Best Phones under $300 for photography

Best Pick

Apple iPhone 12 Pro A2341 Graphite 256GB

74.3 Photography Score
6.1" Apple A14 Bionic 12MP 6GB RAM 256GB 2815mAh
Why we recommend this

The A14 Bionic chip enables detailed 12MP photography with Apple ProRAW, 4K Dolby Vision HDR recording, and 4x optical zoom. Its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display reaches 800 nits in a compact 189g IP68-rated body. This phone is ideal for photographers seeking a portable 5G device with advanced manual capture, though its 2815mAh battery may not last a full day.

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Apple iPhone 14 A2649 Black 128GB

57.3 Photography Score
6.1" Apple A15 Bionic 12MP 6GB RAM 128GB 3279mAh
Why we recommend this

Powered by the A15 Bionic chip and satellite connectivity, it handles everyday tasks smoothly and offers emergency SOS in remote areas. The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with 1170 x 2532 resolution, HDR10, and Dolby Vision provides sharp, color-accurate visuals, and refurbished availability lowers the entry cost. This model suits value-conscious iOS users who need a reliable dual-camera system for 4K video and photos without requiring long battery life.

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Apple iPhone 11 Green 64GB

47.9 Photography Score
6.1" A13 Bionic chip with third-generation Neural Engine 12MP 4GB RAM 64GB 3110mAh
Why we recommend this

The A13 Bionic chip and dual 12MP cameras with Night mode handle 4K60 video capture on a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD display. Its IP68 water resistance and Face ID offer a durable, secure design at a refurbished price point well below current flagships. This phone suits budget-focused iOS users who prioritize reliable photo and video shooting over demanding gaming performance.

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Apple iPhone 11 Green 64GB cellphone
Price $127
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Apple iPhone 12 Black 128GB

38.6 Photography Score
6.1" A14 Bionic chip with next - generation Neural Engine 12MP 0 128GB
Why we recommend this

The A14 Bionic chip powers a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display (2532x1170), 5G, and IP68 water resistance in a 164g aluminum-glass body. Refurbished pricing cuts cost, retaining dual cameras with 4K@60fps video and wireless charging. Best for budget-focused buyers who want a compact, lightweight 5G iPhone with strong display and video capture, accepting limited battery life.

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Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max GSRF MGCF3LL/A Graphite 128GB

38.4 Photography Score
6.7" A14 Bionic chip with next-generation Neural Engine 12MP 0 128GB
Why we recommend this

The A14 Bionic chip enables 5G connectivity and handles 4K HDR video recording with Dolby Vision at 60 fps on a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display. As a Geek Squad Certified Refurbished model, it offers a lower upfront cost with the same IP68 water resistance and deep iOS integration. This phone suits budget-conscious videographers and large-screen media consumers who can live with the 30.1/100 battery score.

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Apple iPhone X A1865 Silver 256GB

32.8 Photography Score
5.8" Apple A11 Bionic 12MP 3GB RAM 256GB 2716mAh
Why we recommend this

The A11 Bionic chip drives a 5.8-inch Super Retina XDR display and a 12MP dual camera with OIS, protected by a sapphire crystal lens cover for added durability. 256GB of storage and wireless charging offer practical headroom, while IP67 water resistance provides basic protection. This refurbished iPhone X suits budget-conscious users who need ample storage and a capable iOS camera in a compact design, though its ruggedness score of 22.3 excludes harsh outdoor use.

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Apple ICEBORNE

5.3 Photography Score
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Apple iPhone Wireless

4.6 Photography Score
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Why we recommend this

The 13mm driver and semi-in-ear design deliver 3D stereo sound with mellow bass and clear treble, backed by Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. Its 24-hour total battery life via the charging case and one-key single/binaural mode switching add practical flexibility for daily use. These earbuds are best for budget-conscious listeners who need reliable, long-lasting wireless audio for casual music and calls.

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Best Phones under $600 for photography

Best Pick

Apple iPhone 16e Black 128GB

78.1 Photography Score
6.1" A18 chip 48MP 8GB RAM 128GB 4005mAh
Why we recommend this

The A18 chip and 48MP Fusion camera with 2x optical zoom deliver solid performance, while the 4005mAh battery supports all-day use. Its 167g body, IP68 water resistance, and budget-friendly pricing make it a compact, durable daily driver. Best for budget-conscious users who want an Apple Intelligence-ready phone and don't require advanced photography capabilities.

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Apple iPhone 15 Blue 128GB

75.8 Photography Score
6.1" A16 Bionic 48MP 6GB RAM 128GB 3349mAh
Why we recommend this

The Apple A16 Bionic chip powers a 48MP main camera with 2x optical zoom and the Dynamic Island on a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display hitting 1000 nits peak brightness. USB-C charging unifies cable use across Apple devices while Emergency SOS via satellite and Crash Detection add vital off-grid safety. This 171-gram phone is best for compact-focused users needing a lightweight design with versatile photography and satellite-backed emergency features.

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Apple iPhone 12 Mini A2176 Black 128GB

43.5 Photography Score
5.4" Apple A14 Bionic 12MP 4GB RAM 128GB 2227mAh
Why we recommend this

The 5.4-inch OLED display and Apple A14 Bionic chip make this the most compact flagship phone available, with MagSafe wireless charging and a dual 12MP camera system. Its 2227mAh battery offers modest endurance, but the sub-5-inch form factor is unmatched for one-handed use. Best for buyers seeking a small, powerful iPhone for daily tasks and light photography, not heavy gaming or all-day battery life.

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Apple iPhone 17e MHRP4LL/A White 256GB

42.6 Photography Score
6.1" A19 chip 48MP 0 256GB
Why we recommend this

The A19 chip drives a 6.1-inch OLED at 1200 nits with all-day battery life and 256GB base storage, ensuring fluid performance for gaming and 4K streaming. A budget-friendly price brings durable Ceramic Shield 2 glass, a customizable Action Button, and 15W MagSafe wireless charging. This phone suits cost-conscious buyers wanting a compact, long-lasting iPhone for daily tasks and media, not those prioritizing advanced photography.

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Best Phones under $900 for photography

Best Pick

Apple iPhone 16 16 White 128GB

83.3 Photography Score
6.1" A18 48MP 8GB RAM 128GB 3561mAh
Why we recommend this

The A18 chip delivers a two-generation leap over the A16 Bionic, enabling Apple Intelligence and up to 22 hours of video playback, with a 48MP Fusion camera and 2x optical-quality telephoto. Camera Control offers instant access to zoom and depth adjustments, while the aerospace-grade aluminum build and Ceramic Shield make it 2x tougher than typical smartphone glass. Best for budget-conscious buyers and compact phone enthusiasts who prioritize daily photography and iOS ecosystem integration, though its gaming performance lags behind rivals.

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Apple iPhone 17 Mist Blue 256GB

74.8 Photography Score
6.3" A19 48MP 8GB RAM 256GB 3500mAh
Why we recommend this

The A19 chip with a 5-core GPU and 8GB RAM drives a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display with 3000 nits peak brightness and 120Hz ProMotion, delivering up to 30 hours of video playback. It pairs a 3x more scratch-resistant Ceramic Shield 2 front glass with a versatile 48MP dual-camera system that includes a 48MP ultrawide and 2x optical zoom. This phone suits everyday users who want a durable build, vivid outdoor visibility, and high-resolution photography without moving to a Pro model.

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Apple iPhone 16 Pro MYMJ3LL/A Desert Titanium 256GB

66.7 Photography Score
6.3" A18 Pro 48MP 8GB RAM 256GB 3577mAh
Why we recommend this

The A18 Pro chip drives a 3000-nit, 120Hz display and enables 4K120fps video capture with the 48MP main and 48MP ultrawide cameras. Its 8GB RAM, Wi-Fi 7, satellite connectivity, and durable Ceramic Shield front deliver reliable performance and connectivity without weighing over 206 grams. This iPhone suits mobile videographers who need bright outdoor visibility and high-frame-rate recording on the go.

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Apple iPhone 17 MG474LL/A White 256GB

58.8 Photography Score
6.3" A19 chip 48MP 0 256GB
Why we recommend this

The 6.3‑inch ProMotion display reaches 3000 nits peak brightness and the A19 chip drives smooth performance, while the Ceramic Shield 2 front delivers 3x better scratch resistance. A versatile all‑48MP rear camera system with 2x optical zoom pairs with an 18MP Center Stage selfie camera and a 30‑hour battery that charges to 50% in 20 minutes. This phone suits everyday users who need a durable, long‑lasting handset with a brilliant screen and capable cameras for daily photography, streaming, and productivity tasks.

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Apple iPhone 16 Plus Black 128GB

51 Photography Score
6.7" A18 Chip 48MP 0 128GB
Why we recommend this

The A18 chip drives a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display and a versatile 48MP camera system with 2x optical zoom. Its lightweight 199g aluminum body with color-infused glass back includes IP68 water resistance, MagSafe, and satellite connectivity. This device suits buyers prioritizing a large, bright screen and capable photography who can accept notably short battery life and may seek refurbished units for budget savings.

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Apple iPhone 16 Plus Black 128GB cellphone
Price $830
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Apple iPhone 17e MHRU4LL/A Soft Pink 512GB

50.4 Photography Score
6.1" A19 chip 48MP 0 512GB
Why we recommend this

The A19 chip handles AAA gaming and 4K streaming fluidly, while the 48MP Fusion camera’s 2x optical zoom delivers crisp, detailed shots. A wallet-friendly price pairs with Ceramic Shield 2 for 3x better scratch resistance and 15W MagSafe charging, adding everyday durability and convenience. It’s best for value-seekers who need modern iPhone performance for daily use, casual photography, and long-term iOS support.

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Apple 512GB

46.6 Photography Score
6.1" A18 chip 48MP 0 512GB
Why we recommend this

Powered by the A18 chip with Apple Intelligence, its 6.1-inch OLED reaches 1200 nits and the 48MP Fusion camera offers 2x optical zoom, though the advertised 26-hour video playback doesn’t translate to competitive endurance with a battery score of just 37.2. At 167 grams with an IP68 rating and Ceramic Shield front, it combines lightweight portability, off-grid satellite messaging, and a durable design that specs alone can’t fully capture. This phone suits iOS users who want a compact, AI-ready device for everyday photography and messaging, accepting shorter real-world battery life over larger rivals.

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Apple iPhone 13 13 Starlight 128GB

37.2 Photography Score
6.1" A15 Bionic 12MP 4GB RAM 128GB
Why we recommend this

The A15 Bionic chip drives smooth performance, while the 6.1‑inch Super Retina XDR display and 12MP dual camera with 2x optical zoom capture sharp 4K60 video. IP68 water resistance and MagSafe wireless charging add durability at a rehabilitated price point, though the Lightning connector remains USB 2.0. This phone suits budget-conscious users wanting a compact 5G iPhone for everyday photo and video tasks without breaking the bank.

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Best Phones under $1,200 for photography

Best Pick

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max MFXH4LL/A Cosmic Orange 256GB

84.9 Photography Score
6.9" A19 Pro 48MP 8GB RAM 256GB 4422mAh
Why we recommend this

The heat-forged aluminum unibody design and vapor-cooled A19 Pro chip deliver 40% better sustained performance, while the 4422mAh battery provides up to 39 hours of video playback. Its triple-48MP camera system offers 8x optical zoom and 4K60 recording, shielded by Ceramic Shield with 4x better crack resistance on the back and 3x better scratch resistance up front. This phone suits mobile filmmakers and photographers who need a durable, long-lasting device for all-day 4K production.

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Price $1,200
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max MFXH4LL/A Cosmic Orange 256GB cellphone

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Apple iPhone 17 Pro MG7M4LL/A Deep Blue 256GB

79.7 Photography Score
6.3" A19 Pro 48MP 8GB RAM 256GB 4422mAh
Why we recommend this

The A19 Pro chip pushes 40% better sustained performance, driving a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display and a triple 48MP camera system with 8x optical zoom. The heat-forged aluminum unibody and Ceramic Shield front and back deliver 4x better crack resistance, while the 33-hour battery recharges to 50% in 20 minutes wirelessly. This phone suits mobile photographers and videographers who need a versatile, all-day pro camera rig for 4K shooting.

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Apple iPhone Air MG1J4LL/A Sky Blue 512GB

75.1 Photography Score
6.5" A19 Pro 48MP 0 512GB 3500mAh
Why we recommend this

The 5.6mm titanium frame and 150-gram weight make it the thinnest iPhone yet, driven by the A19 Pro chip and a 3000-nit Super Retina XDR display with 27-hour battery life. Its 48MP Fusion camera system with 2x optical-quality zoom and Ceramic Shield front/back durability deliver pro imaging and drop resistance in an ultralight build. This device suits users who need uncompromising performance and all-day stamina in a pocketable flagship, ideal for frequent travelers and on-the-go content capture.

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Apple iPhone iPhone 17 Sage 512GB

71.1 Photography Score
6.3" A19 chip 48MP 8GB RAM 512GB 3561mAh
Why we recommend this

The 6.3-inch 120Hz display peaks at 3000 nits, the A19 chip powers a 48MP dual camera with 2x optical zoom, and Ceramic Shield 2 adds 3x scratch resistance. At 177g, it’s lightweight, and the 18MP front camera with Center Stage frames smarter group selfies. It’s best for mobile photographers who need a bright outdoor screen and durable build, provided battery endurance isn’t a priority.

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Apple iPhone 17 MG4F4LL/A White 512GB

64 Photography Score
6.3" A19 48MP 0 512GB
Why we recommend this

The A19 chip with a 5-core GPU powers a 6.3-inch ProMotion display peaking at 3000 nits brightness, and Ceramic Shield 2 offers triple the scratch resistance. Its dual 48MP Fusion camera system, including a 48MP ultrawide, supports simultaneous front-and-rear recording through the 18MP Center Stage camera. This phone is best for content creators and photographers who need versatile framing and durable build without opting for a Pro model.

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Premium Phones for photography

Best Pick

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max MFXN4LL/A Silver 1000GB

80.2 Photography Score
6.9" A19 Pro 48MP 0 1000GB 5000mAh
Why we recommend this

The A19 Pro chip with vapor cooling delivers 40% better sustained performance, while the all-48MP rear cameras with 8x optical zoom and 39-hour video playback set new iPhone benchmarks. The heat-forged aluminum unibody and Ceramic Shield 2 front/back make it 4x more crack-resistant with 3x better scratch resistance. Best for photographers needing an eight-lens-equivalent system and heavy video consumers who prioritize all-day battery life.

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Apple iPhone 17 Pro MG7N4LL/A Silver 512GB

80.1 Photography Score
6.3" A19 Pro 48MP 8GB RAM 512GB 4422mAh
Why we recommend this

The heat-forged aluminum unibody combines with the A19 Pro chip and vapor cooling for up to 40% better sustained performance, powering a 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display and 33-hour video playback. All three rear cameras are 48MP and offer 8x optical-quality zoom—the widest range ever on an iPhone—while Ceramic Shield 2 front glass adds 3x better scratch resistance. This phone is best for mobile photographers who demand a full 8x zoom range and high-resolution ultrawide shooting in a durable, long-lasting body.

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Apple iPhone Air MG1L4LL/A Space Black 1000GB

44.8 Photography Score
6.5" A19 Pro 48MP 0 1000GB
Why we recommend this

Driven by the Apple A19 Pro chip and 27-hour battery life, its 5.6mm titanium frame weighs just 150g while delivering 3000-nit peak brightness on a 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR display. The exceptionally durable Ceramic Shield 2 front offers 3x better scratch resistance, complementing a 48MP Fusion camera with 2x optical zoom. Best for mobile gamers who want a flagship-thin device that lasts all day without compromising performance.

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Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max A2849 Blue Titanium 1000GB

11.9 Photography Score
6.7" Apple A17 Pro 0 1000GB
Why we recommend this

The A17 Pro chip and 1TB of storage provide ample power for console-quality gaming and large media libraries. A titanium frame keeps the build premium and weight manageable at 283g. Best for mobile gamers and users who require top performance and maximum on-device storage.

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Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max A2849 Blue Titanium 1000GB cellphone
Price $1,400
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Also available open box & refurbished: