When it comes to smartphone cameras, the age-old rivalry between Samsung and Apple often steals the spotlight. While iPhones are renowned for their consistency and ease of use, Samsung is quietly pushing boundaries with innovation-packed features many users haven’t even tapped into. So, is it time we gave Samsung the credit it truly deserves?
In this post, we’re diving into 7 underrated Samsung camera features that are better than the iPhone’s. If you’re a photography lover, content creator, or just someone who wants more out of their phone camera, stick around — you’re in for a treat.
Why Samsung Cameras Deserve More Credit
Let’s get real. While iPhones do a solid job, Samsung’s Galaxy line, especially the S-series and Fold models, come armed with tools that aren’t just fancy — they’re functional. From AI-assisted shots to manual controls that rival DSLRs, Samsung isn’t just playing catch-up anymore — they’re setting the pace.
1. Pro Mode (Manual Controls) – Unleashing Your Inner Photographer
If you’ve ever felt limited by your phone’s camera settings, Samsung’s Pro Mode is your ticket to freedom.
RAW Format Support
One major plus? RAW file capture. This format gives you uncompressed image data — perfect for editing with Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop. Apple only recently introduced ProRAW, but Samsung’s had RAW options built-in for years.
Shutter Speed, ISO & Focus Tweaks
Samsung allows fine-tuned control over shutter speed, ISO, white balance, focus, and exposure — things that hobbyists and pros live for. iPhones? You’ll need a third-party app just to get close to that.
2. Single Take Mode – Capture Everything in One Tap
This feature is like having a personal photographer who knows exactly what you want.
AI-Powered Magic
With Single Take, a single press of the shutter captures photos, videos, slow-mos, boomerangs, and filters — all curated using Samsung’s AI. The iPhone doesn’t have anything quite like this.
Ideal for Events & Moments
Perfect for birthdays, weddings, and spontaneous events — no need to choose between video or photo anymore. Just hit record and let Samsung work its magic.
3. Director’s View – Filmmaker’s Dream Tool
Here’s one for vloggers and video enthusiasts.
Dual View Recording
Director’s View lets you film using multiple camera lenses at once, switching between wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto — all in real-time.
Front & Back Simultaneous Capture
You can record from both the front and rear cameras simultaneously. Imagine vlogging while also capturing what you’re seeing — something even iPhone 15 Pro can’t natively do.
4. Astrophoto Mode – Stargazing Like a Pro
Ready to shoot the stars? Samsung’s got your back.
Long Exposure Made Easy
With Astrophoto mode, you can capture long exposure shots of the night sky without a tripod. The phone’s gyro sensor and AI stabilization do the heavy lifting.
Galaxy AI + Sky Guide Features
Samsung even includes a Sky Guide that overlays constellations in real-time, letting you photograph Orion’s Belt or the Milky Way like a pro.
5. Object Eraser – Samsung’s Secret Weapon
Photo bombers, begone!
Erase People and Clutter Instantly
With Object Eraser, just tap unwanted elements and poof — they’re gone. It’s eerily accurate and incredibly useful.
Better Than iPhone’s Editing Suite?
While Apple offers background blur and auto-enhance, Samsung’s editing tools dig deeper, giving users true control. No third-party app needed.
6. Zoom Capabilities – The Real Telephoto Champion
Zoom isn’t just about getting closer — it’s about retaining quality while doing so.
100x Space Zoom
Yes, Samsung’s insane 100x zoom sounds gimmicky, but it’s surprisingly usable. Whether you’re photographing the moon or stage performers, this feature opens new doors.
Periscope Lens Engineering
Samsung achieves this using a periscope-style telephoto lens, something Apple has only recently started experimenting with. And even then, it’s nowhere near 100x.
7. Hyperlapse with Star Trails – Artistic Time-Lapse on Steroids
Want to get cinematic? Samsung’s Hyperlapse with Star Trails is your new playground.
How Star Trails Feature Works
This feature lets you record rotating star patterns using long exposures layered over time. The end result? Mesmerizing, spacey masterpieces.
Use Cases and Tips
Great for astrophotography, camping trips, or just creating next-level social content. Pro tip: Find a clear night sky, activate Star Trails mode, and let your phone do the magic.
Bonus: Samsung Expert RAW App
Samsung didn’t stop with just camera features — they went a step further with a dedicated app.
Designed for DSLR-Level Shooters
Expert RAW allows you to shoot in multi-frame RAW, capturing more dynamic range and detail. The app offers histogram analysis, lens correction, and even HDR merging.
iPhone Alternative? Not Quite
While Apple fans wait for a similar integrated experience, Samsung users already have it — and it works seamlessly with Adobe Lightroom.
Conclusion
While iPhones have long been the go-to for simplicity and style, Samsung’s camera features have quietly evolved into a photographer and filmmaker’s dream toolkit. From manual control to space-level zoom, Samsung gives users the freedom to create, experiment, and push the limits.
So the next time someone claims the iPhone has the best camera, just smile — because now, you know better.
FAQs
1. What is the best Samsung phone for camera features in 2025?
The Galaxy S24 Ultra currently leads the pack with top-tier hardware and exclusive features like Director’s View and 100x Space Zoom.
2. Can iPhones shoot in RAW like Samsung?
Yes, iPhones support ProRAW, but Samsung offers Expert RAW with more manual options and better integration with Lightroom.
3. Is Single Take mode available on all Samsung phones?
Single Take is available on most newer Samsung phones, particularly from the Galaxy S20 series and up.
4. How does Astrophoto mode work without a tripod?
Samsung uses AI stabilization and gyro sensors to simulate long exposure, minimizing shake and blur.
5. Does iPhone have an equivalent to Samsung’s Object Eraser?
Apple has some editing tools, but nothing as refined and easy to use as Samsung’s Object Eraser.
6. What’s the difference between Hyperlapse and Star Trails?
Hyperlapse captures movement over time, while Star Trails is a specialized version that captures celestial motion, creating spiral star patterns.
7. Is Expert RAW free to use?
Yes, Samsung’s Expert RAW is free to download from the Galaxy Store and works on supported models like the S23 Ultra and newer.