14 Best Phone for Low Light Video Recording: Capture in Any Light ⚠️ (July 2024)

Discover phones that excel at recording videos even in low light conditions.

Imagine capturing breathtaking footage of a bustling city at night, or capturing the soft glow of fireflies dancing in the dark. These are just a few of the magical moments you can bring to life with a phone that excels in low light video recording. But finding the right device can be a challenge, especially with the vast array of options available. That’s where we come in! In this comprehensive guide, we’ve meticulously curated a list of the 14 best phones for low light video recording, each meticulously chosen for its exceptional image quality, powerful features, and ability to capture stunning footage even in dimly lit environments.

From the latest flagship models boasting cutting-edge technology to more affordable options that deliver impressive results, our list has something for every budget and need. We’ve considered factors like sensor size, lens aperture, image processing capabilities, and video stabilization technology to ensure every phone on our list meets the highest standards for low-light performance. Whether you’re a seasoned videographer or just starting out, you’ll find the perfect phone to elevate your filmmaking skills and capture stunning footage in any light.

This article will go beyond simply listing the best phones. We’ll delve deeper into the technical aspects that contribute to low-light video excellence, providing insights into the technologies that make these phones stand out. We’ll also offer practical tips and tricks for maximizing your low-light video recording capabilities, from adjusting camera settings to mastering lighting techniques. So, get ready to unlock the full potential of your mobile filmmaking and discover the magic of capturing stunning footage, even when the sun sets and the darkness descends.

Join us as we explore the exciting world of low-light video recording, empowering you to capture moments that shine, no matter the lighting conditions.

QUICKLIST
Item	Image	Where to buy	Rating	Read More
Google Pixel 7 Pro		$429.99 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
iPhone 14 Pro Max		$868.74 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra		$845.00 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Google Pixel 7		$399.00 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Samsung Galaxy S23+		$949.00 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
OnePlus 11		$469.99 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
iPhone 13 Pro Max		$569.99 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Xiaomi 13 Pro		$294.99 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Asus Zenfone 9		$629.00 at Amazon	4.3 out of 5 stars	Jump to Review
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra		$416.00 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
iPhone 13 Pro		$499.83 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
Sony Xperia 1 IV		$1,598.00 at Amazon	N/A	Jump to Review
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Google Pixel 7 Pro

$429.99 at Amazon

A high-end phone with excellent low-light video recording capabilities, thanks to its powerful camera system and advanced software features.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 50MP (wide), 12MP (ultrawide), 48MP (telephoto)
• Video recording: 4K at 30/60fps, 1080p at 240/240fps, HDR10+

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video quality with impressive detail and color accuracy.
• Night Sight video mode enhances low-light footage with reduced noise and improved clarity.
• Cinematic blur feature adds a professional touch to videos.

Reasons to avoid:

• Can be expensive compared to other options.
• No dedicated zoom lens for long-range photography.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with advanced camera features.
• You are looking for a high-end phone with a sleek design and a powerful processor.

Don't buy it if:

• You are on a tight budget.
• You need a phone with a dedicated zoom lens for long-range photography.

Bottom Line:

The Google Pixel 7 Pro is a fantastic choice for those who want a phone with exceptional low-light video recording capabilities. Its powerful camera system, coupled with Google's advanced software features, ensures that your videos will look their best, even in challenging lighting conditions. While it might be a bit pricey, its impressive performance, sleek design, and top-notch video quality make it a worthwhile investment for serious mobile photographers and videographers.

iPhone 14 Pro Max

$868.74 at Amazon

Apple's flagship phone delivers impressive low-light video recording with its advanced camera system and powerful processor.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 48MP (wide), 12MP (ultrawide), 12MP (telephoto)
• Video recording: 4K at 24/25/30/60fps, 1080p at 25/30/60/120/240fps, HDR10 Dolby Vision

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video performance with impressive detail and dynamic range.
• Cinematic mode adds a professional touch to videos with adjustable depth of field.
• Apple's powerful processor ensures smooth video recording and editing.

Reasons to avoid:

• Can be expensive compared to other options.
• No dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a large display and a premium build.
• You are part of the Apple ecosystem and value seamless integration with other Apple devices.

Don't buy it if:

• You are on a tight budget.
• You need a phone with a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.

Bottom Line:

The iPhone 14 Pro Max is a powerful and versatile phone that excels in low-light video recording. Its advanced camera system, coupled with Apple's powerful processor, delivers stunning footage with exceptional detail and dynamic range. The Cinematic mode adds a professional touch, allowing you to create videos with adjustable depth of field. However, its high price and lack of a macro lens might make it less appealing to budget-conscious users.

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Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

$845.00 at Amazon

A top-tier phone with an impressive camera system designed for capturing stunning low-light video.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 200MP (wide), 12MP (ultrawide), 10MP (telephoto), 10MP (telephoto)
• Video recording: 8K at 24fps, 4K at 30/60fps, 1080p at 240/960fps

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video quality with impressive detail and clarity.
• Night mode video enhancement improves low-light footage by reducing noise and boosting brightness.
• Super Steady video stabilization provides smooth footage even when moving.

Reasons to avoid:

• Can be expensive compared to other options.
• Large size and weight might be a concern for some users.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a large display and advanced camera features.
• You are looking for a phone with a powerful processor and long battery life.

Don't buy it if:

• You are on a tight budget.
• You prefer a smaller and lighter phone.

Bottom Line:

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a powerful phone that delivers exceptional low-light video recording. Its impressive camera system, coupled with advanced software features, ensures that your videos will look their best, even in challenging lighting conditions. While it might be expensive and a bit bulky, its high performance, large display, and excellent camera capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for serious mobile photographers and videographers.

iPhone 14 Pro

Apple's smaller flagship phone offers impressive low-light video recording capabilities with a powerful camera system and advanced software features.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 48MP (wide), 12MP (ultrawide), 12MP (telephoto)
• Video recording: 4K at 24/25/30/60fps, 1080p at 25/30/60/120/240fps, HDR10 Dolby Vision

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video performance with impressive detail and dynamic range.
• Cinematic mode adds a professional touch to videos with adjustable depth of field.
• Apple's powerful processor ensures smooth video recording and editing.

Reasons to avoid:

• Can be expensive compared to other options.
• No dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a smaller display and a premium build.
• You are part of the Apple ecosystem and value seamless integration with other Apple devices.

Don't buy it if:

• You are on a tight budget.
• You need a phone with a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.

Bottom Line:

The iPhone 14 Pro is a powerful and versatile phone that delivers exceptional low-light video recording capabilities. Its advanced camera system, coupled with Apple's powerful processor, ensures stunning footage with impressive detail and dynamic range. The Cinematic mode adds a professional touch, allowing you to create videos with adjustable depth of field. However, its high price and lack of a macro lens might make it less appealing to budget-conscious users.

Google Pixel 7

$399.00 at Amazon

A solid mid-range phone with excellent low-light video recording capabilities thanks to its powerful camera system and advanced software features.

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Specifications:

• Main camera: 50MP (wide), 12MP (ultrawide)
• Video recording: 4K at 30/60fps, 1080p at 240fps, HDR10+

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video quality with impressive detail and color accuracy.
• Night Sight video mode enhances low-light footage with reduced noise and improved clarity.
• Cinematic blur feature adds a professional touch to videos.

Reasons to avoid:

• No dedicated telephoto lens for long-range photography.
• No 8K video recording capability.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a powerful camera system at a more affordable price.
• You are looking for a mid-range phone with a sleek design and a powerful processor.

Don't buy it if:

• You need a phone with a dedicated telephoto lens for long-range photography.
• You need 8K video recording capabilities.

Bottom Line:

The Google Pixel 7 is a fantastic choice for those seeking a phone with exceptional low-light video recording capabilities without breaking the bank. Its powerful camera system, coupled with Google's advanced software features, ensures that your videos will look their best, even in challenging lighting conditions. While it lacks a telephoto lens and 8K video recording, its impressive performance, sleek design, and top-notch video quality make it a worthwhile investment for mobile photographers and videographers on a budget.

Samsung Galaxy S23+

$949.00 at Amazon

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A premium mid-range phone with a powerful camera system capable of capturing stunning low-light videos.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 50MP (wide), 12MP (ultrawide), 10MP (telephoto)
• Video recording: 8K at 24fps, 4K at 30/60fps, 1080p at 240fps

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video quality with impressive detail and clarity.
• Night mode video enhancement improves low-light footage by reducing noise and boosting brightness.
• Super Steady video stabilization provides smooth footage even when moving.

Reasons to avoid:

• Can be expensive compared to other mid-range options.
• No dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a large display and a premium build.
• You are looking for a phone with a powerful processor and long battery life.

Don't buy it if:

• You are on a tight budget.
• You prefer a phone with a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.

Bottom Line:

The Samsung Galaxy S23+ is a powerful phone that delivers exceptional low-light video recording, making it a great choice for mobile photographers and videographers who demand high-quality footage. Its impressive camera system, coupled with advanced software features, ensures that your videos will look their best, even in challenging lighting conditions. While it might be pricey for a mid-range phone and lacks a dedicated macro lens, its high performance, large display, and excellent camera capabilities make it a worthwhile investment.

OnePlus 11

$469.99 at Amazon

A powerful phone with a capable camera system that performs well in low-light video recording.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 50MP (wide), 48MP (ultrawide), 32MP (telephoto)
• Video recording: 4K at 30/60fps, 1080p at 30/60/120/240fps, HDR10+

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video quality with impressive detail and color accuracy.
• Night mode video enhancement improves low-light footage by reducing noise and boosting brightness.
• Hasselblad camera system provides a more professional photography and videography experience.

Reasons to avoid:

• No 8K video recording capability.
• Can be expensive compared to other mid-range options.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a powerful processor and a fast refresh rate display.
• You are looking for a phone with a premium design and a unique camera experience.

Don't buy it if:

• You need 8K video recording capabilities.
• You are on a tight budget.

Bottom Line:

The OnePlus 11 is a powerful phone with a capable camera system that delivers impressive low-light video recording. Its advanced camera system, coupled with Hasselblad's expertise, provides a professional-grade photography and videography experience. While it lacks 8K video recording and can be expensive compared to other mid-range options, its high performance, smooth display, and excellent camera capabilities make it a strong contender for mobile photographers and videographers.

iPhone 13 Pro Max

$569.99 at Amazon

A powerful phone with a capable camera system that delivers impressive low-light video recording capabilities.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 12MP (wide), 12MP (ultrawide), 12MP (telephoto)
• Video recording: 4K at 24/25/30/60fps, 1080p at 25/30/60/120/240fps, HDR10 Dolby Vision

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video performance with impressive detail and dynamic range.
• Cinematic mode adds a professional touch to videos with adjustable depth of field.
• Apple's powerful processor ensures smooth video recording and editing.

Reasons to avoid:

• Can be expensive compared to newer models.
• No dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a large display and a premium build.
• You are part of the Apple ecosystem and value seamless integration with other Apple devices.

Don't buy it if:

• You are looking for the latest and greatest iPhone.
• You need a phone with a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.

Bottom Line:

The iPhone 13 Pro Max is a powerful and versatile phone that delivers exceptional low-light video recording capabilities. Its advanced camera system, coupled with Apple's powerful processor, ensures stunning footage with impressive detail and dynamic range. The Cinematic mode adds a professional touch, allowing you to create videos with adjustable depth of field. While it might be more expensive than newer models and lacks a dedicated macro lens, its high performance, large display, and excellent camera capabilities still make it a worthwhile choice for mobile photographers and videographers.

Xiaomi 13 Pro

$294.99 at Amazon

A powerful phone with a capable camera system that excels in low-light video recording.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 50MP (wide), 50MP (ultrawide), 50MP (telephoto)
• Video recording: 8K at 24fps, 4K at 30/60fps, 1080p at 192fps, HDR10+

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video quality with impressive detail and color accuracy.
• Night mode video enhancement improves low-light footage by reducing noise and boosting brightness.
• Leica camera system provides a more professional photography and videography experience.

Reasons to avoid:

• Not widely available in all regions.
• Can be expensive compared to other options.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a powerful processor and a fast refresh rate display.
• You are looking for a phone with a premium design and a unique camera experience.

Don't buy it if:

• The phone is not available in your region.
• You are on a tight budget.

Bottom Line:

The Xiaomi 13 Pro is a powerful phone with a capable camera system that delivers impressive low-light video recording. Its advanced camera system, coupled with Leica's expertise, provides a professional-grade photography and videography experience. While it might not be available in all regions and can be expensive compared to other options, its high performance, smooth display, and excellent camera capabilities make it a strong contender for mobile photographers and videographers who demand the best.

Asus Zenfone 9

$629.00 at Amazon

A compact and powerful phone with a capable camera system that performs well in low-light video recording.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 50MP (wide), 12MP (ultrawide)
• Video recording: 8K at 24fps, 4K at 30/60fps, 1080p at 240/480fps, HDR10+

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light video quality with impressive detail and color accuracy.
• Night mode video enhancement improves low-light footage by reducing noise and boosting brightness.
• Compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and use.

Reasons to avoid:

• No dedicated telephoto lens for long-range photography.
• No 8K video recording capability.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a compact size and a powerful processor.
• You are looking for a phone with a unique design and a fast refresh rate display.

Don't buy it if:

• You need a phone with a dedicated telephoto lens for long-range photography.
• You need 8K video recording capabilities.

Bottom Line:

The Asus Zenfone 9 is a compact and powerful phone that delivers impressive low-light video recording capabilities. Its advanced camera system, coupled with advanced software features, ensures that your videos will look their best, even in challenging lighting conditions. While it lacks a telephoto lens and 8K video recording, its high performance, unique design, and excellent camera capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for mobile photographers and videographers who prefer a smaller and more portable device.

Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra

$416.00 at Amazon

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is a powerful phone with a fantastic camera system that excels in low light conditions. It features a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and two 10MP telephoto lenses (one with 3x optical zoom and the other with 10x optical zoom).

Specifications:

• Main camera: 108MP (f/1.8)
• Ultrawide camera: 12MP (f/2.2)
• Telephoto camera: 10MP (f/2.4) with 3x optical zoom
• Telephoto camera: 10MP (f/4.9) with 10x optical zoom
• Video recording: 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps

Reasons to buy:

• Amazing low-light performance: The Galaxy S22 Ultra excels in low-light video recording thanks to its large sensor size and advanced image processing.
• Versatile camera system: With a variety of lenses, you can capture stunning photos and videos in a wide range of situations.
• Excellent video stabilization: The phone's optical image stabilization helps to create smooth and steady footage, even when shooting handheld.

Reasons to avoid:

• Expensive: The Galaxy S22 Ultra is a premium phone with a high price tag.
• Large and heavy: It's a bulky phone, which may not be comfortable for everyone to use.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You need a phone with a fantastic camera system that excels in low-light conditions.
• You're willing to pay a premium price for the best possible image quality.

Don't buy it if:

• You're on a budget and don't need the best possible low-light performance.
• You prefer a smaller and lighter phone.

Bottom Line:

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is a powerhouse of a phone that offers incredible low-light video recording capabilities. Its large sensor, advanced image processing, and versatile camera system make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to capture stunning footage in any lighting conditions. However, its high price and bulky design may make it unsuitable for budget-conscious users or those who prefer a more compact phone.

iPhone 13 Pro

$499.83 at Amazon

The iPhone 13 Pro is another top contender for low-light video recording. It boasts a triple-camera system with a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. Apple's advanced image processing algorithms also play a significant role in achieving excellent low-light performance.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 12MP (f/1.5)
• Ultrawide camera: 12MP (f/2.4)
• Telephoto camera: 12MP (f/2.8) with 3x optical zoom
• Video recording: 4K@60fps, 4K@24fps (Cinematic mode)

Reasons to buy:

• Excellent low-light performance: The iPhone 13 Pro delivers impressive low-light video quality with excellent detail and reduced noise.
• Cinematic mode: This feature allows you to record professional-looking videos with shallow depth of field and automatic focus transitions.
• Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem: iPhone users will appreciate the seamless integration with other Apple devices and services.

Reasons to avoid:

• Limited zoom capabilities: The iPhone 13 Pro only offers 3x optical zoom, which may not be enough for some users.
• Higher price than some Android competitors: Although still expensive, the iPhone 13 Pro is priced competitively within the Apple ecosystem.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You're looking for a phone with excellent low-light video recording capabilities and a user-friendly experience.
• You value Apple's ecosystem and seamless integration with other Apple devices.

Don't buy it if:

• You need a phone with more powerful zoom capabilities.
• You're on a budget and are looking for more affordable alternatives.

Bottom Line:

The iPhone 13 Pro is a solid choice for low-light video recording with its impressive image quality and user-friendly interface. Its Cinematic mode adds an extra layer of creativity to your videos, and the seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem makes it a great option for iPhone users. However, its limited zoom capabilities and higher price point compared to some Android rivals may be drawbacks for some users.

Sony Xperia 1 IV

$1,598.00 at Amazon

The Sony Xperia 1 IV is a phone that focuses on providing a professional-grade camera experience. It features a quad-camera system with a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, a 12MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 5.2x optical zoom. It also boasts a dedicated variable telephoto lens that allows you to adjust the focal length between 3.5x and 5.2x.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 12MP (f/1.7)
• Ultrawide camera: 12MP (f/2.2)
• Telephoto camera: 12MP (f/2.4) with 3.5x optical zoom
• Telephoto camera: 12MP (f/2.9) with 5.2x optical zoom
• Video recording: 4K@120fps, 4K@24fps (S-Log3)

Reasons to buy:

• Impressive low-light performance: The Xperia 1 IV utilizes a large sensor and advanced image processing to produce excellent low-light videos.
• Versatile zoom capabilities: Its variable telephoto lens allows for more flexibility in framing shots, particularly in low-light conditions.
• Professional video recording features: The phone offers advanced features like S-Log3, which allows for greater control over video settings.

Reasons to avoid:

• Expensive: Like other flagship phones, the Xperia 1 IV comes with a high price tag.
• Bulky design: It's a large phone, which may not be comfortable for everyone to use.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You're a serious videographer who needs a phone with professional-grade camera features.
• You value versatility in zoom capabilities, particularly in low-light conditions.

Don't buy it if:

• You're on a budget and don't need advanced video recording features.
• You prefer a smaller and lighter phone.

Bottom Line:

The Sony Xperia 1 IV is a fantastic option for those who prioritize low-light video recording and professional camera features. Its variable telephoto lens, advanced image processing, and professional-grade video recording settings make it a compelling choice for videographers and content creators. However, its high price and bulky design may be a deterrent for casual users or those with a limited budget.

Oppo Find X5 Pro

The Oppo Find X5 Pro is another excellent choice for low-light video recording. It features a triple-camera system with a 50MP main sensor, a 50MP ultrawide lens, and a 13MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom. It also boasts a dedicated MariSilicon X imaging chip that significantly improves low-light performance.

Specifications:

• Main camera: 50MP (f/1.7)
• Ultrawide camera: 50MP (f/2.2)
• Telephoto camera: 13MP (f/2.4) with 2x optical zoom
• Video recording: 4K@60fps, 4K@30fps

Reasons to buy:

• Superb low-light performance: The MariSilicon X chip enhances low-light video quality, reducing noise and improving detail.
• Excellent image stabilization: The phone's optical image stabilization ensures smooth and steady footage, even when shooting handheld.
• Fast and responsive performance: The Oppo Find X5 Pro is powered by a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, providing a smooth and responsive user experience.

Reasons to avoid:

• Limited zoom capabilities: The phone only offers 2x optical zoom, which may not be enough for some users.
• Less established brand: While gaining popularity, Oppo is still a less established brand compared to Samsung and Apple.

What you need to know:

Buy it if:

• You prioritize low-light video quality and want a phone with a dedicated imaging chip to enhance image processing.
• You need a phone with a fast and responsive performance.

Don't buy it if:

• You need a phone with more powerful zoom capabilities.
• You prefer a phone from a more established brand.

Bottom Line:

The Oppo Find X5 Pro stands out for its exceptional low-light video recording capabilities thanks to the MariSilicon X imaging chip. This chip dramatically improves image processing and noise reduction, resulting in stunning video quality even in challenging lighting conditions. The phone's fast performance and excellent image stabilization further enhance its appeal. However, its limited zoom capabilities and less established brand may be drawbacks for some users.

So there you have it, 14 of the best phones for low light video recording. Whether you're a professional videographer or just someone who loves to capture memories, these phones will help you get the best results, even in challenging lighting conditions. Remember, the best phone for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Consider your priorities, read reviews, and compare features before making your final decision.

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Don't be afraid to experiment with different phones and settings to find what works best for you. And most importantly, have fun!

With the right phone and a little practice, you can capture stunning videos in any light. So go out there and start creating!

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The world of mobile videography is constantly evolving, with new phones and technologies emerging all the time. Stay tuned for future updates on the best phones for low light video recording, and keep exploring the exciting possibilities of mobile filmmaking!