Phones with the best zoom capabilities use advanced periscope lenses to achieve 5x-10x optical zoom without significant quality loss. The iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra lead this category in 2024.
Most smartphone cameras offer digital zoom, which crops the image sensor and enlarges pixels. This often results in blurry or pixelated photos. True optical zoom requires physical lenses that extend or bend light paths.
Periscope lenses, introduced in 2019, use prisms to fold the light path vertically through the phone's body. This allows for longer focal lengths without increasing thickness. The iPhone 15 Pro Max's 5x telephoto lens and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra's 10x periscope lens are prime examples.
| Zoom Type | Magnification | Example Phones |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Zoom | 10x-100x | Most budget phones |
| Optical Zoom | 2x-5x | iPhone 15 Pro, Google Pixel 8 Pro |
| Periscope Zoom | 5x-10x | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, Huawei P60 Pro |
The iPhone 15 Pro Max offers a 5x optical zoom with its telephoto lens, while the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra provides a 10x periscope zoom. Both deliver sharp images at high magnification, though Samsung's periscope lens excels in low-light conditions.
For a more affordable option, the Google Pixel 8 Pro includes a 5x optical zoom with Super Res Zoom, which uses AI to improve digital zoom quality. The Huawei P60 Pro also features a 10x periscope lens, though its software processing differs from Samsung's.
Many assume that higher zoom numbers always mean better quality. However, digital zoom often introduces noise and artifacts. Optical and periscope zoom lenses maintain clarity because they physically extend the light path rather than digitally enlarging pixels.
Another myth is that zoom quality is solely about hardware. Software plays a important role-AI-based Super Res Zoom and night mode enhancements improve image quality at high magnifications.
If you prioritize zoom, consider your use cases. For wildlife or sports photography, a periscope lens like the one in the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is ideal. For casual users, a phone with a solid optical zoom like the iPhone 15 Pro Max may suffice.