Comparing the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 Ultra cameras is always an exciting challenge. After spending a week capturing photos and videos with both devices, I was able to assess everything from sharpness to color contrast to zoom capabilities. Even with the recent unveiling of the Galaxy S25 Ultra, the previous year’s model remains a compelling choice for those seeking a premium device.
For creative individuals like photographers and filmmakers, as well as those who simply want to capture stunning Instagram photos, selecting the best phone camera can be a daunting task. However, these key takeaways should help simplify the decision-making process. Both devices performed admirably, with moments where each camera stole the spotlight.
In terms of specifications, the iPhone 16 Pro Max features a 48-megapixel main camera with a wide-angle lens, a 48-megapixel ultrawide camera, and a 12-megapixel telephoto camera with 5x optical zoom. Additionally, it includes a 12-megapixel front-facing camera and can shoot up to 4K video at 120fps. On the other hand, the Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts a 200-megapixel wide camera, a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera, a 10-megapixel camera with 3x optical zoom, and a 50-megapixel telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom. It also has a 12-megapixel front-facing camera and can record videos in 8K resolution.
It is important to note that higher megapixels do not always equate to better photos, as a phone’s software also plays a crucial role in image quality. The best way to assess the cameras is by testing them in real-world scenarios. While this comparison is based on photos taken at default settings on each phone, customization is becoming more prominent through features like Photographic Styles and tone mapping on the iPhone, allowing users to adjust settings like saturation and contrast.
In terms of pricing, the iPhone 16 Pro Max starts at $1,200 for 256GB of internal storage, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra is priced $100 higher for the same storage capacity.
New to this year’s iPhone lineup is the Camera Control button, positioned on the right side of the phone, enabling users to trigger the camera, capture photos, and adjust settings like exposure, aperture, and zoom. While the button provides a convenient shortcut to the camera, its additional functionalities may not appeal to all users, especially with touchscreen options available. iPhone case manufacturers have quickly adapted to accommodate this new button, offering cases that make it easily accessible while protecting the device.
Moving on to photo comparisons, the iPhone 16 Pro Max excels in capturing vibrant and crisp images, as showcased in shots taken at Yerba Buena Gardens and during a Hans Zimmer concert. The Galaxy S24 Ultra, on the other hand, delivers brighter results in certain scenarios, highlighting its own strengths in photography.
Whether testing portrait mode, zoom capabilities, or front-facing camera performance, both devices demonstrate impressive features. The iPhone 16 Pro Max maintains sharpness and detail, while the Galaxy S24 Ultra offers bright and vivid colors. Each camera has its own strengths, appealing to different preferences and photography styles.
In conclusion, the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 Ultra present compelling options for users seeking top-tier camera capabilities in a smartphone. With advancements in technology and software enhancements, both devices offer unique features and impressive performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two devices depends on individual preferences and photography needs.