iPhone Camera Comparison
Complete comparison of iPhone camera specs and photography capabilities across all models. Updated: September 19, 2025
Camera System Overview
iPhone cameras have evolved dramatically over the years. From single 8MP sensors to triple camera systems with 48MP main sensors, here's how they compare:
Best Camera Overall
iPhone 17 Pro Max
Triple camera + LiDAR
Best Value Camera
iPhone 16 / 17
48MP main camera
Weakest Camera
iPhone SE
Single 12MP camera
Camera Specs by Model
| Model | Main Camera | Ultra-Wide | Telephoto | Front Camera | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone SE | 12MP | — | — | 7MP | Single camera |
| iPhone 11 | 12MP | 12MP | — | 12MP | Night mode |
| iPhone 12 / 13 | 12MP | 12MP | — | 12MP | Night mode, ProRAW |
| iPhone 11 / 12 / 13 Pro | 12MP | 12MP | 12MP (2x) | 12MP | LiDAR, ProRAW |
| iPhone 14 / 15 | 12MP | 12MP | — | 12MP | Smart HDR, Night mode |
| iPhone 16 / 17 | 48MP | 12MP | — | 12MP | Quad-Bayer sensor |
| iPhone 14 / 15 Pro | 12MP | 12MP | 12MP (3x) | 12MP | LiDAR, ProRAW, ProRes |
| iPhone 16 Pro | 48MP | 12MP | 12MP (5x zoom) | 12MP | 5x optical zoom |
| iPhone 17 Pro Max | 48MP | 12MP | 12MP (5x zoom) | 12MP | Best overall system |
Camera Feature Comparison
📸 Night Mode
Available on: iPhone 11 and later (except SE). Dramatically improves low-light photography with longer exposures.
⚙️ LiDAR Scanner
Available on: iPhone 12 Pro, 13 Pro, 14 Pro, 15 Pro (and Pro Max variants). Improves focus speed and depth sensing for photography and AR.
🎬 Video Recording
Pro models: Up to 4K at 60fps. Standard models: Up to 4K at 60fps. Pro models also support ProRes video (up to 4K at 30fps).
🖼️ ProRAW & ProMax
Available on: iPhone 12 Pro and later. Offers maximum post-processing flexibility for professional photographers.
🔍 Optical Zoom
iPhone 16 Pro Max: Up to 5x optical zoom. iPhone 14/15 Pro: Up to 3x. Standard models have no optical zoom.
Best iPhone for Photography
🏆 Professional Photography: iPhone 17 Pro Max
Triple 48MP/12MP/12MP system, LiDAR, ProRAW, ProRes. Best all-around camera phone.
📸 Consumer/Travel: iPhone 16 / 17
48MP main camera provides excellent detail. Dual camera system sufficient for most users. Great value.
🎯 Video Content: iPhone 16 Pro / 17 Pro
ProRes video support, stabilization, 5x zoom, and LiDAR for professional-quality content creation.
❌ NOT For Photos: iPhone SE
Single 12MP camera, no night mode, no ultra-wide. Only choose if budget is critical.