The Best Phone Cameras of 2023: Capturing the Perfect Shot
Ultimate Camera Phone of 2023
2023’s Best Camera Phone
Updated on Oct. 20, 2023
Written by Andrew Lanxon
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Andrew Lanxon: A Multitalented Photographer with an Appetite
Andrew Lanxon is the Editor at Large and Lead Photographer for Europe at ENBLE. When he’s not testing the latest smartphones, you can find him capturing stunning photos with his camera while drumming or even enjoying a mouthwatering homemade meal. Sometimes he manages to do all three at once!
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The Best Camera Phones of 2023
The year 2023 has brought us an impressive lineup of camera phones that can capture photos that would amaze your Instagram followers. From high-performance offerings by Apple, Google, Samsung, and more, each company brings its own unique features, lens configurations, and megapixel counts to the table. However, at ENBLE, we know that having more lenses or megapixels doesn’t necessarily guarantee superior image quality.
Top phones like the iPhone 15 Pro and the Pixel 7 Pro utilize larger image sensors and AI-powered computational photography to create stunning shots. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra sets a new standard for zoom capabilities in a phone camera.
But let’s face it, finding the “perfect” phone camera for everyone is an elusive quest. Even among ENBLE’s phone reviewers, we all have different preferences. That’s why we focus on real-life scenarios, assessing how these cameras perform in daily use, including exposure balance, color handling, and user-friendliness.
Now, let’s dive into the best camera phones of 2023:
Best Premium iPhone: iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max
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- $999 at Apple
Are you ready to capture breathtaking photos and videos? Look no further than the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. These impressive phones offer the best camera package money can buy. With a shared 48-megapixel main camera, both models excel at producing stunning visuals. However, the Pro Max goes a step further with its 5x optical zoom compared to the Pro’s 3x zoom, allowing you to discover more intriguing shots.
The iPhone 15 Pro series is not just about cameras; it boasts advanced features such as ProRaw images, ProRes video capture, and Log color space recording. These capabilities make it a powerful tool in the hands of professional filmmakers.
So, is the iPhone 15 Pro the unequivocal best camera phone on the market? Well, not necessarily. While it may not have revolutionary advancements compared to what Google and Samsung offer, its consistency, reliability, and approachability make it our top pick for anyone seeking a top-notch camera system that is easy to use.
Pros: – Lighter and more comfortable to hold – 15 Pro Max’s 5x optical zoom adds versatility – A17 Pro processor delivers console-like gaming experience – Focus adjustment in Portrait photos is a welcome feature
Cons: – Action button can only trigger one action – Baseline 15 Pro Max costs $100 more – The only color option is blue
Read our Apple iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max review.
What About the Pixel 8 Pro?
The highly anticipated Google Pixel 8 Pro is finally here, promising updates to its camera alongside various software features that leverage Google’s next-generation processors. We encountered some camera issues during testing and are currently working with Google to address them. So, stay tuned for our final review. Patience now may pay off later on!
Best Phone Camera for Photos: Google Pixel 7 Pro
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- $867 at Amazon
For those seeking a phone that excels at capturing stunning photos, the Google Pixel 7 Pro is a top choice. With its impressive main sensor, this phone captures shots with incredible dynamic range and vibrant colors, performing well in various lighting conditions. Additionally, its 5x optical zoom gives you extra reach compared to the iPhone 14 Pro.
While the Pixel 7 Pro’s night mode may not match the iPhone’s, it still delivers remarkable overall camera performance at a more affordable price. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or looking to unleash your artistic side, the Pixel 7 Pro has got you covered.
Pros: – Stellar camera with awesome new features – Classy design refinements – Blissful experience with Android 13
Cons: – Average battery life
Best Phone Camera for Zoom: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
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- $1,200 at Samsung
If zoom capability is your priority, set your sights on the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. This phone features an impressive 10x optical zoom, allowing you to capture shots that were previously out of reach. Samsung has made significant improvements to the camera’s resolution, color tones, and dynamic range with its 200-megapixel main sensor.
Packed with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor optimized specifically for Samsung’s phones, the Galaxy S23 Ultra offers faster performance compared to its predecessor, the S22 Ultra.
While this phone comes with a hefty price tag, the giant screen and exceptional camera make it worth the splurge for those craving top-tier photography capabilities.
Pros: – Fast performance – Excellent main camera, especially in low light – Bright screen – Included stylus – Double the storage in the base model – Four years of Android OS updates
Cons: – High price – Photos may lack natural look, especially selfies – No improvements to fast charging
Read our full review of the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
Best Camera for Casual Snappers: iPhone 15
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- $799 at Apple
Not everyone is in pursuit of professional-level photography. For casual snappers, the base model iPhone 15 provides excellent cameras without breaking the bank. Its main camera has been significantly upgraded to 48 megapixels, resulting in vibrant and sharp images in both standard and ultra-wide views.
If capturing moments with a simple tap of the screen is your goal, the iPhone 15 is the perfect choice. It excels at taking beautiful and well-exposed shots of your loved ones, making it the go-to phone for everyday photography needs.
Pros: – USB-C port for convenient charging – Colorful matte design – Improved camera technology for portraits – Impressive multitasking capabilities with Dynamic Island
Cons: – No always-on display feature – Find My Friends works only with iPhone 15 phones – Discounted iPhone 14 Pro may offer better value – Galaxy S23 offers a longer optical zoom
Best Camera Phone for $500: Google Pixel 7A
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- $499 at Best Buy
Budget-conscious photography enthusiasts, rejoice! The Google Pixel 7A is here to deliver exceptional camera performance at a fraction of the price. It shares many of the features found in the more expensive Pixel 7, thanks to its Tensor G2 processor. The 64-megapixel camera captures stunning photos that rival those from the Pixel 7 in quality.
While it lacks the telephoto zoom lens found in the Pixel 7 Pro, its affordability makes up for the trade-off, especially if wide-angle shots are more your style.
Save some money and still capture great snaps with the Pixel 7A. Only opt for the Pixel 7 if you prefer a slightly larger screen and don’t mind the additional $100 expense. The Pixel 7A offers similar features, including wireless charging, face unlock, and a high refresh rate display.
Pros: – Excellent camera performance – Affordable price compared to similar models – Attractive design – Wireless charging, face unlock, and high refresh rate
Cons: – Screen may appear dim outdoors – Higher price compared to Pixel 6A at launch – Three generations of Android OS updates compared to Samsung’s four
Read our full review of the Pixel 7A.
Best Cheaper iPhone Camera: iPhone 13
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- $599 at Apple
Not everyone needs the latest flagship phone. The iPhone 13 offers an excellent dual-camera setup that delivers vibrant, vivid images in both standard and ultra-wide views. It’s perfect for capturing quick snaps of memorable moments with your family and friends without draining your bank account.
Pros: – Good cameras – Solid battery life – Fun Cinematic mode – Affordable price compared to other iPhones
Cons: – Noticeable notch – Cinematic mode is more of a novelty than a pro feature – Selfie camera could be better
Now that you’ve seen our top picks, you might be wondering: what about the other phones we tested? Head to our website to discover more.
How We Test Phones
At ENBLE, our goal is to provide you with detailed reviews that go beyond spec sheets. We aim to evaluate phones in real-world scenarios, assessing their features, design, performance, cameras, battery life, and overall value. Our team of experts spends countless hours testing and documenting our findings to keep you informed.
Photography
We put the cameras through their paces by taking pictures and videos in various settings and lighting conditions. We explore new camera modes and tools, such as the Action mode on the iPhone 14 line and the Unblur photo feature on the Pixel 7 series.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial, so we test phones throughout a typical day of use, including video calls, media streaming, and gaming. We also conduct dedicated video playback tests to provide you with an accurate assessment of battery performance.
Performance Measuring
To evaluate performance, we use benchmarking apps alongside our own experiences with the phone. We look for smooth graphics, swift orientation switching, and fast camera app response.
We also perform processor-heavy tasks like photo editing, video exporting, and gaming to determine how the phone handles demanding applications. We assess whether newer models offer enough improvements to justify upgrading from previous versions.
You can read more about how we test phones.
How to Buy the Best Camera Phone
Looking to upgrade your phone? Here are some tips for making the best choice:
- Try it before you buy it: Visit a store and experience the camera features firsthand.
- Protect your investment: Invest in a sturdy case and screen protector to ensure your phone and camera stay in top condition.
- Affordability can still deliver quality: Don’t overlook the budget-friendly options like the Pixel 7A and iPhone 13. They offer excellent camera performance at an affordable price point.
- Wait for sales: Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, especially during major holidays like Prime Day and Black Friday.
- Consider your existing setup: If you already have iPhone camera accessories, stick with an iPhone to ensure compatibility.
Phone Camera FAQs
Which phone camera is best at night? The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, Apple iPhone 15 Pro, and Google Pixel 7 Pro all boast exceptional night modes that combine multiple images to create brighter, less noisy photos. Each phone performs well in low-light conditions, and it’s nearly impossible to declare one as the definitive winner.
Are iPhone or Samsung cameras better? Both Samsung Galaxy phones and Apple iPhones offer outstanding camera capabilities. Each excels in different areas, making it difficult to declare a clear winner. If you’re looking for the most robust zoom capability, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is your best bet. On the other hand, the iPhones offer consistent performance, reliability, and impressive features like ProRes and Log video capture.
What distinguishes phone cameras from dedicated cameras? The key difference lies in size. Dedicated cameras feature larger sensors and lenses that capture more light, resulting in photos with more detail, wider dynamic range, and better performance in medium and low-light conditions. Phone cameras, on the other hand, have much smaller sensors and lenses. However, they leverage computational photography techniques, such as AI and machine learning, to combine multiple images and create brighter, more detailed photos than their hardware alone would allow.
ENBLE is here to help you find the perfect camera phone for your needs. From stunning photos to practical advice, we’ve got you covered. Check out our latest reviews and start capturing memories like never before!
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Have any questions about camera phones? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s start a conversation!
