The Best Smartphones for Video Bokeh - Features and Reviews

As technology advances, smartphones are incorporating more sophisticated features that rival professional cameras. One such feature is the video bokeh mode, which allows users to create a shallow depth-of-field effect in videos, similar to the popular photography technique. This article explores the top smartphones that offer this feature, along with detailed reviews and useful tips for capturing stunning video bokeh.

How Bokeh Mode Works in Video

Bokeh mode in video uses advanced smart camera technology to blur the background while keeping the subject in sharp focus. This creates a dreamy and professional look, making the subject stand out vividly against a blurred background. Here's a quick breakdown of how it works:

Automatic Focus: The camera automatically adjusts the depth of field to selectively blur the background while maintaining clarity for the subject. Real-Time Preview: Users can see a preview of the bokeh effect in real-time as they shoot, allowing for better composition. Post-Shoot Edits: Some phones even offer the option to apply the bokeh effect after shooting, giving users more flexibility in post-processing.

Top Smartphones with Video Bokeh Mode

iPhone

The iPhone 13 and later models offer a feature called Cinematic mode, which is a standout in the smartphone industry. Here's what you need to know:

Depth of Field Control: Cinematic mode lets users shoot videos with a shallow depth-of-field effect, making the background blur automatically as you move the camera. Automatic Focus Tracking: The phone intelligently tracks the focus on the subject to ensure the most important elements stay in focus.

Samsung Galaxy Series

Samsung's Live Focus and Camcorder Mode have both been praised for their bokeh effects:

Samsung Galaxy S21 and later: They offer a Live Focus feature that enables bokeh effects while recording. Samsung Galaxy Note10: The Note10 series also includes a video bokeh mode, which can make your videos look like movies.

Google Pixel

Google's Pixel 6 and later models have a Cinematic Blur feature:

Cinematic Blur: This feature adds a bokeh effect to your videos, making the background blur naturally.

OnePlus

OnePlus 9 and later models come with a video bokeh feature:

Video Bokeh: OnePlus devices allow users to record videos with a blurred background that transitions automatically as the subject moves.

Xiaomi

Mi 11 and later smartphones also include cinematic mode:

Cinematic Mode: Xiaomi devices let you shoot videos with a shallow depth-of-field effect for a professional look.

Other Notable Models

Several other Android phone manufacturers have also incorporated bokeh mode in their video apps. Some of the notable models include:

HUAWEI Mate 20 Pro Samsung Galaxy Note10 realme X50 Pro realme X2 Pro OPPO Reno3 Pro Honor HUAWEI flagships

New Releases from Oppo

Recently, Oppo has launched the RENO series of smartphones, which comes with in-built support for the bokeh video effect. The series includes the following models:

RENO2 RENO2 Z RENO2 F

These models offer the Sony lMX586 camera and Samsung's hardware, respectively. According to the company's website, Reno2 offers professional quality video bokeh effects, making it a great choice for those who want to capture stunning video selfies reminiscent of movie quality.

Upcoming Models and Features

While we eagerly await the release of the upcoming models, it is safe to say that other companies are following suit and may introduce bokeh mode in their upcoming software updates or in the next generation of their flagship devices. Samsung, for instance, is expected to release the Next Samsung Note 10 with video bokeh mode.

Whether you're a professional videographer or a casual user, incorporating a bokeh mode in your smartphone can take your video content to the next level. These features not only enhance the visual appeal of your videos but also offer a more professional and cinematic look.