Best Smartphone For Video & Camera (That Don’t Cost $1000+)…


OnePLus 13 CameraPin

Looking for the best smartphone for camera and video under $1000 / £800? Whether you’re a budding filmmaker, a social media enthusiast, or just want stunning photos without breaking the bank, there are plenty of options to choose from.

These smartphones pack premium camera features and video performance that rival flagship devices – all at a more affordable price.

Let’s dive into the top picks for capturing incredible photos and videos!

The Best Smartphones For Camera & Video Under $1000

  • Google Pixel 9

    Google Pixel 9 Pro XL camera updatesPinPin

    The Google Pixel 9 is here, and it’s nothing short of impressive. This phone blends sleek design, powerful performance, and Google's signature software smarts into one refined package. Whether you're a loyal Pixel fan or just looking for a premium Android experience, the Pixel 9 delivers on every front.

    Highlights:

    🔋

    4700mAh

    📲

    6.3-inch Actua OLED

    📏

    152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm

    💵

    Premium


  • OnePlus 13

    OnePLus 13 CameraPinPin

    The OnePlus 13 is a stunning blend of power, durability, and refined design. Built to impress, it pushes boundaries with cutting-edge specs and features that rival the best in the industry. Whether you’re a longtime OnePlus fan or new to the brand, this phone delivers on all fronts.

    Highlights:

    🔋

    6000mAh

    📲

    6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED

    📏

    162.9 x 76.5 x 8.5 mm

    💵

    Premium


  • Xiaomi 14T Pro

    Xiaomi 14T Pro ReviewPinPin

    The Xiaomi 14T Pro is a powerhouse that delivers speed, innovation, and premium design in one sleek package. If you’re after a reliable phone that can handle everything from heavy gaming to day-to-day tasks without breaking a sweat, this phone won’t disappoint.

    Highlights:

    🔋

    5000mAh

    📲

    6.7in CrystalRes AMOLED

    📏

    160.4 x 75.1 x 8.39 mm

    💵

    Premium



Wait… Don’t I Need A Pro or Ultra Phone For High-End Photography?

Think you need to splurge on a Pro or Ultra model to get stunning camera performance? Think again.

In 2025, base models have become incredibly capable, offering flagship-level camera and video features without the eye-watering price tag.

You can skip the “Pro” badge and still capture jaw-dropping photos and professional-quality videos.

Here’s why opting for a base model smartphone in 2025 is a smart move for photography enthusiasts and everyday users alike.

Why Base Models Are Worth It

  1. Flagship Cameras Without the Premium Price
    Base models now pack the same primary sensors as their Pro and Ultra counterparts. Whether it’s the 50MP shooters from Google or Apple’s advanced computational photography, you’re getting top-tier image quality without spending £300–£400 more.
  2. AI and Computational Photography Are the Real Game-Changers
    In 2025, camera software matters as much as hardware. Features like Night Mode, real-time HDR, and AI image processing are just as polished on base models as on Pro ones. This means brighter, sharper photos in all lighting conditions, no matter which version you pick.
  3. Video Recording Is Next-Level
    Base models now support 4K at 60fps with advanced stabilisation, cinematic effects, and even Dolby Vision HDR. Unless you’re shooting a film, you won’t feel the need for the extra features offered on Ultra models.
  4. Lightweight and Practical
    Pro and Ultra phones tend to be heavier and bulkier due to extra lenses and features. Base models are more portable while still covering all the essential photography and video capabilities most people need.

Key Features You’re Not Missing Out On

  • Portrait Mode: Works just as well on base models thanks to software-driven depth effects.
  • Wide and Ultra-Wide Lenses: These are standard now, even on entry-level flagship models.
  • Battery Life: Base models have superb power efficiency, lasting long enough for a full day of shooting.
  • Premium Build Quality: You’re still getting stunning designs with durable materials, even without the Pro moniker.

Who Should Choose a Base Model?

  • Casual Photographers: If you love taking photos for social media or personal memories, a base model handles everything seamlessly.
  • Content Creators on a Budget: Need professional-looking video without dropping a grand? Base models deliver the goods at a more affordable price.
  • Everyday Users: If you’re not printing billboards or zooming into planets, a base model’s cameras are more than enough.

Conclusion: Save Money, Capture Stunning Shots

In 2025, base model smartphones have closed the gap on Pro and Ultra models when it comes to camera and video tech.

They’re lighter, more affordable, and still offer jaw-dropping quality for everyday photography and video projects.

And for my money, the OnePlus 13 and Pixel 9 are the phones to beat right now when it comes to high-end video and camera performance.

You don’t need to go “Ultra” to shoot like a pro anymore.

Sign up for our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest mobile trends, tips, and reviews: Subscribe Now

Latest Smartphone Releases


  • Xiaomi 15S Pro

    The Xiaomi 15S Pro didn’t come with a flashy launch, but it brings some seriously heavy hardware to the table. A custom 10-core chip, Leica-engineered cameras, and one of the brightest displays on the market

  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge

    At just 5.8mm thick, it’s one of the thinnest Android phones ever made—but don’t let the slim profile fool you. This phone is all flagship under the hood.

  • Nothing Phone (3a) Pro

    It’s got the same slick design and OLED display, but adds a periscope zoom camera and a 50MP front-facing shooter.

  • Nothing Phone (3a)

    The Nothing Phone (3a) nails the formula: give people what they actually want, keep the price low, and make it look cooler than anything else in its class.

  • Motorola EDGE 60 Pro

    With a bold design, flagship-like display, and surprisingly refined camera system, it’s one of the most interesting mid-range phones of 2025.

  • Google Pixel 9

    I’ve been using the Pixel 9 for a few weeks now, and honestly? It nails all the basics—and a bit more. Killer stuff all round!

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro

    I’ve used the Pixel 9 Pro as my daily device, and it’s hands-down the best balance of power, practicality, and photography you’ll find on Android right now.

  • OnePlus 13

    I’ve been using the OnePlus 13 as my daily driver for a few months now—and I’ve got to say, it’s easily one of the best Android phones I’ve tested this year.

  • Xiaomi 15 Ultra

    After using the Xiaomi 15 Ultra for over a week, I can confidently say: this phone is an absolute beast. It’s made for camera nerds, power users, and creators.

  • iPhone 16 Pro Max

    If you’ve been holding out for a truly complete iPhone, the 16 Pro Max delivers—hard. After using it daily, I won't be going back…

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

    Big screen, big battery, and even bigger brains—this is the Pixel to get if you want Google’s best hardware and longest support.

  • Google Pixel 9a

    The Pixel 9a brings Google’s flagship-level smarts to a budget-friendly package, and it’s easily one of the best-value Android phones of 2025.

Best SIM-Only Plans & Deals


  • Boost Mobile Unlimited Premium Plan

    Boost’s top-tier option brings the heat: 50GB of premium data, hotspot, North America roaming, global talk & text, and $430 off select devices. All-in at $60/month with no contract.

    +

    Data: Unlimited (50GB premium speed)

  • Boost Mobile Unlimited+ Plan

    Level up with 40GB of premium data, hotspot access, global calling, and up to $300 in device savings. All for just $50/month. No contracts and flexible phone options included.

    +

    Data: Unlimited; Speed Caps After 40GB

  • Boost Mobile Unlimited Plan

    Start strong with 30GB of premium data, unlimited everything, and a killer intro offer: just $15/month for the first 3 months, then $25/month forever. No contracts. No fluff. Big value.

    +

    Data: Unlimited (Speed Caps Over 30GB)

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 108GB

    Another high-data, low-cost option with no contract. 108GB for just £9, full 5G access, and the same goodies you get with 12-month deals.

    +

    Data: 108GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 20GB

    The lowest price option. 20GB for £6 with all the same perks as pricier plans. Great if you don’t use much data and want to save every penny.

    +

    Data: 20GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 110GB

    This plan gives you big data and zero commitment. 110GB for just £10 with all perks intact. If you need more data but want the freedom to cancel, this is the one.

    +

    Data: 110GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 60GB

    More data, same price. For just £8/month, you get 60GB on a no-strings 1-month rolling plan. Ideal for users who stream often but don’t want long commitments.

    +

    Data: 60GB

  • iD Mobile 1 Month SIM-Only: 40GB

    Perfect if you want full flexibility. You get 40GB and all of iD Mobile's perks with no lock-in, annual increases, or setup fees. Great for short-term users.

    +

    Data: 40GB

  • iD Mobile 12 Month SIM-Only: 60GB

    One of the best pound-per-GB plans around. You get 60GB for £8 with £25 cashback, which means you’re effectively paying closer to £6/month. Includes roaming and data rollover.

    +

    Data: 60GB

  • iD Mobile 12 Month SIM-Only: 108GB

    This deal gets you a healthy 108GB of 5G data for less than a tenner, with no upfront costs and £24 cashback. All the perks are included too: data rollover, roaming, and loyalty rewards.

    +

    Data: 108GB

  • iD Mobile 12 Month SIM-Only: Unlimited Data

    This iD Mobile plan doesn’t just compete on price, it’s up there with the best of them. Unlimited everything, a year-long lock-in with no price rises, and £42 cashback straight to your pocket. It’s like getting nearly 3 months free.

    +

    Data: Unlimited, No Speed Caps

  • Mint Mobile 20GB Plan

    If you're looking to save some cash on your bills, this plan is an awesome option. You'll get 20GB of data per month and 20GB hotspot data allowance. For moderate to heavy users, that should be more than enough. I seldom use more than 10GB of data a month, and I'm always using my phone

    +

    Data: 20GB