8 Best Phones for Astrophotography in 2025 (New Models Only)

We have rounded up the best phones for astrophotography. Astrophotography has long been a pursuit reserved for professional photographers with high-end DSLR cameras and specialized telescopes. However, thanks to rapid advancements in smartphone camera technology, capturing breathtaking images of the stars, moon, and even distant galaxies is now more accessible than ever. Modern smartphones come equipped with powerful image sensors, sophisticated computational photography algorithms, and dedicated night modes that allow even amateur stargazers to take stunning astrophotography shots.

But not all smartphones are perfect for low-light photography. Some models stand out due to their advanced camera hardware, larger sensors, enhanced image processing, and AI-powered noise reduction, making them ideal for astrophotography. Whether you’re aiming to photograph a meteor shower, capture the Milky Way, or snap a detailed shot of the moon, choosing the right smartphone can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best phones for astrophotography, breaking down their key features, camera capabilities, and software enhancements that help elevate your night sky photography. 

Here are the best phones for astrophotography.

Round Up of the Best Phones for Astrophotography

1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (Best Pick)

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Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Key Specifications

Display: 6.9-inchDynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+, 2600 nits (peak) | CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | OS: Android 15 | RAM: 12GB  | Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB | Front Camera: 12MP | Rear Cameras: 200MP, 50MP, 10MP, 50MP | Size: 162.8 x 77.6 x 8.2 mm | Weight: 218 g | Battery: 5000 mAh

Pros

• Premium display
• Powerful performance
• Enhanced camera system
• AI-powered features
• 5,000mAh battery with improved efficiency
• Durable build

Cons

• No bluetooth functionality with S Pen
• Incremental design changes

The best phone for astrophotography is the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra represents a significant evolution in Samsung’s flagship lineup, introducing notable enhancements in design, performance, and artificial intelligence integration.

Departing from its predecessors’ sharp edges, the Galaxy S25 Ultra features a refined design with rounded corners and flat edges, aligning it more closely with the standard S25 models. The device boasts a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, offering a Quad HD+ resolution and an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and transitions. With a peak brightness of 2,600 nits, the screen ensures excellent visibility even under direct sunlight.

The Galaxy S25 Ultra is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, delivering a 40% increase in speed and enhanced neural processing capabilities. This chipset supports advanced AI features, including cross-app actions and suggested routines. The device comes equipped with 12GB of RAM and offers storage options of 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, catering to various user needs.

Camera setup on the S25 Ultra has seen significant improvements. It includes a 200MP wide sensor, a 50MP ultrawide camera, a 10MP 3x telephoto lens, and a 50MP 5x periscope telephoto lens, enabling up to 100x digital zoom. These enhancements, combined with AI-driven features, elevate the device’s photography and videography capabilities.

Maintaining a 5,000 mAh battery, the Galaxy S25 Ultra supports 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging. Efficiency improvements in hardware and software contribute to extended battery life, ensuring the device meets the demands of power users.

Running on Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7.0, the S25 Ultra emphasizes artificial intelligence integration. Features like cross-app AI actions and suggested routines enhance user experience. Notably, Samsung has replaced Bixby with Google Gemini as the default virtual assistant, reflecting a strategic shift in AI partnerships.

The S25 Ultra continues to support the S Pen, a hallmark of the Ultra series. However, the S Pen has lost its Bluetooth functionality, limiting features like remote control capabilities. Despite this, it remains a valuable tool for note-taking and precision tasks.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra combines a refined design with substantial hardware and software upgrades, particularly in AI integration, solidifying its position as a leading choice in the premium smartphone market.

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2. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max

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Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Key Specifications

Pros

• Top-notch cameras
• Longest battery life of any iPhone
• A18 Pro chip supports Apple Intelligence
• Camera Control enhances functionality
• Advanced video options, including 4K120fps and Audio Mix

Cons

• High price tag

Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro Max builds upon the legacy of its predecessors while pushing the envelope in terms of design, performance, and camera technology. The most notable change in its design is the introduction of the Camera Control feature, cleverly integrated into what was once the antenna gap. This innovative control brings a fresh suite of options for photography and videography, redefining how users interact with the camera. Aesthetic changes include a sleek new color option called Desert Titanium, which is quickly becoming a favorite for its understated yet premium look.

The display on the iPhone 16 Pro Max is the largest and brightest that Apple has ever offered. Whether you’re scrolling through apps indoors or shooting photos in bright, outdoor conditions, the screen adapts flawlessly. The enhanced brightness and color accuracy make it a joy to use in any environment, delivering crisp and vibrant visuals that stand out even under direct sunlight.

Photography and videography are where the iPhone 16 Pro Max truly shines. The new Camera Control feature significantly improves the precision with which you can capture your shots, while Apple has also fine-tuned the camera system to produce richer, more natural tones. Early reviews have lauded the phone’s ability to create stunning photos effortlessly, while high-speed video recording allows for more fluid slow-motion footage, opening new possibilities for cinematic storytelling.

When it comes to performance, the iPhone 16 Pro Max is powered by the cutting-edge A18 Pro chipset, and it doesn’t disappoint. Even under heavy multitasking, there’s no sign of slowdown. Whether you’re using demanding apps or exploring Apple’s new Intelligence features, the phone performs seamlessly, delivering every feature without compromise.

Battery life has also seen an impressive upgrade. In tests, the iPhone 16 Pro Max outlasted every other iPhone model, even the iPhone 16 Plus, which is already known for its long battery life. Whether you’re a heavy user or someone who just needs a phone to last through long workdays, the iPhone 16 Pro Max provides excellent battery longevity, making it the longest-lasting iPhone yet.

Though the iPhone 16 Pro Max isn’t cheap, Apple’s decision to maintain last year’s pricing despite the addition of new hardware and features makes it a better value than ever before. For those looking for top-tier performance, cutting-edge camera capabilities, and the best display in a smartphone, the iPhone 16 Pro Max delivers an impressive return on investment.

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• Best Tablets for Astrophotography

3.  OnePlus 13

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OnePlus 13 Key Specifications

Pros

• Stunning display
• Sleek design
• Powerful performance
• Triple 50MP cameras
• Long-lasting battery

Cons

• 256GB and 512GB storage options only

The OnePlus 13 is a flagship smartphone that combines high-end performance with a refined design.

The device features a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a Quad HD+ resolution of 3168 x 1440 pixels, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals. The screen supports an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and transitions. With a peak brightness of 4,500 nits, the display remains clear even under direct sunlight. The OnePlus 13 is available in various finishes, including a soft-touch “vegan leather” back, providing a premium feel.

Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, the OnePlus 13 offers robust performance suitable for demanding applications and multitasking. It comes with configurations of 12GB or 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and storage options of 256GB or 512GB UFS 4.0, facilitating fast data access and ample space for apps and media.

Developed in partnership with Hasselblad, the OnePlus 13’s camera system includes three 50MP sensors: a wide camera that captures detailed standard shots, a telephoto camera that offers optical zoom capabilities for distant subjects, and an ultra-wide camera that enables expansive landscape and group photos.

The device is capable of recording 4K Dolby Vision video with all cameras, including the front-facing one, enhancing video quality with rich colors and contrast.

Equipped with a 6,000 mAh battery, the OnePlus 13 supports 80W SUPERVOOC wired charging and 50W AIRVOOC wireless charging, allowing for quick recharges. The device also boasts impressive battery life, reportedly lasting up to 19 hours and 45 minutes under standard usage conditions.

Running on OxygenOS 15.0 based on Android 15, the OnePlus 13 provides a user-friendly interface with customization options. OnePlus has committed to four years of Android OS updates and six years of security updates, ensuring the device remains up-to-date with the latest features and protections.

The OnePlus 13 has demonstrated exceptional durability, withstanding various stress tests without damage. Features like Aqua Touch 2.0 and Glove Mode allow usage in wet conditions or with gloves, enhancing its practicality in diverse environments.

All in all, the OnePlus 13 stands out with its high-quality display, powerful performance, versatile camera system, and long-lasting battery, making it a compelling choice for users seeking a premium smartphone experience.

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4. Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

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Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Key Specifications

Display: 6.8in 120Hz QHD+ OLED (486ppi) | Processor: Google Tensor G4 | RAM: 16GB  | Storage: 128, 256, 512GB or 1TB | OS: Android 14 | Camera: 50MP, 48MP, 48MP | Front camera: 42MP | Weight: 221g

Pros

• Excellent cameras
• Helpful AI features
• Long battery life
• Great front-facing camera
• 7-year software support

Cons

• Minimalist user interface

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a high-end smartphone that boasts impressive features like a powerful camera system, a long-lasting battery, and advanced AI capabilities. It’s part of Google’s new line of Android devices that leverage the company’s Gemini AI system, providing a more conversational and helpful voice assistant.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL is Google’s largest standard phone, featuring a massive 6.8-inch display that rivals those found in Samsung and other premium devices. The phone’s design is more rugged and eye-catching than previous models, with a prominent camera bar and flattened sides reminiscent of Apple’s iPhone.

Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is powered by Google’s latest Tensor G4 chip, which offers improved performance for browsing and app launches. While it may not match the raw processing power of Qualcomm and Apple’s chips, the Tensor G4 excels in AI processing, enabling the phone to run Gemini Nano and other AI models efficiently.

One of the standout features of the Pixel 9 Pro XL is its exceptional battery life. The phone can last up to 52 hours on a single charge, making it one of the longest-lasting smartphones available. It also comes with Android 14 and seven years of software support, ensuring its longevity.

The AI features on the Pixel 9 Pro XL are particularly noteworthy. The phone runs Gemini Nano AI models, which enhance various aspects of the user experience, from the keyboard to the weather app. For instance, the new Screenshots app allows users to search for specific screenshots by keywords, while the Pixel Studio app generates images based on text prompts. Additionally, the Magic Editor in Google Photos offers advanced editing capabilities, including automatic reframing and reimagining of images.

Perhaps the most impressive AI feature is Gemini Live, a conversational voice assistant that provides human-like responses and engages in natural conversations. It can assist with tasks like finding the fastest parkruns or suggesting names for a baby. While not perfect, Gemini Live is a significant leap forward compared to other voice assistants like Siri and Alexa.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL’s camera system is also top-notch, featuring a triple camera setup on the back that includes a 48MP ultra-wide, 50MP main, and a 48MP 5x telephoto camera. The phone captures detailed and crisp photos in various lighting conditions and offers excellent zoom capabilities. The front-facing camera is also improved, providing a brighter and sharper image.

In terms of sustainability, the Pixel 9 Pro XL is made with recycled materials and is repairable by both Google and third-party shops. Google also offers a recycling program for old devices.

The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is a powerful and feature-rich smartphone that excels in areas like camera performance, battery life, and AI capabilities. Its impressive design, long-lasting software support, and commitment to sustainability make it a compelling option for those seeking a premium Android device. The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL remains one of the best phones for astrophotography. Highly recommended.

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• Best Laptops for Astrophotography 

5. Apple iPhone 16 

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Apple iPhone 16 Key Specifications

Pros

• Easy camera setting adjustments with Camera Control
• Strong battery life
• Faster Performance
• Ultrawide camera improved for low-light shots

Cons

• Some Pro features are missing

The iPhone 16 stands out as a refined and thoughtfully designed device, packed with features that cater to both everyday users and enthusiasts. A key attraction is its new photography features, which make it a solid option for capturing sharp, vibrant images. For users who enjoy seamless convenience, the Action button offers quick access to customizable functions, adding an element of ease and personalization that enhances day-to-day use.

Elsewhere, the iPhone 16 maintains Apple’s trademark elegance, with a sleek and premium feel that appeals to those who value aesthetics as much as performance. While Apple’s new Apple Intelligence feature hasn’t yet been rolled out, the fact that this phone will support it when it becomes available gives it a future-proof edge, ensuring users that their device will stay relevant and up to date for years to come.

The iPhone 16 is especially appealing for users who don’t require the more advanced photography capabilities or extended battery life of the Pro models. It strikes a perfect balance between affordability and functionality, offering strong performance without unnecessary extras. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The absence of an always-on display feels like a missed opportunity, especially considering other phones in the market offer this feature. Similarly, Apple’s decision not to improve its wired charging speeds leaves some users wanting more, as competitors continue to push the envelope in this area.

Still, the iPhone 16 delivers where it matters most. It checks all the major boxes for a modern smartphone, with the added promise of future innovation thanks to its readiness for upcoming features like Apple Intelligence. For Apple fans looking for a well-rounded, reliable device that won’t feel outdated soon, the iPhone 16 is an excellent choice.

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6. Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus

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Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus Key Specifications

Display: 6.7-inchDynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X, 120Hz, HDR10+, 2600 nits (peak) | CPU: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite | OS: Android 15 | RAM: 12GB | Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB | Front Camera: 12MP | Rear Cameras: 200MP, 50MP, 12MP | Size: 158.4 x 75.8 x 7.3 mm | Weight: 190 g | Battery: 4900 mAh

Pros

• Bright and vibrant display
• Outstanding performance
• Solid cameras 
• Durable
• Google Gemini assistant for smarter interactions
• Long software support
• Lots of AI-based features
• Long battery life

Cons

• No expandable storage
• No S Pen Support

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus builds upon its predecessor with a blend of familiar design elements and notable internal enhancements.

Maintaining a consistent aesthetic, the Galaxy S25 Plus features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 3120 x 1440 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 513 ppi. The screen supports a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth visuals, and achieves a peak brightness of 2,600 nits for excellent visibility in various lighting conditions. The device is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, offering enhanced durability.

Elsewhere, the Galaxy S25 Plus is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, fabricated on a 3 nm process, delivering a 40% performance increase over previous models. The device comes standard with 12GB of RAM and offers storage options of 256GB and 512GB, utilizing UFS 4.0 technology for faster data access. Notably, there is no support for expandable storage via microSD card.

Equipped with a 4,900 mAh battery, the Galaxy S25 Plus supports 45W wired charging and 15W wireless charging, including reverse wireless charging capabilities. While the battery capacity remains unchanged from the previous model, efficiency improvements in hardware and software contribute to extended battery life.

Running on Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7, the S25 Plus emphasizes artificial intelligence integration. Features include enhanced generative photo editing, the AI assistant Gemini, Audio Eraser for video noise reduction, and AI Select for suggested actions. Samsung has committed to providing seven years of OS and security updates for the S25 series, ensuring long-term software support.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus offers a balanced combination of performance, display quality, and AI-driven features, making it a compelling choice for users seeking a premium smartphone experience without the additional features of the Ultra model.

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7. Google Pixel 9 Pro

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Google Pixel 9 Pro Key Specifications

Pros

• Incredible display
• Long-lasting battery
• Top-tier photography

Cons

• Pricey

Like the Pixel 9 Pro XL, the Google Pixel 9 Pro is one of the best phones for astrophotography. The Google Pixel 9 Pro offers a blend of Google’s signature camera capabilities and cutting-edge AI features. While its smaller display might appeal to those seeking a more compact device, the Pixel 9 Pro XL provides the same features with a larger screen and battery. Despite the same price as its predecessor, the Pixel 9 Pro offers enhancements in battery life, display brightness, and AI-powered tools, providing excellent value for the money.

The camera system on the Pixel 9 Pro features a new ultrawide sensor with a Macro mode that captures impressive close-up shots. Additionally, the front camera has received an upgraded sensor. The device’s true strength lies in its photo processing, which produces outstanding results. The Pixel 9 Pro also boasts improved battery life and charging capabilities.

While the Tensor G4 processor powering the Pixel 9 Pro may not match the performance of other top Android phones or the iPhone 15 models in benchmarks, it excels in powering AI-driven features. These features include Pixel Screenshots for easy searching within screenshots, Add Me for inserting people into group photos, and Call Notes for transcriptions and summaries of phone calls. The standout addition is Gemini Live, a more advanced version of Google Assistant, offering complex features to Pixel 9 Pro owners for a year.

While some of the AI tools may require further refinement, the Pixel Screenshots feature is particularly useful for those who frequently take screenshots. The Pixel Studio generative AI tool also demonstrates impressive capabilities in creating images based on text prompts.

Overall, if you’re willing to invest in the Pixel 9 Pro’s AI features, which are likely to improve over time, the exceptional camera performance, longer battery life, and bright display make it a compelling choice.

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8. Apple iPhone 16 Pro 

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Apple iPhone 16 Pro Key Specifications

Pros

• Bigger screens with slimmer bezels
• Stunning 4K slow-motion video
• Excellent Audio Mix feature
• Comes with iOS 18
• Outstanding cameras

Cons

• Lacks Apple Intelligence feature at launch
• Limited color options in the elegant finishes
• Base model only offers 128GB storage

The iPhone 16 Pro is the compact yet mighty version of Apple’s latest iPhone lineup. It manages to pack all the camera performance of the Pro Max into a more manageable size, which will appeal to users looking for premium features without the bulk. However, it starts with just 128GB of storage, which feels limiting, especially considering the impressive quality of the photos and videos the device is capable of capturing. You’ll likely find yourself wanting more space to store all those beautiful moments, though the rest of the package leaves little room for complaints.

In terms of design, the iPhone 16 Pro doesn’t deviate much from its predecessor. While it is slightly heavier, the difference is so minimal you probably won’t notice unless you’re holding last year’s model for comparison. The overall look is sleek and refined, with a new desert titanium color adding a fresh twist to the lineup. If you opt for this version, be mindful when choosing a case, as the iPhone now features a Camera Control button on the side, which adds convenience for capturing shots.

The 6.1-inch OLED display continues to be one of the iPhone’s standout features. It offers an always-on option and a 120Hz refresh rate, which delivers buttery-smooth visuals, especially useful for gaming or simply scrolling through your apps. Many have voiced complaints about the refresh rate in lower-tier iPhones, but the Pro models, including the 16 Pro, put those concerns to rest. The display is undoubtedly one of the best on the market for its size.

The camera system is a major highlight. With the same 5x zoom lens as the larger Pro Max, the iPhone 16 Pro stands out as a photography powerhouse. The real magic, however, comes from the upgraded A18 chip, which significantly boosts the quality of photos and videos. Slow-motion video, in particular, benefits from this new processor, offering ultra-smooth results at higher frame rates. You’ll notice an overall sharper, crisper output, even when zooming in.

When it comes to performance, the A18 Pro chipset at the heart of this iPhone makes it the fastest mobile platform I’ve used to date. No matter how demanding the task—whether it’s heavy multitasking, editing video, or playing graphics-intensive games—the iPhone 16 Pro never slows down. It’s a testament to Apple’s continued focus on performance, and this phone sets a new benchmark in that department.

As for battery life, the iPhone 16 Pro holds its own, easily lasting a full day of moderate use. The Pro Max naturally offers more endurance due to its larger battery, but the 16 Pro’s battery life is still reliable enough to get through most days without needing to plug in before bed. If you’re concerned about running out of juice, it’s worth considering investing in a faster charger, which will help top up the battery quickly when needed.

In terms of value for money, the iPhone 16 Pro represents a solid choice. Despite the array of premium features it offers, Apple has kept the price steady this year, which is a plus. However, the base storage of 128GB feels a bit stingy, especially for those who plan to take full advantage of the camera. If your budget allows, upgrading the storage is a wise move, ensuring you have plenty of space to keep shooting without worry.

Overall, the iPhone 16 Pro is a compact, high-performance device that delivers on nearly all fronts, from display to camera to processing power. It’s an ideal choice for users seeking flagship capabilities without the bulk of a larger phone, and it’s likely to be a crowd-pleaser for anyone upgrading from an older model.

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Round Up of the Best Phones for Astrophotography