Camera test: HTC One vs. Galaxy S4
In our camera test of HTC One vs. We compare Samsung Galaxy S4's recordings of the two smartphones for you. We'll show you what advantages and disadvantages await you with the two top devices.
Cameras from HTC One and Galaxy S4 in the data sheet comparison
Both smartphones, the HTC One and Galaxy S4, take detailed pictures. But the data sheet of the devices shows big differences:
- The manufacturer does not disclose the resolution of around 4 megapixels in the data sheet of HTC One. Instead of the resolution, HTC increases the pixel size, which means that each pixel offers a larger area for collecting light. The relatively large aperture should create better exposed photos. The camera records videos in the usual Full HD quality.
- The situation is different with the Galaxy S4: Samsung specifies 13 megapixels, which means that the camera has a maximum resolution of 4, 128 x 3, 096 pixels. Just like the HTC One, the video camera records in 1080p Full HD.
- In addition to the resolution, the HTC One surprises with five flash levels that adapt to the distance to the subject. Samsung does not use this function in the Galaxy S4. A one-step flash is included.
HTC One vs. Galaxy S4 in practice test
In good lighting conditions, the HTC One stands out from the Galaxy S4 thanks to its large aperture and low resolution. However, as soon as you zoom in on the shot, the images on the HTC smartphone lose detail and appear less sharp than those on the Galaxy S4. This impression is also confirmed in other scenarios:
- When backlit, the Galaxy S4's camera produces good images with natural colors. The pictures of HTC One are also appealing - however, the smartphone falsifies the colors.
- When it comes to macro shots, the Galaxy S4 and HTC One are on par. Both models capture the subject with appealing sharpness and set it apart from the background.
- The HTC One scores in low light conditions: While the images of the Galaxy S4 are underexposed, the HTC phone produces well-exposed images with low noise.
HTC One and Galaxy S4 camera in video comparison
If you are filming a lot with your smartphone, the HTC One is the better choice: The higher resolution of the Galaxy S4 does not matter for 1080p recordings. Instead, the large aperture of the HTC One is noticeable and creates good video recordings with the strong image stabilizer. The Galaxy S4 also makes appealing films - but it can't keep up with the HTC One.
Conclusion: HTC One - smartphone for night owls
As an all-rounder, the camera of the Samsung Galaxy S4 convinces with a higher resolution and correspondingly sharper images. Nocturnal hobby photographers are better off with the HTC One. In low light conditions, the pictures are much better exposed and convince with less noise. If you're mainly filming with your smartphone, HTC One is also a better choice.
The two smartphones are not only fighting fiercely with the camera. A comparison between HTC One and Galaxy S4 is also worthwhile in terms of hardware.