Best camera phones for photography in 2024: Top picks reviewed

As smartphones continue to evolve, their camera capabilities are advancing at an impressive pace. In 2024, several models stand out for their photography features, offering professional-grade performance in a compact form. This article reviews some of the best camera phones available, evaluating their specifications, performance, and overall value for photography enthusiasts.

1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

Camera Setup: 200 MP + 12 MP + 10 MP + 50 MP (Rear), 12 MP (Front)

Battery: 5000 mAh, 45W Fast Charging

Display: 6.8 inches Dynamic AMOLED 2x

Price: Approximately ₹99,800

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra takes centre stage with its robust camera system, featuring a staggering 200 MP main sensor. This powerhouse not only captures breathtaking images but also excels in various lighting conditions, thanks to its advanced AI capabilities. The inclusion of an S Pen and other productivity features makes it ideal for professionals and creatives alike. However, its large size and premium price tag may deter some users. Overall, the S24 Ultra is an excellent choice for serious photographers.

2. Xiaomi 14 Ultra

Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

Camera Setup: Quad 50 MP (Rear), 32 MP (Front)

Battery: 5000 mAh, 90W Hyper Charging

Display: 6.73 inches AMOLED

Price: Approximately ₹99,999

The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is another strong contender, featuring a quad-camera system developed in partnership with Leica. Its versatility allows for stunning macro and portrait shots, while the vibrant AMOLED display enhances photo editing and viewing experiences. Although it has a bulky design, the performance and fast charging capabilities make it a worthy investment for photography enthusiasts.

3. Vivo X100 Pro 5G

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9300

Camera Setup: 50 MP + 50 MP + 50 MP (Rear), 32 MP (Front)

Battery: 5400 mAh, 100W Flash Charging

Display: 6.78 inches AMOLED

Price: Approximately ₹89,999

The Vivo X100 Pro 5G boasts exceptional rear cameras backed by ZEISS optics. Its performance is smooth, and the stunning display further enhances the user experience. While the selfie camera may be less impressive, the phone excels in low-light conditions and offers robust battery life, making it a solid choice for photographers on the go.

4. Google Pixel 8 Pro

Processor: Google Tensor G3

Camera Setup: 50 MP + 48 MP + 48 MP (Rear), 10.5 MP (Front)

Battery: 5050 mAh, 30W Fast Charging

Display: 6.7 inches OLED

Price: Approximately ₹101,999

Known for its exceptional computational photography capabilities, the Google Pixel 8 Pro offers an array of AI-driven features that enhance photo quality. While it provides excellent software support with seven years of updates, its performance can be hampered by the limitations of the Tensor G3 chipset. Nevertheless, its camera performance, especially in challenging lighting conditions, makes it an appealing option for photography lovers.

5. OnePlus 12

Processor: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3

Camera Setup: 50 MP + 48 MP + 64 MP (Rear), 32 MP (Front)

Battery: 5400 mAh, 100W Super VOOC Charging

Display: 6.82 inches ProXDR LTPO

Price: Approximately ₹64,998

OnePlus has consistently provided high-performance devices, and the OnePlus 12 is no exception. Its reliable camera setup is well-suited for various photography styles, and the clean Android experience enhances usability. Though it may not offer the same AI features as some competitors, it delivers strong performance for both casual and professional photographers.

6. Vivo X100

Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9300

Camera Setup: 50 MP + 50 MP + 64 MP (Rear), 32 MP (Front)

Battery: 5000 mAh, 120W Flash Charging

Display: 6.78 inches AMOLED

Price: Approximately ₹63,999

The Vivo X100 offers impressive camera performance, a sleek design, and robust battery life. The fast-charging feature ensures that you won't miss any moment while capturing photos. It strikes a balance between usability and performance, making it an attractive option for photography enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In 2024, the smartphone landscape is rich with options for photography lovers. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and Xiaomi 14 Ultra lead the pack with their exceptional camera systems and performance. Meanwhile, the Google Pixel 8 Pro shines in computational photography, while Vivo's offerings balance quality with usability. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and photography needs, but each of these devices is well-equipped to meet the demands of modern photography.