Cameras Compared: Redmi 1S, Redmi Note, Honor 3C, ZenFone 4 and ZenFone 5

We have the top 5 affordable Android smart phones priced below RM600 and it is time to give it a camera shoot out. For this comparison, we have the Redmi 1S, Honor 3C and ZenFone 5 which comes with a 8MP shooter while the Redmi Note takes the lead with its higher 13MP camera. We’ve also thrown in the incredibly low priced ASUS ZenFone 4 with its 5MP camera, just to see if it can match up with its more expensive rivals.

Without further ado, check out the sample photos after the break.

Sample 1 – Indoor

Original: Redmi 1S, Redmi Note, Honor 3C, ZenFone 4, ZenFone 5

Sample 2 – Outdoor

Original: Redmi 1S, Redmi Note, Honor 3C, ZenFone 4, ZenFone 5

Sample 3 – Outdoor

Original: Redmi 1S, Redmi Note, Honor 3C, ZenFone 4, ZenFone 5

Sample 4 – Macro

Original: Redmi 1S, Redmi Note, Honor 3C, ZenFone 4, ZenFone 5

For doing Macros, surprisingly the Honor 3C is the best of the lot as it is able to focus with a distance less than 5CM. The other 4 had to maintain a distance of at least 10cm in order to take a picture in focus. On the Redmi 1S and Redmi Note, the focus mode is switched to Macro in this comparison while respective cameras are able to focus in its standard settings.

Sample 5 – Macro

Original: Redmi 1S, Redmi Note, Honor 3C, ZenFone 4, ZenFone 5

Sample 6 – Low Light

Original: Redmi 1S, Redmi Note, Honor 3C, ZenFone 4, ZenFone 5 (Low Light)

This is a challenging test. The low-light photo samples were taken under a desk in a dark office room. For this set up, we have enabled the Night mode of each respective device to maximise its potential. Out of the 5 devices, the ASUS ZenFone 5 stands out with its PixelMaster technology. This is achieved by combining 4 nearby pixels to increase its brightness by 400%. As a result, photos taken in this low-light mode is limited to 2MP from its 8MP camera. To illustrate the feature clearer, we’ve taken 3 different shots on the ZenFone 5 in normal, night mode and low light as shown below. While it is impressive, it is usable only when the device is held with steady hands.

Summary

Overall, the 5 smart phones are impressive considering they are all priced below RM600. With mainstream brands, you would probably expect a mediocre 5MP camera. Usability wise, the Redmi 1S, Redmi Note and ZenFone 5 are quite snappy devices which takes a picture almost immediately when you tap on the shutter button. Honor 3C is still pretty decent but there’s a slight pause of hesitation when a picture is taken.

Despite having a 5″ HD 720p display, somehow the photos taken on the Honor 3C appear washed out on the phone and they often turn out much better looking when viewed on a computer. We didn’t expect much from the ZenFone 4 but the pictures are quite okay. We are a little annoyed that it took a while to snap a picture as it kept showing “optimising” after every shot. If you need to take multiple shots, the ZenFone 4 does continuous shots with Burst Mode as well.

As for the colours and details, we leave it to you guys to decide. Which produces better colours and details? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.