The best low-light camera phones

Capturing incredible photos in low-light settings is a really important feature for many people. Whether you’re enjoying an evening event with friends or doing some stargazing, it would be nice to know that your phone can still take a good picture even if it’s dark. 

Previous generations of smartphones have struggled to take quality images when there’s low light, but there have been major advancements in technology in recent years.

There are now plenty of smartphones that enable you to snap night skies for astrophotography or photograph memorable moments at dusk. Certain smartphones stand out for their low-light camera capabilities, so if you're looking for the best low-light camera phones, we can help you narrow down your options.

When choosing a smartphone for low-light photography, look for the following features:

This allows more light to enter the sensor, which is particularly critical for nighttime photography.

This will enhance light capture, resulting in clearer and brighter images.

Many modern smartphones have dedicated modes that optimise exposure and reduce noise in dimly lit environments.

This reduces blur by stabilising the lens during longer exposures.

These are options tailored for capturing stars and celestial scenes.

This will improve contrast and colour accuracy in low-light settings.

Astrophotography has become increasingly popular. Maybe you'd like to snap rare occurrences such as the Northern Lights appearing across UK skies, or perhaps you’d just like the flexibility to capture the stars on a particularly clear night. Either way, finding the best phone for astrophotography is now a priority for many.

Thankfully, many modern smartphones cater to astrophotography enthusiasts with specific modes that allow users to photograph the nearest constellations through to faint celestial phenomena.

Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just love capturing memories, these devices will ensure your photos shine in even the darkest settings.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max is an excellent choice for any low-light photography enthusiast, with its advanced 48MP Fusion camera system, second-generation sensor-shift optical image stabilisation, and enhanced ultra-wide lens capabilities. 

This phone is built to excel in challenging lighting conditions. Its macro and astrophotography features allow users to capture stunning details of both close-up subjects and starry skies. Even better, the iPhone 16 Pro Max supports advanced video recording modes including 4K Dolby Vision and ProRes video, making it a versatile option for photos and videos in low light.

The Galaxy S24 Ultra excels in low-light scenarios thanks to its advanced 200MP sensor and range of Nightography features. This is a personalised astrophotography mode which is perfect for capturing stunning night skies at all the key moments. 

With AI-enhanced image processing and improved OIS, the S24 Ultra ensures clear, vibrant shots even in limited lighting conditions such as outdoor nighttime parties.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is an excellent choice for low-light photography, particularly for those interested in astrophotography. It boasts cutting-edge camera technology, including an enhanced low-light sensor that allows for crisp, detailed shots even in near darkness. 

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by Google's Tensor G4 chip, optimised for advanced AI image processing, ensuring superb performance in night photography and astrophotography scenarios. These features enhance sharpness, reduce noise, and improve colour accuracy in dim settings. The Pixel 9 Pro XL also offers excellent battery life, lasting over 24 hours and featuring a rapid-charging capability for extended photo sessions.

The Magic6 Pro phone is another leading option, offering a 180MP periscope telephoto lens and advanced AI technology for low-light and night photography. Its dedicated astrophotography mode captures crisp and detailed celestial images, making it an excellent choice for stargazers.