Top 10 Best 5G Budget Camera Phones

If you’re looking for an affordable budget camera phones, you’re in luck. In this article we’ve have covered a list of the best budget-friendly camera phones for 2023. These phones are 5G and offers impressive camera technology that won’t break the bank from Samsung Google, OnePlus, Nothing, Motorola and Xiaomi.

1. Google Pixel 7a 5G

If photography is your top priority then the Google Pixel 7a is a top-tier mid-range option featuring Google’s Tensor G2 chip, similar to the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. It impressively handles high graphics, even in games like Genshin Impact. Pixel 7a is equipped with a 64-megapixel Sony IMX 787 sensor, a first for Pixel phones, it excels in capturing lifelike images.

The lens reliably focuses on subjects and the combination of new hardware and Google’s image processing delivers impressive results. While some ambient snaps may appear slightly soft, the on-screen sliders for manual controls work well. The 13-megapixel Ultra-wide angle shooter and 4K video recording further enhance its versatility, and the 13-megapixel selfie camera is decent, but those obsessed with selfies may consider alternatives like the Galaxy A54 which truly budget camera phones.

2. Nothing Phone 1 5G

Another excellent choice for the photography people is the Nothing Phone 1, it standing out with its unique design. Despite the more expensive sequel, the original Phone 1 remains a bargain with capable camera tech, featuring Sony’s IMX 766 sensor.

The camera performs well in various conditions, excelling in portrait shots even with fast-moving subjects. In low light, however it faces challenges with noticeable grain and blur. The Ultra-wide angle lens and 4K video recording add to its versatility, and the 16-megapixel front camera produces decent results, making nothing phone 1 suitable for selfie lovers.

3. Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G rectifies the disappointments of its predecessor with a redesigned Exynos 1380 chipset. Its performance is smooth and the AMOLED display is visually stunning. The camera setup includes a new 50-megapixel sensor, delivering pleasing results in various scenarios.

Galaxy A54 excels in capturing portraits handling harsh lighting well, while some oversaturation may occur, A54 balances colors in different lighting conditions. The 12-megapixel Ultra-wide shooter and 5-megapixel macro lens contribute to its versatility. You can shoot video recording at 4K resolution and provides clear visuals and respectable stabilization.

The Galaxy A54 5G 32-megapixel selfie shooter like the rear cam does a decent job in all kinds of lighting complete with a screen flash feature for low light. if you want to shoot some video using that front face and selfie cam well, tops off at 4K resolution which is still surprisingly rare for for a mid-range mobile a lot of them do top off at full HD.

4. Samsung Galaxy A34 5G

If your budget is tight, Samsung offers the more affordable Galaxy A34 5G, Which has 6.6-inch IP67 water and dust resistant like the Galaxy A54. It retains many of the A54’s features, including a vibrant Super AMOLED screen and a stereo speaker setup. The MediaTek Dimensity 1080 powers smooth gameplay, while a 5,000mAh battery ensures the A34 keeps going.

The camera technology is flexible with a responsive shutter speed especially for faces or subjects. However processing speeds lag a bit particularly with portrait shots, causing delays between snaps. Despite this the Galaxy A34 captures decent photos in well-lit conditions, struggling with noise and grain in low light. The phone offers various bonus modes including a fun mode and a dedicated Pro mode for manual adjustments.

The Ultra Wide Angle shooter provides a more dramatic angle, and a macro mode, though it’s a matter of personal preference. In video mode, the A34 shoots 4K resolution footage at 30 frames per second, offering good visuals and decent image stabilization. The Galaxy A34 13MP front selfie shooter performs well in good lighting, capturing detailed selfies. It even supports 4K Ultra HD footage, a rare feature at this price point.

5. Poco F5 and F5 Pro 5G

Another affordable alternative is the Poco F5 and the Poco F5 Pro, two MIUI mobiles with impressive specs. Both Poco models share the same camera hardware, though the shooting experience isn’t entirely identical. The camera app and UI are identical but the F5 Pro offers additional features like proper eye focus and motion track and focus. Despite these differences, the shutter speed is quick, and there’s minimal variance in photo quality between the Poco F5 and F5 Pro, both delivering capable performance in favorable lighting conditions.

Portrait effects on both phones stand out, handling trickier conditions like high contrast admirably. Both models share basic camera modes, including portrait and night mode. In the F5 Pro offers dual video and movie effects, but both capture 64-megapixel images and feature a Pro mode for manual adjustments.

When shooting home movies, differences emerge – the Poco F5 Pro has HDR and supports up to 8K resolution or 4K at 30/60 fps, while the Poco F5 tops out at 4K/30fps. However the overall video performance is similar with sharp visuals and excellent audio capture for surround sound effects. The selfie cameras on both phones are 16 megapixels delivering fine results for everyday use, even in challenging lighting conditions, both max out at full HD resolution.

6. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Plus

Xiaomi’s latest trio of Redmi smartphones covering various budgets: the Redmi Note 12, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Plus. The Pro models offer a more powerful Dimensity chipset, faster battery charging, stereo speakers, and additional benefits for a slightly higher cost.

The Redmi Note 12 features a 48-megapixel Omnivision sensor, upgraded to a 50-megapixel Sony IMX 766 with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on the Pro, and further boosted to a 200-megapixel Samsung HPX sensor with OIS on the Pro Plus.

Despite the different camera hardware, all three Redmi devices share the same camera app with features like AI mode filters timers and aspect ratio adjustments. In well-lit scenarios, all three phones perform well, with the regular Redmi Note 12 handling HDR situations decently.

The Redmi Note 12 Pro, with the IMX 766 sensor, is a noticeable improvement and the Pro Plus excels in low-light scenarios with its 200-megapixel sensor and pixel-binning technology delivering impressive detail and tonal accuracy.

The Pro models equipped with image stabilization also excel in low-light shots, All three phones come with standard bonus camera modes, including portrait mode with customizable background on the Redmi Note 12 Pro and 12 Pro Plus.

If you’re into smartphone videography, the Redmi Note 12 Pro models support 4K resolution at 30 FPS with an additional 1080p at 60 FPS option. In contrast the regular Redmi Note 12 5G tops off at 1080p/30 FPS.

The other two lenses on all three smartphones include a basic 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle shooter and a 2-megapixel macro lens, while the front-facing selfie cameras vary slightly, with the Redmi Note 12 featuring a 13-megapixel shooter upgraded to 16-megapixels on the 12 Pro and 12 Pro Plus. Overall all three Xiaomi’s phones deliver satisfactory performance even in challenging lighting conditions, and these three phones from Xiaomi is really a budget camera phones.

7. Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus 5G

Xiaomi has recently launched the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus boasts a large 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with Dolby Vision support, a 5,000mAh battery that can be rapidly charged with 120W hypercharge technology, and impressive performance powered by the Dimensity 7200 Ultra.

The Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus features a standout premium exterior, including a soft-touch back, Gorilla Glass on the front, and full IP68 water and dust resistance. The camera technology is impressive with a 200-megapixel Samsung HP3 primary sensor providing a variety of shooting modes such as AI camera mode, HDR, aspect ratio adjustments, and a dedicated Pro mode with manual features. Although RAW format shooting is not mentioned, there is a portrait mode, night mode for long exposure shots and a full 200-megapixel mode for high-resolution images.

During the initial 48 hours of testing, the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus demonstrated its capability as a mid-range camera. The 9-in-1 pixel binning technology delivered vibrant snaps in good lighting conditions and the 200-megapixel mode offered an alternative to a basic telephoto lens for detailed shots. However the camera struggled with moving subjects in some situations experiencing focus issues and blurriness, especially in lower light. The portrait mode occasionally appeared bulky, and the dedicated night mode proved helpful in low-light conditions.

For video recording the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus supports up to 4K resolution at 24 or 30 frames per second with stabilization. Sample footage around various locations showcased the device’s decent stabilization and overall video performance. The front-facing camera, with a 16-megapixel resolution records video at full HD providing clear audio and reasonably crisp visuals suitable for vlogging or video calls.

8. OnePlus Nord 2T 5G

Another favorite of mine is the OnePlus Nord 2T, featuring a slick AMOLED screen, smooth everyday performance and reliable battery life. It boasts a 50-megapixel Sony IMX 766 camera sensor, delivering impressive results in various circumstances. Most test photos appear natural with vibrant colors when needed and sufficient sharp details that look great on a large screen. The focus is quick and responsive, rarely faltering even with moving subjects. The IMX 766 sensor continues to perform well in low-light conditions providing attractive photos without needing OnePlus dedicated night mode.

Possibly enhanced by the upgraded abilities of the Dimensity processor, the camera performs admirably in dim lighting with minimal grain and distortion. Indoor shots tend to have a warm tone but still maintain impressive detail for a mid-range mobile. However the 8-megapixel Ultra Wide Angle Snapper could use an upgrade producing satisfactory results outdoors but struggling with colors and quality indoors or in low-light settings.

The OnePlus Nord 2T supports up to 4K resolution video recording delivering sharp detail, accurate colors, and strong stabilization for home movies. And in lower light the video quality remains decent and the audio capture effectively emphasizes vocals both in front of and behind the camera. On the front a 32-megapixel IMX 615 sensor handles selfies performing well in good lighting conditions. However in more ambient settings a steady hand is required to avoid blur.

9. OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G

For those on a tighter budget OnePlus presents the more affordable Nord C3 Lite, where the C denotes the Core Edition. Priced at just $300 Nord CE 3 lite boasts impressive features including a crisp 120Hz display, a Snapdragon chipset capable of handling games like Genshin Impact, and excellent battery life that easily lasts all day.

A standout feature is the 108-megapixel rear camera delivering impressive performance for its price point. If you’re familiar with OnePlus smartphones you’ll find the camera app intuitive offering various toggles, camera modes, and AI scene enhancement.

The daytime shots impressed with their natural look and tones, even accurately capturing a garish gold Gangnam Style statue. The camera handled strong contrast well, not faltering in HDR-style situations. While lacking a telephoto lens the Nord CE 3 Lite compensates with three times lossless zoom, thanks to the massive sensor.

In more ambient conditions the Nord CE 3 Lite holds up well utilizing 9-in-1 pixel binning for brightness and digital stabilization to counter hand tremors. Portrait features allow for versatile effects and additional camera modes are available in the More section including a pro mode for tweaking settings before shooting.

For smartphone videography the Nord CE 3 Lite supports full HD resolution lacking a 4K option, and The selfie camera is a 16-megapixel shooter featuring a portrait mode with customizable background blur effects.

10. Motorola Moto G84 5G

If you’re looking for a camera smartphone with a touch of stock Android and can overlook somewhat irregular software updates, the Motorola Moto G84 is definitely worth considering. Priced at just $250 Moto G84 offers a stylish leather-like back reminiscent of the Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus and a pleasing 120Hz display. The Snapdragon 695 chipset may not be the most powerful but it handles games like Call of Duty, PUBG, and Genshin Impact at acceptable performance levels. The battery charges slowly, but with a hefty 5,000mAh capacity longevity is not a concern.

The 50-megapixel main camera with optical image stabilization delivers decent performance for a $300 phone. The Motorola camera app with helpful guidance suggests modes like Portrait when it detects faces. The app includes a pro mode for manual adjustments, the ability to shoot in RAW format, and features such as night vision mode, ultra-res mode, and spot color.

For video recording the Moto G84 maxes out at full HD resolution lacking a 4K option, It offers respectable video quality for simple and shareable shots with good audio pickup and stabilization. The front-facing 16-megapixel selfie camera captures impressive shots, though colors may appear less vivid.

The portrait mode on the selfie camera performs well and there’s a screen flash feature if needed, while the Moto G84 can shoot full HD resolution footage with the selfie camera, it is best reserved for video chats, providing clear audio and reasonably good visuals.