Best low-light camera and smart photo features compared for UK buyers

The OnePlus 15 and Google Pixel 8 Pro both target users who care deeply about camera performance, especially at night. Alongside night photography, AI tools increasingly define the smartphone experience, changing how people edit and share images. For UK buyers deciding between these two flagships, the real question is which device combines hardware and intelligent software better for everyday use.

The Pixel 8 Pro is built around computational photography, using Google’s AI-driven image processing to lift detail, reduce noise and brighten photos in near darkness. It often produces night images that need little correction and handles complex lighting, such as city streets or dim pubs, with impressive balance. The OnePlus 15 also performs strongly at night, keeping colours accurate and subjects clear, but its image processing sometimes applies heavier smoothing when facing extremely low-light environments.

Zoom also plays a role in night photography. The Pixel 8 Pro benefits from a periscope telephoto lens that keeps noise low and detail sharp even when zooming in after dark. This makes it easier to frame distant buildings, signage or indoor concert shots without losing clarity. The OnePlus 15 handles mid-range zoom well, but extreme zoom in dark scenes starts showing visible softness earlier than the Pixel.

AI tools are where the Pixel 8 Pro gains a clear advantage. Features like Magic Editor, Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser and smart object removal are fast to use, beginner-friendly and require no third-party apps. These tools allow users to modify backgrounds, improve facial expressions in group photos and remove distractions with minimal effort. OnePlus offers AI features too, including enhancements for portraits, memory tools and system-level utilities, but they are less focused on automated photo editing.

For social media users, the Pixel 8 Pro gives an obvious benefit. Its AI features make quick corrections and creative edits effortless for platforms like Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok. In contrast, OnePlus leans more toward giving users a natural-looking photo directly out of the camera rather than offering heavy post-capture manipulation. Some users prefer this approach, especially those who value authenticity over AI-generated effects.

Battery life and all-day reliability also matter for night shooters. The OnePlus 15’s larger battery capacity provides a clear advantage during prolonged night outings, festivals and low-light events where heavy camera use drains power. The Pixel 8 Pro maintains stable endurance, but frequent use of AI editing can impact battery levels faster. UK buyers who want the longest run time during late nights will notice the benefit of the OnePlus battery design.

Software support has long-term implications too. Google promises extended major OS updates for the Pixel 8 Pro, which means AI features and camera improvements will continue evolving over many years. OnePlus offers strong update support as well, but Pixel users benefit more directly from ongoing improvements focused on computational photography and editing tools. This adds long-term value for anyone who plans to keep their phone for three to five years.

For casual photographers who prefer to point, shoot and share immediately, both phones deliver strong results, but the Pixel 8 Pro offers more consistent night performance without extra adjustments. For users who prefer natural colours with less AI manipulation, the OnePlus 15 may feel more realistic, especially in portraits or indoor scenes. Each device appeals to a different style of photography rather than simply a difference in quality.

Overall, the Pixel 8 Pro stands out as the better choice for users who prioritise low-light photography and automated AI-powered image editing. It provides the strongest night performance and the most useful AI tools for reshaping images after capture. The OnePlus 15 remains an excellent flagship that will satisfy buyers who want a balanced premium smartphone with solid night performance, superb battery life and fewer compromises outside of photography.

For UK buyers choosing between these flagships, the Pixel 8 Pro is ideal for the camera-first user who wants the best night shots and smart editing tools built in. The OnePlus 15 is the better pick for users who want great photos but value overall hardware performance, battery longevity and everyday versatility just as much.