Best Smartphones for Photography in 2025

Smartphone cameras have advanced dramatically, reaching a point where they can truly rival (and even replace) many traditional DSLRs for most userscamerajabber.com. In 2025, over 3 billion smartphones are in use worldwide, and content creators, travelers, and influencers rely on them to capture professional-quality imagesfreditech.com. Today’s handsets pack powerful sensors, multi-lens setups, and AI algorithms that push handheld photography to new heightscamerajabber.com, petapixel.com. This year’s cameras feature large stacked sensors, periscope zoom lenses, and on-device AI tools (like Magic Eraser and Photo Reimagine) that simplify editing. Let’s explore the top phones for capturing stunning images in 2025 and what sets their cameras apart.

Illustration showcasing the top camera phones of 2025—highlighting their key photography features: large sensors, AI-powered enhancements, and advanced optical zoom capabilities

What Makes a Great Camera Phone in 2025?

Modern camera phones blend advanced hardware and smart software. Experts note that sensor size is crucial – a bigger image sensor captures more light and detail, improving image qualitycamerajabber.com. Wide apertures and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) keep shots sharp, especially in low light. The phone’s image processor and AI pipeline (scene detection, HDR, noise reduction) also play major roles in color accuracy and noise controlcamerajabber.competapixel.com. In short, look for large, high-resolution sensors, reliable stabilization, and sophisticated processing for the best photos.

Key Features to Look For

• High-resolution sensors vs. processing: Phones now balance megapixel count with image processing. A large 50–200MP sensor can capture fine detail, but smart pixel-binning and AI processing determine final image qualitycamerajabber.comphonearena.com.

• Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): OIS and electronic stabilization help avoid blur in low-light or video. Many 2025 flagships use multi-axis OIS on all lenses.

• AI-assisted shooting: Real-time scene optimization, HDR bracketing, and AI editing tools (like Google’s Magic Editor and Samsung’s generative edits) automatically enhance photosnews.samsung.comgoogle.com. For example, Google Photos’ Magic Eraser lets you remove distractions with a tapgoogle.com.

• Night mode & astrophotography: Look for specialized night/astro modes and sensitive sensors. Phones like the Vivo X100 Pro+ use a 1-inch main sensor and AI to reduce noise in starlit scenesamateurphotographer.competapixel.com.

• Optical vs. digital zoom: True optical zoom (periscope lenses) maintains detail at distance. In 2025, many flagships offer 5–10× optical zoom, far beyond basic digital cropping.

• RAW support & manual controls: Enthusiasts need RAW capture and pro modes for fine-tuning exposure, ISO, focus, and color. Phones like Sony’s Xperia 1 VI emphasize manual controls for photographers.

• Advanced video: Look for 8K video, HDR (Dolby Vision) capture, and AI stabilization. Apple’s Cinematic mode and high-fps recording (e.g. 4K/60) help creators shoot professional footage on a phonesupport.apple.com.

Sensor and Lens Innovations

Smartphone cameras keep evolving hardware too. Stacked CMOS sensors (separate photodiode and circuitry layers) increase dynamic range and cut noise by packing more transistor areapetapixel.com. For instance, Sony’s “2-Layer Transistor Pixel” design doubles saturation and widens dynamic range compared to older sensorspetapixel.com. Very large sensors are also appearing: the Vivo X100 Pro’s main camera uses a 1-inch (Type 1.0) Sony IMX989 sensor, yielding outstanding low-light detailamateurphotographer.competapixel.com.

High-end phones use periscope telephoto lenses for long-range shots. These folded optics let phones offer up to 5–10× true optical zoom (often achieved by cropping a 50–100MP periscope sensor). For example, Honor’s Magic6 Pro packs a 180MP periscope that achieves 5× lossless zoomwired.com. Meanwhile, ultra-wide cameras trade zoom for a broad 110°+ view (often 12–50MP sensors) for landscapes and macro shots.

AI in Smartphone Photography

Artificial intelligence now powers much of the camera experience. Modern phones include features like Magic Eraser (to remove objects) and Magic Editor (to rearrange elements) in Google Photosstore.google.comgoogle.com. Apple’s latest devices offer generative editing (“Photo Reimagine”) and Smart HDR (Apple’s HDR engine) to enhance images on-device. Samsung’s 2024/2025 phones introduced a “ProVisual Engine” with Nightography (enhanced night mode) and AI Zoom for clearer zoom shotsnews.samsung.com. On-device neural processing (like Google’s Tensor chips) handles tasks locally for privacy and speed, though some cloud-based AI (e.g. Google’s Gemini) can also assist in editing.

In short, 2025 camera phones are as much about smart software as hardware: they “think” to compose, expose, and clean up images, helping even casual users take pro-level photosstore.google.comgoogle.com.

Best Overall Smartphone Cameras in 2025

1. iPhone 17 Pro Max

Apple’s flagship offers a triple-lens setup with LiDAR for depth sensing. While the iPhone 17 Pro Max is still unreleased, it builds on Apple’s proven camera tech: large sensors with second-gen sensor-shift stabilization, Photonic Engine processing, and a LiDAR scanner for Night mode portraitssupport.apple.com, support.apple.com. The 15 Pro Max’s spec shows what to expect: 48MP main (ƒ/1.78, OIS), 12MP ultrawide, and a 12MP telephoto (5× optical)support.apple.com, support.apple.com. Apple’s software features Deep Fusion and Smart HDR 5 to merge multiple exposures into natural-looking imagessupport.apple.com. Video is a highlight: Cinematic mode (portrait video), Dolby Vision HDR up to 4K/60, and 8K video recording are standardsupport.apple.com, support.apple.com.

Pros/Cons: The iPhone camera excels at color accuracy and video (Dolby Vision), and LiDAR aids low-light focus. It’s ideal for creators entrenched in Apple’s ecosystem. On the downside, it’s pricey and not as zoom-centric as some rivals. See Apple’s official specssupport.apple.comsupport.apple.com for details.
Apple Product Page: apple.com/iphone-17 (note: page will update upon release)

2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

The Galaxy S25 Ultra pushes hardware limits: its 200MP main sensor, paired with OIS, captures extreme detailcamerajabber.com, digitaltrends.com. For zoom, Samsung includes two periscopes (a 50MP 5× telephoto and a 10MP 3× telephoto) plus a 50MP ultrawidecamerajabber.com. In low light, Samsung’s Nightography AI enhances brightness and sharpnessnews.samsung.com. Samsung also provides an Expert RAW app for full control. Overall, it’s a powerhouse for zoom and night shots.

Rear view of Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra showing quad camera layout with periscope lens – best camera phone 2025.digitaltrends.comnews.samsung.com

Pros/Cons: The S25 Ultra is unmatched for long-distance and low-light photography thanks to its 200MP sensor and AI night mode. It’s excellent for travelers and pros needing versatile lenses. Cons include its large size and high price. (For more on Samsung’s AI camera features, see our AI Trends in Mobile Tech roundup.) See our AI Trends in Mobile Tech article for details.news.samsung.com, camerajabber.com

Explore our full Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra camera review

3. Google Pixel 9 Pro

Google’s Pixel 9 Pro (expected late 2025) continues Google’s focus on AI and computational photography. It will run on the Tensor G4 chip, powering features like Real Tone (for accurate skin colors) and computational HDR. Google’s flagship editing tools like Magic Editor and Best Take are standout: the Pixel can automatically swap faces in group photos and even “reimagine” images with AI enhancementsstore.google.com, store.google.com. Hardware-wise, expect a high-quality main sensor (rumors suggest ~48MP) and ultrawide. The Pixel excels in everyday photography and social media-ready shots due to its software smarts.

Ideal For: Social media users and casual photographers who want excellent snapshots and powerful AI edits without fiddling. According to Google, the Pixel 8 Pro’s “Magic Editor” can reposition subjects or adjust lighting in a tapstore.google.com, and “Best Take” merges group shots to eliminate blinksstore.google.com. We anticipate similar or improved capabilities on Pixel 9 Pro. More on Pixel imaging algorithms below.

4. Apple iPhone 16 Pro / Pro Max

Why It Shines

• Camera Specs: 48 MP main (f/1.5), 12 MP ultra-wide (f/1.8), 12 MP telephoto (3× optical) techradar.com

• Computational Photography: Photonic Engine for improved color accuracy, ProRAW capture, Cinematic video in 4K/120 fps

• Build & Software: Durable titanium frame, iOS 18 with improved editing tools

Real-World Performance

Portraits on the iPhone 16 Pro boast natural skin tones and smooth bokeh thanks to Smart HDR 5. Macro shots leverage the ultra-wide lens to focus down to 2 cm. When capturing video, the new Cinematic Mode’s depth-mapping AI smoothly shifts focus between subjects.

Pro Tip: Use ProRAW for landscapes—shoot in RAW, then apply a gentle contrast curve in Adobe Lightroom for maximum detail retention.

5. OnePlus 13

Standout Features

• Camera Specs: 64 MP main (f/1.6), 48 MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), 32 MP telephoto (3× optical) amateurphotographer.com

• Software: Hasselblad calibration for natural color; AI-driven HDR+ processing

• Performance: Fast capture with <0.3 s shutter lag

Real-World Performance

For street photography, the OnePlus 13’s rapid autofocus and minimal shutter lag capture fleeting expressions. Landscape shots benefit from the ultra-wide’s wide field of view and enhanced edge-distortion correction.

User Experience: Many photographers prefer the OnePlus 13’s warmer color science over the colder tones of other Android flagships.

6. Xiaomi 15 Ultra

Why It Matters

• Camera Specs: 50 MP main (f/1.6), 50 MP periscope (5×), 48 MP ultra-wide (f/2.3) amateurphotographer.com

• Unique Tech: Leica-tuned lenses, AI-powered portrait master mode

• Battery & Display: 5,500 mAh; 6.73″ E6 OLED, 144 Hz

Real-World Performance

With Leica’s signature color profiles, the 15 Ultra delivers vivid hues and film-like contrast. The periscope lens produces tack-sharp zoom shots, while Ultra-Night Video mode captures cinematic low-light footage.

Best Smartphones for Low-Light Photography

1. Vivo X100 Pro+

Vivo’s X100 Pro+ shines in dim conditions with its 1-inch Sony IMX989 sensor on the main cameraamateurphotographer.competapixel.com. This extra-large sensor and Zeiss optics deliver rich colors and low noise. Reviews note “exceptional results in all conditions” thanks to that huge sensoramateurphotographer.com. Coupled with a high-resolution ultrawide and periscope zoom, it’s a great all-rounder. Vivo’s V3 imaging chip also uses AI to enhance portrait and night shotspetapixel.com.

Pros/Cons: Outstanding low-light and astro shots thanks to the giant main sensor, with versatile Zeiss modes (Portrait, Supermoon, etc.). However, it is a premium device (often more available in Asia than globally) and may lack some Western software features.

2. Honor Magic6 Pro

Honor’s flagship camera emphasizes night and telephoto performance. It sports a 50MP main lens with variable aperture (ƒ/1.4–2.0) for better light controlwired.com. Its star is the 180MP telephoto sensor: although only 2.5× optical, by cropping that huge sensor it achieves 5× “lossless” zoom, capturing incredible detailwired.com. Honor also includes AI-powered modes: advanced night and astrophotography modes take advantage of a 3D ToF depth sensor and motion-detection to stabilize long exposureswired.comamateurphotographer.com. Reviews praise its wide depth of field (thanks to the variable aperture) and strong low-light fidelitywired.comdxomark.com.

Pros/Cons: Excellent detail in 5× zoom shots, wide color accuracy, and a dedicated 3D depth camera for portrait/astro mode. Cons are somewhat uneven processing (the ultrawide can oversmooth) and software quirks in AI modes. But for astrophotography, Honor’s performance is top-tier among Android phones.

Best Budget Camera Phones in 2025 (Under $800)

1. Google Pixel 8a / Pixel 9a

Google’s midrange Pixel 8a (released 2024) and upcoming Pixel 9a pack flagship-grade cameras on a budget. The Pixel 8a had a 64MP main camera (1/1.73″ sensor), and the Pixel 9a swaps in a 48MP, 1/2.0″ sensor with Dual Pixel AF and OISphonearena.com. Despite the lower megapixels, the Pixel 9a’s larger sensor and Google’s image processing ensure great results (as PhoneArena notes, “more megapixels don’t automagically mean better camera”phonearena.com). Both have the same 13MP ultrawide. Crucially, they inherit Google’s AI camera features: Magic Eraser, Unblur, and Portrait Light editing from their higher-end siblings.

Pros/Cons: Excellent image quality for the price, especially in well-lit conditions. Benefit from Pixel’s clean software and timely updates. The main limitation is less optical zoom (no telephoto lens) and only single or dual-camera setups. Overall, the 8a/9a are great value, bringing Pixel-style photos to under $500–$600.

2. Samsung Galaxy A75

(Expectations based on Samsung’s A-series trends.) The Galaxy A75 (mid-2025 model) is poised to offer a solid quad-camera setup on a budget. Likely, it will feature a high-res main sensor (e.g. 108MP or 200MP like some midrangers), an ultrawide, and one or two telephoto/macro sensors. Samsung’s latest One UI 7 brings AI features even to midrange devices: scene optimization and low-light enhancements via Galaxy AI are now part of the camera experiencesamsung.com. While official specs aren’t out yet, expect an AI-backed night mode and Samsung’s standard suite of editing tools (single take, panoramic HDR, etc.).

Pros/Cons: Offers flagship-inspired features (like advanced Nightography) at a budget price. The A-series phones often have robust battery life and IP67 sealing. Limitations: likely smaller sensors and no space zoom beyond 3× optical, but still much better than typical budget phones. Watch for an upcoming FrediTech review once it launches.

Best Phones for Video Recording in 2025

1. Sony Xperia 1 VI

Sony’s Xperia 1 VI is tailor-made for video enthusiasts. Its camera app mirrors Sony’s Alpha cameras, offering full manual controls (exposure, ISO, shutter speed) and professional profiles. It features Real-time Eye AF (autofocus) even in video, tracking faces and eyes with uncanny precision. The triple cameras (48MP main, 12MP ultrawide, 12MP tele 3.5–7.1× optical) all shoot crisp 4K video; autofocus and stabilization are top-tier. Sony also includes unique tools like Frame.io integration for workflow.

Pros/Cons: Excellent for pro video: you can record Cinema Pro Log videos and adjust focus on the fly. The adjustable 3.5×–7.1× optical zoom is rare in phones. However, its $1,300 price and Android updates policy make it niche – best for filmmakers who prize control over convenience.

2. iPhone 17 Pro Max

Again, the (rumored) iPhone 17 Pro Max is a top video machine. Apple’s Cinematic Mode (portrait video) likely evolves further; the 15 Pro Max already supported 4K Cinematic (HDR) at 30 fpssupport.apple.com. The phone will record 4K/60fps or 8K, with stable rolling-shutter OIS. Dolby Vision HDR capture is a key feature – Apple’s devices can record and playback HDR video natively. Frame rates up to 240fps (1080p) for slo-mo and ProRes encoding for post-production are also expected (see iPhone 15 Pro Max specssupport.apple.com). In short, it’s ideal for creators demanding cinematic-quality footage and an intuitive app ecosystem (Final Cut compatibility).

Pros/Cons: The best-in-class video codec support (Dolby Vision, ProRes) and Cinematic mode make it a favorite among mobile filmmakers. Weaknesses: no built-in standard headphone jack (unlike Xperia) and expensive.

Camera Comparison Table (Quick Summary)

Phone	Camera Setup	Key Strengths	Price Range	Best For
iPhone 17 Pro Max	Triple + LiDAR	Video, natural color	$$$	Creators, Pros
Galaxy S25 Ultra	Quad: 200MP + 5x + 3x + UW	Zoom, Night	$$$	Travel, Pro Users
Pixel 9 Pro	Dual/Triple (expected)	AI editing, Portraits	$$	Social, Everyday
Vivo X100 Pro+	1″ sensor + 50MP UW + 4.3× tele	Low-light, Detail	$$$	Photography Enthusiasts
Pixel 8a (budget)	48MP + 13MP UW	AI features, value	$	Budget Shooters

(UW = ultrawide, + = likely dual front cameras or LiDAR).

Tips for Choosing the Right Camera Phone

Use Case Scenarios

• Casual snaps vs. content creation: If you mostly share photos on social media, a phone with strong AI features and pleasing auto modes (like Pixel) may suffice. For professional content or printing, prioritize phones with RAW capture and high-end sensors (like iPhone or S25 Ultra).

• Enthusiast vs. everyday: Photography enthusiasts might prefer manual controls and versatile zoom (Sony Xperia, Honor Magic), while everyday users may value ease-of-use (automatic HDR, good selfies). Think about whether you want to take photos or to create them.

• Special needs: For travel, a zoom-centric phone (S25 Ultra, Magic6 Pro) is handy. For vloggers, look at video-centric phones (iPhone 17, Xperia 1 VI).

Software Updates and Support

Regular updates can significantly improve camera performance (new modes, better AI). Google Pixel and Apple iPhones tend to have longer update support than most Androids. Samsung now promises 4–5 years of Android updates for flagships. When choosing, consider how long the phone will stay updated – a slightly older flagship might outperform a new budget phone in long-term camera capabilities.

Storage and Backup

Photography and 4K video eat up space. Look for devices with ample internal storage (256GB+ on flagships) or expandable storage (Xperia 1 VI offers microSD). Also plan for backups: Google Photos (Android) and iCloud (iOS) can auto-backup photos. Unlimited high-quality backup is free on Pixel phones; iCloud requires a subscription beyond 5GB. Ensure you have a backup routine to not lose precious shots.

Final Verdict – Which Smartphone Camera Wins in 2025?

Each of the above phones shines in its niche. The iPhone 17 Pro Max and Galaxy S25 Ultra represent the pinnacle of flagship cameras, offering balanced performance and video prowess. The Pixel 9 Pro (and its 8a sibling) bring top-tier computational photography to a wider audience. The Vivo X100 Pro+ and Honor Magic6 Pro excel in specialized fields (low light and zoom, respectively).

Ultimately, the “best” camera phone depends on your needs. If you value versatility and video, the iPhone or Xperia may be tops. If zoom or night shots are critical, look to Samsung or Honor. For social media photography on a budget, Pixel’s mix of hardware and AI is compelling.

Choose based on your use case: the richest feature set isn’t always necessary for casual users, while enthusiasts should prioritize optical performance. We encourage you to weigh the pros and cons listed above and pick the device that fits your photography style.

Please let us know your thoughts or vote for your favorite camera phone in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best smartphone camera for low light in 2025?

The Vivo X100 Pro+ leads for low-light photography with its massive 1-inch Sony IMX989 sensor and Zeiss optics, delivering minimal noise and impressive detail even in near-dark conditions. Honor’s Magic6 Pro follows closely, using a variable aperture main lens and advanced AI algorithms for clean astrophotography shots. Both phones combine large sensors, OIS, and specialized night modes to outperform other flagships in dim environments.

Are phone cameras better than DSLRs now?

For most users, yes: flagship phones now offer sensor sizes up to 1 inch, multi-lens arrays, and AI-driven processing that rival entry-level DSLRs for everyday photography. They excel in portability, software features (like live HDR and scene detection), and seamless sharing. However, DSLRs still have advantages in interchangeable lenses, raw dynamic range, and professional controls for specialized use cases.

How important is AI for smartphone photography?

AI is central: it automatically optimizes exposure, merges HDR brackets, removes noise, and can even erase unwanted objects. Features like Google’s Magic Editor, Samsung’s Nightography AI, and Apple’s Smart HDR rely on machine learning to deliver images that would be difficult to achieve manually, making pro-level results accessible to all users.

Is more megapixels always better?

No. While high megapixel counts (100–200 MP) can capture fine detail, sensor size and individual pixel size determine light-gathering ability. A well-built 50 MP sensor with large pixels and effective pixel-binning often outperforms a tiny 200 MP sensor in low-light performance and dynamic range.

What phone has the best video camera in 2025?

Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max tops video performance with native Dolby Vision HDR up to 4K/60fps, Cinematic mode for rack-focus effects, and ProRes recording. The Sony Xperia 1 VI is a close second for pros, offering full manual video controls, real-time Eye AF, and Cinema Pro Log profiles that mirror Sony’s Alpha cameras.

Which smartphone has the best low-light camera in 2025?

Beyond the Vivo X100 Pro+, the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra also excels in low light thanks to its 200 MP sensor with large 2.4 µm pixel binning and advanced Nightography AI. Both devices deliver bright, detailed shots when ambient light is scarce.

What phone offers the best zoom capabilities?

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra leads with a dual-periscope setup (5× and 10× optical) that provides crisp, lossless zoom up to 100 MP resolution. Honor’s Magic6 Pro also impresses with a 5× “lossless” zoom achieved by cropping a 180 MP sensor, capturing fine detail at a distance.

Is the iPhone 16 Pro better than the Galaxy S25 Ultra for video?

Both are excellent, but the iPhone 16 Pro edges out with its native Dolby Vision HDR pipeline, smoother Cinematic mode, and tighter Apple ecosystem integration for editing in Final Cut. The Galaxy S25 Ultra offers strong stabilization and Pro Video mode but falls slightly behind in HDR color grading and workflow convenience.

Do these phones support RAW capture?

Yes. All major flagships support RAW: iPhones use ProRAW, Samsung offers Expert RAW, Google Pixels allow RAW/DNG capture in Camera P2, and both Vivo and Honor provide RAW export in their professional camera apps. RAW support unlocks maximum editing flexibility.

Which is the best budget-friendly photography phone?

The Google Pixel 8a (and upcoming Pixel 9a) deliver flagship-style image quality under $600, thanks to a 48 MP OIS-equipped sensor and Google’s computational photography. They include Magic Eraser, Night Sight, and regular feature updates, making them the top budget pick for photography enthusiasts.

Author: Wiredu Fred – Technology Editor at FrediTech, specializing in mobile photography and camera tech.