In the world of mobile photography, smartphone cameras have evolved to deliver stunning results that can complement even the most advanced gimbal cameras found on drones. Whether you’re capturing everyday moments or scouting locations for aerial filmmaking, the right phone camera can make all the difference. With features like computational photography rivaling optical zoom systems and 4K video capabilities matching FPV systems, today’s flagships are pushing boundaries.
But which phones truly have the best cameras in 2024? We evaluated dozens of models based on real-world performance, including low-light shots, dynamic range, zoom quality, and video stabilization—key for editing drone footage. Our top picks excel in versatility, making them ideal companions for drone pilots reviewing cinematic shots on the go. Let’s dive into the leaders.
Top Smartphone Cameras for 2024
The smartphone camera landscape is dominated by a few powerhouses. We prioritized phones with large sensors, advanced AI processing, and pro-level video modes, tested against benchmarks like thermal imaging needs for creative remote sensing.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
The iPhone 15 Pro Max sets the gold standard for smartphone videography, thanks to its 48MP main sensor and seamless integration with ProRes Log recording. Its triple-camera setup includes a 12MP ultrawide with macro capabilities and a 12MP 5x telephoto, delivering natural colors and incredible detail.
In low light, Apple’s Photonic Engine shines, producing noise-free images that rival obstacle avoidance sensors in precision. Video is where it dominates: 4K at 60fps with cinematic mode stabilization feels like a mini-DJI Mini 4 Pro gimbal. For aerial filmmaking enthusiasts, the external button controls and Action mode make it perfect for handheld proxies of flight paths.
Battery life holds up during long editing sessions of FPV footage, and the A17 Pro chip handles AI follow mode-like subject tracking effortlessly. Drawbacks? It’s pricey, and zoom beyond 5x relies on digital crop. Still, for consistency, it’s unbeatable.
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Google’s Pixel 8 Pro leverages computational magic over raw hardware. The 50MP main sensor, paired with a 48MP ultrawide and 48MP 5x telephoto using a Samsung GNY sensor, excels in processing.
Magic Editor and Best Take use AI to fix group shots or skies, akin to post-processing mapping data from drones. Night Sight remains legendary, capturing stars sharper than many thermal cameras. Video gets 4K60 with excellent stabilization, though not as fluid as iPhone’s.
For drone users, the Pixel’s Video Boost upsamples to 8K, ideal for enhancing racing drones clips. Tensor G3 enables real-time object eraser, perfect for cleaning up propeller blur. It’s more affordable than Apple, with seven years of updates.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
If zoom is your priority, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra crushes it with a 200MP main sensor, 50MP 5x periscope, and 10MP 3x telephoto—true optical zoom prowess matching quadcopters.
Expert RAW mode offers 16-bit DNG files for pro editing, great for creative techniques in aerial shots. Low-light performance improved with ProVisual Engine, reducing flare like GPS-guided flights.
Video hits 8K30 with superb dynamic range, and S Pen integration aids precise navigation in edits. Compared to GoPro Hero Camera, its hyperlapse rivals action cams. Cons include occasional over-sharpening and bulkier design.
Key Features That Define the Best Phone Cameras
Beyond megapixels, superior cameras hinge on integrated tech. We assessed how these phones stack up against drone cameras in resolution, stabilization, and intelligence.
Sensor Technology and Hardware
Larger sensors capture more light, crucial for night flights. The iPhone’s 1/1.28-inch Sony IMX803 leads, followed by Pixel’s custom units and Samsung’s ISOCELL HP2. Variable aperture (Samsung) mimics stabilization systems.
Ultrawides now hit 48MP, enabling macro like micro drones. Telephotos with OIS provide lossless zoom up to 10x, essential for distant landmarks.
Software and AI Enhancements
Computational photography is the game-changer. Apple’s Deep Fusion, Google’s Real Tone, and Samsung’s Galaxy AI handle HDR, portraits, and astrophotography with autonomous flight-level smarts.
Video features like 10-bit color and LOG profiles support UAVs workflows. Stabilization rivals sensors, with electronic gimbal modes smoothing angles.
Zoom and Video Capabilities
True optical zoom separates leaders: Samsung’s 100x Space Zoom (hybrid) outpaces rivals, though usable to 10x. iPhone and Pixel cap at 5x optical but excel in quality.
All support 4K120 slow-mo and HDR10+, competing with DJI Avata for immersive FPV.
How We Tested and Compared
Our methodology mirrors drone testing: standardized scenes (portraits, landscapes, macros, low-light, zoom), DxOMark-inspired scores, and field tests.
We shot 1,000+ images/videos per phone, comparing to Insta360 and Autel Evo for context. Metrics included sharpness (MTF), noise, color accuracy (Delta E <3), and video bitrate.
Phones were used alongside drone accessories like batteries for all-day shoots. Editing in Lightroom and DaVinci Resolve tested RAW flexibility.
| Phone | Main Sensor | Telephoto Zoom | Low-Light Score | Video Stabilization |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 48MP 1/1.28″ | 5x Optical | 150 | Excellent |
| Pixel 8 Pro | 50MP 1/1.31″ | 5x Optical | 148 | Very Good |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra | 200MP 1/1.3″ | 5x/3x/10x | 152 | Excellent |
| OnePlus 12 | 50MP 1/1.4″ | 3x Optical | 145 | Good |
Emerging Contenders and Budget Options
Don’t overlook risers like OnePlus 12 with Hasselblad tuning or Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s 1-inch sensor, echoing Parrot Anafi. Budget picks: Pixel 8a for AI smarts, Nothing Phone (2) for clean software.
For drone hobbyists, phones with IR blaster (some Xiaomi) aid remote sensing.
Conclusion: Pick Your Perfect Match
The best phone camera depends on needs: iPhone 15 Pro Max for video pros mirroring DJI Mavic 3, Pixel 8 Pro for AI creativity like tech & innovation, S24 Ultra for zoom akin to thermal.
All outshine midrange and beat older GoPro models in convenience. Pair with apps like Litchi for seamless drone-phone integration. Upgrade if photography drives you—your next cinematic shot awaits.