The primary camera on all three phones has similar-sized sensors but different megapixels. Apple’s 24MP outputs capture more details and sharper textures. Between Samsung and Vivo, Samsung’s new processing avoids over-sharpening and looks more natural.
Colors are close to neutral on the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Vivo X200 Pro, while Samsung adds extra contrast for richer reds, pinks, and greens. Vivo offers three color modes, while Samsung’s analog-style filters let you create custom filters from any image. Apple’s Photographic Styles remain intuitive and easy to use.
Portrait and Low-Light Photography
Vivo excels in high dynamic range scenes with excellent highlight control and lifted shadows, followed by Samsung. Low-light performance shows that Samsung brightens images but adds artifacts, while Vivo retrieves details while reducing noise. iPhone’s balance has slightly worsened after recent updates.
Portrait algorithms differ across brands—Vivo offers traditional aperture lens options, Samsung provides more zoom variations, and Apple simplifies it with 1X, 2X, and 5X. Edge detection is best on Vivo, followed by Samsung, with Apple delivering the most accurate skin tones.
Ultra-Wide and Zoom Performance
The S25 Ultra’s new ultra-wide sensor improves macro shots and captures the widest frame at 13mm. Low-light ultra-wide comparisons show iPhone producing the softest details, Samsung sharpening with artifacts, and Vivo over-processing images.
Samsung dominates in long-range zoom (30X, 60X, 100X), while Vivo performs best at 3.7X and 5X. Low-light zoom tests show Vivo excelling at 3.7X and beyond, outpacing Samsung and iPhone.
Video Recording and Final Verdict
Samsung’s 4K 60FPS recording now supports HLG HDR with a higher bitrate, ensuring superior HDR tuning and sound quality. Apple ranks second in stabilization, while Vivo lags in video processing.
Final Ranking
- Vivo X200 Pro offers the best overall camera experience with excellent portrait and low-light performance.
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra stands out with strong zoom, ultra-wide capabilities, and creative camera features.
- iPhone 16 Pro Max delivers great details but struggles in zoom and low-light conditions.
- Vivo X200 Pro is the top choice for camera performance.