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Notebookcheck electronic camera contrast – part 4. Prepare yourself for the supreme face-off in the mission for the very best video camera mobile phone! The ruling champs, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra and Xiaomi 13 Ultra, take on versus the brand-new competitors, Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max and Google Pixel 8 Pro. Who will become the photography champ? Let’s dive into the fight!
2 engaging flagship mobile phones, the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max and Google Pixel 8 Pro, have actually just recently struck the marketplace, protecting leading positions on our cam finest list. Factor enough to pit the 2 smart devices versus the very best of the finest in photography from the very first half of the year (electronic camera test: part 1, part 2, and part 3). Our cam quartet is finished by the Xiaomi 13 Ultra and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. Regardless of the reality that the Xiaomi and Samsung phones have actually been on the marketplace for a bit longer, they stay amongst the most effective flagship video camera smart devices in 2023.
In regards to prices, the phones are close to each other in our electronic camera contrast. The Google Pixel 8 Pro (RRP of US$ 999), the Galaxy S23 Ultra (RRP: US$ 1,619), the Xiaomi 13 Ultra (RRP: US$ 939), and the iPhone 15 Pro Max (RRP: US$ 999). In the table listed below, we have actually summed up the criteria of the various cam modules:
| Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra | Google Pixel 8 Pro | Xiaomi 13 Ultra | Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electronic camera setup: Back | 200 MPix (f/1.7, OIS, 23 mm, 1/1.3″ ISOCELL HP2 sensing unit) | 50 MPix (1/1.31″, 1.2 µm, f/1.68, OIS, 25 mm) | 50 MPix (f/1.9, f/4.0, 23 mm, OIS, 1 ″ Sony IMX989 sensing unit) | 48 MPix (f/1.78, 1/1.28″, 23 mm, IOS) |
| Telephoto lens( es) | 10 MPix (f/2.4, 69 mm, OIS, 3x optical) + 10 MPix (f/4.9, 11 °, 230 mm, OIS, 10x optical, 100x max) | 48 MPix (f/2. 8, OIS, 5x optical, 112mm, 30x max) | 50 MPix( f/1.8, 75mm, OIS, 3.2 x optical )+50 MPix( f/3.0, 120mm, OIS, 5x optical, 120x max) | 12 MPix (f/2.8, 5x optical, 120mm, 25x max) |
| Ultra large angle | 12 MPix (f/2.2, 13 mm, 120 ° ) | 48 MPix (f/1.95, 125.5 °, 11 mm) | 50 MPix (f/1.8, 12 mm, 122 ° ) | 12 MPix (f/2.2, 120 °, 13 mm) |
| Electronic camera setup: Front | 12 MPix (f/2.2, 25 mm, AF) | 10.5 MPix (1.22 µm, f/2.2, AF) | 32 MPix (f/2.0, 22 mm) | 12 MPix (f/1.9, AF) |
| Software application variation | S918BXXU3BWJM | UDA1A.231105.004 | 14.0.20 | 17.1.1 |
Recording the essence of our cam fight, we release the complete ‘intelligence’ of each competitor’s electronic camera software application! With HDR and AI algorithms in complete swing, these gadgets are gotten ready to provide picture excellence. Remember, that our shots are processed into enhanced 12 MPix pictures, and when it comes to the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, a tremendous 50 MPix picture. Brace yourselves for spectacular shots, as each image goes through the magic of pixel binning, changing them into enhanced work of arts. Let the imaging fight start!
rear electronic camera modules of the flagship mobile phones
Please note: In order to much better separate in between all the contrast gadgets’ image information, all image files are saved with the matching images. To see these, merely click the appropriate image.
Behind the lens of the Galaxy S23 Ultra lies a photographic powerhouse– an incredible 200-megapixel ISOCELL HP2 sensing unit. It skillfully combines approximately 16 private pixels into one enormous pixel, or, if you choose, takes the timeless 4-to-1 blend path, similar to its powerful rivals– the iPhone 15 Pro Max, Xiaomi 13 Ultra, and Google Pixel 8 Pro. Here’s the twist– the competitors shows off bigger native pixels for an additional dosage of luster.
On the iPhone 15 Pro Max front, it’s a pixel-binning symphony– defaulting to the 24 MPix mode, it elegantly integrates timeless 12-MPix images with a high-res 48-MPix image. The outcome is a best mix of vibrant variety and very little sound.
Contrast Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max: 12 MPix (right) vs. 24 MP (left)
Please note: In order to much better separate in between all the contrast gadgets’ image information, all image files are saved with the matching pictures. To see these, merely click the pertinent image.
In daytime, all 4 mobile phones in this contrast display the capacity for producing terrific photos which is anticipated provided their particular cost varieties. Choosing a clear winner shows rather difficult, specifically with the Galaxy S23 Ultra and the Pixel 8 Pro taking part in a high-stakes fight for supremacy. While the Samsung phone provided an exceptional picture catching our window and kitty concept, the Google mobile phone took the lead in our shots including homes and horses.
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra likewise provided extremely enticing pictures of our topics, preventing the extremely synthetic contouring seen in the Galaxy S23 Ultra, leading to a little softer yet more natural-looking images. We chose the Leica “Authentic” mode in the Xiaomi phone’s electronic camera software application. For those wanting a little more saturated colors, such as in your house concept, which appears a bit pale, you can change to the “Vibrant” mode. In this mode, shadow locations are lightened up a little too much, periodically jeopardizing the lighting atmosphere (refer to the contrast image).
Contrast of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra’s electronic camera modes: Vibrant (ideal) vs. Authentic (left)
The iPhone 15 Pro Max becomes the clear underperformer in the primary electronic camera department under daytime conditions. The Apple phone deals with an out of balance shot of our window concept, showing attributes similar to macro mode, regardless of being roughly 1.64 ft. far from the topic. The colors of the horse in the garden absence precision compared to the Android competitors, which carries out visibly much better in this regard. Regardless of these problems, other test shots with the iPhone 15 Pro Max still display great characteristics and enticing sharpness. The color fidelity of the 2 cuddly toys is suboptimal. Comparable to the Galaxy S23 Ultra, the kittycat is adjusted too warm, and the frog appears extremely brilliant.
Both the Galaxy S23 Ultra and the iPhone 15 Pro Max supply comprehensive versatility for taking pictures, providing numerous zoom levels and lenses to pick from. On the other hand, users of the Pixel 8 Pro or Xiaomi 13 Ultra face rather higher constraints with just an extremely limited focal length.
Not just is the computing treatment with 16 private pixels more comprehensive than in our June test, however the 50-MPix pictures are likewise significantly boosted utilizing the most recent electronic camera software application of the Galaxy S23 Ultra. The 4-to-1 pixel binning strategy is still in its early phases (lower vibrant variety, lower contrast, more saturated colors), we observe a considerable enhancement here, even if the quality of the 12 MPix images is not attained.
The primary benefit of images with 8,160 x 6,120 pixels is increased information, which is particularly noticeable with remote scenes. The 50 MPix pictures likewise do not have severe sharpness, making them appear more natural than their 12.5 MPix equivalents. When it concerns the Galaxy S24 Ultra, it stays to be seen to what degree the Korean maker will achieve similar image processing in the pixel binning procedure – a minimum of under perfect lighting scenarios.
Contrast of pixel brightness in daytime – Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: 50 MPix (right) vs. 12.5 MP (left)
Image Comparison
Select a scene and browse within the very first image. One click modifications the position on touchscreens. One click the zoomed-in image opens the initial in a brand-new window. The very first image reveals the scaled picture of the test gadget.
FensterKatzeHausKellerPferd
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Image Comparison
Pick a scene and browse within the very first image. One click modifications the position on touchscreens. One click the zoomed-in image opens the initial in a brand-new window. The very first image reveals the scaled photo of the test gadget.
FensterKatzeHausKellerPferd
click to fill images
The iPhone 15 Pro Max shines during the night. The iPhone catches the home shot actually well in low light, with a great deal of information. With a bit more light, the Pixel 8 Pro catches things with even more information than the iPhone 15 Pro Max. The 2 smart devices are not that different. Small defects, such as overexposed image parts, can still be seen. Source of lights are periodically overexposed, like with the predecessors, which is most likely owing to the prolonged direct exposure time, considering that shutter periods are significantly longer than on a Xiaomi 13 Ultra or Galaxy S23 Ultra.
In the dark, images from the Xiaomi and Samsung phones are usually a bit too blurred, as fragile structures, such as the home exterior in the 2nd image, are periodically lost. In general, we see the Galaxy S23 Ultra as somewhat ahead of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra here, as the Samsung phone shows in the tunnel theme that it, too, has the capability to leave the competitors behind.
Image Comparison
Select a scene and browse within the very first image. One click modifications the position on touchscreens. One click the zoomed-in image opens the initial in a brand-new window. The very first image reveals the scaled picture of the test gadget.
Nacht – HausNacht – StrasseNacht – Tunnel
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The ultra-wide-angle video cameras on the 4 leading mobile phones do not differ all that much in outside lighting settings. Wider-angle images are obviously possible with the Pixel 8 Pro and Xiaomi 13 Ultra, however not with the Galaxy S23 Ultra or iPhone 15 Pro Max.
In our comprehensive evaluation, the Samsung phone regularly carries out well for our tastes, however at a considerably lower quality level than the 200 MPix main video camera. The Galaxy S23 Ultra likewise has a variety of concerns, such as substantial lens flare in low light, a high degree of sharpness, or too intense pictures in scattered lighting settings.
When taking photos outside throughout the day, the iPhone 15 Pro Max supplies exceptional clearness and a good deal of info, although the images are generally (somewhat) overexposed. It is likewise apparent that an unique soft focus establishes actually quickly.
In general, individual option will probably identify which flagship phone uses the best images in this classification. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra, like the Pixel 8 Pro, highlights shadow areas more than the competitors and produces substantially cooler pictures of the topic.
Image Comparison
Select a scene and browse within the very first image. One click modifications the position on touchscreens. One click the zoomed-in image opens the initial in a brand-new window. The very first image reveals the scaled picture of the test gadget.
HausPferdFensterNacht – HausNacht – Strasse
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In addition to wide-angle shots, the ultra-wide-angle electronic cameras on our 4 flagship mobile phones can likewise be utilized for macro topics. This takes place instantly ideal out of package when the topic comes really near the lens of the primary cam. This works really adequately in daily usage, particularly with a Galaxy S23 Ultra, however the iPhone 15 Pro Max is not actually any even worse in this element. It is visible that the range in between items in the instant area need to be higher with a Xiaomi 13 Ultra than with the competitors. As an outcome, our test shots are blurred at a comparable range.
Image Comparison
Select a scene and browse within the very first image. One click modifications the position on touchscreens. One click the zoomed-in image opens the initial in a brand-new window. The very first image reveals the scaled photo of the test gadget.
StoffKarte
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The quality of zoom shots from our 4 flagship phones basically depends upon the native, lossless focal lengths that manufacturers have actually executed in their mobile phones (see note in the Compare aspect). A noticeable distinction exists in between the Pixel 8 Pro and the competitors at high zoom levels. In our viewpoint, the Galaxy S23 Ultra sets the standard beyond the 10x zoom, although the Samsung mobile phone still attains remarkably great quality even at 100x.
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra and Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max both produce appropriate outcomes approximately a 5x zoom, however after that, the quality is limited – especially for the Xiaomi phone.
The outcomes acquired throughout the day are improved under gradually low lighting conditions. Taking zoom chance ats night is in fact out of the concern with a Pixel 8 Pro. The competitors can not really shine in low light, in spite of Samsung’s efforts in this location.
Image Comparison
Select a scene and browse within the very first image. One click modifications the position on touchscreens. One click the zoomed-in image opens the initial in a brand-new window. The very first image reveals the scaled picture of the test gadget.
3x Zoom5x Zoom10x Zoom20x Zoom
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Image Comparison
Select a scene and browse within the very first image. One click modifications the position on touchscreens. One click the zoomed-in image opens the initial in a brand-new window. The very first image reveals the scaled photo of the test gadget.
3x Zoom5x Zoom10x Zoom
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Image Comparison
Pick a scene and browse within the very first image. One click modifications the position on touchscreens. One click the zoomed-in image opens the initial in a brand-new window. The very first image reveals the scaled picture of the test gadget.
Nacht – 3x ZoomNacht – 5x ZoomNacht – 10x Zoom
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The Xiaomi 13 Ultra is the undeniable loser in this classification. The Xiaomi flagship’s selfie images are regularly overexposed and do not have contrast and clearness. In addition, we believe that while the Pixel 8 Pro’s selfies aren’t ideal, they’re still far exceptional to the Xiaomi 13 Ultra’s.
The quality of the images caught by the front video camera of the Galaxy S23 Ultra and iPhone 15 Pro Max is most likely identified by individual choice. The Samsung phone has a more natural-looking complexion than the Apple phone, regardless of the Apple mobile phone having rather higher sharpness. The skin appears unequal due to the faint blushing triggered by the iPhone 15 Pro Max. It does not soften the describes as much as a Galaxy S23 Ultra performs in the dark, however it does get an edge when the user’s demands are overlooked in front of the video camera and the face is quickly brightened through the screen. All other cellular phones have their “flash” switched off and are dark.
Image Comparison
Pick a scene and browse within the very first image. One click modifications the position on touchscreens. One click the zoomed-in image opens the initial in a brand-new window. The very first image reveals the scaled photo of the test gadget.
PortraitSelfieNacht
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The electronic camera software application of the Galaxy S23 Ultra, operating on One UI variation 6, uses the greatest level of private optimization and setting choices. Together with its Pro mode, the Samsung flagship includes a devoted cam assistant, and it likewise consists of a Pro mode for RAW shots. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra enables users to make substantial changes to specific criteria, and MIUI 14 integrates a large range of shooting modes.
The Google Pixel 8 Pro consists of an extra Pro mode, permitting users to change some criteria to fit their choices. The Google cam app, in general, uses less setting choices compared to Samsung or Xiaomi. Apple, while not executing a Pro mode in its software application, permits changes to some criteria in picture mode and makes it possible for using the complete sensing unit resolution. All 3 Android flagships can likewise use the native resolution of the image sensing unit, in addition to pixel binning.
The decision of the very best phone in this contrast depends on individual choices relating to the specific lenses. While the Xiaomi 13 Ultra displays considerable downsides in the front cam department, the Chinese maker’s flagship otherwise carries out very well. Its significantly brief shutter release time, in contrast to the competitors, contributes to its appeal along with outstanding photo quality. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra sticks out as an exceptional cam phone, especially for those less worried about selfie abilities.
Throughout our electronic camera test, Samsung has actually as soon as again shown, as it performed in the previous year, its capability to noticeably boost its internal video camera algorithms. Notable enhancements were observed not just in the 50-MPix mode however likewise in the basic usage of 16-to-1 pixel binning throughout our contrast test. In contrast to the competitors, the Galaxy S23 Ultra displays couple of genuine weak points, regularly providing trustworthy outcomes. It’s worth keeping in mind that people who value a natural soft focus may not discover the exact same complete satisfaction when recording pictures with the Galaxy S23 Ultra.
The cams of the existing flagships are almost on par in regards to quality, with distinctions typically depending on subtle subtleties.
Apple’s flagship provides outstanding images throughout practically all lenses however raises some concerns about its primary electronic camera. While the iPhone 15 Pro Max stands apart as one of the very best mobile phones in our contrast for low-light photography, its efficiency in daytime is not regularly persuading. In regards to software application personalization, the Galaxy S23 Ultra or Xiaomi 13 Ultra deal more worth for the cash.
Google offers an outstanding video camera setup with its Pixel 8 Pro, especially offered its prices. Those who greatly count on zoom lenses in their day-to-day usage may discover the Google phone less gratifying. It stays a strong all-rounder with one of the finest primary video cameras in the market.
Have not discovered the ideal mobile phone for you? You are still on the lookout for an excellent phone cam? You ought to take an appearance at our finest mobile phone cam list – here you can discover a frequently upgraded list of the 10 finest electronic camera phones from our evaluations
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is priced at $1199 (RRP) for the tiniest storage variation, readily available straight from the Samsung shop. It can frequently be discovered at lower rates on platforms like Amazon and other online sellers.
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra, is readily available on Amazon.
The iPhone 15 Pro Max can be acquired straight from Apple with costs beginning at $1199.
The Pixel 8 Pro is straight offered from Google in all color and storage variations.
I have actually constantly been extremely passionately thinking about mobile innovations, particularly mobile phones. Being a tech lover implies the half-life of my gadgets isn’t precisely long, and being the most recent hardware is insufficient to be adequate as the producer and os play a bit part– the most crucial element for me is that the gadget is advanced. After publishing for Mobi Test I signed up with Notebookcheck in 2016, where I have actually been pursuing my interest for innovation by examining the current smart device, tablet, and accessory patterns.
Translator: Carmen Pol – Translator – 60 posts released on Notebookcheck given that 2023
Having actually invested the majority of my early years in Germany facilitated my childhood as a multilingual kid. In 2007, I discovered myself needing to re-install my Windows weekly … So, one day I purchased a MacBook Black. It was throughout this duration that I established an extensive gratitude for innovation, which considerably enhanced my life.
Marcus Herbrich, 2023-11-29 (Update: 2023-12-12)