Best Camera Phone of 2024

With a main camera sensor that's much larger than those on any of its rivals, a wide, variable aperture and Leica-engineered optics, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is able to take some of the best images we've ever seen from a phone. The huge dynamic range and clarity of the raw files means we can produce shots we'd normally expect to see from full-sized mirrorless cameras.

But we particularly like using the 14 Ultra's Leica high-contrast black-and-white mode, to take punchy monochrome street photos that look amazing without any post-processing. To make it more of a fully fledged camera, Xiaomi sells the Photography Kit that includes a case and a grip that provides physical camera controls. It allows you to use this phone just like a regular camera which makes it a total joy to use.

While we had some early issues with the Google Pixel 8 Pro -- mostly with its cameras shooting Raw files -- further testing and software updates from Google meant we eventually came away thinking quite highly of the Pixel 8 Pro. It has a lot going for it, from its slick design and easy-to-use Android 14 software to its rear camera setup, which can take some genuinely beautiful images. Google has sprinkled a variety of new AI features throughout the phone too, including a tool that uses generative AI to create wallpapers for the phone, and a camera feature that allows you to combine different faces from a series of burst images of a group of friends to make sure that everyone looks their best. 

But one of the best updates is Google's commitment to providing seven years of security updates to the Pixel 8 series, meaning this phone will still be safe to use in at least 2030. While we haven't been as impressed with this year's 8 Pro as we were with the 7 Pro, it's still a great phone to consider, especially if you're keen to hold on to your phone for longer. Read our Google Pixel 8 Pro review.

With a sharper 5x optical zoom, a faster new processor, that familiar giant display and 100x digital zoom, the Samsung’s “Ultra” phone remains a top choice for mobile photographers that want plenty of screen space. The Galaxy S24 Ultra is also one of the first phones with Samsung’s new Galaxy AI features, which include tools for translating text messages and phone calls instantly and Circle to Search, a new gesture that lets you launch a Google search for almost anything simply by drawing a circle around it.

Like the previous two generations, the Galaxy S24 Ultra comes with an embedded S Pen for those who like jotting down notes or doodling. But perhaps best of all, Samsung has committed to updating these devices with new versions of Android for seven years, meaning it shouldn’t feel out of date anytime soon.

Still, there are still some important downsides to consider. At $1,300, this phone is expensive, so be sure to look for trade-in discounts if you plan to upgrade. And for that high price, I had hoped Samsung would’ve added extra Galaxy AI features that are specific to the Ultra -- perhaps some that take advantage of the S Pen. But Galaxy AI is the same on all Galaxy S24 devices, and it’ll be coming to the Galaxy S23 lineup soon too, so you don’t have to splurge on Samsung’s top-of-the-line phone if you just care about those features. Read our Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra review.

The Pixel 8 has many of the features of the more expensive Pixel 8 Pro but comes in a slightly smaller package and with a smaller price tag to match. You'll find the Tensor G3 processor on board, along with Android 14 software that includes AI tools like the generative image wallpaper creator. It also comes with the same guarantee of at least seven years of security updates so this phone will still be going strong in 2030 -- as long as you look after it. 

The rear cameras are more cut back here, though, as the base Pixel 8 lacks the 5x optical zoom camera seen on its bigger brother. I personally love that zoom lens, but then I'm a professional photographer. If photography isn't a priority for you, you can save yourself a bundle and opt for the cheaper of Google's new range. The Pixel 8's higher price $699 seems worth it and makes you realize just how incredibly affordable the $599 Pixel 6 and 7 were and still are. Read our Google Pixel 8 review.

The base iPhone 15 lacks some of the advanced features of the Pro model, including the telephoto zoom lenses and capturing images in ProRaw or videos in ProRes formats. Its main camera has been given a significant bump to 48 megapixels, and refinements across the board mean it's an extremely capable camera for more everyday shooting. 

While dedicated photographers will likely want to look toward the Pro line, those of you wanting to simply take beautiful, well-exposed shots of your kids at the beach or your friends gathering for some beers will love the ease with which you can capture those moments with a tap of the screen. Its $200 savings over the base Pro model will be a little easier on your bank balance, as well.

Google's budget phone took a leap forward in 2023 with the Pixel 7A, which offers many of the same benefits as the Pixel 7 but at a cheaper price. Like the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7A runs on Google's Tensor G2 processor, meaning it has many of the same photo editing and language translation features as its pricier sibling. The Pixel 7A's 64-megapixel camera takes excellent photos that rival the Pixel 7's in quality.

While it lacks the telephoto zoom lens found on the Pixel 7 Pro, its much lower price means this is likely a good trade-off, especially if you prefer sweeping wide vistas rather than closeup portraits. 

While we still like the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7A's lower price makes it a better deal for most people. Opt for the Pixel 7 only if you really want a slightly larger screen and are willing to pay the extra $100 for it. Otherwise, the main differences between the Pixel 7 and 7A come down to the former's more durable build, slightly faster charging and ability to wirelessly charge compatible accessories. The Pixel 7 also has a larger camera sensor that's more sensitive to light, according to Google, but CNET's Lisa Eadicicco didn't notice much of a difference.

While the iPhone 15 Pro Max may have one of the best camera setups, it's possible to find on any phone, it also has a sky-high price tag that makes it out of reach for most of us. Thankfully, Apple has kept some of its older models on sale, directly from its online store, including the $599 iPhone 13. 

The Pro versions of the iPhone 13 or iPhone 14 aren't available anymore, but the iPhone 13 has an excellent dual-camera setup that takes vibrant, pin-sharp images in both standard and ultrawide views. If you're after a phone that's great at taking quick snaps of your family and friends during the holidays, then it's a great, more affordable option to consider.