Budget Phones with Flagship-Level Cameras? Yes, They Do Exist!
When you think of budget phones and amazing cameras, they might not seem like the perfect pair. But guess what? You don’t need to splash out thousands to get a phone with incredible picture quality anymore. We’ve got the insider scoop on the best budget camera phones of 2022!
However, the budget phone market is a bit like a crowded festival—every phone claims to have a powerful camera, making it tricky to choose the right one. And let’s face it, when you’re on a budget, taking a gamble isn’t exactly ideal.
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That’s where we come in! We’ve curated a list of budget camera phones that not only deliver stunning photography but also pack solid specs and performance for everyday use. Ready to capture those Insta-worthy moments without breaking the bank? Let’s dive into the top picks!
Best Budget Phones with the Best Cameras
1. Google Pixel 7a – The Budget Camera King
Pros:
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- Exceptional photo quality, especially in low-light conditions
- Google’s software magic for crisp images and excellent portraits
- OLED display for vibrant colours and deep blacks
Cons:
- Slow charging speed (18W)
- Smaller battery compared to some rivals
If you’re after flagship-level camera performance without the flagship price, the Google Pixel 7a should be your top pick. Google’s mastery of software-driven photography means this phone punches well above its weight in terms of photo quality, especially in low-light. It’s practically a professional camera disguised as a budget phone!
Specs:
- Main Camera: 64 MP (wide), 13 MP (ultrawide)
- Display: 6.1-inch OLED, 90Hz
- Processor: Google Tensor G2
- Battery: 4385mAh, 18W charging
2. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G – Flagship Camera Experience for Less
Pros:
- Great main and ultrawide cameras with impressive colour accuracy
- 120Hz AMOLED display for a premium viewing experience
- Long-lasting battery with 25W fast charging
Cons:
- No telephoto lens for optical zoom
- Slightly bulky for some users
The Galaxy A54 5G is a strong contender in the camera department, thanks to its 50 MP main sensor and Samsung’s impressive image processing. From punchy colours to detailed night shots, this phone delivers versatile photography at a price that won’t make you cry. It’s perfect for snapping sharp pics on the go, day or night.
Specs:
- Main Camera: 50 MP (wide), 12 MP (ultrawide), 5 MP (macro)
- Display: 6.4-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Exynos 1380
- Battery: 5000mAh, 25W charging
3. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE – Fan Edition for Photography Lovers
Pros:
- Triple-camera system with excellent versatility
- Dynamic AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Strong performance for gaming and multitasking
Cons:
- Slower charging compared to rivals
- Plastic back detracts from premium feel
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE brings a taste of flagship camera performance to a more affordable price point. With a 50 MP main camera, supported by an 8 MP telephoto and 12 MP ultrawide lens, you get incredible versatility for capturing anything from portraits to landscapes. Plus, Samsung’s image processing ensures bright, sharp photos every time.
Specs:
- Main Camera: 50 MP (wide), 12 MP (ultrawide), 8 MP (telephoto)
- Display: 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Exynos 2200 / Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (region-dependent)
- Battery: 4500mAh, 25W charging
4. Xiaomi 13 Lite – Lite in Price, Heavy on Camera Performance
Pros:
- Solid 50 MP camera with great overall performance
- Ultrawide lens delivers excellent wide-angle shots
- Super-fast 67W charging for quick top-ups
Cons:
- Macro lens could be better
- MIUI software can feel cluttered to some users
The Xiaomi 13 Lite offers a solid 50 MP main camera paired with an excellent ultrawide sensor for capturing stunning landscapes and group shots. Despite being a “Lite” version, this phone brings Xiaomi’s image prowess to the mainstream, delivering sharp, detailed images without the premium price tag.
Specs:
- Main Camera: 50 MP (wide), 8 MP (ultrawide), 2 MP (macro)
- Display: 6.55-inch AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1
- Battery: 4500mAh, 67W charging
5. Motorola Edge 40 – Affordable Phone with Flagship-Level Cameras
Pros:
- Excellent 50 MP main camera for a variety of shooting conditions
- Smooth 144Hz OLED display for gaming and media
- Fast 68W charging
Cons:
- Dimensity 8020 processor lags behind Snapdragon alternatives
- Battery life is decent, but not exceptional
The Motorola Edge 40 may not carry the same weight as some of its rivals, but it offers a fantastic 50 MP main camera and a well-performing ultrawide sensor. Motorola’s clean software and simple camera interface make it easy to capture detailed, vibrant photos without overcomplicating things. It’s a great choice for everyday photography.
Specs:
- Main Camera: 50 MP (wide), 13 MP (ultrawide)
- Display: 6.55-inch OLED, 144Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8020
- Battery: 4400mAh, 68W charging
6. Samsung Galaxy A34 5G – All-Around Performer with a Solid Camera
Pros:
- Versatile camera system for everyday photography
- Smooth 120Hz display for gaming and media
- 5G support for fast connectivity
Cons:
- Low-light performance could be better
- Plastic build feels less premium
The Samsung Galaxy A34 5G is a crowd-pleaser in the budget segment, offering a 48 MP main camera that delivers crisp, colourful photos, even in less-than-ideal lighting. With 5G support, a sleek design, and a 120Hz AMOLED display, this phone strikes the right balance between camera quality and everyday performance.
Specs:
- Main Camera: 48 MP (wide), 8 MP (ultrawide), 5 MP (macro)
- Display: 6.6-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 1080
- Battery: 5000mAh, 25W charging
What to Consider When Buying a Budget Camera Phone
Buying a budget phone with a great camera? Here’s what to look for:
- Operating System: iOS or Android? Pick your side, then make sure the apps you want for editing are available on that platform.
- Screen Size: Bigger screens mean better photo editing. Go for high resolution and screen protection like Gorilla Glass.
- Camera Quality: Look for multiple lenses and sensors for better low-light shots.
- Durability: Opt for a phone that’s tough, water-resistant, and dustproof.
- Storage: You’ll need at least 128GB or expandable storage for all those photos.
Tips for Taking Stunning Photos on a Budget Phone
- Use Natural Light: Let natural light do the work—avoid over-relying on your phone’s flash.
- Avoid Over-Zooming: Skip the digital zoom—get closer to your subject instead.
- Keep Steady: Not all phones have shake resistance. Keep your hands steady, or use a tripod.
- Take Multiple Shots: Shoot lots of photos, so you can pick the best one later.
- Experiment with Angles: Try different perspectives for more dynamic and engaging photos.
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