1. Sony Xperia 5
9.75 / 10Read Reviews
What’s great about the digital age are the different jobs it has produced, and some jobs can be learned by watching YouTube videos. It’s so difficult to get a foot in the door in the film industry. Smartphones have been a godsend for aspiring filmmakers. The next Steven Spielberg doesn’t have to wait for his big break. For writers that have a story to tell, the Sony Xperia 5 can be your most valuable piece of equipment.
For anyone who knows, Sony makes some of the best DSLR’s and mirrorless cameras in the world; and the Sony image profile is seen as the most unique. It’s wonderful in low light situations. In fact, some photographers would say dramatic settings are where Sony cameras truly shine. The color profile on the Xperia 5 has a dark feel. This smart phone is a cinematographer’s dream! The manual video controls comes with all types of features, like rack focusing between two points for next level shooting.
This phone has excellent camera stabilization for those who want to get fancy with complex camera moves. Sony also kept post production editing and color correction in mind for any project. Their 4K HDR recording allows the user to shoot flat, and really keep their options open for how the final project will look. Go on YouTube, and you’ll hear filmmakers talk about how to make your shots look “cinematic”. Well, that’s all built in to the Sony’s triple-camera array with cinema wide 21:9 shooting ratio, and clip editing. When it comes to video, the Xperia 5 gives you the most creative control; music to any filmmaker’s ears.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- OLED Cinema wide screen
- Three different camera lenses
- Electronic Image Stabilization
- 4K HDR Capabilities
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 6.22 x 2.68 x 0.32 inches
- Screen Size: 6.1 inches
- Battery Life: 08:30 Hours
- Operating System: Android 9.0 “Pie”
- Brand: Sony
PROS
- Compatible with all US Carriers
- Shoots up to 10fps
- Has a great auto focus
- Cinema Pro clip editing
CONS
- Fingerprint scanner isn’t great
- Camera zoom isn’t the best
BUY THIS PRODUCTSony Xperia 5AmazonPREMIUM PICK
2. Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus
9.25 / 10Read Reviews
Nowadays, smartphones have a bunch of add-ons and separate devices to boost what you get out of your experience. Sometimes, your phone just won’t cut it; sometimes you need a gadget. The Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus is for those with an entrepreneurial spirit. When your creativity pays the bills, you need a phone that can produce and keep your life on schedule. This is definitely a phone that can keep up with a busy lifestyle of today’s modern CEO or freelancer.
“Intelligent” isn’t how one would normally describe a phone, but in this case, the synopsis is validated. All the features were developed with efficiency in mind. For filmmakers and producers, this is a great phone without even speaking of the triple-camera array. The Galaxy Note 10 Plus has handwriting-to-text, a remote shutter, flawless audio recording, air gestures, and comes with a digital stylus. The 6.8 inch infinity display is also the biggest screen on this list, and that’s not even where the fun begins.
With the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus, the user will feel like they have a film crew in the palm of their hands. Called a “studio in your pocket”, the camera features makes the 10 Plus worthy of the title. The ultra wide lens is a 12mm and capable of capturing as much landscape as you need in the shot. The sensor is allows you to get the perfect focus, and the live bokeh will give you backgrounds a professional look with the way you can control and blur lights. No matter, the best feature is the S pen doubling as a remote shutter, so you don’t even have to be behind the phone to take a picture.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- Includes a versatile stylus
- Wireless power-share
- 10MP Selfie camera
- Air action wireless gestures
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 6.39 x 3.04 x 0.31 inches
- Screen Size: 6.8 inches
- Battery Life: 10:47
- Operating System: Android 9 Pie One UI 1.5
- Brand: Samsung
PROS
- Great image stabilization
- Large infinity display
- MicroSD memory card slot
- Support HDR10+ video
CONS
- Doesn’t allow manual shooting
- Not the best with retaining detail
BUY THIS PRODUCTSamsung Galaxy Note 10 PlusAmazonBEST VALUE
3. Xiaomi Mi Note 10
9.75 / 10Read Reviews
Any time a company can brag about being the first to implement new tech, or having the best specs in the world, people will take notice. There are only a few smartphones on Earth that can boast about their cameras being over 100 megapixels, and the Xiaomi Mi Note 10 is one of them. When released, the Mi Note 10 headlined as having the first 108MP sensor to ever be introduced to a camera phone. If you don’t have the relevant technical knowhow, this means the Mi Note 10 is a pretty big deal.
With the highest resolution money can buy, this top of the line camera sensor produces a clean, detailed, perfectly exposed image with almost no noise whatsoever. Shooting at a f-stop of 1.7, the main lens gives photographers that desired professional look you need to take your work to the next level. Xiaomi uses “pixel-binning” to expand the dynamic range of the shots you get. That means the sensor combines four separate pixel into one. This also helps the Mi Note 10 to be one of the best camera phones to shoot with in low light conditions; perfect for users who want to touch up their photos in an image editor like Photoshop. However, you do have the option of shooting with the full 108MP resolution instead of compressing that number to a fourth.
Not only is the main camera a monster, but the other lens options do a great job as well. This smartphone includes two telephoto cameras; an ultra-wide angle, and one camera devoted to macro shooting to complete this diverse camera array. The Xiaomi Mi Note 10 is certainly deserving of all the hype.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- 12MP telephoto lens
- First 108MP sensor in the world
- 32MP front camera
- Ultra long battery life
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 6.21 x 2.92 x 0.38 inches
- Screen Size: 6.47 inches
- Battery Life: 17:30
- Operating System: Android 9.0 (Pie), MIUI 11
- Brand: Xiaomi
PROS
- Includes a variety of focal lengths
- Multiple shooting modes
- Zoom is excellent
- Has camera for macro photography
CONS
- No extra storage slot
- Not best option for US users
BUY THIS PRODUCTXiaomi Mi Note 10Amazon
4. Apple IPhone 11 Pro
9.90 / 10Read Reviews
For decades now, Apple has been a leader in creating the most advanced technology in the world. Innovative doesn’t begin to describe the late Steve Jobs and the products that were developed during his tenure. For a while, it seemed that Apple was the one company that would release a device that went against the grain, yet they did so much in their respective industries. The iMac transformed computing forever, and the iPod did the same for the way we listen to music. The iPhone series has revolutionized smartphones, and the iPhone 11 Pro is possibly the best in the world.
The only device in the history of the iPhone line with “Pro” attached, this baby definitely lives up to the name. With this smartphone in your hands, you will feel like a professional photographer when you see what it’s capable of. This is certainly the best point and shoot camera phone on the market because of its versatility. If you are (or aspire to be) a content creator or influencer, then this, or these, are the cameras you need. It’s not the first triple-camera construct, but it produces image quality that your favorite influencer would be jealous of.
Again, it’s Apple; as far as the color profile and sharpness, it’s state-of-the-art tech you’re getting. Shooting 4K is a special feature for camera phones to have, so it’s no surprise that the Apple iPhone 11 Pro can handle the load, even at 60 frames per second (fps). Going live on social media apps is the new craze, and this smartphone has one of the best selfie cameras to entertain your audience. It doesn’t perform the best in low light out of the other smartphones that made this list, but it’s also far from the worst. You really can’t go wrong with any Apple product made in the last couple of years. And since Apple doesn’t have a DSLR or mirrorless camera on the market at the moment, the cameras that come with this phone will make do.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- Comes with EarPods
- Augmented Reality (AR)
- Super Retina XDR display
- A13 Bionic for gaming
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 3.00 x 2.00 x 1.00 inches
- Screen Size: 6.5 inches
- Battery Life: 11:54 Hours
- Operating System: iOS v13.0
- Brand: Apple
PROS
- Night Mode is great for low light
- Water Resistant
- Shoots amazing videos
- Very bright display
CONS
- Doesn’t have a manual mode
- Very expensive
BUY THIS PRODUCTApple IPhone 11 ProAmazon
5. Google Pixel 4
8.25 / 10Read Reviews
Smartphones are indispensable pieces of tech. It’s near impossible to live without them in today’s society, unless you opt to use a flip phone (if they’re still available). Most know Google for it’s applications, including its web browser, email service, and search engine. In 2010, Google got into the mobile game with the release of its first smart phone, and in 2016 they released the first Pixel. The fourth generation of the Google Pixel is a solid and affordable camera phone for consumers.
There aren’t many great options outside of Samsung that run the Android operating system with quality image capabilities. As one of the least expensive smartphones on this list, the Pixel 4 out performers almost all other challengers when it comes to low light and night photography. There’s nothing worse than having the perfect shot right in front of you, but not having a camera sensor that can read it. Now, with Google Night Sight, you can take the perfect image of landscapes with no light pollution. Filters have become very popular in social media, and this phone has features that separately adjust brightness and shadows, so you can create your own unique look as a photographer.
We will admit that there are smartphones that perform better as an overall device, but the Google Pixel 4 camera does what not many professional DSLR’s can even do. With a steady surface or a stabilizer, the user can take control of Astrophotography Mode capable of a 5-minute exposure. With a shutter speed that long, you might just shoot a time-lapse of the Milky Way that could go viral.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- Features Google Assistant
- Quick Gestures with your hands
- Fast charge with Pixel Stand
- Built around Google software
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 0.33 x 2.70 x 5.77 inches
- Screen Size: 5.7 inches
- Battery Life: 25:00
- Operating System: Android
- Brand: Google
PROS
- Call Screen cuts down on robocalls
- Great for astrophotography
- Less expensive than competitors
- Excellent exposure controls
CONS
- Battery dies fast
- No wide angle lens
BUY THIS PRODUCTGoogle Pixel 4Amazon
6. OnePlus 7 Pro
8.50 / 10Read Reviews
If you want to go on the more affordable side, and still get that triple camera, 4K all-in-one bundle, then the OnePlus 7 Pro is a smartphone that needs looking into. There is a slightly better option in the newer OnePlus 8, though the 7 Pro performs well enough to make the list as the cheaper bargain. This device works fast, and it comes with a lot of storage, which is crucial if you love to shoot.
The OnePlus 7 Pro camera selection is solid across the board. An 8MP wide lens with a great 3x zoom, a primary camera at f/1.6, perfect for shortening depth of field, and a 16MP ultra-wide camera. All top of the line performance, all adept at taking wonderful shots. This is definitely a photographer’s camera phone. It comes with a bunch of different shooting modes for any occasion, which is big for those who love their DSLR’s. The selfie camera also packs 16MP, not to mention the duel LED flash to take your work up a notch. Pop-up cameras are something new, and this phone has it; you honestly can’t ask for more for the price.
Here’s where you just get spoiled. Its video has just as many features and does the job just as good as taking pictures with the OnePlus 7 Pro. Not only do you get the 4K resolution (which costs in the $1000 for DSLR’s), but you also get super slow motion, a video editor, and a time lapse option. Also, the super steady mode can deliver video that looks the smoothest out of most smartphones here.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- Built-in Dolby Atmos sound
- 3x zoom for distant subjects
- Functional triple camera
- 48MP main camera at f/1.6
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 2.99 x 0.39 x 6.40 inches
- Screen Size: 6.67 inches
- Battery Life: 09:30
- Operating System: Oxygen OS 9
- Brand: One Plus
PROS
- Beautiful screen construction
- Less expensive than competitors
- A lot of storage and RAM
- Good for Slo-mo recording and time lapses
CONS
- Doesn’t perform great in low light
- No manual mode for video
BUY THIS PRODUCTOnePlus 7 ProAmazon
7. Samsung Galaxy S20+
9.50 / 10Read Reviews
Hands down, the best Android phone for any American user is the Samsung Galaxy S20+. The way the camera performs is in a lot of ways tied to the way the phone was engineered. The Snapdragon 865 has more speed than any other Android processor ever made, it’s the best 5G smartphone available, and it’s a beautiful piece of machinery. There are a few other Samsung phones that are attractive alternatives, but they don’t utilize 5G as well at this point, so the S20+ is worth the extra coin.
The quality construct inside and out is a nice foundation for a first-rate camera phone. Sharpness in both your photos and videos won’t be an issue with this triple-camera alignment, with the telephoto lens being the star of the show. A 30x digital zoom on a 64MP camera isn’t bad by any standards. The extra size on the display comes in handy as well. Believe us when we tell you; you’ll thank Samsung for boosting the refresh rate to 120Hz, especially when you can shoot video in glorious 8K.
If it’s image quality that you really want, that’s what you get with the Samsung Galaxy S20+. It’s got a sensor that belongs in a cinema camera, and the dynamic range is top of the line.
The auto focus works well enough for macro shooters, and shooting at night or in low light in general is no problem for this beast. The Galaxy is a must buy if you love Android and you want the best.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- Samsung Snapdragon 865 processor
- Ready for 5G
- 8K video recording
- 64MP main camera
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 7.00 x 3.00 x 2.50 inches
- Screen Size: 6.7 inches
- Battery Life: 21:00
- Operating System: Android 10 One UI 2.0
- Brand: Samsung
PROS
- Slot for a microSD for strorage
- Excellent in low light situations
- Big sensors for a smart phone
- Capable of shooting extremely wide
CONS
- Space Zoom 100x doesn’t work well
- Auto focus isn’t the best
BUY THIS PRODUCTSamsung Galaxy S20+Amazon
8. Google Pixel 4 XL
9.00 / 10Read Reviews
Playback is important when you shoot. Having a large display to see your previous capture is critical when you want to adjust angles, eye levels, and camera moves; this is what photographers call, “working a shot”. With a 6.3-inch screen, the Google Pixel 4 XL is a great smartphone with a big enough screen to see all the details you need. It also has an upgraded refresh rate of 90Hz to keep your video clips playing smooth.
The Pixel series were some of the first phones in the image stacking game, so stargazers will have a blast with these lenses.
The Pixel 4 XL is equipped with two rear cameras and a selfie camera. The night sight is so good you won’t even need the flash. Imagine the possibilities having a primary 12.2MP, 28mm wide angle lens that opens to f/1.7. This makes the new Astro mode a winner if you love shoot the night sky. The 16MP telephoto camera is no slouch at f/2.4 either in addition to the 2x optical zoom.
Obviously, the Pixel 4 XL doesn’t have the number of cameras as the other contenders on this list. But it’s performance, build, and cost is what makes it one of the best camera phones. Images come out a little underexposed compared to the picture profiles you get on an Apple or a Samsung. The darker look still retains great detail in shadows, and can give your images a more realistic look. You won’t be settling if you choose the Google Pixel 4 XL, and you won’t have to spend over $1000.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- Includes an adaptive battery
- Supports nanoSIM and eSIM
- USB type-C headphone jack
- 90Hz Refresh Rate
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 5.70 x 2.70 x 0.30 inches
- Screen Size: 6.3 inches
- Battery Life: 09:42
- Operating System: Android 10
- Brand: Google
PROS
- Simple exposure controls
- Great for point and shoot situations
- Nice color profile on images
- Very large display for playback
CONS
- Camera doesn’t perform well through apps
- No expandable storage
BUY THIS PRODUCTGoogle Pixel 4 XLAmazon
9. IPhone XS
8.50 / 10Read Reviews
While the iPhone 11 promo is prime picture-taking material, the iPhone XS can’t be overlooked. With just a little digging, you’ll find that the Apple iPhone SE is perfect for an up and coming influencer. This sleek and colorful smartphone has the best camera array up to the newer iPhone 11, not to mention it’s a great looking prop for a selfie.
The rear cameras have an aperture of f/1.8 and f/2.4; wide enough to control depth of field how you want in well lit situations. There are better options on this list for nighttime shooting and landscapes, but the XS shoots some high grade portraits. Social media has transitioned into our lives just as smartphones have, so if you love post your food and your outfit of the day, you have to have this phone. Apple phones produce high quality pictures, especially when used through third-party apps like Instagram and Snapchat; something they have over their Android competition.
Depth control and Smart HDR were new features introduced with the X-series, and the processor is powerful enough to handle it. Both cameras in the back are rigged with effortless image stabilization to make those vlog videos shoot up in views. Overall performance, camera, and a respected name at a discount. That’s what you get when you buy the Apple iPhone XS.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- Super Retina display
- Stainless steel edging and glass back
- Quad-LED True Tone flash
- 3D Touch and Face recognition
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 5.65 x 2.79 x 0.30 inches
- Screen Size: 5.8 inches
- Battery Life: 10:38
- Operating System: iOS 12.0
- Brand: Apple
PROS
- Superior battery life
- Camera works perfectly with apps
- Excellent for portraits
- Great front camera for selfies
CONS
- Not the best color profile
- Doesn’t have a manual mode
BUY THIS PRODUCTIPhone XSAmazon
10. Huawei P30 Pro
9.30 / 10Read Reviews
When having a discussion about the best camera phones in the world, you have to mention the Huawei P30 Pro. We’re talking about the Swiss army knife of all camera phones. Any type of shooting you can possibly come up with can be executed on this phone with elite operation. Top photographers like variety and options when they shoot. They pack multiple lenses in their camera bags; the P30 Pro has that type of feel. No where else will you get the array of cameras that Huawei grants the owner.
The four-camera array is just as impressive as the entire design, and it all starts with the telephoto option. An eye-popping 5x periscope zoom is the best of any smartphone including the ones on this list, and it also included 50x digital zoom. Switch seamlessly between cameras and focal lengths with the best controls on the market. The main camera is a 40MP beauty that opens to an impressive f/1.6 aperture. Go a little deeper and you’ll find what makes Huawei’s product unique. By opting into the RYYB image sensor, photos come out much brighter than its standard RGB using rivals. This thing does everything to perfection, including shooting 4K video at 30fps.
After all of that, there’s still a bunch more to speak of when you get to the ultra wide camera and its autofocus feature. Add that to the portraits you get with the fourth and final time-of-flight (ToF) camera, and you’ve got a champion smartphone.READ MOREKEY FEATURES
- OLED Endless screen
- x2 40MP back cameras
- Shoots 4K video at 30fps
- 32MP front camera
SPECIFICATIONS
- Dimensions: 6.22 x 2.88 x 0.35 inches
- Screen Size: 6.53 inches
- Battery Life: 12:44
- Operating System: Android 10
- Brand: Huawei
PROS
- Comes with five different cameras
- Supports wireless and fast charging
- Excellent battery life
- Zoom is best of all camera phones
CONS
- Not the best option for US users
- Doesn’t support most Google apps
BUY THIS PRODUCTHuawei P30 ProAmazon
Shooting photos is fun, and luckily there’s a smartphone for everyone’s needs. Whether you want something for casual shoots with your family, or you want to make money from your photography in some way, the list that we’ve compiled has the camera phone you want for whatever budget you’re working with. As great as the specs are for these phones, there is a learning curve to taking quality pics. Even with the best tech in the world, just clicking the shutter won’t guarantee a good photo. Since you’ve read reviews on the best camera phones, here are a few tips to make sure you get breathtaking images from your device every time.
