In 2025, mobile photography has reached unprecedented heights, and the race for the best camera phone is fiercer than ever. Whether you're a professional photographer, a social media enthusiast, or simply someone who loves capturing life's fleeting moments, the latest flagship smartphones deliver revolutionary imaging technology that sets new standards for clarity, versatility, and performance.
In this comprehensive guide, we review the top contenders that are redefining what's possible with a mobile camera. From the powerhouse performance of the Samsung S25 Ultra, Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max, and Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, to the innovative imaging capabilities found in the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max, OnePlus 13, and Huawei Pura 80 Ultra, and extending to the advanced camera systems of the Vivo X200 Pro, Oppo Find X8 Pro, and Honor Magic7 Pro – each device brings a unique blend of hardware excellence and intelligent software optimizations.
Our in-depth comparisons cover everything from processing power and display quality to memory configurations and, of course, the cutting-edge camera technologies that will empower you to shoot like a pro.
Now, let`s take a look the phones we can buy this year:
Samsung S25 Ultra
Platform
OS: Android 16CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm)
Memory
12/256, 12/512, 12/1024, 16/1024Size
6.8", 218 g (7.69 oz)162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2 mm
6.41 x 3.06 x 0.32 in
Battery
5000 mAhBuy now on Amazon
Main camera
200 MP, f/1.7, 24mm (wide), 1/1.3", 0.6µm10 MP, f/2.4, 67mm (telephoto), 1/3.52", 1.12µm
50 MP, f/3.4, 111mm (periscope telephoto), 1/2.52", 0.7µm
50 MP, f/1.9, 120˚ (ultrawide), 0.7µm
Video modes
8K@24/30fps4K@30/60/120fps
1080p@30/60/240fps
Selfie camera
12 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.2", 1.12µmVideo modes
4K@30/60fps1080p@30fps
🤖 CPU
The S25 Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm), ensuring blistering performance for gaming, multitasking, and intensive applications. Its advanced architecture and efficiency deliver a consistently smooth experience even during demanding tasks.
When compared to the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max's A19 Pro and Google Pixel 10 Pro XL's Tensor G5, Samsung's Snapdragon 8 Elite stands out with its robust multi-threaded performance. While Apple benefits from a tightly integrated hardware-software ecosystem and Google prioritizes AI-driven tasks, the S25 Ultra's chipset is exceptionally well-tuned for a premium Android experience.
📸 Camera
The S25 Ultra features a flagship camera system centered on a 200 MP main sensor. It also includes a 10 MP telephoto, a 50 MP periscope telephoto for long-range zoom, and a 50 MP ultrawide lens. This versatile setup captures incredible detail, even in low-light conditions, while advanced features like pixel binning enhance overall image quality.
Although the Samsung model leads with its impressive 200 MP sensor, the iPhone 17 Pro Max offers strong computational photography and video stabilization, and the Pixel 10 Pro XL leverages AI-driven enhancements for natural, detailed images. Each phone has its strengths – Samsung excels in raw hardware capability, while Apple and Google emphasize software-driven image quality.
💿 Memory & Storage
The S25 Ultra offers flexible memory options ranging from 12GB up to 16GB, paired with storage configurations from 256GB to 1TB using rapid UFS 4.0 technology. This setup ensures smooth performance even when handling large files and resource-intensive applications.
In contrast, the iPhone 17 Pro Max comes with 12GB of RAM, relying on iOS optimization for efficiency, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL provides a robust 16GB option. For users who demand extra headroom for multitasking and data-heavy tasks, the S25 Ultra's variety of memory configurations is a clear advantage.
📱 Display
The 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display of the S25 Ultra offers a resolution of 3088x1440 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. This combination delivers vibrant colors, deep contrasts, and smooth motion – ideal for gaming, streaming, and everyday use.
iPhone 17 Pro Max features a 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display and the Pixel 10 Pro XL offers a 6.8-inch high-resolution AMOLED panel, Samsung's display stands out for its excellent pixel density and dynamic refresh rate, making it a strong contender for those who prioritize visual excellence.
🔋 Battery
The S25 Ultra is equipped with a 5000 mAh battery that, together with advanced power management, is designed to deliver reliable all-day performance even under heavy usage.
While the Pixel 10 Pro XL boasts a 5200 mAh battery and the iPhone 17 Pro Max features a 4823 mAh unit, Samsung's battery optimization strategies ensure that its endurance is competitive. Users looking for robust power in an Android device will find the S25 Ultra's battery performance compelling.
🎞️ YouTube reviews
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
Platform
OS: iOS 26CPU: Apple A19 Pro (3 nm)
Memory
12/256, 12/512, 12/1024, 12/2048Size
6.9", 233 g (8.22 oz)163.4 x 78 x 8.8 mm
6.43 x 3.07 x 0.35 in
Battery
4823 mAhBuy now on Apple
Main camera
48 MP, f/1.8, 24mm (wide), 1/1.28", 1.22µm48 MP, f/2.8, 100mm (periscope telephoto), 1/2.55", 0.7µm
48 MP, f/2.2, 13mm, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1/2.55", 0.7µm
Video modes
4K@24/25/30/60/100/120fps1080p@25/30/60/120/240fps
Selfie camera
18 MP, f/1.9, 20mm (ultrawide)Video modes
4K@24/25/30/60fps1080p@25/30/60/120fps
🤖 CPU
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is driven by the new A19 Pro (3 nm) chipset. Combined with iOS 26, it delivers exceptional performance, efficient energy management, and smooth operation during heavy multitasking and creative tasks.
Although its RAM is lower compared to some Android flagships, the A19 Pro's deep integration with iOS allows it to keep pace with the Snapdragon 8 Elite and Tensor G5. Apple's emphasis on hardware-software synergy means that even with 12GB of RAM, performance remains consistently strong.
📸 Camera
The iPhone 17 Pro Max features a balanced triple-camera system built around a 48 MP main sensor. It includes a 48 MP periscope telephoto lens offering 4x optical zoom and a 48 MP ultrawide lens. Advanced computational photography ensures natural colors and excellent video stabilization for a refined imaging experience.
While the iPhone may not match the S25 Ultra's 200 MP sensor in raw numbers, its strength lies in consistent image processing and video quality. Compared to the Pixel 10 Pro XL, which emphasizes AI-enhanced photography, the iPhone provides a user-friendly, reliable shooting experience under varied conditions.
💿 Memory & Storage
With 12GB of RAM and storage options up to 2TB, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is engineered to deliver a smooth and responsive user experience through optimized memory management. This system-level integration ensures efficiency while providing ample storage for professionals.
While the Android models offer higher RAM configurations (up to 16GB), Apple's integrated approach means that the iPhone still performs exceptionally well. For those who prefer iOS, the combination of hardware and software optimizations ensures that the 12GB of RAM is more than sufficient.
📱 Display
The 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display on the iPhone 17 Pro Max, enhanced by ProMotion technology, delivers sharp, true-to-life colors with smooth scrolling and excellent HDR performance. This makes it ideal for immersive media consumption and gaming.
Even though Samsung's and Google's displays are similarly high-quality, the iPhone's display is known for its natural color accuracy and brightness. Its larger screen and consistent performance in various lighting conditions provide a uniquely refined viewing experience.
🔋 Battery
The iPhone 17 Pro Max features a 4823 mAh battery that, together with the A19 Pro's efficiency and iOS optimizations, offers reliable battery life for day-long use – even with heavy multitasking and media streaming.
Despite having a lower capacity compared to the 5000 mAh and 5200 mAh batteries in the Android models, Apple's battery management often results in comparable endurance. Users who value efficiency and optimized performance will appreciate the iPhone's balanced approach to power consumption.
🎞️ YouTube reviews
Google Pixel 10 Pro XL
Platform
OS: Android 16CPU: Google Tensor G5 (3 nm)
Memory
16/256, 16/512, 16/1024Size
6.8", 232 g (8.18 oz)162.8 x 76.6 x 8.5 mm
6.41 x 3.02 x 0.33 in
Battery
5200 mAhBuy now on Amazon
Main camera
50 MP, f/1.7, 25mm (wide), 1/1.31", 1.2µm48 MP, f/2.8, 113mm (periscope telephoto), 1/2.55"
48 MP, f/1.7, 123˚ (ultrawide), 1/2.55"
Video modes
8K@30fps (via cloud-based upscaling)4K@24/30/60fps
1080p@24/30/60/120/240fps
Selfie camera
42 MP, f/2.2, 17mm (ultrawide)Video modes
4K@30/60fps1080p@30/60fps
🤖 CPU
Powered by Google's custom Tensor G5 (3 nm) chipset, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is designed to excel in AI and machine learning tasks, making it particularly strong in computational photography and smart assistant features. At the same time, it delivers smooth everyday performance and efficient multitasking.
Compared to the Snapdragon 8 Elite and Apple's A19 Pro, Tensor G5 emphasizes AI enhancements, which can lead to more intelligent image processing and unique user experiences. While it may not always match raw speed in heavy multi-threaded tasks, its specialized focus makes it ideal for those who value smart, context-aware performance.
📸 Camera
The Pixel 10 Pro XL comes with a balanced triple-camera setup that includes a 50 MP main sensor, a 48 MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a 48 MP ultrawide lens. Advanced computational photography algorithms help deliver natural images with excellent detail and color accuracy, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Although it may not boast the 200 MP sensor of the S25 Ultra or the refined processing of the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the Pixel excels in leveraging software to enhance every shot. Its AI-driven approach often produces images that stand out in naturalness and detail, particularly for those who favor a smart, adaptive camera experience.
💿 Memory & Storage
Equipped with 16GB of RAM and storage options up to 1TB using UFS 4.0, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is built for intensive multitasking and media-heavy applications. This generous configuration ensures that even demanding tasks and large file transfers are handled seamlessly.
While the iPhone 17 Pro Max uses 12GB of RAM and the S25 Ultra offers multiple options, the Pixel's 16GB setup provides a robust solution for users who need extra memory for complex tasks. This makes it an excellent option for those who frequently work with high-resolution images or large applications.
📱 Display
The Pixel 10 Pro XL features a 6.8-inch LTPO OLED display with a resolution of 1344 x 2992 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. This display delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and smooth motion, creating an engaging experience for multimedia and gaming.
Although the display is similar in size and quality to those of the S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max, the Pixel`s emphasis on high pixel density and fluid refresh performance makes it especially attractive to users who demand razor-sharp visuals. Its overall performance is competitive with the other two flagship models, each of which brings its own visual strengths.
🔋 Battery
With a robust 5200 mAh battery, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is engineered for extended use, even during demanding tasks. Combined with Android 16`s intelligent battery management and AI-driven power-saving features, this phone is built to keep up with heavy daily usage.
The Pixel`s battery capacity slightly outpaces that of the S25 Ultra and notably exceeds the iPhone 17 Pro Max`s capacity. This advantage, paired with smart energy management, ensures that users who require extra endurance will appreciate the Pixel`s ability to handle prolonged use without compromise.
🎞️ YouTube reviews
Xiaomi 17 Pro Max
Platform
OS: Android 16CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3 nm)
Memory
12/512, 16/512, 16/1024Size
6.9", 219 g (7.72 oz)162.9 x 77.6 x 8 mm
6.41 x 3.06 x 0.31 in
Battery
7500 mAhBuy now on AliExpress
Main camera
50 MP, f/1.7, 23mm (wide), 1/1.28", 1.22µm50 MP, f/2.6, 115mm (periscope telephoto), 1/2.0", 5x optical zoom
50 MP, f/2.4, 17mm, 102˚ (ultrawide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm
Video modes
8K@30fps4K@30/60/120fps
1080p@30/60/120/240/960/1920fps
Selfie camera
50 MP, f/2.2, 21mm (wide)Video modes
4K@30/60fps1080p@30/60fps
🤖 CPU
The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3 nm), delivering exceptional speed and efficiency for advanced photography, intensive video processing, and demanding multimedia tasks. Its chipset is finely tuned for high‑resolution 8K video encoding and rapid image processing, ensuring a smooth and responsive Android 16 experience with HyperOS 3.
In direct comparison, the OnePlus 13 uses the original Snapdragon 8 Elite to provide solid performance, while the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra employs the Kirin 9020. The new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max represents a significant leap forward in processing power, making it a standout for users who want maximum performance for creative tasks.
📸 Camera
The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max boasts a versatile triple‑camera system featuring a 50 MP main sensor with Leica optics, a 50 MP periscope telephoto with 5x optical zoom, and a 50 MP ultrawide sensor. It supports 8K video recording at 30 fps along with flexible 4K modes at 30, 60, and 120 fps, delivering cinematic clarity and smooth motion across diverse shooting scenarios.
When compared with the OnePlus 13 – which offers 8K recording at 30 fps and robust 4K options – and the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra – which focuses on delivering refined 4K capture – the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max stands out for its high‑resolution versatility and advanced video features, including ultra-slow-motion at 1920fps, ideal for users seeking maximum creative flexibility.
💿 Memory & Storage
Available in configurations ranging from 12 GB of RAM with 512 GB of storage up to 16 GB paired with 1 TB using UFS 4.1, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max offers ample space for high‑resolution photos, 8K videos, and resource‑intensive applications. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for both creative professionals and everyday users who need reliable performance.
In comparison, the OnePlus 13 pushes the envelope with options up to 24 GB of RAM, while the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra provides configurations with 16 GB of RAM and up to 1 TB of storage. The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max strikes a balanced middle ground – offering robust performance without venturing into the extreme multitasking options of the OnePlus model.
📱 Display
The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max features a stunning 6.9‑inch LTPO AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, and an impressive peak brightness of 3500 nits. With its 68B colors and high resolution, it brings images and videos to life with vibrant colors and sharp detail. Designed to faithfully reproduce high‑resolution content, it offers an immersive viewing experience ideal for creative editing and multimedia consumption.
Although its display quality is comparable to that of the OnePlus 13 and Huawei Pura 80 Ultra, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max`s exceptional brightness and the inclusion of a secondary rear display make it particularly appealing to users who want maximum versatility and outdoor visibility.
🔋 Battery
Equipped with a massive 7500 mAh battery, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max is built to support extended creative sessions, intensive 8K video recording, and all‑day multitasking. Its efficient power management ensures that high‑resolution content can be captured without frequent recharging interruptions, while 100W wired and 50W wireless charging provide quick top-ups when needed.
When compared with the OnePlus 13`s 6000 mAh battery and the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra`s 5170 mAh unit, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max`s capacity is significantly larger, making it the clear leader in battery endurance for users who prioritize all-day power and intensive creative workflows.
🎞️ YouTube reviews
OnePlus 13
Platform
OS: Android 16CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm)
Memory
12/256, 12/512, 16/512, 24/1024Size
6.82", 220 g (7.76 oz)162.9 x 76.5 x 8.5 mm
6.41 x 3.01 x 0.33 in
Battery
6000 mAhBuy now on Amazon
Main camera
50 MP, f/1.6, 23mm (wide), 1/1.43", 1.12µm50 MP, f/2.6, 73mm (periscope telephoto), 1/1.95", 0.8µm
50 MP, f/2.0, 15mm, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1/2.75", 0.64µm
Video modes
8K@30fps4K@30/60fps
1080p@30/60/120/240/480fps
Selfie camera
32 MP, f/2.4, 21mm (wide), 1/2.74", 0.8µmVideo modes
4K@30/60fps1080p@30/60fps
🤖 CPU
The OnePlus 13 is driven by the Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm), ensuring robust performance that effortlessly handles advanced photography, gaming, and the rapid processing of 8K and 4K videos. This high‑performance chipset is optimized for smooth multitasking, delivering a premium Android 16 experience for creative users.
In comparison, while the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max utilizes the newer Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 to offer enhanced raw performance, the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra relies on the Kirin 9020 – which, though efficient and refined, delivers a slightly different performance profile that emphasizes stability over sheer speed. The OnePlus 13 remains a strong performer in this generation.
📸 Camera
The OnePlus 13 features a balanced triple‑camera setup anchored by a 50 MP main sensor that captures vibrant, detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. Its periscope telephoto lens provides reliable zoom performance, while the ultrawide sensor enables expansive scene capture. The device supports 8K video at 30 fps and 4K recording at both 30 and 60 fps, ensuring a straightforward yet versatile high‑resolution recording experience.
When compared with the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max`s broader range of high‑resolution video modes and the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra`s emphasis on refined 4K capture, the OnePlus 13 offers a well‑balanced approach that appeals to users seeking consistent performance without extra frills.
💿 Memory & Storage
The OnePlus 13 offers configurations up to an impressive 24 GB of RAM paired with up to 1 TB of storage, ensuring it can manage heavy multitasking and store extensive high‑resolution media with ease. This makes it particularly attractive for creative professionals who require maximum speed and capacity.
In comparison, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max provides robust options ranging from 12 to 16 GB of RAM, and the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra features a streamlined 16 GB setup. The OnePlus 13 stands out with its top‑end memory configurations for users with the most demanding workflows.
📱 Display
Featuring a 6.82‑inch display, the OnePlus 13 delivers an immersive visual experience with rich colors and fluid motion – ideal for reviewing 8K and 4K content as well as everyday multimedia consumption. Its large screen offers exceptional brightness and clarity, making creative editing a pleasure.
While its display quality is on par with that of the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max and Huawei Pura 80 Ultra, the OnePlus 13`s slightly larger screen provides an expansive viewing area that appeals especially to users who favor a more immersive visual workspace.
🔋 Battery
The OnePlus 13 is powered by a robust 6000 mAh battery that offers reliable endurance during extended photography sessions, video recording, and heavy multitasking. Its advanced power management system ensures steady performance throughout the day, even under intensive use.
Compared to the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max`s impressive 7500 mAh battery and the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra`s 5170 mAh capacity, the OnePlus 13 sits in the middle, offering strong endurance that will satisfy most users while the Xiaomi leads for those needing maximum uptime.
🎞️ YouTube reviews
Huawei Pura 80 Ultra
Platform
OS: HarmonyOS 5.1 (China), EMUI (Europe)CPU: Kirin 9020 (7 nm)
Memory
16/512, 16/1024Size
6.8", 233.5 g (8.25 oz)163 x 76.1 x 8.3 mm
6.42 x 3.00 x 0.33 in
Battery
5170 mAhBuy now on Amazon
Main camera
50 MP, f/1.6-4.0, 23mm (wide), 1.0"-type50 MP, f/2.4, 83mm (periscope telephoto), 1/1.28", 3.7x optical zoom
12.5 MP, f/3.6, 212mm (periscope telephoto), 9.4x optical zoom
40 MP, f/2.2, 13mm (ultrawide)
Video modes
4K@30fps1080p@30/60/240/960fps
720p@960fps
Selfie camera
13 MP, f/2.0, (ultrawide)Video modes
4K@30/60fps1080p@30/60/240fps
🤖 CPU
The Huawei Pura 80 Ultra is powered by the Kirin 9020 (7 nm), delivering robust and efficient performance optimized for intensive photography and video processing under HarmonyOS/EMUI. This chipset emphasizes energy efficiency and refined processing, ensuring a smooth experience even during demanding creative tasks.
In comparison, while both the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and OnePlus 13 uses the Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) for raw processing power, the Kirin 9020 in the Pura 80 Ultra offers a distinct balance that prioritizes stable, efficient performance – ideal for users who value refined processing over maximum speed.
📸 Camera
The Pura 80 Ultra features an advanced quad‑camera system that includes a 50 MP main sensor with variable aperture (f/1.6-4.0), a 50 MP periscope telephoto lens with 3.7x optical zoom, a 12.5 MP periscope telephoto with 9.4x optical zoom, and a 40 MP ultrawide sensor. Designed to capture exceptionally detailed images with excellent dynamic range, its video capabilities support 4K recording at 30 fps along with creative slow‑motion modes for nuanced capture.
When compared with the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max`s extensive 8K and 4K video modes and the OnePlus 13`s balanced high‑resolution recording, the Pura 80 Ultra distinguishes itself by focusing on a refined 4K experience and exceptional zoom capabilities – appealing to users who prefer detailed zoom performance and controlled video capture.
💿 Memory & Storage
Available in configurations offering 16 GB of RAM with either 512 GB or 1 TB of storage, the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra provides ample capacity for high‑resolution media and intensive creative applications. Its streamlined memory setup is optimized for smooth performance and reliable multitasking, making it a solid choice for professional workflows.
In comparison, while the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max offers a broader range of options and the OnePlus 13 pushes the upper limit with 24 GB of RAM, the Pura 80 Ultra is finely tuned to deliver a balanced performance that meets the needs of users seeking stability and efficiency.
📱 Display
Featuring a 6.8‑inch LTPO OLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and an impressive peak brightness of 3000 nits, the Pura 80 Ultra offers an immersive viewing experience with excellent color accuracy and deep contrast ratios. The screen is calibrated to showcase high‑resolution images and 4K video content with striking clarity, making it ideal for detailed creative work and media consumption.
While its display is similar in quality to those of the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max and OnePlus 13, the Pura 80 Ultra`s refined color precision and Kunlun Glass 2 protection make it especially appealing for users who demand a true‑to‑life visual experience with enhanced durability for both editing and everyday use.
🔋 Battery
Equipped with a 5170 mAh battery, the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra is built to support long photography sessions, extended video recording, and all‑day multitasking. Its efficient power management under HarmonyOS/EMUI ensures steady performance throughout intensive creative tasks, while 100W wired and 80W wireless charging provide exceptionally fast recharging.
In comparison with the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max`s massive 7500 mAh battery and the OnePlus 13`s 6000 mAh unit, the Pura 80 Ultra offers a more modest capacity but compensates with superior charging speeds – making it a reliable option for users who prioritize quick charging over maximum battery capacity.
