In August 2025, Google launched its highly anticipated Pixel 10 series, which included the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Among these, the Google Pixel 10 grabbed the spotlight thanks to its triple rear camera setup, advanced AI imaging, and sleek design. Priced at ₹79,999 at launch, it quickly became one of the most talked-about Android flagships of the year.
However, as competition intensifies in the smartphone market, several brands have launched devices that either match or even outperform the Pixel 10 in camera performance — and often at lower prices. From Samsung to Apple and OnePlus, the photography experience on these devices rivals professional DSLRs.
If you’re passionate about mobile photography or looking for the perfect camera phone in 2025, here are the Top 5 smartphones that compete with or even surpass the Pixel 10 in camera capabilities.
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 – The Versatile Camera King
The Samsung Galaxy S25 is a powerhouse for photography enthusiasts who demand flexibility and precision. It features a 50MP primary sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom. Samsung’s computational photography, powered by its AI Image Engine, ensures every shot is detailed, bright, and color-accurate.
The Galaxy S25 also supports HDR10+ and 8K video recording, making it a perfect choice for vloggers and mobile filmmakers. Its portrait mode and night photography capabilities deliver DSLR-like depth and clarity, while its sleek glass-aluminum frame adds a touch of elegance.
Starting Price: ₹65,999
Highlight Feature: 8K recording with AI video stabilization
If you’re looking for an all-rounder that delivers crisp photos, smooth performance, and premium design, the Galaxy S25 easily competes with (and sometimes beats) the Pixel 10 in real-world performance.
2. Apple iPhone 17 – For Cinematic Creators
Apple continues to dominate mobile videography, and the iPhone 17 is no exception. Built for creators, it features a 48MP wide lens, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and an 18MP front camera that delivers incredible detail and natural skin tones.
What makes the iPhone 17 special is its 4K Dolby Vision HDR video recording, offering professional-grade cinematic visuals right from your pocket. Apple’s Photonic Engine enhances low-light photography, while its Cinematic Mode gives users DSLR-like control over focus and background blur.
Starting Price: ₹82,900
Highlight Feature: Dolby Vision HDR & Cinematic Mode
Though it sits slightly above the Pixel 10 in price, the iPhone 17 is the go-to choice for professionals and content creators who prioritize video and color accuracy. Its image processing consistency is unmatched, ensuring every photo looks stunning without editing.
3. OnePlus 13 – The Performance and Photography Powerhouse
The OnePlus 13 strikes the perfect balance between performance, price, and camera innovation. It houses a triple 50MP camera system — telephoto (3x), wide, and ultra-wide — all powered by Hasselblad color calibration. This collaboration ensures vibrant yet realistic color tones that closely mimic natural lighting.
Under the hood, the phone runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor with up to 24GB RAM and 1TB storage, making it an absolute beast for multitasking, gaming, and photo editing. The image processing is lightning-fast, and the AI-based optimization ensures clarity even in motion shots or low-light conditions.
Starting Price: ₹60,000
Highlight Feature: Hasselblad-tuned triple 50MP camera setup
For users who want a premium camera experience without breaking the bank, the OnePlus 13 is an outstanding choice that gives the Pixel 10 tough competition.
4. Vivo X200 FE – Compact Yet Camera-Strong
The Vivo X200 FE is a surprise package for those who love compact devices without compromising on camera performance. It comes with dual 50MP cameras — one on the front and one on the rear — designed for detailed photography and stunning selfies.
The 6.31-inch display makes it ideal for one-handed use, yet it retains flagship features like OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), 4K video recording, and AI portrait enhancement. Vivo’s image tuning ensures vibrant colors, making it ideal for travel and lifestyle photographers.
Price: ₹54,999
Highlight Feature: Dual 50MP front and rear cameras
If you prefer a smaller phone that’s easy to carry yet powerful in capturing life’s moments, the Vivo X200 FE offers one of the best photography experiences in its price segment.
5. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – The Ultimate Camera Beast
Rounding off the list is the legendary Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, still one of the best camera phones even a year after launch. It boasts a 200MP primary camera, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom and up to 100x digital zoom.
The device’s 8K video recording, advanced stabilization, and AI-powered detail enhancer make it an ideal pick for photographers and videographers alike. Its low-light photography is exceptional, rivaling even some professional cameras.
Price: Around ₹70,000 (during sales)
Highlight Feature: 200MP camera with 100x zoom
With its incredible detail, zoom power, and versatile camera setup, the Galaxy S24 Ultra remains one of the strongest competitors to the Pixel 10 in 2025.
Final Thoughts
The Google Pixel 10 undoubtedly delivers one of the best AI-driven photography experiences, but the competition in 2025 has pushed boundaries even further. From the cinematic quality of the iPhone 17 to the zoom power of Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra and the balanced versatility of the OnePlus 13, smartphone cameras have now truly reached DSLR-level performance.
Whether you’re a professional creator, a traveler, or someone who simply loves clicking perfect shots, there’s a camera phone out there that fits your style and budget.
So before you invest ₹80,000 in the Pixel 10, explore these powerful alternatives — they might just surprise you with what they can capture.