Top 10 Best Camera Phones in Kenya – 2025

Picking the best camera phone in Kenya is a tough challenge with more choices than ever—iPhone or Android? Apple, Google, or Samsung?

However, if you’re looking for the best, then this guide is for you.

Whether you’re a content creator, professional photographer, or just someone who loves taking high-quality photos, having a top-tier smartphone camera is essential. The right phone can capture stunning landscapes, take sharp selfies, and record smooth 4K videos—all while fitting right in your pocket.

Why Camera Quality Matters in a Smartphone

With the explosion of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, the demand for high-quality smartphone cameras has never been higher. But having a great camera isn’t just about megapixels anymore. Features like sensor size, optical image stabilization, AI enhancements, and advanced image processing software play a huge role in delivering the perfect shot.

Here’s why having the best smartphone camera in Kenya matters:

  • Social Media & Content Creation – Capture professional-quality images and videos to boost engagement on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

  • Memorable Moments – Preserve high-resolution memories of family gatherings, birthdays, and vacations.

  • Business & Marketing – Showcase products and services with clear, sharp images that attract customers.

  • Low-Light & Night Photography – Advanced night mode features allow for clear, noise-free shots even in dim lighting.

  • Zoom Capabilities – Optical and hybrid zoom features help capture distant subjects without losing detail.

II. Top 10 Best Camera Phones in Kenya – 2025 Rankings

In this section, we break down the top 10 best camera phones in Kenya for 2025, ranking them based on camera performance, low-light capability, video recording features, and overall value for money.

1. Oppo Reno 12 5G – Best AI-Enhanced Camera Phone

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 64MP (f/1.7) with OIS
  • Ultra-Wide Camera: 8MP (f/2.2)
  • Telephoto Lens: 2MP Macro
  • Front Camera: 32MP (f/2.4)
  • Video Recording: 4K @ 30fps, 1080p @ 60fps
  • AI Camera Features: Ultra Night Mode, AI Scene Enhancement, HDR+

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Oppo Reno 12 5G delivers AI-powered photography, making it one of the best camera phones in Kenya for 2025. With its 64MP main sensor and advanced image processing, the phone captures sharp and vibrant images in daylight. The AI Scene Enhancement 2.0 automatically adjusts colors, making photos more visually appealing.

For low-light photography, the Ultra Night Mode optimizes exposure to brighten details while reducing noise. This makes it ideal for capturing cityscapes and nightlife in Kenya.

Best Camera Features:

  • Ultra Night Mode – Enhances clarity in low-light shots.
  • AI Scene Enhancement 2.0 – Automatically improves colors and contrast.
  • 32MP Selfie Camera – Produces detailed and color-rich selfies.
  • 4K Video Recording – Ideal for content creators and vloggers.

Drawbacks:

  • No dedicated periscope zoom lens.
  • Ultra-wide camera resolution is lower compared to premium models.

Verdict:

The Oppo Reno 12 5G is a perfect choice for users who want AI-enhanced photography, smooth 4K videos, and great night photography at a reasonable price.

2. Redmi Note 14 Pro – Best Budget Camera Phone

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 200MP (f/1.9) with OIS
  • Ultra-Wide Camera: 8MP (f/2.2)
  • Macro Camera: 2MP (f/2.4)
  • Front Camera: 16MP (f/2.5)
  • Video Recording: 4K @ 30fps, 1080p @ 60fps
  • Special Features: Super Night Mode, AI Pixel Enhancement, 2x in-sensor zoom

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Redmi Note 14 Pro stands out as one of the best budget camera phones in Kenya due to its impressive 200MP main camera, which captures exceptionally detailed photos. The OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) ensures steady shots, while Super Night Mode enhances low-light images, making it a strong performer even at night.

For photography enthusiasts, in-sensor zoom technology enables 2x lossless zoom, allowing users to get closer to their subjects without compromising quality. This feature makes the Redmi Note 14 Pro an ideal option for landscape, portrait, and even wildlife photography.

Best Camera Features:

  • 200MP Ultra High-Resolution Camera – Delivers unmatched detail and clarity.
  • Super Night Mode – Enhances low-light photography by reducing noise.
  • AI Pixel Enhancement – Improves sharpness and dynamic range.
  • 4K Video Recording with OIS – Ensures smooth and professional-looking videos.

Drawbacks:

  • The macro camera is only 2MP, limiting close-up photography.
  • No dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom.

Verdict:

If you are looking for an affordable smartphone with a high-resolution camera, AI photography features, and strong low-light capabilities, the Redmi Note 14 Pro is one of the best camera phones in Kenya for 2025.

3. Honor X9B – Best for Portrait Photography

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 108MP (f/1.8) with AI Image Enhancement
  • Ultra-Wide Camera: 5MP (f/2.2)
  • Depth Sensor: 2MP (f/2.4)
  • Front Camera: 16MP (f/2.5)
  • Video Recording: 4K @ 30fps, 1080p @ 60fps
  • Special Features: AI Portrait Mode, Bokeh Effect, Super Night Mode

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Honor X9B is one of the best camera phones in Kenya for portrait photography, thanks to its 108MP primary sensor and AI-powered image processing. The depth sensor enhances background blur, creating a natural bokeh effect that makes portraits stand out.

The AI Portrait Mode intelligently enhances skin tones, adjusts lighting, and maintains sharp details, making it an excellent choice for social media enthusiasts. The Super Night Mode ensures that portraits remain clear and vibrant even in dim lighting.

Best Camera Features:

  • AI Portrait Mode – Produces stunning portraits with smooth skin tones and enhanced lighting.
  • Natural Bokeh Effect – Creates professional-looking blurred backgrounds.
  • 108MP Ultra-Clear Camera – Captures high-resolution details.
  • Super Night Mode – Improves low-light portraits with enhanced brightness and contrast.

Drawbacks:

  • Ultra-wide camera has a lower resolution compared to competitors.
  • Lacks OIS, which may lead to shaky video footage.

Verdict:

The Honor X9B is a great choice for those who love taking high-quality portrait photos, as its AI-powered enhancements and depth-sensing capabilities create beautiful images with professional-looking background blur.

4. Samsung Galaxy M15 5G – Best Mid-Range Camera Phone

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 50MP (f/1.8) with OIS
  • Ultra-Wide Camera: 8MP (f/2.2)
  • Macro Camera: 2MP (f/2.4)
  • Front Camera: 13MP (f/2.2)
  • Video Recording: 4K @ 30fps, 1080p @ 60fps
  • Special Features: Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), Scene Optimizer, AI Night Mode

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Samsung Galaxy M15 5G is a strong contender in the best camera phones in Kenya category, offering a well-balanced 50MP main sensor with OIS for sharper and more stable images. The Scene Optimizer uses AI to adjust colors, brightness, and contrast automatically, making it ideal for both photography beginners and professionals.

Low-light performance is another area where this phone excels. The AI Night Mode enhances details in darker environments, making nighttime photography impressive. Additionally, the ultra-wide camera ensures you capture expansive landscapes without distortion.

Best Camera Features:

  • 50MP Camera with OIS – Reduces blur and ensures stable images and videos.
  • Scene Optimizer – AI-based color and brightness adjustments for enhanced images.
  • Ultra-Wide Camera – Expands the field of view for group photos and landscapes.
  • AI Night Mode – Improves low-light performance with better noise reduction.

Drawbacks:

  • Macro camera is only 2MP, limiting close-up detail.
  • Lacks a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom.

Verdict:

For those looking for a mid-range smartphone with a high-quality camera, AI photography features, and excellent low-light performance, the Samsung Galaxy M15 5G is one of the best camera phones in Kenya to consider in 2025.

5. Vivo V40 – Best for Selfies and Social Media Content

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 50MP (f/1.9) with PDAF
  • Ultra-Wide Camera: 8MP (f/2.2)
  • Depth Sensor: 2MP (f/2.4)
  • Front Camera: 50MP (f/2.0) with Autofocus
  • Video Recording: 4K @ 30fps (rear and front), 1080p @ 60fps
  • Special Features: AI Face Beauty, Eye Autofocus, Ultra Night Mode

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Vivo V40 stands out as one of the best camera phones in Kenya for selfie lovers and content creators. Its 50MP front camera with autofocus and AI enhancements ensures sharp, well-lit selfies with accurate skin tones. The AI Face Beauty feature fine-tunes facial details without making images look unnatural, making it perfect for influencers and social media enthusiasts.

Its rear camera system also delivers solid performance, with the 50MP primary sensor capturing crisp images with accurate colors. The Ultra Night Mode improves nighttime selfies and portraits by reducing noise while maintaining clarity.

Best Camera Features:

  • 50MP Front Camera with Autofocus – Perfect for detailed selfies and vlogging.
  • AI Face Beauty Mode – Enhances facial features naturally.
  • Ultra Night Mode – Captures clearer selfies in low-light conditions.
  • Eye Autofocus – Ensures subjects remain sharp even in motion.

Drawbacks:

  • Lacks optical image stabilization (OIS) on the main camera.
  • No dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom.

Verdict:

The Vivo V40 is an excellent option for those who prioritize selfies, vlogging, and social media content creation. If you want sharp, natural-looking selfies and vibrant low-light images, this is one of the best camera phones in Kenya to consider in 2025.

6. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE – Best Camera Phone for Flagship Features on a Budget

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 50MP (f/1.8) with OIS and PDAF
  • Telephoto Camera: 8MP (f/2.4) with 3x Optical Zoom
  • Ultra-Wide Camera: 12MP (f/2.2)
  • Front Camera: 10MP (f/2.4)
  • Video Recording: 8K @ 24fps, 4K @ 60fps, 1080p @ 120fps
  • Special Features: Nightography, AI Scene Optimizer, Super Steady Mode

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE delivers flagship-level camera features at a more affordable price, making it one of the best camera phones in Kenya for 2025. The 50MP main sensor with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) ensures crystal-clear images with reduced blur, even in low-light conditions. Samsung’s Nightography technology further enhances nighttime photography, delivering bright and detailed images in challenging lighting conditions.

Unlike many mid-range phones, the S23 FE includes an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, allowing users to capture distant subjects without compromising image quality. The Super Steady Mode also ensures shake-free video recording, making this a great phone for videographers and content creators.

Best Camera Features:

  • 50MP OIS Camera – Produces high-quality images with excellent detail and sharpness.
  • 3x Optical Zoom – Ideal for capturing distant objects with clarity.
  • Nightography Mode – Enhances low-light shots with AI-powered adjustments.
  • 8K Video Recording – Offers ultra-high-resolution video for professionals.
  • Super Steady Mode – Helps stabilize videos for smooth footage.

Drawbacks:

  • Front camera is only 10MP, which is lower compared to competitors in this price range.
  • No periscope zoom lens for extended optical zoom.

Verdict:

For users looking for a premium camera experience at a lower price, the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is a top choice. With its OIS-enhanced 50MP sensor, optical zoom, and Nightography mode, it stands out as one of the best camera phones in Kenya for photography enthusiasts and video creators alike.

7. Tecno Camon 20 – Best Budget Camera Phone with AI Features

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 64MP (f/1.7) with PDAF and Laser Autofocus
  • Depth Sensor: 2MP (f/2.4)
  • AI Lens: QVGA
  • Front Camera: 32MP (f/2.5)
  • Video Recording: 4K @ 30fps (rear), 1080p @ 30fps (front)
  • Special Features: AI Portrait Mode, Super Night Mode, HDR+

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Tecno Camon 20 is one of the best camera phones in Kenya for budget-conscious buyers who still want high-quality photography features. Its 64MP primary camera, enhanced with laser autofocus, ensures sharp and detailed shots, especially in well-lit conditions. Tecno’s AI Portrait Mode and HDR+ technology further enhance image quality by optimizing exposure and color balance.

For selfie lovers, the 32MP front camera captures clear and bright images with AI enhancements that adjust skin tones and lighting for natural-looking portraits. The Super Night Mode significantly improves low-light performance, making it easier to capture high-quality images in darker environments.

Best Camera Features:

  • 64MP Laser Autofocus Main Camera – Ensures sharp, fast-focus images.
  • AI Portrait Mode – Enhances background blur for professional-looking portraits.
  • Super Night Mode – Improves image clarity in low-light settings.
  • 32MP AI Selfie Camera – Captures detailed selfies with beauty mode enhancements.
  • HDR+ Technology – Balances colors and brightness for well-exposed images.

Drawbacks:

  • Lacks an ultra-wide-angle lens, limiting flexibility in capturing landscapes.
  • No OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), which can lead to slight blur in handheld shots.

Verdict:

For those seeking a budget-friendly camera phone with AI-powered photography features, the Tecno Camon 20 is a fantastic choice. With its 64MP laser autofocus main camera and 32MP AI-enhanced selfie camera, it competes well with more expensive models, making it one of the best camera phones in Kenya under a budget.

8. Oppo A38 – Best Affordable Camera Phone for Everyday Photography

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 50MP (f/1.8) with PDAF
  • Depth Sensor: 2MP (f/2.4)
  • Front Camera: 5MP (f/2.2)
  • Video Recording: 1080p @ 30fps (rear and front)
  • Special Features: AI Scene Enhancement, Night Mode, HDR

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Oppo A38 is a budget-friendly smartphone that still delivers impressive camera performance, making it one of the best camera phones in Kenya for entry-level users. Its 50MP primary sensor with AI Scene Enhancement ensures that photos come out vibrant and well-balanced, especially in well-lit environments.

For night photography, the Night Mode improves image clarity by reducing noise and enhancing brightness in low-light conditions. While the 5MP front camera is not the best in its class, it still manages to produce decent selfies with Oppo’s AI beauty enhancements that refine skin textures and adjust lighting.

Best Camera Features:

  • 50MP AI Camera – Captures detailed and sharp images in daylight.
  • AI Scene Enhancement – Optimizes colors and contrast for better image quality.
  • Night Mode – Reduces noise and improves clarity in low-light conditions.
  • HDR Technology – Helps balance shadows and highlights for more detailed images.
  • Portrait Mode with Depth Sensor – Creates a blurred background effect for professional-looking shots.

Drawbacks:

  • 5MP front camera is below average, making selfies less detailed.
  • No ultra-wide or telephoto lens, limiting versatility.
  • No 4K video recording, which is available in some competitors.

Verdict:

For users looking for an affordable camera phone that still delivers solid photography performance, the Oppo A38 is a great choice. Its 50MP AI-powered main camera and Night Mode make it suitable for everyday photography, and its budget-friendly price makes it accessible to many Kenyan consumers looking for the best camera phone under Ksh 20,000.


9. Tecno Spark – Best Entry-Level Camera Phone for Beginners

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 50MP (f/1.6) with PDAF
  • Depth Sensor: 2MP (f/2.4)
  • AI Lens: QVGA
  • Front Camera: 8MP (f/2.0) with Dual LED Flash
  • Video Recording: 1080p @ 30fps (rear and front)
  • Special Features: Super Night Mode, AI Scene Recognition, HDR

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Tecno Spark is designed for budget-conscious consumers who still want a good camera phone for everyday use. Featuring a 50MP main camera, it takes surprisingly sharp photos in daylight conditions, while its Super Night Mode improves clarity in low-light settings.

Tecno’s AI technology also plays a big role in enhancing photos. The AI Scene Recognition adjusts settings automatically based on the scene, whether it’s a portrait, landscape, or food photography. For selfie lovers, the 8MP front camera with dual LED flash ensures brighter and clearer self-portraits, even in dim lighting.

Best Camera Features:

  • 50MP AI Camera – Captures high-resolution photos with rich details.
  • Super Night Mode – Enhances clarity and reduces noise in low-light conditions.
  • AI Scene Recognition – Automatically optimizes camera settings based on the environment.
  • 8MP Selfie Camera with Dual LED Flash – Produces well-lit selfies even in low light.
  • HDR Mode – Balances shadows and highlights for more dynamic images.

Drawbacks:

  • Front camera resolution is lower than competitors, affecting selfie quality.
  • No ultra-wide or macro lens, limiting versatility.
  • Lacks 4K video recording, which is available in slightly more expensive models.

Verdict:

The Tecno Spark is one of the best budget camera phones in Kenya, perfect for beginners or casual photographers. Its 50MP AI-powered main camera, Super Night Mode, and HDR support ensure decent photo quality, making it a great option for those looking for a reliable and affordable smartphone with good camera features.

10. Infinix Hot 30i – Best Budget Camera Phone for Social Media Photos

Key Camera Specs:

  • Main Camera: 50MP (f/1.6) with PDAF
  • AI Lens: QVGA
  • Front Camera: 8MP (f/2.0) with LED Flash
  • Video Recording: 1080p @ 30fps (rear and front)
  • Special Features: Super Night Mode, AI Beauty Mode, HDR

Why It’s a Top Camera Phone in Kenya

The Infinix Hot 30i is a budget-friendly smartphone that packs an impressive 50MP primary camera, making it a great option for social media enthusiasts. It produces sharp and colorful images, especially in daylight. The AI optimization helps in adjusting colors, brightness, and contrast for more visually appealing photos.

For night photography, the Super Night Mode reduces noise and enhances brightness, making it possible to take clearer photos in low-light conditions. The 8MP front camera may not be the best in this category, but it does a decent job, especially with the LED flash, ensuring selfies remain bright even in dim settings.

Best Camera Features:

  • 50MP AI Camera – Captures high-quality, sharp images.
  • Super Night Mode – Improves visibility and clarity in low-light conditions.
  • AI Beauty Mode – Enhances facial features for more polished selfies.
  • HDR Support – Balances contrast and exposure for better details.
  • 8MP Selfie Camera with LED Flash – Ensures brighter selfies in dim environments.

Drawbacks:

  • Limited front camera resolution compared to competitors.
  • No ultra-wide or telephoto lens for added versatility.
  • Lacks 4K video recording, limiting high-resolution video options.

Verdict:

The Infinix Hot 30i is an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers who need a smartphone with a good camera for social media photos. With its 50MP AI-enhanced rear camera and Super Night Mode, it ensures high-quality images at an affordable price, making it one of the best budget camera phones in Kenya.


Final Thoughts: Which Is the Best Camera Phone in Kenya for You?

Picking the best camera phone in Kenya depends on your budget and photography needs. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Phone Model Best For Main Camera Front Camera Key Feature Price Range (Ksh)
Oppo Reno 12 5G Best overall camera performance 64MP + 8MP 32MP AI-enhanced photography 50,000 - 65,000
Redmi Note 14 Pro Best mid-range camera phone 108MP + 8MP 16MP 4K video recording 45,000 - 55,000
Honor X9B Best value for money 64MP + 2MP 16MP OIS & Super Night Mode 40,000 - 50,000
Samsung Galaxy M15 5G Best battery & camera balance 50MP + 2MP 13MP High battery life 35,000 - 45,000
Vivo V40 Best selfie camera 50MP + 8MP 50MP Dual selfie camera 55,000 - 65,000
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Best flagship-like camera 50MP + 12MP 10MP Pro-grade photography 80,000 - 90,000
Tecno Camon 20 Best budget camera phone 64MP + 2MP 32MP Super Night Mode 25,000 - 35,000
Oppo A38 Best for everyday photography 50MP + 2MP 5MP AI Scene Enhancement 20,000 - 25,000
Tecno Spark Best entry-level camera phone 50MP + AI Lens 8MP AI Scene Recognition 15,000 - 20,000
Infinix Hot 30i Best budget social media phone 50MP + AI Lens 8MP AI Beauty Mode 15,000 - 20,000

Each of these smartphones offers something unique, from high-resolution cameras to AI-enhanced photography and low-light performance. Whether you're a professional photographer, a social media enthusiast, or just someone who loves capturing memories, there's a camera phone in Kenya that fits your needs.

III. How to Choose the Best Camera Phone in Kenya

Choosing the best camera phone in Kenya requires more than just looking at the megapixel count. Smartphone cameras have evolved significantly, integrating advanced technologies that affect image quality, video recording, and overall photography experience. Before purchasing, consider the following key factors:

1. Camera Specifications: Megapixels Aren’t Everything

Many people assume that higher megapixels = better camera quality, but this isn’t always true. While megapixels play a role in detail resolution, other factors like sensor size, aperture, and software processing determine overall image quality.

  • Megapixel Count – Phones with 50MP or more allow for sharper images, but quality depends on software optimization.
  • Sensor Size – A larger sensor captures more light, improving image clarity, especially in low-light conditions.
  • Aperture Size (f/1.8, f/2.2, etc.) – A wider aperture (lower f-number) allows more light, making night shots brighter.
  • AI & Computational Photography – AI-enhanced features like Night Mode, HDR, and Portrait Mode enhance image quality.

2. Low-Light and Night Photography

Kenya’s vibrant nightlife, safari adventures, and concerts demand a camera that excels in low-light conditions. A good night photography phone should have:

  • Night Mode – Uses long exposure and AI to brighten dark environments.
  • Larger Sensor – Allows more light for natural-looking night shots.
  • Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) – Reduces blur in night photography.
  • AI Noise Reduction – Minimizes graininess in low-light shots.

3. Zoom Capabilities: Optical vs. Digital Zoom

If you love capturing distant objects like wildlife, stadium concerts, or scenic views, zoom capabilities are crucial.

  • Optical Zoom – Uses a telephoto lens to zoom in without losing image quality (common in flagship phones).
  • Hybrid Zoom – A combination of optical + digital zoom for better clarity.
  • Digital Zoom – Crops the image to create a zoom effect but reduces quality.

4. Video Recording Features

Content creators and vloggers need high-quality video recording for smooth footage. Here’s what to look for:

  • 4K & 8K Recording – High-resolution videos with more details.
  • Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) – Reduces shakiness when filming handheld.
  • Cinematic Mode – Blurs the background for a professional look.
  • Slow-Motion & Time-Lapse – Adds creative elements to videos.

5. Front Camera for Selfies & Video Calls

For those who love selfies or attend virtual meetings frequently, the front camera matters too. Consider:

  • Megapixel Count – A 32MP or higher selfie camera produces sharper selfies.
  • AI Beauty Mode – Enhances facial features for a polished look.
  • 4K Video on Front Camera – Useful for vloggers and live streaming.
  • Wide-Angle Selfies – Fits more people into group selfies.

6. Software Optimization & AI Features

A phone’s camera software and AI enhancements can make a big difference. Some high-end smartphones feature:

  • AI Scene Detection – Automatically adjusts settings based on the scene.
  • HDR+ – Enhances dynamic range for well-balanced shots.
  • Real-Time Filters & Editing Tools – Allows quick edits without third-party apps.

7. Battery Life & Storage Capacity

High-resolution photos and 4K videos consume a lot of battery and storage. Ensure your phone has:

  • Large Battery (5000mAh or more) – Prevents fast drain when using the camera frequently.
  • Sufficient Storage (128GB or more) – Stores high-resolution images and videos without running out of space.

8. Price & Budget Considerations

Kenya offers a range of camera phones from budget-friendly models to premium flagship devices. Decide based on:

  • Budget Phones (Under Ksh 30,000) – Good for casual photography.
  • Mid-Range Phones (Ksh 30,000 - Ksh 60,000) – Offers advanced camera features.
  • Flagship Phones (Above Ksh 60,000) – Premium photography with DSLR-like quality.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Camera Phone for You?

Choosing the best camera phone in Kenya depends on your needs:

  • If you want a professional-level camera, go for a flagship model with top-tier sensors and optical zoom.
  • If you need a budget-friendly camera phone, look for one with AI enhancements and Night Mode.
  • If you’re into vlogging or social media, pick a phone with a high-quality front camera and 4K video recording.