Advice Centre: Top 10 Rated Camera Phones

If you love capturing memories, shooting content or simply want a phone that always delivers great photos, a strong camera setup is essential. Modern smartphones now rival professional cameras thanks to huge sensors, advanced software and powerful AI processing.

The quick verdict

If you shoot a lot of video, an iPhone such as the iPhone 15 Pro Max is unbeatable. For zoom photography or high-detail shots, Samsung's Ultra models, led by the Galaxy S24 Ultra and its 200MP sensor, are the way to go. If you prefer natural-looking photos straight out of the camera, a Google Pixel such as the Pixel 8 Pro is the best fit.

Top rated camera phones at a glance

Rank	Phone	Best for
1	iPhone 15 Pro Max	Video, Cinematic mode, ProRes
2	Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra	Zoom, landscapes, AI editing
3	Google Pixel 8 Pro	Point-and-shoot photos
4	Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra	Wildlife and distant subjects
5	iPhone 14 Pro Max	Night photography and handheld video
6	Google Pixel 7 Pro	Portraits and travel

Here’s our updated list of the top 10 rated camera phones available right now. Whether you’re into portraits, night photography or video creation, there’s something here for everyone. And if you're ready to upgrade, take a look at our range of fully tested refurbished phones.

1. iPhone 15 Pro Max

Apple’s most advanced camera system yet, featuring a 48MP main sensor, 5x optical zoom and incredible colour science.

Strengths: Best-in-class video, Cinematic mode, ProRes
Ideal for: Creators, videographers, everyday photography

2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

A powerhouse equipped with Samsung’s new 200MP sensor and enhanced Space Zoom capabilities.

Strengths: Hyper-detailed shots, 10x optical zoom
Ideal for: Zoom photography, landscapes, AI editing

3. Google Pixel 8 Pro

Google continues to dominate computational imaging. The Pixel 8 Pro produces stunning images with minimal effort.

Strengths: HDR+, magic tools, Real Tone
Ideal for: Point-and-shoot perfection

4. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

A fan favourite packed with Samsung’s famous 200MP camera and sharp telephoto lenses.

Strengths: Incredible zoom range
Ideal for: Wildlife, events, distant subjects

5. iPhone 14 Pro Max

Still one of the best camera phones on the market thanks to its versatile triple-lens system.

Strengths: Low-light performance, strong stabilisation
Ideal for: Night photography, smooth handheld video

6. Google Pixel 7 Pro

Known for producing some of the most natural and lifelike photos, especially portraits.

Strengths: Superb portrait mode, macro focus
Ideal for: Travel, people, everyday use

7. Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra

The S22 Ultra still battles with today’s top models thanks to its laser autofocus and long-range zoom.

Strengths: Strong telephoto results
Ideal for: Zoom lovers on a budget

8. iPhone 13 Pro Max

A beloved classic, delivering great detail, reliable colours and exceptional video recording.

Strengths: Cinematic Mode, excellent stabilisation
Ideal for: Content creators upgrading from older iPhones

9. Huawei P50 Pro

Despite Google restrictions, its camera hardware is still one of the best in the industry.

Strengths: Superb colour detail, great periscope lens
Ideal for: Photographers who prioritise raw camera performance

10. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5

A foldable with flagship-level cameras - perfect for creators who want versatility.

Strengths: Multi-angle shooting, Pro Mode
Ideal for: Productivity and creative shooting setups

Which Camera Phone Should You Choose?

If you shoot a lot of video, the iPhone range is unbeatable. For zoom photography or high-detail shots, Samsung’s Ultra models are the way to go. And if you prefer natural-looking photos straight out of the camera, Google Pixel phones shine every time.

You can find all of these models in our refurbished phone collection, each fully tested through a 90-point check. And if you're upgrading, you can trade in your old handset to put its value towards your next camera powerhouse.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best camera phone?

The iPhone 15 Pro Max tops Envirofone's list of rated camera phones, with a 48MP main sensor, 5x optical zoom and best-in-class video including Cinematic mode and ProRes.

Which phone has the best zoom camera?

Samsung's Ultra models are the way to go for zoom photography. The Galaxy S24 Ultra has a 200MP sensor and 10x optical zoom, while the Galaxy S23 Ultra offers an incredible zoom range.

Which phone is best for natural-looking photos?

Google Pixel phones shine for natural-looking photos straight out of the camera. The Pixel 8 Pro offers HDR+ and Real Tone, and the Pixel 7 Pro is known for natural, lifelike portraits.

What is the best budget phone for zoom photography?

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra suits zoom lovers on a budget. It still competes with today's top models thanks to its laser autofocus, long-range zoom and strong telephoto results.

Is the Huawei P50 Pro camera still good?

Yes. Despite Google restrictions, the Huawei P50 Pro's camera hardware is still one of the best in the industry, with superb colour detail and a great periscope lens.

Sam Hargreaves

Sam Hargreaves is a UK-based founder and technology specialist with deep expertise in mobile phone trade-in, buyback pricing, and selling used smartphones. He has spent years working directly on platforms that calculate phone values, compare buyback offers, and manage the real-world outcomes of people selling their mobile phones online, including those looking to Sell My Phone.

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