Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Camera: A Deep Dive into the 200MP Quad-System, explore the full photographic capabilities of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. This comprehensive guide breaks down every lens and feature, from the massive 200MP main sensor and 50MP periscope zoom to professional 8K video recording.
The Rear Quad-Camera System
The main photography unit on the back is composed of four distinct lenses, each specialized for different focal lengths and shooting scenarios:
1. The Primary Wide Camera (200 MP)
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Resolution: A massive 200 MP sensor delivers ultra-high-resolution images.
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Aperture & Focal Length: It features a bright f/1.7 aperture for superior low-light performance and a standard 24mm wide focal length.
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Sensor Specs: The sensor size is 1/1.3″ with individual pixels measuring 0.6µm, allowing for significant light intake.
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Focus & Stabilization: It utilizes multi-directional PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) for fast and accurate focusing, combined with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) to counteract handshakes and blur.
2. The Periscope Telephoto Camera (50 MP)
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Zoom Capability: This lens offers a long-range 5x optical zoom via a periscope mechanism.
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Resolution: It uses a high-resolution 50 MP sensor.
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Optics: It has an f/3.4 aperture and a long 111mm focal length.
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Sensor Specs: The sensor is 1/2.52″ in size with 0.7µm pixels.
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Focus & Stabilization: Like the main camera, it features PDAF for focus tracking and OIS to keep zoomed-in shots steady.
3. The Telephoto Camera (10 MP)
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Zoom Capability: Designed for mid-range portrait shots, this lens provides 3x optical zoom.
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Resolution: It uses a 10 MP sensor.
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Sensor Specs: It features a smaller 1/3.94″ sensor size.
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Focus & Stabilization: It is equipped with PDAF and OIS to ensure sharpness at intermediate zoom levels.
4. The Ultrawide Camera (50 MP)
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Field of View: Captures a massive 120˚ angle, ideal for landscapes and architecture.
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Resolution: A high-resolution 50 MP sensor, ensuring ultrawide shots are as detailed as the main shots.
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Optics: A fast f/1.9 aperture allows for better low-light wide-angle photography.
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Sensor Specs: The sensor size is 1/2.5″ with 0.7µm pixels.
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Advanced Features: It utilizes Dual Pixel PDAF for lightning-fast focus and supports Super Steady video for action-cam-like stabilization.
Rear Camera Features & Capabilities
Beyond the lenses, the hardware and software suite includes specific tools to enhance the shooting experience:
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Laser AF: A dedicated laser autofocus module aids in instant focusing, particularly in low-light environments where standard PDAF might struggle.
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Best Face: A software feature designed to optimize group shots or portraits.
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Flash: A standard LED flash is included for illumination.
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Imaging Modes: The system supports auto-HDR (High Dynamic Range) to balance highlights and shadows, and panorama mode for stitching wide scenes.
Rear Video Capabilities
The video engine on the S26 Ultra is extremely versatile, offering professional-grade resolutions and frame rates:
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8K Recording: Capable of shooting ultra-high-definition video at 24fps and 30fps.
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4K Recording: Supports a wide range of frame rates including 30fps, 60fps, and smooth 120fps.
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1080p Recording: Offers extensive slow-motion options, recording at 30, 60, 120, and up to 240fps.
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Visual Enhancement: Supports 10-bit HDR and HDR10+ recording for richer colors and dynamic range.
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Audio: Features stereo sound recording for immersive audio capture.
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Stabilization: Uses gyro-EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) to smooth out handheld footage digitally.
The Selfie Camera (Front)
The front-facing camera is designed for high-quality video calls and self-portraits:
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Resolution: A 12 MP sensor.
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Optics: Features an f/2.2 aperture and a wide 26mm focal length.
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Sensor Specs: The sensor is 1/3.2″ with 1.12µm pixels.
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Focusing: Unlike many front cameras, this features Dual Pixel PDAF for sharp, accurate focus on the subject.
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Features: Supports HDR and HDR10+ for balanced exposure in selfies.
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Front Video: Capable of recording 4K video at 30/60fps and 1080p video at 30fps.
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