Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra camera test: do we need 200MP cameras?

Our Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra review unit showed up on our doorstep this week. While we’re working on getting familiar with the new hardware for Phandroid’s review of the Galaxy S23 Ultra, we’re also kicking off our camera coverage of the phone with our full Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra camera test to see if smartphones really need a 200MP camera.

Of course, the main highlight of the new smartphone is the new 200MP main camera on the back. You are able to capture 200MP images from it, but it’s set to 16-to-1 pixel binning mode by default, delivering 12MP shots. This will help with noise reduction and better performance in low-light conditions. The main camera also has a new OIS module that bumps things from 1.5 degrees to 3 degrees of movement, allowing for much smoother video stabilization.

DEAL: Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra pre-order discounts are insane!

The phone also comes with the same 12MP ultrawide, 10MP 3x, and 10MP 10x cameras that were present on last year’s model. The selfie camera uses a 12MP sensor, but it can now record 4k video at 60fps, like the rear cameras. Video on the main camera also gets an upgrade to 8K at 30fps.

Take a look at the video and photo below to see how the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra cameras perform in day-to-day use.