Question [smartphones] About default mode photo's resolution and how more limits are added if we decide to photograph with more megapixels

[souI23]

I would like to ask your opinion about default mode photo's resolution and how smartphones add limitations if we choose to shoot with higher megapixels modes

Yesterday, in the store, I was doing some tests with the Samsung S25 Ultra. In default mode it takes 12MP photos and all functions are active. However, switching to 50mp and 200mp mode, some functions get disabled and it is more difficult to take quality photos (for example: if there is a light source, it will be more likely to be over exposed)

The Iphone 16 pro max has the same problem: switching from 24MP to 48MP mode, it has the same shortcomings, especially with light sources (although to a lesser degree)... however, at least, the default mode with all options active is 25MP, twice as much as the classic 12 of the Samsung and other models

For me, this is crucial in choosing a phone... and I can't understand why no one talks about it

For example, I would be more tempted to buy the Samsung or even Vivo x200 pro... however, both, in default mode, shoot at 12MP and this can be limiting if I have to shoot e.g. backlight

Then, of course, for Instagram 12MP is enough... but I would like a resolution that would allow acceptable prints

So... what's you opinion on the matter? Thanks for reading

 

[USAFRet]

Yes, the same things/enhancements/whatever cannot be done at "200megapixels" vs "50 megapixels".

There is a whole lot of software extrapolation that needs to happen to convince you that it is "200". (it isn't really, just the software extrapolates it)

Ignore the 'megapixel' number, and select the device that outputs the best picture.

 

[souI23]

Yes, the same things/enhancements/whatever cannot be done at "200megapixels" vs "50 megapixels".

There is a whole lot of software extrapolation that needs to happen to convince you that it is "200". (it isn't really, just the software extrapolates it)

Ignore the 'megapixel' number, and select the device that outputs the best picture.

Thanks for the help! Do you have any advice about the best cameraphones?

 

[USAFRet]

Thanks for the help! Do you have any advice about the best cameraphones?

No, I don't. Sorry.

 

[kanewolf]

Thanks for the help! Do you have any advice about the best cameraphones?

The best smartphone can't compare to a purpose built camera. Why? The glass -- the lens. That is the secret sauce that purpose built cameras have that phones don't.

 

[souI23]

No, I don't. Sorry.

Thanks anyway

The best smartphone can't compare to a purpose built camera. Why? The glass -- the lens. That is the secret sauce that purpose built cameras have that phones don't.

I know and I'm with you... but sadly, for the kind of trips/travels I do, it is not always possible to take a camera with me

 

[kanewolf]

Thanks anyway

I know and I'm with you... but sadly, for the kind of trips/travels I do, it is not always possible to take a camera with me

Look at superzoom point-and-shoot cameras. Or the Sony mirrorless. They are about phone sized.

 

[gggplaya]

I would like to ask your opinion about default mode photo's resolution and how smartphones add limitations if we choose to shoot with higher megapixels modes

Yesterday, in the store, I was doing some tests with the Samsung S25 Ultra. In default mode it takes 12MP photos and all functions are active. However, switching to 50mp and 200mp mode, some functions get disabled and it is more difficult to take quality photos (for example: if there is a light source, it will be more likely to be over exposed)

The Iphone 16 pro max has the same problem: switching from 24MP to 48MP mode, it has the same shortcomings, especially with light sources (although to a lesser degree)... however, at least, the default mode with all options active is 25MP, twice as much as the classic 12 of the Samsung and other models

For me, this is crucial in choosing a phone... and I can't understand why no one talks about it

For example, I would be more tempted to buy the Samsung or even Vivo x200 pro... however, both, in default mode, shoot at 12MP and this can be limiting if I have to shoot e.g. backlight

Then, of course, for Instagram 12MP is enough... but I would like a resolution that would allow acceptable prints

So... what's you opinion on the matter? Thanks for reading

You have to keep in mind that phones have 3-4 separate cameras as well. Some cameras are higher megapixels than others. At least in the iPhone, there are destinct 0.5x, 1x, 2x and 5x buttons. At these button levels, you're using the actual full resolution of the sensor (2x is pixel shift I believe or optical zoom). But when you zoom in manually between say 2x and 5x, let's just say 3.5x, you'll actually decrease image quality alot because you're using digital zoom(cropping) from the 2x. Always use the preset zoom levels when possible.

As for the best smartphone camera, I'd have to give that award to the Xiaomi Ultra 15 with the Leica system. All the sensors are high 50 megapixel and the main 24mm camera is a full 1" Sony LYT-900 sensor which is much larger than normal sensors. Better in low light, higher iso and has 14 stops of dynamic range which is about 2 stops better than most smartphone sensors. This will allow you to edit your raws much better. If you want a camera, but don't want to carry around a camera, this one is the best I think. A mirrorless camera will still be better in fast action, low light(higher ISO) and narrower Depth of Field.

Smartphones use alot of computational photography and for many scenes it needs to shoot multiple photos in rapid succession to reduce noise and improve the picture. Mirrorless or DLSR's can do it in one shot, so much better for moving subjects. If you're traveling and trying to capture scenery and architecture or people posing for pictures, smartphones are fine.