Ben Andrews chooses six of the best photography-focused handsets

Camera hardware in many phones using Google’s Android operating system received fairly incremental improvements in 2024, compared with previous models. Instead, the more impressive photographic enhancements were found on the computational side, with all the major manufacturers integrating smart AI into their camera processing, often with incredible results. Thankfully, great image quality wasn’t solely the preserve of flagship phones, as six of 2024’s best handsets included several top-notch mid-range models for photographers seeking maximum bang for their buck…

Specifications

Google Pixel 8a

Rear cameras: 64MP f/1.9 26mm (wide), 13MP f/2.2 (ultrawide)

Front cameras: 13MP Optical image stabilisation: Yes Weight: 188g Dimensions: 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9mm Storage: 128-256GB

Google Pixel 9 Pro

Rear cameras: 50MP f/1.7 25mm (wide), 48MP f/1.7 (ultrawide), 48MP f/2.8 113mm (periscope telephoto)

Front camera: 42MP OIS: Yes Weight: 199g Dimensions: 152.8 x 72 x 8.5mm Storage: 128-512GB, 1TB

Google Pixel 8a

From £499/$499

Best budget phone of 2024 store.google.com

Despite all the fuss about flagship phones, mid-range handsets are the big sellers and competition in this sector is fierce. OK, so £500/$500 isn’t everyone’s idea of ‘budget’ but going cheaper than this can result in noticeable image quality compromises.

One phone stands out at this price point: the Pixel 8a. Its twin-module camera array isn’t the most impressive on paper, but Google’s class-leading image processing, smart AI, and reliable AF and metering means you’re almost guaranteed to capture an attractive photo or 4K video.