For anyone watching this later, there is what I believe to be a similar typo for the OnePlus 9 at 3:12. It should be a 1/1.43" sensor if I'm not mistaken. Nevertheless this video is amazing as always Juan!
These typos highlight one of the bigger problems with talking about this: the way we write it down. How does anyone know how much bigger a 1/1.9" sensor is compared to a 1/2.55" sensor? It might be better to talk about it in surface area. The iPhone went from a 23mm2 sensor to a 32mm2 sensor or something like that. That waaaay more understandable for everyone and clears up the conversation instantly. What do you think Juan?
Look out big sold out channels. This guy isn't afraid to remain true and obviously the one of very few that actually know what the tech is that he's reviewing. More important 😌 how it works. Much love to the individual and facts.
I've been content with cameras in smartphones since LG G5. I'd much rather smart phone creators focus on improving features and increasing the actual value of a product than strip out valuable features like headphones jack and expandable storage. I don't mind if they want to improve the camera, but not at the expense of expandable storage or headphone jack.
@@hyedefinition1080 if I'm not mistaken, that's the one with the curved screen? I skipped it because of that. I tried the V series, but switched back to the G line because I kept dropping the V20 because it was too big. (A 5.8 in LG phone would be my dream phone)
This is AMERICA! I will needlessly upgrade my phone every three months! How dare you tell me otherwise! It is my god given right to be as wasteful as humanly possible! I was put on this earth to CONSUME! (Sarcasm / I am being facetious)
I used to chase after the best smartphone camera, but I stoped after realising now incremental/ if not negelgible differences the cameras have towards each other on a year to year basis. I think you previously made a blindtest comparison between two smartphone cameras (Pixel and iPhone?) 4 years apart and most people couldn't tell the difference which proves the point. Only reason I could tell was because of processing styles (which is subjective), not that the newer one had a better quality. At the end of the day at such small sensor sizes AND lens you do hit a limit on how much quality you can pack. Each year it seems to be more of a computational improvement (which imo is gimmicky) but aren't exactly an substitute for good hardware. Hardware is no doubt improving in terms of sensor size, but again there is a limit to that too. Smartphone lens aren't exactly getting any better and I can see that. Sensors are getting so large the shallow depth of field you get almost comes off as off-putting as if the phone did a bad portrait mode with aritifacts. In the end I just realised it's not worth chasing after smartphone cameras, improvements are just so incremental. If you cared that much about image/video quality. Keep the phone in your pocket and use that cash to get a mirrorless, you might even have extra cash left over than if you were to buy a new phone. Once you shoot a DSLR you just can't look at smartphones images the same way, most phones nowdays just look overprocessed (iPhone especially) and oversharpend. Differences are night and day. Hence now when I look for a new phone, I don't really care about camera anymore, chances are it's not too different to the one in my pocket already.
I used to shoot with my old Sony NEX-3N Mirrorless camera, so I can understand your comment there. The reason why I no longer use it is because of my current daily-driving Microsoft Lumia 950. But since modern smartphones of today focus too much on AI algorithm, I would definitely think of going back into the DSLR/Mirrorless world if I am forced to reluctantly retire my current Lumia.
You can't really do anymore with phone cameras now thin what's already been done you might as well break out a decent point a shoot if you don't wanna carry a dslr people really need to lay off the phone cameras.
This is the reality. And i'm saying this for years: 3 or 4 year old flagships can easily compete with these new "improved" flagships. So i'll hold on to my p30 till it dies on me. Because i don't need a new phone. Battery still lasts a day. Good photos, reasonable size (for me 6inch screen is perfect), i have a headphone jack😁. So thanks Juan Bagnell for these honest and real videos you make.
Yeay, another P30 user. I share the same sentiment with you. It's good enough for me and the only setback that I faced is the lack of GMS from EMUI 10.0 onwards. Hence why it currently stuck on 9.0 as of right now.
I still have my Galaxy S7 (small) flat screen phone. Still impressive. I wish they'd make a phone that size but with a full screen with a hole punch. Or no hole punch. Just full screen. But since under display cameras suck atm, hole punch it is.
I dont use my S7 as a daily phone eventho its fast enough. I did replace the battery myself like 8 months ago. Lasts long again. Its a great phone tho. I can only imagine how cool it would be to have a phone exactly that size that fits like that in the hand but is an all screen phone...🤤🤤
Juan has become prime time TV in my house, he is a natural and would be famous signing autographs, consulting with tech companies and launching a start up in a perfect world.
I was still using my Xperia Z2 for shooting, it's snaps sharp and well detailed photos provided you have ample light. it's still capable and a viewer might guess it's coming from recent phone when actually it's almost 7 years old
One nitpick but likely too technical to have included, sensor size directly relates to lens size, that means a smaller sensor with a faster f-stop means faster shutter speed = more exposures that can be bracketed and aligned after capture. More bracketed exposures=better dynamic range. All this to say that we dont need huge sensors but a smaller sensor with less pixels=larger pixels. Larger pixels=stronger signal to sensor and less artificial gain. Ideally a sensor the size of the Samsung HMX or HM2 with 14-16mp and a f1.6 or faster lens and OIS would result in a significant advancement compared to what we have now. Unfortunately its impossible to market these details when a company can say 50mp or 1 inch sensor, even though that 1 inch sensor is stuck with an f2 lens . All this to say i should probably do a video on this for the 3 people that would find it interesting
Thank you for making this video Juan! You are bringing it back into a tech discussion, and I love that. Personally, I have found that consumer tech like smartphones, wearables and tablets have become too much of a talking point kind of discussion. Each video is similar to the last, providing the spec on paper and moving through the talking points that were provided by the manufacturer. Sprinkle in a brief opinion or two, and it is done. Very few look at what a specific talking point actually means, and whether or not it’s intended purpose has effectively been achieved. Who tests these claims anymore? Furthermore, as it relates to smartphone cameras: I am happy you bring this up. Much like PC hardware configurations, it is a balancing act. In some cases, an i5 can outperform an i7. It comes down to the chip class, lithography, TDP, etc. Use case is also important e.g. preference for single or multi-core workflows. People forget that there is this kind of nuance, even in smartphone tech.
Totally agree. That's why Pixel/Iphone have what we need on the phone regarding camera setup. The companies mentioned above achieved very good balance for size/price/performance. Obvious the camera system in smartphones won't be able to compete even the first camera from M4/3 system, which start many years ago. That's why my OMD EM5 mk2 with 25mm f1.8 or 45mm f1.8 is still my fav choice for pictures and videos (you can replace that with any Panasonic system or different Olympus OMD camera). Ps. I still remember when I use first time Nokia N8. That was a game changer, beating up all Android/Iphone phones. ;)
I think we need to emphasize the need for smartphone manufacturers to fully maximize the potential of any camera hardware before moving to new hardware. It's just sad that consumers will always put down any item on the spec sheet that doesn't symbolize improvement. Them again, no one should be replacing their flagship phones year on year
This is actually true, I once tested my Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus against the HTC One M7 in well lit conditions and found out that the lather can keep up with the former in stock form. The differences being a less sharp, less saturated image. It can be improved in Lightroom too. There are a few limitations of course, like the lack of extra lenses and high quality video recording. Also the general usability of the device in today's world of apps and games that require much more processing power and compatibility to run properly. I will prioritize performance instead of better cameras when upgrading to a new phone in the future.
The philosophy of the rich and the poor is this: "the rich invest their money and spend what is left. The poor spend their money and invest what is left".
I think this pandemic has taught people the importance of multiple streams of income, unfortunately having a job doesn't mean security rather having different investments is the real deal.
@@evelynjohnson8761 Investing in today is priceless because tomorrow isn't promised, trading Bitcoins,gold, silver and crypto secure a better tomorrow.
I understand the fact that tomorrow isn't promised to anyone, but investing today is a hard thing to do because I have no idea of how and where to invest in?
Hi I got a S20 FE a month ago. No complaints, no issues, it's a great phone, it takes nice pics, but I kind of regretted not getting the S21 or even the LG V50 or V60 (used with all the risks that would imply). I was about to sell my Samsung for a better camera and screen; this seems to be a sign, LOL. Thanks for the video.
Great video! I love it how you make sense of thing mixed with actual facts . Your approach is positively refreshing. Hope maybe one day you tell more about that Sharp-Leica phone...??
When I switched from the Samsung S9+ to the OP 7t I really enjoyed the camera on my OP. Maybe I was a bit to disappointed by the lack of any special difference in the S9+ even with that special "Dual aperture", or maybe I just like the way OP tune their cameras and allows to at least have different camera apps (I have 3 in my 7t) or maybe it is the fact that I could never get the pixel camera app working on the Exynos S9+
Though I also agree that a bigger sensor won't make the camera better I don't think manufacturers are only counting on this nowadays. Software tricks are also doing some magic.
I just liked this straight away without watching it!! I'm sick and tired of people fomo buying for that "one extra camera" or "one more zoom lens". Being the tech guru of my family and cousins, my first question is"why do you want to upgrade?". The second step is to cure the FOMO that they have.
I really wish you got your hands on the mi11u. It has it's quirks (bad close-up/ macro focus, and while overall very good the more seasoned competition might pull ahead in situations where ai processing will have more impact), but the natural, DSLR-like results in the photos taken considerately really are next level. Xiaomi also opted for minimum sharpening and processing which I personally really like. And yes, I upgraded to this phone almost just for the 📸 😂
Learned that the hard way. I "upgraded" from an iPhone 8 to a Galaxy S9. I hated the experience (occasional software hiccups, subpar photos/selfies, etc.). Bought an 11 Pro Max a year later and I'm content. 😌
Stopped upgrading after getting my own DSLR's now I am upgrading lenses, and I get return of investments with photos lol. The only reason I would be upgrading is because of Software updates.
I don't get the obsession with portrait photos to begin with nevermind the "need" for the fad of blur, bokeh, depth of field. Other things in a photo are interesting to look at as well. When I started archiving family photos from the 30s and 40s of people I never met one of the most interesting things to talk about was where they were, who else was in the background, what was going on, etc. My grandfather could barely afford a camera and managed to get some great photos, so yea, you probably don't need to upgrade unless you take only low light photos in a bar twice on weekends.
Love your content, I would love to converse with you more about why Google tends not to get criticized like Apple and Samsung, and stock android being overrated!
Brands love to slap on a "all new camera" with new releases, while actually releasing phone with same or old sensors. Got really disappointed after Pixel 6 Pro sensors leaked, IMX386 for Ultra-Wide is disappointing to say the least, which is super old and tiny sensor. While certain brands already using higher end sensor for Ultra-Wide.
If we talk about cameras in smartphones, don´t just focus on sensors and their size, I think we also have to look at the lenses! Sure we have already lenses built into smartphones which have Aperture f/1.6 and faster, but we need to see the camera module as a whole component. Not just the sensor on it´s own. I for my part prefer my Sony A6300 with SEL 55-210mm & 16-50 mm (ýes i know, these lenses aren´t fast at all) over my Xiaomi Pocophone F1 camera.
I'd never upgrade my phone purely based on the cameras but on the overall improvements. Image processing has certainly got better over the last 5 years but it would be great to have built in ND filter. Variable aperture is perhaps of less benefit on tiny sensors (i.e. diffraction issues).
I was wondering why bright daytime videos on my S20FE seemed more choppy than on my previous phone Xperia XZ1 regardless of resolution or framerate. Thanks!
I get that. But I still like driving a phone as hard as I can, then being able to edit directly from the phone, and upload directly from the phone, and handle all the conversation directly from the phone. The next generation of filmmakers are gonna start with phones like I did on super 8. Standalone cameras are great, but there's a TON of untapped potential folks throwaway on phones before they step up to a standalone camera.
Funny you say that. I used to be in the Mirrorless camera bandwagon with my pink Sony NEX-3N and its SELP1650 kit lens until I bought a Microsoft Lumia 950 XL in October 2018. Since then, that Sony camera is in my drawer until I sold it two months later.
The only best camera technology on phone for me was the original Nokia's Pureview with Zeiss lens. I've tested the iPhone's, Samsung's, Huawei's, Sony's; nothing came even close on capturing without HDR and low light photography during their days.
Couldn't agree more. Nokia/Microsoft's PureView image processing still wins my heart. Sure that modern smartphones have miles better dynamic range and zoom performance, but not one can perfectly match its true-to-life realistic colour and detail.
Anyone who's spent a good amount of time with a DSLR understands the aperture/light/shutter speed balancing act and how they interact with and limit one another depending on conditions. However most people shoot photos with their phones, so it's good to have this explanation and save them from spending stupid amounts of money for a slightly newer phone with marginally better camera performance. These phones all have some kind of manual mode to help you tweak things to make the most out of your sensor and get good shots. Still, if you're really into photography - you're better off with a real camera.
I just want 2 "big" sensors on two focal lengths (wide and ultra-wide) like the Oppo X3 Pro with a Note9-style variable aperture and capability of capturing raw, all under top glass coating like the Zeiss optics on Vivo phones, controlled by One UI and its camera app. Too much to ask, I know..
Yup. It's a shame they canned that, but it would have been MUCH harder to keep it with a larger sensor. Still, hopefully we'll get ND filters in phones. Next best option.
Me: Wow Juan is right, I could totally keep this phone? Also me: Here are several reasons I already decided was wasteful that I will use to justify sticking to the 2 year upgrade cycle!
I don't know my friend. I've got a Galaxy s21 and I HAD to get a pixel 5a. S21 low light and movement during photos was so bad that I was self conscious of it 🤣 I'm keeping the s21 as a back up
Oh for sure. Fanbois WIGGED OUT hard when I showed my work, but the OP9 WITHOUT OIS handles low light A LOT better than the S21. Samsung got lazy on the S21. That's why I didn't compare the 5A here against a Samsung 😅
Hey man! Not sure if you are still monitoring comments on this video but I'll give it a shot. So last week I recorded portrait videos using filmic on a note 20 and iphone 11. Note 20 had much better video on an overcast day with good background blur. But if I were to use an nd filter, would I be able to mimic that on a bright sunny day?
The idea would be to turn down your shutter, so probably? At 24fps, the shutter we're most familiar with is 180 degrees (or roughly 1/50th of a second). Drop your ISO, use an ND filter, and your phone footage should look smoother at that shutter speed.
It's just silly at this point. The sensor isn't any larger. They're just cutting a pixel into smaller and smaller sub-pixels. I'm WAY more excited about the 1" type sensors on xiaomi and vivo phones.
1:32 "But who would want to walk around with that lens in their pocket?" Me, I would! I sold my old Sony camera + old phone to buy a single new Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra a few years ago and the camera is fantastic.. but even though I feel like this still the best ultra zoom camera on a phone today, it falls far short of big physically adjustable lenses especially for anything that needs >120mm Plus while the photos of people on the main sensor in good light come out fantastically detailed and sharp, great bokeh too.. there's just something missing compared to the Sony Alpha. I can't even say what it is because spec-wise they're very comparible: Xiaomi: 1/1.12" sensor (huge for a phone), 24mm f/2.0 effective lens, 50MP binned down to 12MP by default vs Sony Alpha: APS-C sensor (3.6x more area), 18-55 F/3.5-5.6 kit lens, 24MP Clarity in bright environments is both great, colours realistic, bokeh quality and strength is fairly equal.. but the Alpha has a more 'cinematic' feel? Like you look at it and immediately think "wow a nice camera took this" I wish I knew exactly what was there so I could perhaps try to replicate it again
someone feel free to elaborate on this topic, but tech mainstreamed. like a tech aficionado is now associated to mainstream content creators that appeal to masses. A phone that has mainstream strengths wins favor (sales) and phones that have quirks aren't even reviewed. People became complacent and prices went up for upgrades that most people won't notice.
Hey Juan, as always awesome content! With that said, I need a little help, What would you recommend for someone who needs the best possible camera phone (video specifically) , micro SD support and a headphone jack? ( Having something that'll get a couple years of updates from the manufacturer would be a huge plus) Thanks in advance!
Samsung S9+ or S10+, LG V50 or V60. Any other phone built since 2019 will have compromises to the features you're looking for. Unless you're willing to spring for a Sony Xperia that may not be compatible on your network.
more people need to see this - and, with any luck, juan, exactly that will happen fewer people need to be corporate shills - though i'm not sure, in this ever-worsening economic climate, we'll get there juan 🤦🏿♂️ keep at it brother: we need your voice and insights in this revolution
Great video as always!!.A small question though,Been using a oneplus5t for nearly 4 years now,thought of getting pixel 5a cuz the camera isn’t that great on my 5t and night shots are pretty bad,In your opinion is it worth the upgrade,keeping photography as a main concern?
I have a 2016 Lenovo p2 with sony imx2xx generation 13mp 1/3 inch-ish potato sensor. I put android 10 custom rom on it along with gcam and the pictures are going toe to toe with my iphone XR. Its hilarious. :-P
I mostly upgrade for software and performance mostly BC the apps keep getting more and more intensive so it's not even the phone's fault.....upgrading for camera meh unless you're going from like an s5 to an S20 then yea you should upgrade for the camera
What I mainly look ina new phone is the carrier capabilities like 5G and the display so far my OnePlus 9 pro satisfies my needs but I really dislike the type c charger port while using my phone it keeps popping out it's really annoying
i would rather manufacturer starts adding more smartphone features to make smartphone a computer replacement instead of blowing the whole budget on improving cameras for no reasons.
I want more fun with camera modes. Look at xiaomi with all the modes like cloning and stuff. THAT is fun. Another sensor size upgrade isnt needed. I just need a reliable shooting experience. Quality is already amazing in most condition.
I have iPhone XS Max for 3 years and now that new iPhone 13 is out with better camera and screen I thought of upgrading yes I’d have to dash out 1000$ extra for that phone and honestly I’m not sure I want too but please tell me if I really should?
I mean, I can't tell you how to spend your money, but I will ask, what will a better screen mean for YOUR use? Are you wanting to do more with a phone camera? A "better camera" is only better if YOU try to get more out of it. Rocking a XS this long is a really good run, so an upgrade could be fun. But if your needs really haven't changed or grown, a battery replacement might be all you need to feel like you have a new phone again.
i simply got a used pixel 2 for 100 usd. Much better than my g7, g8x, and iphone 8. I don't need anything more expensive. Maybe a 4 or 5 down the line.
Should I switch to android? The community kinda toxic but still considering. My only concern is how long do androids last and be supported. Don’t know yet might get the z flip 3 or iPhone 13 pro.
As for toxic communities, my Apple video wracked up one death threat, a trio of comments calling me trans for wearing earrings, and a couple dozen comments saying no one cares or that I'm a clown.
@@SomeGadgetGuy yeah guess both sides just as toxic. I just want the z flip don’t care if it only lasts me 2 years such a cool phone, but im kinda stuck in the apple ecosystem. Might just replace my battery and wait another year.
Hell, i still think the photos from the good ol' Note 4 from years ago is still comparable to modern smartphones of today. My sister still use that phone till this day and it still works like a charm.
DAMMIT! I just caught a STUPID typo in my sensor charts. the XPERIA 1iii should read as a 1/1.76" sensor.
The XPERIA does NOT use a 1/7.6" sensor LOL!
For anyone watching this later, there is what I believe to be a similar typo for the OnePlus 9 at 3:12. It should be a 1/1.43" sensor if I'm not mistaken.
Nevertheless this video is amazing as always Juan!
One plus 9 , 1/4.3
These typos highlight one of the bigger problems with talking about this: the way we write it down. How does anyone know how much bigger a 1/1.9" sensor is compared to a 1/2.55" sensor? It might be better to talk about it in surface area. The iPhone went from a 23mm2 sensor to a 32mm2 sensor or something like that. That waaaay more understandable for everyone and clears up the conversation instantly. What do you think Juan?
@@cheekhong DAMMIT LOL
@@ArnoudWokke I mean yeah. That would be nice.
Look out big sold out channels. This guy isn't afraid to remain true and obviously the one of very few that actually know what the tech is that he's reviewing. More important 😌 how it works. Much love to the individual and facts.
@@-aexc- Been here since the iPaq days, not going anywhere, but it's always good to know who has my back.
@@-aexc- Right. Which is the respect of his truth over fluff for money. Money cannot buy dignity.
@@-aexc- PS I agree with the comment you made too. Hope you enjoy your tech future friend !!
That is I stopped watching popular sponsored sold out channels and now focus on non-sponsored truly indie channels like Juan. The honesty is there.
@Alyssa Personally for me, I rather have a circle of small but intellectual people over a circle of large but inept people.
I've been content with cameras in smartphones since LG G5.
I'd much rather smart phone creators focus on improving features and increasing the actual value of a product than strip out valuable features like headphones jack and expandable storage.
I don't mind if they want to improve the camera, but not at the expense of expandable storage or headphone jack.
The G5 was so ahead of it's time.
True. For whatever reason when I see photos from the G5 ... They tend to look better than most ... Even today.
The G4 was the best camera in the series hands down. The G5 disappointed me...G4 is the best camera, V30 best video imo
@@hyedefinition1080 if I'm not mistaken, that's the one with the curved screen? I skipped it because of that.
I tried the V series, but switched back to the G line because I kept dropping the V20 because it was too big. (A 5.8 in LG phone would be my dream phone)
This guy really understands. Thank you for the very interesting topics.
This is AMERICA! I will needlessly upgrade my phone every three months! How dare you tell me otherwise! It is my god given right to be as wasteful as humanly possible! I was put on this earth to CONSUME!
(Sarcasm / I am being facetious)
I used to chase after the best smartphone camera, but I stoped after realising now incremental/ if not negelgible differences the cameras have towards each other on a year to year basis.
I think you previously made a blindtest comparison between two smartphone cameras (Pixel and iPhone?) 4 years apart and most people couldn't tell the difference which proves the point. Only reason I could tell was because of processing styles (which is subjective), not that the newer one had a better quality.
At the end of the day at such small sensor sizes AND lens you do hit a limit on how much quality you can pack. Each year it seems to be more of a computational improvement (which imo is gimmicky) but aren't exactly an substitute for good hardware.
Hardware is no doubt improving in terms of sensor size, but again there is a limit to that too. Smartphone lens aren't exactly getting any better and I can see that. Sensors are getting so large the shallow depth of field you get almost comes off as off-putting as if the phone did a bad portrait mode with aritifacts.
In the end I just realised it's not worth chasing after smartphone cameras, improvements are just so incremental. If you cared that much about image/video quality. Keep the phone in your pocket and use that cash to get a mirrorless, you might even have extra cash left over than if you were to buy a new phone.
Once you shoot a DSLR you just can't look at smartphones images the same way, most phones nowdays just look overprocessed (iPhone especially) and oversharpend. Differences are night and day.
Hence now when I look for a new phone, I don't really care about camera anymore, chances are it's not too different to the one in my pocket already.
I used to shoot with my old Sony NEX-3N Mirrorless camera, so I can understand your comment there. The reason why I no longer use it is because of my current daily-driving Microsoft Lumia 950. But since modern smartphones of today focus too much on AI algorithm, I would definitely think of going back into the DSLR/Mirrorless world if I am forced to reluctantly retire my current Lumia.
You can't really do anymore with phone cameras now thin what's already been done you might as well break out a decent point a shoot if you don't wanna carry a dslr people really need to lay off the phone cameras.
Well said!
This is the reality. And i'm saying this for years: 3 or 4 year old flagships can easily compete with these new "improved" flagships. So i'll hold on to my p30 till it dies on me. Because i don't need a new phone. Battery still lasts a day. Good photos, reasonable size (for me 6inch screen is perfect), i have a headphone jack😁. So thanks Juan Bagnell for these honest and real videos you make.
Yeay, another P30 user. I share the same sentiment with you. It's good enough for me and the only setback that I faced is the lack of GMS from EMUI 10.0 onwards. Hence why it currently stuck on 9.0 as of right now.
@@theempires5 P30 has GMS even on EMUI 11. I have ELE L29 model in Europe and it has GMS.
Juan Bagnell is a gem.
This guy single handedly brings clarity to mobile computing. Grateful to him.
That is why I no longer watch popular sponsored tech RUclipsrs. True non-sponsored indies like Juan is much more honest and intellectual.
I still have my Galaxy S7 (small) flat screen phone. Still impressive.
I wish they'd make a phone that size but with a full screen with a hole punch. Or no hole punch. Just full screen. But since under display cameras suck atm, hole punch it is.
I really miss the old "normal" phone sizes.
Mine broke. Now have a S8 which is on its last lap but still holding up
My S7 flat is on it's finsl lap.. randomly restarts now and then. Gotta upgrade EOY but the S7 is a lone David and there's Goliaths all around. Lol.
I dont use my S7 as a daily phone eventho its fast enough. I did replace the battery myself like 8 months ago. Lasts long again. Its a great phone tho.
I can only imagine how cool it would be to have a phone exactly that size that fits like that in the hand but is an all screen phone...🤤🤤
The S10e is exactly that
Juan has become prime time TV in my house, he is a natural and would be famous signing autographs, consulting with tech companies and launching a start up in a perfect world.
Finally! Someone who knew his stuff! Thanks for the video pal! Keep on and make great content for us!
Juan is just so good at these!!!
I already love this series!
I was still using my Xperia Z2 for shooting, it's snaps sharp and well detailed photos provided you have ample light.
it's still capable and a viewer might guess it's coming from recent phone when actually it's almost 7 years old
One nitpick but likely too technical to have included, sensor size directly relates to lens size, that means a smaller sensor with a faster f-stop means faster shutter speed = more exposures that can be bracketed and aligned after capture. More bracketed exposures=better dynamic range.
All this to say that we dont need huge sensors but a smaller sensor with less pixels=larger pixels. Larger pixels=stronger signal to sensor and less artificial gain. Ideally a sensor the size of the Samsung HMX or HM2 with 14-16mp and a f1.6 or faster lens and OIS would result in a significant advancement compared to what we have now. Unfortunately its impossible to market these details when a company can say 50mp or 1 inch sensor, even though that 1 inch sensor is stuck with an f2 lens
.
All this to say i should probably do a video on this for the 3 people that would find it interesting
Thank you for making this video Juan! You are bringing it back into a tech discussion, and I love that. Personally, I have found that consumer tech like smartphones, wearables and tablets have become too much of a talking point kind of discussion. Each video is similar to the last, providing the spec on paper and moving through the talking points that were provided by the manufacturer. Sprinkle in a brief opinion or two, and it is done. Very few look at what a specific talking point actually means, and whether or not it’s intended purpose has effectively been achieved. Who tests these claims anymore?
Furthermore, as it relates to smartphone cameras: I am happy you bring this up. Much like PC hardware configurations, it is a balancing act. In some cases, an i5 can outperform an i7. It comes down to the chip class, lithography, TDP, etc. Use case is also important e.g. preference for single or multi-core workflows. People forget that there is this kind of nuance, even in smartphone tech.
That's the beauty of his channel Informative , Clean and Concise.
Totally agree. That's why Pixel/Iphone have what we need on the phone regarding camera setup. The companies mentioned above achieved very good balance for size/price/performance. Obvious the camera system in smartphones won't be able to compete even the first camera from M4/3 system, which start many years ago. That's why my OMD EM5 mk2 with 25mm f1.8 or 45mm f1.8 is still my fav choice for pictures and videos (you can replace that with any Panasonic system or different Olympus OMD camera).
Ps. I still remember when I use first time Nokia N8. That was a game changer, beating up all Android/Iphone phones. ;)
iPhone is not balanced the least when it comes to price! Nor are current Samsungs for that matter, nor the original Pixels until the 3A.
I think we need to emphasize the need for smartphone manufacturers to fully maximize the potential of any camera hardware before moving to new hardware. It's just sad that consumers will always put down any item on the spec sheet that doesn't symbolize improvement.
Them again, no one should be replacing their flagship phones year on year
This is actually true, I once tested my Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus against the HTC One M7 in well lit conditions and found out that the lather can keep up with the former in stock form. The differences being a less sharp, less saturated image. It can be improved in Lightroom too.
There are a few limitations of course, like the lack of extra lenses and high quality video recording. Also the general usability of the device in today's world of apps and games that require much more processing power and compatibility to run properly.
I will prioritize performance instead of better cameras when upgrading to a new phone in the future.
A lot of people want a good lifestyle but the way they spend can't see them get that lifestyle anytime soon the better rich invest more and spend less
The philosophy of the rich and the poor is this: "the rich invest their money and spend what is left. The poor spend their money and invest what is left".
I think this pandemic has taught people the importance of multiple streams of income, unfortunately having a job doesn't mean security rather having different investments is the real deal.
@@evelynjohnson8761 Investing in today is priceless because tomorrow isn't promised, trading Bitcoins,gold, silver and crypto secure a better tomorrow.
It's nice to hear people discuss about investment, because investment always beat cash.
I understand the fact that tomorrow isn't promised to anyone, but investing today is a hard thing to do because I have no idea of how and where to invest in?
Hi
I got a S20 FE a month ago. No complaints, no issues, it's a great phone, it takes nice pics, but I kind of regretted not getting the S21 or even the LG V50 or V60 (used with all the risks that would imply). I was about to sell my Samsung for a better camera and screen; this seems to be a sign, LOL. Thanks for the video.
Great video! I love it how you make sense of thing mixed with actual facts . Your approach is positively refreshing. Hope maybe one day you tell more about that Sharp-Leica phone...??
I hope so too!
U r always a gem....following u since 2012 and proud to be here🔥🔥🔥
When I switched from the Samsung S9+ to the OP 7t I really enjoyed the camera on my OP.
Maybe I was a bit to disappointed by the lack of any special difference in the S9+ even with that special "Dual aperture", or maybe I just like the way OP tune their cameras and allows to at least have different camera apps (I have 3 in my 7t) or maybe it is the fact that I could never get the pixel camera app working on the Exynos S9+
What camera apps?
This is exactly why I'm still using my OnePlus 7 Pro. Although that might change when the Pixel 6 Pro is released though.
Nokia 808 -> Active ND filter ;-)
I guess one of the OnePlus Maclaren phone also did this.
Oh how I really miss the built-in ND filter feature a lot! There's so much room for shutter speed experiment with it.
Though I also agree that a bigger sensor won't make the camera better I don't think manufacturers are only counting on this nowadays. Software tricks are also doing some magic.
Great point! However it's only true for the main camera, older phones didn't have 5x or 10x tele :)
The only camera upgrade I want over my note 9 is a far field zoom lense (5/10x) and an ultrawide 😅
Im not upgrading till this thing flatlines, though
I just liked this straight away without watching it!! I'm sick and tired of people fomo buying for that "one extra camera" or "one more zoom lens". Being the tech guru of my family and cousins, my first question is"why do you want to upgrade?". The second step is to cure the FOMO that they have.
“Because I’d rather just be happy to see ya”…😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
More stuff like this is what ppl need to talk about. Cheers
It needs all the help it can get with sharing...
Great info as always Juan! Thank you.
I really wish you got your hands on the mi11u. It has it's quirks (bad close-up/ macro focus, and while overall very good the more seasoned competition might pull ahead in situations where ai processing will have more impact), but the natural, DSLR-like results in the photos taken considerately really are next level.
Xiaomi also opted for minimum sharpening and processing which I personally really like.
And yes, I upgraded to this phone almost just for the 📸 😂
It looks like an incredible shooter. Maybe next year for me 🤞
If there's one thing I'm not impressed from the Mi 11 Ultra, it's the 1.1x-4.9x zoom. Definitely not a fan of the processing algorithm at that range.
Learned that the hard way. I "upgraded" from an iPhone 8 to a Galaxy S9. I hated the experience (occasional software hiccups, subpar photos/selfies, etc.). Bought an 11 Pro Max a year later and I'm content. 😌
Shows how important software and familiarity are 👍
I wish had more variable ND options for phones
Yyyyyyyeeeeeeessssssssss
If only they go back on multimedia focus . not on gaming.
Like how many phones still have physical shutter button like Nokia N series back then
Me too, and don't forget Xenon flash as well. I really miss them from the Nokia 808. They are great and super useful.
Stopped upgrading after getting my own DSLR's now I am upgrading lenses, and I get return of investments with photos lol. The only reason I would be upgrading is because of Software updates.
Our tech Yoda. Love your approach.
I don't get the obsession with portrait photos to begin with nevermind the "need" for the fad of blur, bokeh, depth of field. Other things in a photo are interesting to look at as well. When I started archiving family photos from the 30s and 40s of people I never met one of the most interesting things to talk about was where they were, who else was in the background, what was going on, etc. My grandfather could barely afford a camera and managed to get some great photos, so yea, you probably don't need to upgrade unless you take only low light photos in a bar twice on weekends.
Love your content, I would love to converse with you more about why Google tends not to get criticized like Apple and Samsung, and stock android being overrated!
Brands love to slap on a "all new camera" with new releases, while actually releasing phone with same or old sensors. Got really disappointed after Pixel 6 Pro sensors leaked, IMX386 for Ultra-Wide is disappointing to say the least, which is super old and tiny sensor. While certain brands already using higher end sensor for Ultra-Wide.
Google heavily focus on the software side of mobile photography. You see the same thing with the Apple iPhone camera.
If we talk about cameras in smartphones, don´t just focus on sensors and their size, I think we also have to look at the lenses! Sure we have already lenses built into smartphones which have Aperture f/1.6 and faster, but we need to see the camera module as a whole component. Not just the sensor on it´s own.
I for my part prefer my Sony A6300 with SEL 55-210mm & 16-50 mm (ýes i know, these lenses aren´t fast at all) over my Xiaomi Pocophone F1 camera.
I'd never upgrade my phone purely based on the cameras but on the overall improvements. Image processing has certainly got better over the last 5 years but it would be great to have built in ND filter. Variable aperture is perhaps of less benefit on tiny sensors (i.e. diffraction issues).
I was wondering why bright daytime videos on my S20FE seemed more choppy than on my previous phone Xperia XZ1 regardless of resolution or framerate. Thanks!
Yup 👍
Amazing and informative video, as always, Juan!
Honestly, if pics and videos are that important to you just buy a Sony ZV-1 or a Ricoh gr iii and keep the phone you have.
I get that. But I still like driving a phone as hard as I can, then being able to edit directly from the phone, and upload directly from the phone, and handle all the conversation directly from the phone. The next generation of filmmakers are gonna start with phones like I did on super 8. Standalone cameras are great, but there's a TON of untapped potential folks throwaway on phones before they step up to a standalone camera.
Funny you say that. I used to be in the Mirrorless camera bandwagon with my pink Sony NEX-3N and its SELP1650 kit lens until I bought a Microsoft Lumia 950 XL in October 2018. Since then, that Sony camera is in my drawer until I sold it two months later.
@@FAT8893 I’ve compared portraits and video from the Sony ZV-1 and the iPhone 12 Pro Max and the Sony is the clear winner.
The only best camera technology on phone for me was the original Nokia's Pureview with Zeiss lens. I've tested the iPhone's, Samsung's, Huawei's, Sony's; nothing came even close on capturing without HDR and low light photography during their days.
Glory days of smartphone photography. I used a 1020 photo in this video as an example.
Couldn't agree more. Nokia/Microsoft's PureView image processing still wins my heart. Sure that modern smartphones have miles better dynamic range and zoom performance, but not one can perfectly match its true-to-life realistic colour and detail.
Anyone who's spent a good amount of time with a DSLR understands the aperture/light/shutter speed balancing act and how they interact with and limit one another depending on conditions. However most people shoot photos with their phones, so it's good to have this explanation and save them from spending stupid amounts of money for a slightly newer phone with marginally better camera performance. These phones all have some kind of manual mode to help you tweak things to make the most out of your sensor and get good shots. Still, if you're really into photography - you're better off with a real camera.
I just want 2 "big" sensors on two focal lengths (wide and ultra-wide) like the Oppo X3 Pro with a Note9-style variable aperture and capability of capturing raw, all under top glass coating like the Zeiss optics on Vivo phones, controlled by One UI and its camera app. Too much to ask, I know..
LOL "All I want is..." goes on to describe something somewhat complicated 😅
I remembered Samsung's Dual Aperture from S9 and S9+. They got it so right on the first attempt.
Yup. It's a shame they canned that, but it would have been MUCH harder to keep it with a larger sensor. Still, hopefully we'll get ND filters in phones. Next best option.
Sensor size, the new megapickle. 😉
💯
You are the best tech reviewal .. and you always say the truth and the right things .. well done ✅ mate all the best for you
Me: Wow Juan is right, I could totally keep this phone?
Also me: Here are several reasons I already decided was wasteful that I will use to justify sticking to the 2 year upgrade cycle!
😄
I don't know my friend. I've got a Galaxy s21 and I HAD to get a pixel 5a. S21 low light and movement during photos was so bad that I was self conscious of it 🤣
I'm keeping the s21 as a back up
Oh for sure. Fanbois WIGGED OUT hard when I showed my work, but the OP9 WITHOUT OIS handles low light A LOT better than the S21. Samsung got lazy on the S21. That's why I didn't compare the 5A here against a Samsung 😅
@@SomeGadgetGuy it's a shame bc the s21 is obviously a superior build and experience imo than the pixel but pixels just can't be beat!
And I am Happy to See You Too. Don't know why I laughed so hard at that zinger. Another great video my friend!!
Thanks for another great video Juan.
Hey man! Not sure if you are still monitoring comments on this video but I'll give it a shot. So last week I recorded portrait videos using filmic on a note 20 and iphone 11. Note 20 had much better video on an overcast day with good background blur. But if I were to use an nd filter, would I be able to mimic that on a bright sunny day?
The idea would be to turn down your shutter, so probably? At 24fps, the shutter we're most familiar with is 180 degrees (or roughly 1/50th of a second). Drop your ISO, use an ND filter, and your phone footage should look smoother at that shutter speed.
I mostly look for faster charging speeds and processing power more than I do camera features
And now, ladies and gentlemen....
200 MEGAPICKLES CAMERA SENSORS.
Just when I thought 108 megapickles is overkill...
It's just silly at this point. The sensor isn't any larger. They're just cutting a pixel into smaller and smaller sub-pixels. I'm WAY more excited about the 1" type sensors on xiaomi and vivo phones.
You have the big RIGHT sir Juan.👍👍👍
😊👍
Loving the content, and loving that Doctor Who shirt!!
1:32 "But who would want to walk around with that lens in their pocket?"
Me, I would!
I sold my old Sony camera + old phone to buy a single new Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra a few years ago and the camera is fantastic.. but even though I feel like this still the best ultra zoom camera on a phone today, it falls far short of big physically adjustable lenses especially for anything that needs >120mm
Plus while the photos of people on the main sensor in good light come out fantastically detailed and sharp, great bokeh too.. there's just something missing compared to the Sony Alpha. I can't even say what it is because spec-wise they're very comparible:
Xiaomi: 1/1.12" sensor (huge for a phone), 24mm f/2.0 effective lens, 50MP binned down to 12MP by default
vs
Sony Alpha: APS-C sensor (3.6x more area), 18-55 F/3.5-5.6 kit lens, 24MP
Clarity in bright environments is both great, colours realistic, bokeh quality and strength is fairly equal.. but the Alpha has a more 'cinematic' feel?
Like you look at it and immediately think "wow a nice camera took this"
I wish I knew exactly what was there so I could perhaps try to replicate it again
Did NOT know we have a phone with a true 1" cencor out there! Holy heck, gimme!!
Yup!
Panasonic was the first to do it with the Lumix CM1 all the way back in 2014.
What if you flip one phone for an older phone? Say 4a 5g to OP 7 Pro? I never tried it out
someone feel free to elaborate on this topic, but tech mainstreamed. like a tech aficionado is now associated to mainstream content creators that appeal to masses. A phone that has mainstream strengths wins favor (sales) and phones that have quirks aren't even reviewed. People became complacent and prices went up for upgrades that most people won't notice.
Sir Juan!! Thanks!
Hey Juan, as always awesome content!
With that said, I need a little help,
What would you recommend for someone who needs the best possible camera phone (video specifically) , micro SD support and a headphone jack? ( Having something that'll get a couple years of updates from the manufacturer would be a huge plus)
Thanks in advance!
Samsung S9+ or S10+, LG V50 or V60. Any other phone built since 2019 will have compromises to the features you're looking for. Unless you're willing to spring for a Sony Xperia that may not be compatible on your network.
Best to go for Sony phones since they do care about OS updates. You can also go for flagship LG phones but fingers crossed about future OS update.
more people need to see this - and, with any luck, juan, exactly that will happen
fewer people need to be corporate shills - though i'm not sure, in this ever-worsening economic climate, we'll get there juan
🤦🏿♂️
keep at it brother: we need your voice and insights in this revolution
Great video as always!!.A small question though,Been using a oneplus5t for nearly 4 years now,thought of getting pixel 5a cuz the camera isn’t that great on my 5t and night shots are pretty bad,In your opinion is it worth the upgrade,keeping photography as a main concern?
Nice thing about spacing out your upgrades that far apart, I can't think of a single camera aspect on the 5t that the Pixel 5A won't be better at.
@@SomeGadgetGuy Thank you so much for the reply, keep up the good work!!!
I have a 2016 Lenovo p2 with sony imx2xx generation 13mp 1/3 inch-ish potato sensor. I put android 10 custom rom on it along with gcam and the pictures are going toe to toe with my iphone XR. Its hilarious. :-P
I used to own one and loved the crazy long battery life.
@@lukemothug Yeah, its an amazing phone! still have it and works like a gem.
I knew there was something weird. Half an inch is not 6.3mm. That's 10mm in the yellow 🙂👍
Oh it's hilarious why we measure by inches.
@@SomeGadgetGuy Yeah, we use "optical format" and it's utterly odd and out of date. IMHO. They should use real sensor size. AND GO METRIC!
RIGHT! I still got do the math in mm ANYWAY!
I mostly upgrade for software and performance mostly BC the apps keep getting more and more intensive so it's not even the phone's fault.....upgrading for camera meh unless you're going from like an s5 to an S20 then yea you should upgrade for the camera
Help me make a decision. Would you say the Note 20 ultra is worth upgrading from the Note 10+ based on camera's?
Depends on what you are shooting. If you don't have a specific need, like the 5x zoom camera, then it is not worth the money to upgrade.
What I mainly look ina new phone is the carrier capabilities like 5G and the display so far my OnePlus 9 pro satisfies my needs but I really dislike the type c charger port while using my phone it keeps popping out it's really annoying
Camera, speakers and chipset is the most important features in a smartphone
i would rather manufacturer starts adding more smartphone features to make smartphone a computer replacement instead of blowing the whole budget on improving cameras for no reasons.
Good point there. Not only I want to use the smartphone just for photography and videography, I also want to use it as a pocket PC when travelling.
I want more fun with camera modes. Look at xiaomi with all the modes like cloning and stuff.
THAT is fun.
Another sensor size upgrade isnt needed.
I just need a reliable shooting experience. Quality is already amazing in most condition.
Pfft, joke's on them, I don't change phones until I actually need to, too expensive
I know right. I went almost two years with a dying phone to get as much valuable out of it as possible.
I have iPhone XS Max for 3 years and now that new iPhone 13 is out with better camera and screen I thought of upgrading yes I’d have to dash out 1000$ extra for that phone and honestly I’m not sure I want too but please tell me if I really should?
I mean, I can't tell you how to spend your money, but I will ask, what will a better screen mean for YOUR use? Are you wanting to do more with a phone camera? A "better camera" is only better if YOU try to get more out of it. Rocking a XS this long is a really good run, so an upgrade could be fun. But if your needs really haven't changed or grown, a battery replacement might be all you need to feel like you have a new phone again.
It's all good big man I still us the lg g7 thinq and the lg velvet 5g works great
Those cameras are still great.
@@SomeGadgetGuy yes they are and thanks big man you're man
So accurate.
I think older phones were better for shooting more natural looking images
i simply got a used pixel 2 for 100 usd. Much better than my g7, g8x, and iphone 8. I don't need anything more expensive. Maybe a 4 or 5 down the line.
Best tech video on the internet
😎👍
I think the biggest factor in photo quality is the person taking the photo, and not the gear they use or the specs of the gear. 😉
Should I switch to android? The community kinda toxic but still considering. My only concern is how long do androids last and be supported. Don’t know yet might get the z flip 3 or iPhone 13 pro.
Well if you're worried about longevity, I wouldn't go with a plastic folding screen...
As for toxic communities, my Apple video wracked up one death threat, a trio of comments calling me trans for wearing earrings, and a couple dozen comments saying no one cares or that I'm a clown.
@@SomeGadgetGuy yeah guess both sides just as toxic. I just want the z flip don’t care if it only lasts me 2 years such a cool phone, but im kinda stuck in the apple ecosystem. Might just replace my battery and wait another year.
Honestly, if you CAN rock your current gear a little longer, I think it's always better on your wallet to try to do the repair.
I just got S10e and my old phone was an iPhone 6S so I should be fine for 3 years.
Reason why I bought the Pixel 4a 5g just for the camera software and the ultra wide lens 😁
I always thought the Galaxy S6 had some of the best looking pics. My S7 focused faster but the results just didn't look as good.
Hell, i still think the photos from the good ol' Note 4 from years ago is still comparable to modern smartphones of today.
My sister still use that phone till this day and it still works like a charm.
Will be upgrading for a better battery and better screen.
Camera is the least of my considerations.
iPhone 11 > 13.
I want the best phone with the best camera system; it's the journey, not the destination.
Too much nice stuff to photograph not enough time.
That shirt is Fantastic!
😁
I was planning to upgrade from Android to iPhone For Camera
I don't see why someone would do that, but OK.
I think you are trying so hard to hide that mic its almost invisible. 😂
No? No idea what you mean. I love those little RODEs.
It's not a wired mic, mind you.
i just dont understand how a camera can turn a completely dark scene into a lit up scene, wow camera magic much.
That's Night Mode for you. A lot of AI algorithm involves in the process, that's for sure.
ah, i bet alright
Its too late Juan, i already bought the S21+ :(
LG stopped making phones so i had to go back to samsung.
I understand that feeling. I definitely hope that LG Mobile can return in the future. It feels so wrong to see this happening.
Does my iPhone 11 pro max fall into that?
The 11 pro max had a 1/2.55" sensor yeah. It's a solid little sensors.
I love the Doctor Who shirt!!!!!
I learned stuff ✅👍
😎👍
you are the best😊
So true make sence