Today, one of the largest determinants of which smartphone people choose is the camera. The thing people love the most is documenting their life in photos and videos — whether it's a sunset, family reunion or simple, everyday moments. Android phones have come a long way with camera technology, and some models challenge professional cameras. But where do you start with such a diverse range on offer, and, of course, which Android is best for a camera?
It's not as simple as picking one phone as the answer. Certain brands jump ahead in different categories of photography — and the best choice for you all depends on what you care about most: low-light capabilities, zoom quality, video stability, or overall flexibility. Here, then, are the best Android smartphones that deserve your attention for their camera prowess.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: A Camera for Every Situation
Samsung has a reputation for advanced camera systems, and the Galaxy S24 Ultra is a demonstration of that. This phone has a quad-lens set-up with a punchy main sensor, an ultra-wide lens and two telephoto lenses to offer insane zoom. What sets the S24 Ultra apart is its versatility. You can shoot everything from close-up shots to detailed shots of small things, big scenes and quick snaps of family and friends.
And its zoom is among the best of any smartphone, producing crystal-clear images even from far away. Low-light performance is great, too, and Samsung's night mode captures bright, detailed photos. The Galaxy S24 Ultra also records in 8K for video lovers who want cinematic-type footage from their phone.
Google Pixel 8 Pro: The King of Computational Photography
If you're someone who enjoys photography but doesn't want to think too much about manual settings, the Google Pixel 8 Pro could be a very good option. Google itself is a software company, and its AI-bolstered photography system makes even the most mundane shots look incredible. The Pixel's primary sensor produces natural colours and sharp details and lifelike skin tones, which is why many people trust it for portrait photography.
One standout is Google's Night Sight mode, which is one of the best in the business. It does well even in low light conditions and even does so without an infrared filter. Another nice touch is the editing tools Google has included, including the Magic Eraser, which allows you to remove an unwanted object from a photo by tapping on it. That means the Pixel 8 Pro doesn't pile on as many lenses as Samsung does, but the quality of its shots help it stand out as one of the best Android phones for those who love photography.
OnePlus 12: A Balance of Performance and Photography
OnePlus has been refining its cameras over the years, and the OnePlus 12 is a testament to how far it's come. Together with legendary camera manufacturer Hasselblad, OnePlus has developed a system that gives you stunning, rich colours and subtle shadows. Its main sensor is capable of capturing lots of detail, and the ultra-wide lens is ideal for taking travel and landscape shots.
Instead, where the OnePlus 12 excels is in its natural colour production. Some phones are guilty of over-saturating photos to such a degree that they often come out looking more like they were created in Photoshop rather than from real life, but it's the kind of problem you don't get with the OnePlus 12. For video, it has decent stabilisation, which is really useful for those of us who like making handheld clips without extra gear.
Vivo X100 Pro: A New Star in Smartphone Photography
Vivo may not have the same worldwide reputation as Samsung or Google, but it has become a go-to choice for photography fans in no time. Vivo Mobile X100 Pro comes with lenses co-engineered with Zeiss, a renowned name in the world of professional optics. The results are amazing, particularly when it comes to portrait photography.
The phone's telephoto lens supports the kind of wonderful depth-of-field pictures that make portraits look pro. It's also an excellent low-light performer, capturing clean images with hardly any noise. For the mobile photographer who enjoys playing with camera features, Vivo's X100 Pro provides an interesting list that is better than many rivals.
Choosing the Right Camera Phone for You
So, what is the best Android camera? The reality is, it really just depends on your requirements. If you're looking for the most versatile camera system with fantastic zoom and video capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra can't be beat. If you like to snap no-fuss photos that always look good due to AI, look at the Google Pixel 8 Pro instead. If you like natural colours and a balanced display, the OnePlus 12 is up there. And if you're into portrait shots and eccentric features, the Vivo X100 Pro has to be high on your list.
Also to consider is your budget. Flagship phones, such as the Galaxy S24 Ultra or Pixel 8 Pro, can cost a pretty penny, and other ones, like the OnePlus 12, strike a comfortable mix of performance and price. Of the two, the best Android camera for you will be the one that complements your life as a casual photographer versus someone who likes to play around with every feature.
Final Thoughts
The world of Android cameras is moving forward at a breakneck pace, and the gulf between your phone and a professional-grade camera is rushing to be smaller and smaller. There's no need for bulky equipment to capture those breathtaking moments — your phone can do the job. Whether you're into epic landscapes, up-close-and-personal shots or harrowing action shots, there's an Android phone that will deliver the goods.
So when you are questioning "Which Android is best for a camera?" The answer is not a single name but a decision of which part of photography is more important to you. So breathe a little, think about what you care about — what's your style? — and choose the phone that feels right for you. You can't go wrong with any one of these top Android camera phones, with the choices available today.