The iPhone 16 Pro Max has made a significant impact in smartphone photography, especially in video capabilities, where it currently holds the top spot according to DxOMark’s latest testing. However, the device is ranked fourth overall globally in terms of its camera system; it stands out as the best for video recording.
Following the release of the iPhone 16 series, extensive testing has been conducted on various aspects of its performance. The camera system, a critical feature for many users, has received notable recognition.
According to the latest test results published by DxOMark, the iPhone 16 Pro Max achieved an impressive score of 157 points overall. This places it in fourth place globally behind the Huawei Pura 70 Ultra with 163 points, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL and Honor Magic 6 Pro scored 158 points.
The fourth-place global ranking is also reflected in the Ultra-Premium category. However, the iPhone 16 Pro Max takes the lead in video performance, scoring 159 points.
The device was praised for its exceptional video quality, delivering consistent exposure and accurate color reproduction across various lighting conditions. It also achieved the best texture-noise balance the testers encountered, highlighting its superiority in video capture.
Professional videographers will appreciate the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s video features, including ProRes profiles available in Log and HDR modes and a new 4K120fps recording mode. The device’s overall video quality is considered class-leading with particular praise for its vibrant color performance in images and the availability of customizable color options.
Additionally, the wide range of editing tools, the extremely accurate image preview, and the zero shutter lag were highlighted as significant strengths.
Despite its strong performance, the iPhone 16 Pro Max was not without its criticisms. The zoom function, which uses a Tetraprism lens system to enhance magnification, showed some inconsistencies.
The test results indicated a loss of detail between the 2x and 5x zoom ranges, likely due to different sensors for each range. At 2x zoom, the device uses a 12MP crop from the 48MP Fusion camera, while at 5x zoom, it switches to the Telephoto lens.
These findings continue Apple’s tradition of achieving high scores for its camera systems. In 2023, the iPhone 15 Pro Max held the second-best camera system globally, scoring 154 points. The iPhone 16 Pro Max builds on this legacy, particularly excelling in video recording, making it a top choice for users who prioritize video quality in their smartphone experience.