? We rigorously tested dozens of 2025 models (and carryovers still dominating charts) focusing on key factors like image sharpness, low-light performance, dynamic range, zoom capabilities, video stabilization, color accuracy, and computational features. Real-world scenarios—from night street photography to 4K video shoots—guided our picks, ensuring recommendations based on tangible results, not just specs.
Our list spans all price points and needs: budget-friendly options under $500, mid-range value kings around $800, and premium flagships over $1,000. You'll find a mix of Android innovators like Google Pixel and established giants like Apple and Samsung, plus unique alternatives for specialized shooters. Let's dive into the best camera phones money can buy in 2025.
The Pixel 9 Pro XL reigns supreme with Google's unmatched computational photography, delivering natural colors, incredible detail, and AI tools like Magic Editor and Best Take. Its 50MP main, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP 5x telephoto excel in every condition, from low-light portraits to ultra-sharp zooms. Perfect for those who want pro results without fuss.
At under $500, the Pixel 8a punches way above its weight with Pixel-exclusive AI features like Best Take and Magic Eraser on a 64MP main camera. It handles low light and portraits brilliantly, rivaling flagships in software smarts. Ideal for budget buyers who refuse to compromise on photo quality.
Sony's Xperia 1 VI brings DSLR-like manual controls via its pro app, with a 48MP Exmor T sensor trio for true-to-life colors and bokeh. Natural processing avoids over-saturation, making it a favorite for pros who want RAW flexibility. Unique 3.5mm jack and microSD slot add pro appeal.
Apple's iPhone 16 Pro Max sets the video standard with 4K ProRes, Dolby Vision HDR, and seamless stabilization for cinematic footage. The 48MP fusion main camera shines in portraits and spatial photos, while the 5x tetraprism telephoto offers lossless zoom. iOS integration makes editing and sharing effortless.
No phone matches the S24 Ultra's 200MP main sensor and 100x Space Zoom for distant subjects, wildlife, or moon shots. AI enhancements like Generative Edit fix imperfections on the fly, paired with excellent low-light performance across its quad-camera array. It's a versatile beast for zoom enthusiasts.
The iPhone 16 offers flagship-level 48MP camera tech in a pocketable form, with macro capabilities and excellent dynamic range. Spatial photos and videos shine on Apple Vision Pro, while Photographic Styles let you tweak looks in-camera. Great for those who prioritize portability without sacrificing quality.
Hasselblad-tuned cameras on the OnePlus 12 deliver vibrant, detailed shots with a 50MP Sony LYT-808 main sensor and Hasselblad portrait mode. 6x lossless zoom and Dolby Vision video make it a steal at its price. Blazing performance ensures smooth shooting and editing.
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 | — | 4.4 4.4 | Check price |
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Rank #3 | — | N/A | Check price |
Google Pixel 8a Rank #4 | 💰 Budget Pick | N/A | Check price |
Sony Xperia 1 VI Rank #5 | ⭐ Editor's Choice | N/A | Check price |
Apple iPhone 16 Rank #6 | — | N/A | Check price |
OnePlus 12 Rank #7 | — | N/A | Check price |
