These Are the 10 Mobile Phones With the Best Cameras in 2025
Smartphones have become our go-to cameras, replacing bulky DSLRs and point-and-shoots for most everyday photography. With cutting-edge technology like AI-powered image processing, massive megapixel counts, and versatile lens systems, today’s mobile phones deliver stunning photos and videos that rival professional gear. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer, a content creator, or just someone who loves snapping pics of your life, having a phone with a top-tier camera is a game-changer.
As of February 24, 2025, the competition for the best camera phone is fiercer than ever. Brands like Apple, Samsung, Google, and emerging players like Xiaomi and Oppo are pushing the boundaries of mobile photography. But which phones stand out above the rest? In this article, we’ll dive into the 10 mobile phones with the best cameras right now, based on expert reviews, real-world performance, and the latest innovations. From low-light mastery to jaw-dropping zoom capabilities, these devices have it all. Let’s get started!
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Why It’s a Top Pick
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra, launched in January 2025, takes the crown as the best all-around camera phone this year. Building on the success of the S24 Ultra, this flagship refines its quad-camera system with a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP 5x periscope telephoto, a 10MP 3x telephoto, and a new 50MP ultrawide lens. The real magic, though, lies in Samsung’s ProVisual Engine, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip. This AI-driven software enhances everything from night shots to zoom quality, making every photo pop with vibrant colors and sharp details.
Camera Highlights
- 200MP Main Camera: Uses pixel-binning for 12.5MP shots that balance detail and file size.
- 5x Optical Zoom: The 50MP periscope lens delivers crisp mid-range zoom, with digital zoom up to 100x.
- 50MP Ultrawide: A major upgrade from the S24’s 12MP, offering wider, clearer shots.
- Video: 8K at 30fps with AI-generated slow-motion capabilities.
Why You’ll Love It
The Galaxy S25 Ultra excels in versatility. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or far-off subjects, it delivers. Its low-light performance is stellar, and the new anti-reflective screen coating makes framing shots outdoors a breeze. Check out the full review at PhoneArena for sample shots and in-depth analysis.
2. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Why It’s a Top Pick
Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max continues to dominate for its seamless blend of hardware and software. Released in September 2024, it features a 48MP main camera, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 12MP 5x telephoto lens. The new Camera Control button adds a tactile edge to photography, while Apple’s computational photography ensures natural, film-like results that don’t overdo saturation.
Camera Highlights
- 48MP Main Camera: Sharp edge-to-edge detail with excellent dynamic range.
- 48MP Ultrawide: A big leap from previous models, perfect for landscapes and macros.
- 5x Telephoto: Matches the Galaxy’s zoom prowess with optical stabilization.
- Video: 4K at 120fps with ProRes and studio-quality slow-motion.
Why You’ll Love It
If you value ease of use and professional-grade video, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is unbeatable. Its colors are true-to-life, and the integration with editing apps like Final Cut Pro makes it a filmmaker’s dream. Read more at CNET for a detailed breakdown.
3. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Why It’s a Top Pick
Google’s Pixel line has long been a favorite for photography enthusiasts, and the Pixel 9 Pro XL, launched in late 2024, takes it up a notch. With a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP 5x telephoto, it’s a powerhouse. Google’s AI smarts—like Magic Eraser and Super Res Zoom—make it a leader in computational photography.
Camera Highlights
- 50MP Main Camera: Bright, vibrant shots with top-tier low-light performance via Night Sight.
- 48MP Telephoto: 5x optical zoom with 30x digital zoom that holds up surprisingly well.
- 42MP Selfie Camera: Wider and sharper than ever.
- Video: Solid 4K with enhanced HDR.
Why You’ll Love It
The Pixel 9 Pro XL is perfect for those who want stunning photos without tinkering with settings. Its AI tools are unmatched for editing on the fly. Dive into the full review at TechRadar to see why it’s a fan favorite.
4. Xiaomi 14 Ultra
Why It’s a Top Pick
Xiaomi’s 14 Ultra, released in early 2024, is a photography beast that’s hard to beat—though it’s tricky to find in some markets. Partnered with Leica, it boasts four 50MP sensors covering main, ultrawide, 3x telephoto, and 5x periscope lenses. The 1-inch main sensor is a standout, delivering exceptional dynamic range and low-light performance.
Camera Highlights
- 50MP Main Camera: Massive 1-inch sensor for incredible detail and light capture.
- Dual Telephoto: 3x and 5x optical zoom for versatility.
- 50MP Ultrawide: Wide-angle shots with minimal distortion.
- Video: 8K with Leica-tuned color profiles.
Why You’ll Love It
For serious photographers, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers DSLR-like control and quality in a phone. Its only downside? Limited availability outside Asia. Learn more at Android Authority.
5. Oppo Find X8 Pro
Why It’s a Top Pick
Oppo’s Find X8 Pro, launched in late 2024, shines in low-light photography, earning it a spot on this list. With a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP 5x telephoto, it’s a well-rounded contender. Hasselblad’s color tuning adds a premium touch to every shot.
Camera Highlights
- 50MP Main Camera: Outstanding in dim conditions with fast apertures.
- 48MP Telephoto: 5x zoom with sharp results up to 30x digitally.
- 48MP Ultrawide: Improved sensor size for better quality.
- Video: 4K with excellent stabilization.
Why You’ll Love It
If you shoot a lot at night or indoors, the Find X8 Pro’s low-light prowess is hard to beat. Its sleek design is a bonus. Check out the review at Trusted Reviews.
6. Vivo X100 Pro
Why It’s a Top Pick
Vivo’s X100 Pro, released in late 2023 but still a top performer in 2025, pairs Zeiss optics with a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide, and a 50MP 4.3x telephoto. Its 1-inch main sensor rivals the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, making it a low-light champion.
Camera Highlights
- 50MP Main Camera: High-ISO performance for dark scenes.
- 50MP Telephoto: 100mm focal length for stunning close-ups.
- 50MP Ultrawide: Consistent quality across lenses.
- Video: 4K with Zeiss color grading.
Why You’ll Love It
The Vivo X100 Pro is a sleeper hit for photographers who want pro-level results. Availability is limited, but it’s worth seeking out. Read more at Amateur Photographer.
7. OnePlus 13
Why It’s a Top Pick
The OnePlus 13, launched in late 2024, brings Hasselblad’s expertise to a triple-camera setup: a 50MP main, a 48MP ultrawide, and a 48MP 3x telephoto. It’s fast, reliable, and great for action shots, thanks to its optimized shutter speed.
Camera Highlights
- 50MP Main Camera: Quick capture with vivid colors.
- 48MP Telephoto: 3x zoom with solid low-light performance.
- 48MP Ultrawide: Wide shots with minimal edge distortion.
- Video: 4K with 10-bit HDR.
Why You’ll Love It
For fast-paced photography—like kids or pets—the OnePlus 13 shines. It’s also a great value compared to pricier flagships. See the full scoop at TechRadar.
8. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
Why It’s a Top Pick
The Galaxy Z Fold 6, released in mid-2024, is the best foldable for photography. Its 50MP main camera, 12MP ultrawide, and 10MP 3x telephoto benefit from the foldable design, letting you use the main cameras for selfies via the outer screen.
Camera Highlights
- 50MP Main Camera: Sharp and colorful shots.
- 10MP Telephoto: 3x optical zoom for portraits.
- 12MP Ultrawide: Decent wide-angle performance.
- Video: 4K with flexible shooting angles.
Why You’ll Love It
The foldable form factor adds creativity to your shots, making it a unique pick. Explore more at Tom’s Guide.
9. Honor Magic6 Pro
Why It’s a Top Pick
Honor’s Magic6 Pro, launched in early 2024, impresses with a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide, and a 180MP periscope telephoto with 5x optical zoom. Its high-resolution telephoto lens is a standout for zoom lovers.
Camera Highlights
- 180MP Telephoto: Unmatched detail at 5x and beyond.
- 50MP Main Camera: Reliable in all lighting.
- 50MP Ultrawide: Wide shots with good clarity.
- Video: 4K with smooth stabilization.
Why You’ll Love It
If zoom is your priority, the Magic6 Pro delivers like no other. Check out the details at NotebookCheck.
10. Google Pixel 8a
Why It’s a Top Pick
The Pixel 8a, released in mid-2024, proves you don’t need a flagship budget for great photos. Its 64MP main sensor and 13MP ultrawide lean on Google’s AI to punch above their weight, making it the best mid-range camera phone.
Camera Highlights
- 64MP Main Camera: Crisp, vibrant shots with Night Sight.
- 13MP Ultrawide: Solid for landscapes and groups.
- Video: 4K with Ultra HDR support.
- AI Tools: Portrait mode and Magic Eraser included.
Why You’ll Love It
At around $500, the Pixel 8a offers flagship-level photography on a budget. Read the full review at Android Police.
How We Chose These Phones
Picking the top 10 camera phones wasn’t easy—2025 is packed with incredible options. We based our list on:
- Camera Hardware: Sensor size, megapixels, and lens versatility.
- Software: AI enhancements, computational photography, and editing tools.
- Performance: Real-world results in low light, zoom, and video.
- Reviews: Insights from trusted sources like CNET, TechRadar, and Trusted Reviews.
What to Look for in a Camera Phone
Not sure which phone suits you? Here’s a quick guide:
- Megapixels: More isn’t always better—look for pixel-binning or large sensors (e.g., 1-inch).
- Lenses: Multiple lenses (main, ultrawide, telephoto) add flexibility.
- Low-Light: Fast apertures and night modes are key.
- Zoom: Optical zoom beats digital for clarity.
- Video: Check resolution (4K/8K) and stabilization.
- Software: AI can make or break the experience.
Final Thoughts
The best camera phone for you depends on your needs. Want the ultimate all-rounder? Go for the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. Love natural photos and pro video? The iPhone 16 Pro Max is your pick. On a budget? The Pixel 8a won’t disappoint. Each of these 10 phones brings something special to the table, so you can’t go wrong.
Which one’s your favorite? Let us know in the comments, and happy snapping!