As we step into 2025, the landscape of smartphone photography has evolved remarkably. Even budget-friendly phones priced around $500 now boast decent camera capabilities. However, for those seeking truly exceptional photography, the top-tier models stand out. The iPhone 16 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro, and Galaxy S25 Ultra are among the elite, featuring advanced camera systems and a suite of tools that can satisfy even professional photographers. Additionally, brands like Huawei, Oppo, and Xiaomi—particularly with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra—are pushing the boundaries of mobile photography with innovative technology that includes large image sensors and versatile lenses capable of macro photography.
When searching for the best camera phone, it's essential to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each user's needs vary, and even within CNET's team of reviewers, no single phone meets everyone's requirements. Our evaluations focus on real-world performance: how well cameras balance exposure, manage color accuracy, and their overall usability. To assist you in finding the ideal phone camera for your lifestyle, we recommend reviewing our comprehensive guide.
Our extensive testing involved comparing numerous smartphones, revealing that having more lenses or higher megapixels doesn’t automatically equate to better photos. Leading devices like the iPhone 16 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro typically offer a combination of lenses—including ultrawide and telephoto options with 5x optical zoom—and leverage larger image sensors alongside AI-driven computational photography features. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra excels in zoom capabilities with its 3x and 5x optical zoom lenses, producing some of the finest zoom images available in a smartphone.
The iPhone 16 Pro, priced at $999, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max at $1,199 both feature a robust trio of lenses: wide, ultrawide, and a 5x telephoto lens. The introduction of a new 48-megapixel ultrawide camera marks a significant upgrade from previous models, enabling stunning photography that also functions as a high-resolution macro lens—ideal for capturing intricate food shots. Moreover, these devices support 4K video at 120 frames per second, resulting in breathtaking slow-motion footage. A newly added Camera Control button enhances usability, serving as both a shortcut to launch the camera and a shutter button. It also functions as a zoom rocker and allows users to navigate Apple’s updated Photographic Styles directly from the viewfinder.
While the iPhone 16 Pro excels in consistency and user-friendliness, it’s important to note that it does not overshadow the innovations from Google and Samsung. For users who prioritize an intuitive camera system without sacrificing quality, the iPhone 16 Pro remains an excellent choice in the competitive smartphone market of 2025.
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