Introduction
In the evolving landscape of smartphone technology, each new iteration brings a plethora of advancements, pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible. Among these, the video recording capabilities of flagship devices often emerge as pivotal selling points.
Is S24 Ultra really worth the splurge for video recording? You might be asking yourself! The answer is both Yes and No!
If you want a quick answer, just check key takeaways. But if you like reading, let us drive into the capabilities the S24 Ultra boasts to find out why the answer is Yes and No.
Key Takeaways
- Advanced Videography: The S24 Ultra offers top-notch video features, including optical zoom and HDR10+ technology, ensuring clear and creative footage.
- Competitive Comparison: Compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the S24 Ultra holds its own in key aspects like frame rates and stabilization, making it a strong option for videography.
- User Preference: Whether the S24 Ultra is worth it depends on individual needs. It’s great for casual users, but videography enthusiasts may prefer the iPhone 15 Pro Max for its performance.
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra was released in early 2024, bringing in top of the line specs with interesting features such as AI (Artificial Intelligence).
Pros
- Overall better cameras than most competitors.
- Very fast, even faster than the iPhone 15 Pro Max in various tests.
- Has an S Pen which is always a plus when compared to other devices.
- Includes the Samsung's Galaxy AI features.
Cons
- A pretty heavy device which some people may find uncomfortable.
- It's sharp corners has been criticized to hurt hands over prolonged use.
- Not much upgraded from previous year's S23 Ultra.
Technical Specs
Let’s talk about the technical specs of the device to see what on-paper specs Samsung is giving us.
Camera Array
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra showcases a sophisticated camera array, featuring a Quad Tele System complemented by a novel 5x optical zoom lens.
This configuration, coupled with a 50MP sensor, facilitates optical-grade performance across zoom levels spanning from 2x to an astounding 10x magnification, delivering pristine results even at 100x digital zoom.
Video Resolutions
The device offers a plethora of video resolutions and frame rates to cater to diverse shooting scenarios. Users can indulge in recording up to 8K 30fps resolution with the primary camera and 5x telephoto, while all five cameras, including the front-facing one, support seamless 4K 60fps recording.
Moreover, the primary rear camera is capable of achieving 4K 120fps in slow-motion mode, presenting users with versatility and adaptability to capture moments with breathtaking precision.
Audio
Audio is captured in stereo at 256kbps, ensuring top-notch sound quality that complements the visual brilliance of the footage.
Advanced Video Modes
The S24 Ultra comes with a bunch of video modes to make your videography journey delightful.
Pro Mode
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra introduces a Pro Video mode, empowering users with advanced controls for professional-grade videography. Enthusiasts can meticulously adjust settings such as exposure, white balance, and focus manually, facilitating precise customization to achieve the desired effect.
HDR10+
One of the standout features of the S24 Ultra is its capability to record in HDR10+ format, delivering an enhanced dynamic range and color reproduction for a truly immersive viewing experience. This innovative technology guarantees that footage is optimized for HDR displays, presenting viewers with visuals that are vivid and true to life.
If you want to know more about HDR10+, you can visit DigitalTrends
Slow Motion
The creative boundaries are boundless with the S24 Ultra’s slow-motion capabilities. The device supports a 960fps slow-motion mode at 1080p, which is 32 time slower than realtime, enabling users to capture enthralling moments with unparalleled detail and fluidity.
Video Quality and Performance
Let us see how the quality and performance of video comes out in different scenarios.
Day-Light
In well-lit environments, the S24 Ultra exhibits exceptional video quality, characterized by consistent color reproduction and sharp detail across all rear cameras. Noteworthy dynamic range and contrast ensure that footage maintains its vibrancy and depth, capturing the essence of the moment effortlessly.
Low-Light
Even in challenging low-light conditions, the S24 Ultra shines, courtesy of its optimized sensor and advanced noise reduction algorithms. The device adeptly maintains accurate exposure, wide dynamic range, and minimal noise, resulting in videos that are clear and vibrant even in dimly lit environments.
If you want to know more about low-light performance of the S24 Ultra, you can check this article.
Stabilization
The video stabilization prowess of the S24 Ultra is noteworthy, effectively mitigating camera shake and ensuring smooth footage even during dynamic movements. While subtle frame shifts may be perceptible compared to competing devices, the overall stabilization performance is commendable.
Comparison with Competitors
Talking about competition, when juxtaposed with its rivals, such as the iPhone 15 Pro Max, the S24 Ultra holds its ground across several key parameters:
- Frame Rates and Formats: Both devices present a competitive array of frame rates and formats, ensuring adaptability and versatility for videographers.
- HDR10+ Technology: Both devices support HDR10+ recording; however, the S24 Ultra may exhibit minor deviations in exposure and color accuracy.
- Autofocus and Texture Preservation: While the S24 Ultra’s video focus may demonstrate a slight delay in responsiveness, it compensates with enhanced texture preservation compared to its predecessor, the S23 Ultra.
- Noise Reduction and Stabilization: The S24 Ultra delivers effective noise reduction and stabilization; however, fine noise may be discernible in low-light conditions compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
iPhone 15 Pro Max is Apple's top of the line smartphone of 2023!
Pros
- iPhones are generally regarded as "more secure".
- Improved compatibility with the new USB-C port.
- High performer with great battery life.
- New action button is a great addition.
Cons
- Action button is limited to only one task.
- The high zooming capability (100x or more) has now become a standard with the Samsung's space zoom and this device isn't competent in the "zoom amount" count.
- The glass back has been reported to be "fragile" by some users, however, it should not be taken as a fact.
In essence, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra emerges as a formidable contender in the realm of smartphone videography, boasting advanced features, remarkable performance, and unparalleled versatility. While it faces stiff competition from the iPhone 15 Pro Max, its sturdy camera system and innovative technologies ensure that users can capture every moment with remarkable clarity and creativity.
Conclusion
With its advanced video recording capabilities, including HDR10+ technology, slow-motion prowess, and superior stabilization, the S24 Ultra sets a new benchmark for mobile videography.
At the start of this article, we talked about how the answer is both Yes and No, But why?
The S24 Ultra seems to be lacking behind its biggest competitor, the iPhone 15 Pro Max when it comes to video. Now this isn’t drastic. And if you are a casual user, and the S24 Ultra checks most boxes for you. Then, the answer for you is a BIG YES, when it comes to splurging on the S24 Ultra.
On the flip side, if You are specifically looking for a device for videography, and you care about every little detail. You might need to consider the iPhone 15 Pro Max, and the S24 Ultra is a “No” for you.
Note: Any verdict given by us on any of the companies, or specs of a device is subjective. Our preferences can be different from yours, so be sure to conduct your own research to make a decision that is good for you.
If you want to know the photographic capabilities of the S24 Ultra, you can check the article below.