The Google Pixel 9a and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra both offer macro photography capabilities, but they implement this feature differently.
Pixel 9a Macro Mode
- Implementation: The Pixel 9a uses its main 48MP lens for macro photography, leveraging AI to automatically detect when it is close enough to a subject to enter Macro Focus mode. This approach allows for better detail in macro shots compared to using an ultra-wide lens, which is common in other devices[1][2].
- Video Recording: The Pixel 9a supports recording 4K videos in Macro Focus mode, providing high-quality video capture for close-up shots[1][2].
- Astrophotography: Additionally, the Pixel 9a includes astrophotography support, allowing users to capture night sky images and even create short astrophotography timelapses[1][9].
Galaxy S25 Ultra Macro Mode
- Implementation: The Galaxy S25 Ultra uses its upgraded 50MP ultrawide camera for macro photography, allowing users to capture macro photos in full resolution. This is an improvement over the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which could only capture 12MP macro shots[3].
- Camera System: The S25 Ultra boasts a comprehensive camera system with multiple lenses, including a 200MP primary sensor, a 50MP ultrawide lens, and telephoto lenses with optical zoom capabilities[4][5].
- Video Features: The Galaxy S25 Ultra supports advanced video features such as dual recording in 4K, video recording in log format, and the ability to record videos directly to external storage devices[3].
Comparison
- Lens Usage: The Pixel 9a uses its main lens for macro shots, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra uses its ultrawide lens. This means the Pixel 9a might offer better detail in macro mode due to the higher quality of its main lens.
- Video Capabilities: Both devices support advanced video features, but the Pixel 9a's ability to record 4K macro videos is a notable feature. The Galaxy S25 Ultra offers more versatile video recording options, including dual camera recording and log format.
- Overall Camera System: The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a more extensive camera setup with multiple lenses, providing more flexibility for different types of photography. The Pixel 9a focuses on AI-driven features like Macro Focus and astrophotography.
In summary, while both devices offer macro capabilities, they cater to different needs. The Pixel 9a excels with its AI-driven macro mode and astrophotography features, while the Galaxy S25 Ultra provides a more comprehensive camera system with advanced video features.
Citations:
[1] https://www.tomsguide.com/phones/google-pixel-phones/google-pixel-9a-specs
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGhfADauG9s
[3] https://www.sammobile.com/news/five-interesting-galaxy-s25-ultra-camera-features/
[4] https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-vs-pixel-9-pro-xl/
[5] https://www.zdnet.com/article/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-vs-google-pixel-9-pro-xl-we-tested-both-and-heres-the-winner/
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/samsunggalaxy/comments/1ia0zw9/s25_base_macro_photography/
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ITXD1InEn4
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/Android/comments/1iadobz/samsung_galaxy_s25_vs_google_pixel_9_you_cant_go/
[9] https://www.wired.com/story/google-pixel-9a/
[10] https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS10004601/