Review of Phones With Best Optical Zoom Capabilities
In the fast-evolving world of smartphone photography, optical zoom stands out as a game-changer for capturing distant subjects with crystal-clear detail. Unlike digital zoom, which simply crops and enlarges pixels—often resulting in blurry, pixelated images—optical zoom uses advanced lens systems to physically magnify your shot without sacrificing quality. This makes it essential for wildlife enthusiasts, sports fans, concert-goers, and anyone who wants pro-level telephoto performance from a pocket-sized device.
As of October 2025, manufacturers have pushed the boundaries with periscope lenses, larger sensors, and AI-enhanced stabilization. In this review, we'll dive into the top phones with the best optical zoom capabilities, based on hands-on testing and expert benchmarks. From the zoom titan Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra to innovative contenders like the Vivo X200 Ultra, these devices deliver exceptional results. Whether you're upgrading your camera phone or hunting for the best zoom phone under $1,000, we've got you covered.
Why Optical Zoom Matters in 2025 Smartphones
Optical zoom isn't just a buzzword—it's the backbone of versatile mobile photography. Periscope telephoto cameras fold light through prisms, allowing for higher magnification (like 5x or 10x) in slim designs. Paired with optical image stabilization (OIS), these systems reduce shake, ensuring sharp shots even at full zoom.
In 2025, expect features like dual telephoto lenses for seamless transitions and hybrid zoom that blends optical and digital for up to 100x reach. But not all "zoom" is equal: true optical zoom preserves detail, while digital tricks can disappoint. Our picks prioritize genuine optical prowess, tested across real-world scenarios like cityscapes, portraits, and moon shots.
Top Contenders: Our Selection Criteria
We evaluated over a dozen flagships based on:
- Optical Zoom Range: Minimum 5x for meaningful telephoto power.
- Image Quality: Sharpness, color accuracy, and low-light performance at max zoom.
- Sensor Size and Stabilization: Larger sensors capture more light; OIS is non-negotiable.
- Software Enhancements: AI processing for noise reduction and dynamic range.
- Value: Balancing premium features with price.
Here's a quick comparison table of the standout phones:
| Phone Model | Optical Zoom | Main Camera | Key Strengths | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | 5x (up to 10x periscope) | 200MP | Versatile lenses, 100x hybrid | $1,300 |
| Vivo X200 Ultra | 3.7x & 10x dual | 200MP tele | Zeiss optics, exceptional detail | $1,100 |
| OPPO Find X8 Pro | 3x & 6x dual periscope | 50MP | Hasselblad tuning, low-light zoom | $1,200 |
| Xiaomi 15 Ultra | Up to 5x (120mm equiv.) | 50MP | High megapixels, natural colors | $1,000 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | 5x tetraprism | 48MP | Seamless integration, video zoom | $1,200 |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro XL | 5x | 50MP | AI magic editor, computational zoom | $1,100 |
| OnePlus 13 | 3x (up to 6x hybrid) | 50MP | Budget-friendly, fast processing | $900 |
Now, let's zoom in on the best of the best.
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: The Zoom King
If there's one phone that defines optical zoom supremacy in 2025, it's the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. With a dedicated 10MP periscope lens offering 5x optical zoom (extendable to 10x via advanced optics) and a secondary 3x telephoto, it handles everything from close portraits to distant landscapes effortlessly.
In tests, the S25 Ultra's 200MP main sensor pairs beautifully with its zoom system, delivering razor-sharp details at 10x—think reading license plates from across a parking lot. Low-light performance shines thanks to AI-backed noise reduction, and the 100x Space Zoom (hybrid) mode is surprisingly usable for creative shots. Battery life holds up during long shooting sessions, and the S Pen adds precision for editing.
Pros: Unmatched versatility, excellent video at 8K with zoom. Cons: Bulky design, premium price. Best For: Power users who demand the longest optical zoom on a smartphone.
2. Vivo X200 Ultra: Precision Engineering for Photographers
The Vivo X200 Ultra earns its spot with a groundbreaking dual telephoto setup: a 3.7x standard and a massive 10x periscope lens on a 200MP sensor. Tuned with Zeiss optics, it excels in color science and micro-contrast, making zoomed portraits pop with natural bokeh.
At 10x, images retain incredible detail and balanced exposure, outperforming rivals in dynamic scenes like sunsets or stage performances. The Vivo Imaging Chip VS1 handles HDR and tone mapping flawlessly, while OIS ensures steady handheld shots. It's a favorite for pros seeking DSLR-like control in a phone.
Pros: Superior low-light zoom, customizable modes. Cons: Availability limited outside Asia. Best For: Enthusiasts prioritizing optical purity and Zeiss flair.
3. OPPO Find X8 Pro: Dual Periscope Innovation
OPPO's Find X8 Pro revolutionized zoom with the world's first global dual periscope telephoto: 3x and 6x lenses on 50MP sensors. Hasselblad color calibration ensures vibrant, accurate hues, and the 6x lens (135mm equivalent) captures distant subjects with minimal distortion.
Testing revealed top-tier stability at max zoom, thanks to two-axis OIS, and hybrid modes push to 120x without excessive noise. It's ideal for street and travel photography, where quick focal shifts matter.
Pros: Seamless zoom transitions, portrait mastery. Cons: Software can feel cluttered. Best For: Travelers needing reliable, high-magnification shots.
4. Xiaomi 15 Ultra: Value-Packed Zoom Powerhouse
Don't sleep on the Xiaomi 15 Ultra—it punches above its weight with a 1-inch main sensor and up to 5x optical zoom via a 50MP telephoto. At 30x hybrid, it surprisingly holds detail better than expected, with robust contrast and minimal processing artifacts.
This phone shines in underexposed scenes, making it great for wildlife or events. Leica-tuned optics add a cinematic touch, and at a more accessible price, it's a steal for zoom-focused buyers.
Pros: Affordable excellence, large sensor benefits. Cons: Slightly underexposed defaults. Best For: Budget-conscious creators wanting premium zoom.
5. iPhone 16 Pro Max: Seamless Ecosystem Zoom
Apple's iPhone 16 Pro Max uses a tetraprism design for 5x optical zoom on its 12MP telephoto, integrated with the A18 Pro chip for effortless computational tweaks. Results are consistently sharp and color-accurate, especially in video where zoom stays buttery smooth at 4K 120fps.
While not the highest magnification, its reliability and ecosystem (like ProRes editing) make it a staple for iOS loyalists.
Pros: Best-in-class video stabilization, easy sharing. Cons: Lower megapixels limit extreme cropping. Best For: Apple users seeking polished, all-around zoom.
Honorable Mentions: Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and OnePlus 13
The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL leverages 5x optical zoom with AI tools like Magic Editor, turning good shots into great ones through post-processing. It's fantastic for computational photography fans.
For value hunters, the OnePlus 13 offers solid 3x optical (hybrid to 6x) at a fraction of flagship costs, with speedy performance to match.
How to Choose the Right Optical Zoom Phone for You
- Budget Under $1,000? Go for the OnePlus 13 or Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
- Max Zoom Needs? Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra or Vivo X200 Ultra.
- Video Priority? iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- Test in Person: Visit stores to try zoom in varied lighting.
Elevate Your Shots with Top Optical Zoom Phones
In 2025, phones with the best optical zoom capabilities aren't just cameras—they're creative tools that fit in your pocket. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra leads for its sheer power, but challengers like the Vivo X200 Ultra and OPPO Find X8 Pro offer compelling alternatives. Whichever you choose, you'll capture details once reserved for bulky DSLRs.
