The Best Phone for Video Recording

Video recording is a significant feature of modern smartphones. Our phones act as high-quality cameras, and being able to record video is just as important as being able to snap static shots.

Some smartphones prioritize the camera system more over others. The following phones are some of the best devices on the market for video recording for filmmakers or videography aficionados.

Note that we've intentionally left out some of the best phones for streaming, like the Realme GT 2 Pro and the Oppo Find X5 Pro because they are either not available in the US, or they're not compatible with American networks.

If you're looking for the best deals on cell phones, try our Phone Deal Finder. We'll sort through thousands of phone deal options based on your requirements in just seconds, making phone comparisons a breeze.

What Are the Best Phones for Video Recording in 2024?

iPhone 15 Pro Max

Specifications

The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the most advanced smartphone Apple offers. It has a complex camera system with telephoto, wide, and ultrawide lenses. Regarding video recording, the Pro Max has a unique cinematic function. This mode offers automatic focus switching and applies a bokeh effect to shots for cinematic flair.

With consistent rear camera and front camera specs, autofocus, digital zoom, and an accessible camera app, Apple iPhones have been among the best smartphone cameras for generations.
Pros

The impressive cinematic mode on the Pro Max sets it apart from the competition, offering a video experience built to rival modern film cameras. There is also a ProRes feature built specifically for people who are experienced in shooting video and editing.

Additionally, the phone offers slow-motion camera features, night mode, brilliant optical zoom, and an ultra-wide-angle lens. The ultra-wide camera can expand your field of view to 2X the normal amount.

Very few phones out there have video systems this in-depth. The iPhone stands out among mobile phones for its accessibility and solid features, and the best iPhones compete with even the most high-end devices.

Cons

1080p is the maximum resolution for cinematic mode on the Pro Max. This means you cannot have 4K video to match the photos you take on the device. There is 4K available in the ProRes format, but only in the 256GB and above models.

Google Pixel 8 Pro

Specifications

The Google Pixel 8 Pro is the most advanced of Google’s flagship line of phones. It runs on Google’s in-house Tensor chipset, which includes AI enhancements to photos and videos. It has 12GB of RAM and a 6.7-inch display. As one of the best Android phones on the market, its high-quality camera offering is no surprise: A 50MP Main, a 48MP Ultrawide, and a 10.5MP Front camera.

Pros

4K video is available on both the back and front-facing cameras, which is impressive. The front-facing camera has speech enhancement features to maximize the sound quality of selfie videos. It filters out background noise and maintains 4K HDR recording for a rich video experience.

Cons

There is no special mode specifically for movie creators. Unlike the Pro Max, the Pixel Pro only has the base features and AI enhancements. You will need to look elsewhere if you want a phone with a cinematic mode or special editing features.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

Specifications

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the most high-tech phone on Samsung’s docket. It sports a 200MP Wide lens, a 50MP Periscopic Telephoto lens, a 10MP Telephoto, 12MP Ultrawide, and a 108 MP wide lens, all of which make up a quad camera setup for the main camera. The selfie camera sits at 40 MP. The screen is 6.8 inches.

Pros

The phone has the capacity for 8K video at 24 FPS, which is just as impressive here as with the Realme GT 2 Pro. It supports 4K video at up to 60FPS, 1080p video at up to 240 FPS, and, uniquely, 720p video at up to 960 FPS.

It also has a Super Steady mode that allows you to keep the videos you take stable. It has many features that are retained in portrait mode as well. Not only that, but Samsung added Galaxy AI to the Samsung 24 series, including AI-powered photo and video improvements.

Cons

Once again, 8K technology does have a place where it can be implemented in a way that is impactful yet. In addition, 960 FPS on 720p video is also a little overkill, and people will not be much reason to use it.

Bottom Line

Video is a significant factor when choosing a phone. These days our phones act as our primary cameras. Whether trying to cement some memories or make bona fide movies, it is vital to have a phone camera that works. Some devices like the iPhone 13 Pro Max have special features like cinematic mode, specifically built to make videos crisper and more professional looking.

Other devices, like the Oppo Find X5 Pro and the Google Pixel 8, use AI enhancements to add to your photos and videos. Regardless of your choice, you will need to look into premium smartphones if you want the best camera experience.

Of course, we couldn’t include every great choice on our list. Some other excellent video recording devices include:

• Sony Xperia Pro-I
• Xiaomi 12 Pro
• OnePlus 10 Pro
• Huawei Nova 8i
• Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra
• iPhone 14 Pro

Choose the phone for you using Navi. If you're looking for the best phone deals, our free, unbiased Phone Deal Finder can lend a hand. With just a few details (such as your ZIP code and current phone model), we can search through thousands of the latest phone offers from top carriers, bringing you the best ones for your situation.  If a robust video system is your priority, Navi can help you find one in your price range. Navi knows the mobile industry, and we can make sure you only pay for what you need.