The iPhone 16 models boast impressive cameras at the back, but the 'Pro' models take it to the next level. We covered back in September how the iPhone 16 Pro Max took the fourth spot in DXOMARK's camera testing while taking the first position in the video. However, the same can not be said about the standard iPhone 16 models. The iPhone 16 camera, which is supposed to be quite good based on the changes Apple brought to the table, took the 20th spot in DXOMARK's camera testing.
iPhone 16 ranks way below the iPhone 16 Pro Max in DXOMARK's camera ranking but shows impressive performance in video
DXOMARK notes that the iPhone 16's camera hardware is almost identical to the iPhone 15 models that launched the year before, but thanks to software optimizations, the device scored higher in some areas. The same test puts the iPhone 16 at the 20th spot with an overall score of 147, and in comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro Max received a 157 score.
In the DXOMARK Camera tests, the Apple iPhone 16 delivered a very good performance for its class. With the exception of the improved autofocus and faster lens in the ultra-wide camera, the new device uses nearly identical camera hardware to the predecessor, but software modifications have resulted in performance improvements across several test areas.
In our evaluations, the camera captured nice still images and videos with excellent exposure, good contrast, and pleasant skin tones. The video stabilization system kept things smooth and stable when recording moving images. On the downside, the absence of a dedicated tele lens meant that images captured at medium and long-range tele settings lacked detail and texture.
DXOMARK has been conducting camera tests for smartphones for years now, and the company takes into account various factors that mimic real-world usage. However, lab testing and scientific conditions are also met, which allows the device to portray its true potential. Some of the pros of the iPhone 16 camera include:
- Nice brightness and contrast with images viewed on HDR display
- Pleasant skin tones and nice colors for photo and video
- High levels of detail in bright light and when shooting indoors
- Fast and generally accurate autofocus
- Smooth zooming in preview
- Vivid brightness and contrast with videos viewed on HDR display
- Video noise generally well under control
- Quite effective video stabilization
However, the organization also notes a few cons, which include limited dynamic range, flare, hue shift artifacts, limited telephoto zoom capabilities, and noise in video in low-light situations, especially shadows. We have previously covered how the iPhone is king in video-taking capabilities, and the iPhone 16 does not disappoint in this regard.
Video performance was excellent for this class of device. Like for still images, overall video quality was quite similar to the predecessor. Our testers noticed some refinements, specifically in the color category, with improved white balance. The new model also delivered better video texture than last year’s device, whereas noise could be a touch more intrusive on the iPhone 16.
The iPhone 16's video performance was ranked 154 out of 159, almost as good as the iPhone 16 Pro Max. You can check out the entire breakdown from the company's official website. Apple is expected to make some major changes next year with the iPhone 17's camera hardware, and we are anxious to see how it ranks in DXOMARK's testing.
About the author: Ali Salman is a technology reporter for Wccftech mobile section with a specialized focus on Apple and the intellectual property that drives mobile innovation. He has cultivated a unique expertise in analyzing and deconstructing complex technology patents, translating dense legal and technical documents into clear, insightful reports on future products.
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