Which Samsung Phone Has the Best Camera in 2026

If you’re reading this, you’re probably considering a new Samsung and wondering: which Samsung phone has the best camera? With year-on-year improvements and multiple flagship models in each release cycle, the global smartphone manufacturer is performing exceptionally well. The brand has become one of the strongest contenders in smartphone photography, rivalling Apple, Google, and other top brands.

This blog breaks down the camera performance across Samsung’s latest lineup and explains which model stands out for specific photography types or needs. From portrait shots and night scenes to zoom capabilities and video quality, you’ll learn about everything. By the end, you’ll have a clear answer to the question, “Which Samsung phone has the best camera?”, based on real features and practicality.

Understanding Samsung’s Camera Setup

Before comparing different models, let’s first understand how Samsung structures its camera systems. Here’s how they’re grouped:

• Ultra-wide lens: Useful for landscapes, group photos, and wider perspectives
• Main (wide) lens: The primary camera is perfect for everyday shots
• Telephoto lens: Designed for portraits and zoom photography
• Periscope zoom lens: Enables higher optical zoom without losing clarity
• High-resolution sensors: Capture finer details, especially in good lighting, as well as low-light scenes
• AI processing: Additional software improvements for enhanced HDR, night mode, and colour accuracy

Samsung typically reserves its most advanced camera technology for the Ultra models. The “standard” flagship variants receive incremental upgrades, focused on balanced performance.

Best Samsung Camera Phones: An Overview for 2026

As of 2026, these Samsung phones stand out for camera performance:

• Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus
• Samsung Galaxy S24
• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6

Let’s look at each one to see where they shine.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: The New Benchmark

If you’re asking which Samsung phone has the best camera right now, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra currently tops the list. Samsung has given its latest flagship key hardware upgrades, a brighter f/1.4 200MP main, upgraded 50MP ultra-wide, and enhanced dual telephotos, paired with superior AI processing for low-light and consistency.

Key Camera Features:

• 200MP primary sensor for high-detail images
• Upgraded ultra-wide lens for sharper edge-to-edge shots
• Dual telephoto system with improved zoom performance
• Enhanced AI processing for more natural colours and HDR
• Improved night photography with cleaner, more balanced results
• Advanced video recording with better stabilisation

What It’s Best For:

• Zoom photography with better clarity at a distance
• Low-light and night shots
• High-resolution photos for editing
• Portraits with improved subject separation
• Professional-level video recording

It delivers more consistent results across different lighting conditions in day-to-day use, making the S26 one of the best camera systems in Samsung’s lineup.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Still a Flagship Performer

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra remains one of the strongest camera phones available in the lineup, only a close second to the S26 Ultra.

Best Camera Features:

• 200MP main sensor
• 50MP ultra-wide lens
• Dual telephoto system:
  • 10MP (3x optical zoom)
  • 50MP (5x periscope zoom)
• Strong AI-based image processing
• Excellent low-light performance
• 8K video recording

It’s Well-liked for:

• Versatile photography platform across multiple focal lengths
• High-quality zoom without heavy loss of detail
• Outstanding night photography and HDR scenes
• Detailed portraits and videography

While its 50MP ultra-wide matches the S26 Ultra in resolution, the latter has a larger sensor and processing power that gives it the upper hand in edge-to-edge detail. However, the S25 Ultra continues to deliver consistent sharpness, reliable colour reproduction, and versatile zoom performance.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Premium Camera at Better Value

Even 2 years after its release, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra still delivers excellent camera performance and is a more cost-effective option when compared to its successors. This is why it appears third on our list of which Samsung phone has the best camera.

Main Highlights:

• 200MP main sensor
• 50MP periscope lens with 5x optical zoom
• High-quality hybrid zoom up to 10x
• Ultra-wide lens for wider shots
• Advanced HDR and night processing
• 8K video support

It’s Best for:

• Zoom photography
• Low-light and night images
• Portrait shots with good detail
• Everyday high-quality photography
• High-resolution video content

While newer models improve on processing and ultra-wide performance, the S24 Ultra remains a dependable all-rounder for everyday photography. In real-world tests, it consistently delivers sharp detail, accurate colours, and strong performance across all lighting conditions.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: Proven and Capable

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra continues to be a solid performer, especially for zoom photography. It still holds up extremely well today and remains a great choice if you want top-tier photographs without paying full price for the latest flagship devices.

Main Highlights:

• 200MP main camera
• Dual telephoto system including 10x optical zoom
• Reliable stabilisation
• Strong HDR and night mode

Best For:

• Long-distance zoom
• Night photography
• Everyday consistent shots

The S23 Ultra remains an outstanding camera phone even by today’s standards. It may not match the latest improvements featured in the newer models, but it still holds its ground.

Samsung Galaxy S24+ and S24: Everyday Reliability

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus and Samsung Galaxy S24 are designed for users who want dependable performance without paying for Ultra-level features. Although they don’t quite reach the zoom capabilities of the Ultra models, they offer reliable camera performance to satisfy most users.

What They Offer:

• Strong main and ultra-wide cameras
• Telephoto support (limited compared to Ultra models)
• Good video quality

Best For:

• Daily photography
• Social media content
• Casual photos and videos

The S24+ and S24 are practical, consistent, and easy to use for most situations. You get a balanced camera system that’s easy to shoot with and quite capable.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6: Flexible Shooting Experience

Foldables aren’t just all about the “cool” factor. They’re also powerful devices with strong camera systems. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 combines a foldable design (great for framing shots) with a capable camera system that punches well above its weight.

Key Highlights:

• 50MP main sensor
• 3x telephoto lens
• Ultra-wide support

Best For:

• Content creators using the large screen for previews and edits
• Multi-angle shooting
• Everyday photography with added flexibility

While it doesn’t match Ultra models in terms of raw camera power, it offers a different kind of usability and excels for creative workflows.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6: Compact and Social-friendly

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 is another unique design from Samsung that’s all about style and substance, focusing on convenience and everyday usability. While it doesn’t match the Ultra models for zoom or professional detail, the FlexCam features and compact form make it a strong choice for everyday photography or browsing social content.

It Features:

• 50MP main camera
• Ultra-wide lens
• Flex mode for hands-free shooting
• Cover screen for quick selfies

Where it Can Perform Well:

• Social media photography
• Casual use
• Hands-free photos and videos

While the Z Flip6 is not built for advanced photography, it handles everyday shooting well. This phone is perfect if you want something stylish and practical for capturing everyday moments. Plus, you get an easy-to-use design.

Final Verdict: Which Samsung Phone Has the Best Camera?

If you want the most advanced camera system available, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is currently the best choice. However, the right camera also depends on how you plan to use it:

• Go for the S26 Ultra for the latest and most refined camera system
• Choose the S25 Ultra for near-flagship performance at slightly better value
• Pick the S24 Ultra for a strong balance of price and capability
• Consider the S23 Ultra if Zoom is your priority
• Opt for the S24 or S24+ for everyday photography
• Look at the Fold6 or Flip6 if design and usability matter more

Upgrade Smarter with Mobile Guru

Now that you know which Samsung phone has the best camera, the next step is choosing a model that fits your photography needs and budget. Upgrading your phone isn’t just about getting a better camera. It’s also about choosing something that fits how you actually use your device.

If you’re planning to upgrade, don’t let your old phone sit unused. Trade it in or sell it and put that value towards a better device. At Mobile Guru, you can explore a range of options and find a refurbished Samsung that suits your needs without overspending.

Whether you want advanced zoom and detail of the Ultra series or a balanced everyday camera, our store has a selection of refurbished devices to match your requirements. You’ll find affordable, high-quality phones that have been refurbished to the highest standards. We have a 72-point test that ensures 100% functionality for the best experience. Plus, you also enjoy a 24-month warranty with any Samsung phone you buy for the ultimate experience.

Explore your options with Mobile Guru, compare features carefully, and choose a Samsung smartphone that best meets your needs. We’ll help you find a device that makes capturing sharper photos, clearer videos, and memories easier. Call us on 1300 362 017 or send us an email at hello@mobileguru.com.au to know more.