The iPhone 16 Pro Max has been tested by DXOMARK for its camera performance. The tests were conducted based on 3,000 photos and 150 hours of video review. Apple’s latest flagship model came in 4th in the overall smartphone camera rankings. However, the organization stated that the device offered the best video performance of any mobile device they have tested so far.
DXOMARK is known for conducting the most comprehensive and meaningful tests of smartphone cameras. It analyzes how devices are used in daily life based on user research and determines how well these devices meet these needs through scientific testing.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max, as we mentioned above, came in fourth in the overall ranking. The Huawei Pura 70 Ultra is at the top, while the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Honor Magic 6 Pro models complete the top three.
The advantages of the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s camera performance are listed by DXOMARK as follows:
- The best video mode on smartphones
- Excellent results in photos and videos taken with family and friends
- Wide dynamic range across the entire zoom range
- Correct white balance and natural colors
- Excellent detail and texture in bright light
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Effective video stabilization
The following stand out in the minus column:
- Inconsistent detail across zoom range, lack of detail in ultra-wide photos
- Narrow depth of field in group photos, out of focus background
- Unwanted image distortions, reflections, ghost effects and breaks
iPhone 16 Pro Max DXOMARK test detailed results
The tests examine 10 different criteria for photo performance and 7 for video performance. Apple showed the best performance in color and preview accuracy in photo shooting and outperformed all other phones in color, noise and stabilization in video shooting.
Photo Performance:
- Exposure: 125 (130)
- Color: 130 (130)
- Autofocus: 105 (125)
- Texture: 123 (124)
- Noise: 94 (117)
- Disturbances: 80 (82)
- Bokeh: 80 (85)
- Preview: 93 (93)
- Tele: 105 (120)
- Wide: 104 (122)
Video Performance:
- Exposure: 115 (116)
- Color: 120 (120)
- Autofocus: 119 (120)
- Texture: 114 (118)
- Noise: 120 (120)
- Disruptions: 85 (86)
- Pin: 119 (119)
According to DXOMARK, the improvements in the iPhone 16 Pro Max compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max were limited. In particular, telephoto performance fell short of expectations. However, Apple’s latest flagship model clearly stood out from its competitors in video mode and achieved the title of best mobile video shooting device. Video performance was particularly notable, surpassing the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.
While the camera hardware remains largely the same as its predecessor, Apple has made improvements in many areas of image quality and performance. The new iPhone delivers excellent results at 4K resolution with a variable frame rate of 60 fps. The device also stands out from the competition with its new 4K/120fps mode and Apple-only “Pro” modes. Improved color performance in photo mode, especially at default settings, was notable.
While the camera improvements may seem limited, iPhone 16 Pro Max users benefit from innovations that offer solutions to their daily needs with new imaging features and advanced editing options. However, improvements in zoom performance were limited; image quality was inconsistent with the 48MP ultra-wide camera and the tele zoom range.