According to the latest results, the base model of the iPhone 16 offers level performance for its category, with a total score of 147 against 157 for the Pro Max. DXOMARK underlines that, although the camera hardware is almost identical to that of the base iPhone 15, some software tweaks have contributed to improve the overall quality of images and videos.
The photos and videos produced by the iPhone 16 camera stand out an excellent displaygood contrasts and natural skin tones. The system of video stabilization it proved particularly effective at keeping footage flowing. However, the absence of a dedicated telephoto lens penalizes image quality at medium and long distances.
DXOMARK listed eight major advantages and six disadvantages in the base model camera:
Pro:
- Excellent brightness and contrast with images displayed on HDR screens.
- Natural skin tones and vibrant colors for both photos and videos.
- High levels of detail in good light and indoors.
- Fast and generally accurate autofocus.
- Smooth zoom in preview mode.
- Video with well-defined brightness and contrast on HDR displays.
- Video noise generally under control.
- Effective video stabilization.
Against:
- Limited dynamic range which can lead to blown out highlights in photos and videos.
- Artifacts such as reflections and tonal shifts in photos.
- Limited zoom capabilities at long distances.
- Loss of detail in videos, especially in low light conditions.
- Presence of artifacts in videos, such as aliasing and moving textures.
- Visible noise in shadows and low-light photos.
While the Pro Max’s camera excels with a video score of 154/159, the base model excels in exposure and color accuracy, at 124/130 and 129/130 respectively. However, this excellent performance is not enough to bridge the gap with the flagship model, equipped with decidedly more advanced hardware and features.
Even if the base model of the iPhone 16 stops at 20th place in the DXOMARK ranking, it is important to consider its value for money. For most users, the performance offered by the camera is more than enough to capture high-quality photos and videos. However, those looking for the ultimate in zoom, detail and dynamic range will find the Pro Max a superior choice.
Ultimately, the basic iPhone 16 represents a solid choice for those who want a latest generation iPhone without spending astronomical amounts, but the gap with the Pro models is evident.
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Source: www.iphoneitalia.com
