Best Cheap Smartphones for Photography Reviewed
In today’s fast-paced world, smartphones have become a crucial tool for capturing memories. While high-end models boast incredible camera specifications, there are several budget-friendly options that deliver impressive photography features. Here we delve into some of the best cheap smartphones that excel in photography, perfect for those who want to capture stunning images without breaking the bank.
1. Google Pixel 5a
- Price: Around $449
- Camera System: 12.2 MP wide, 16 MP ultrawide
- Why It’s Great for Photography: Google’s Pixel series is renowned for its camera quality. The Pixel 5a comes with an exceptional Night Sight mode that lets you take beautiful low-light shots with ease. The software processing also ensures that colors are vibrant, and details are sharp. The addition of an ultrawide lens enriches your photography by allowing you to capture more in a single frame.
2. Samsung Galaxy A52
- Price: Approximately $349
- Camera System: 64 MP wide, 12 MP ultrawide, 5 MP macro, 5 MP depth
- Why It’s Great for Photography: The Galaxy A52 features a versatile quad-camera setup that offers extensive photographic options. Its 64 MP main sensor gives you high-resolution shots, while the ultrawide lens captures stunning landscapes. The macro camera allows for close-up shots, ensuring creativity isn’t limited. The camera software also includes multiple modes, such as Single Take, which captures photos and videos simultaneously.
3. Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
- Price: About $279
- Camera System: 108 MP wide, 8 MP ultrawide, 5 MP macro, 2 MP depth
- Why It’s Great for Photography: Featuring one of the highest megapixel counts in its price range, the Redmi Note 10 Pro excels in capturing intricate details. The large 108 MP sensor offers robust image quality, while the ultrawide lens enhances landscape photography. The macro lens provides awe-inspiring close-ups, making it a top choice for budding photographers.
4. OnePlus Nord 2
- Price: Around $399
- Camera System: 50 MP wide, 8 MP ultrawide, 2 MP mono
- Why It’s Great for Photography: The OnePlus Nord 2 stands out with its 50 MP main camera, which is equipped with advanced optical image stabilization. This keeps your shots clear and steady, even in challenging conditions. The AI-enhanced camera system allows for vivid colors and great dynamic range, making it perfect for capturing those special moments.
5. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G
- Price: Approximately $299
- Camera System: 48 MP wide, 8 MP ultrawide, 5 MP macro, 2 MP depth
- Why It’s Great for Photography: This smartphone’s 48 MP lens captures fantastic detail and color depth, while the ultrawide camera is great for social gatherings or landscape shots. The addition of a macro camera allows for artistic close-up photography. Furthermore, the integrated stylus adds a unique touch for creative expression.
6. Realme 8 Pro
- Price: About $249
- Camera System: 108 MP wide, 8 MP ultrawide, 2 MP macro, 2 MP depth
- Why It’s Great for Photography: Like the Redmi Note 10 Pro, the Realme 8 Pro offers a stunning 108 MP camera, which is rare for budget smartphones. The camera software includes features like Starry Mode, enabling you to take long-exposure shots of the night sky, making it an adventurous choice for amateur astrophotographers.
7. Nokia G50
- Price: Around $199
- Camera System: 48 MP wide, 5 MP ultrawide, 2 MP macro
- Why It’s Great for Photography: The Nokia G50 provides a solid camera experience with its 48 MP primary shooter. Nokia’s camera app is user-friendly and helps enhance image quality through AI capabilities. Its wide-angle lens is useful for group photos or landscapes, making this phone versatile in different shooting scenarios.
8. Sony Xperia 10 III
- Price: About $399
- Camera System: 12 MP wide, 8 MP telephoto, 8 MP ultrawide
- Why It’s Great for Photography: Known for their camera innovations, Sony brings their expertise to the Xperia 10 III. The diverse camera setup with a telephoto feature adds versatility, allowing users to zoom in without a loss of quality. The phone also provides features found in Sony’s dedicated cameras, including a pro mode.
9. Oppo A54
- Price: Approximately $249
- Camera System: 13 MP wide, 2 MP macro, 2 MP depth
- Why It’s Great for Photography: The Oppo A54 may have a simpler camera setup compared to others, but it excels at straightforward photography. The 13 MP camera produces clear, colorful images in daylight conditions, while the depth and macro cameras enable creative shots. Its Night mode also improves low-light performance remarkably.
10. Asus Zenfone 8
- Price: About $699 (on discount at times)
- Camera System: 64 MP wide, 12 MP ultrawide
- Why It’s Great for Photography: The Zenfone 8 punches above its weight with a competitive camera, offering features usually found in flagship models. The 64 MP sensor captures stunning detail and offers great performance in low-light conditions. The ultrawide camera is useful for landscapes and group photos, ensuring versatility in various settings.
Key Camera Features to Consider
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MP Count: Higher megapixels can deliver more detailed images but are not the only factor influencing photo quality. Sensor size and overall camera technology also play vital roles.
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Lens Options: A versatile camera system with multiple lenses (wide, ultrawide, macro) enhances the range of topics you can shoot.
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Low-light Performance: Night and low-light photography modes are essential for capturing clear images in dim environments.
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Camera Software: Look for user-friendly interfaces and features such as portrait modes, AI enhancements, and built-in editing tools.
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Battery Life: Good battery performance ensures you won’t miss the perfect shot, especially during long outings or trips.
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Storage: Adequate internal storage is vital for photographers to store high-resolution images. Some models also support microSD cards for expandable storage.
Quick Comparison Table
| Smartphone | Price | Main Camera | Ultrawide Camera | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Pixel 5a | $449 | 12.2 MP | 16 MP | Night Sight, best software |
| Samsung Galaxy A52 | $349 | 64 MP | 12 MP | Quad-camera setup |
| Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro | $279 | 108 MP | 8 MP | High resolution |
| OnePlus Nord 2 | $399 | 50 MP | 8 MP | AI enhancements |
| Moto G Stylus 5G | $299 | 48 MP | 8 MP | Integrated stylus |
| Realme 8 Pro | $249 | 108 MP | 8 MP | Starry Mode |
| Nokia G50 | $199 | 48 MP | 5 MP | User-friendly software |
| Sony Xperia 10 III | $399 | 12 MP | 8 MP | Telephoto lens |
| Oppo A54 | $249 | 13 MP | 2 MP | Night mode |
| Asus Zenfone 8 | $699 | 64 MP | 12 MP | Flagship-level features |
The options outlined above serve to bridge the gap between price and performance, delivering exceptional photography capabilities at budget-friendly prices. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, portraits, or candid moments, these smartphones will not disappoint in terms of quality and versatility.
