Best Phones That Can Replace a DSLR Camera in Malaysia (2025 Edition)
Introduction
If you’re looking for a smartphone that can truly pull double duty as your main camera — one you carry everywhere and use instead of your bulky DSLR — then you’re looking for the right specs at the right RM price di Malaysia. I’ve reviewed the best phones in 2025 that are seriously capable of replacing a DSLR for many photography use-cases: from high-resolution sensors to pro manual controls, optical zoom, RAW output, and strong video modes. Let’s dive in and find which ones are best value, locally available, and ready for serious photo-work.
What to Look For in a DSLR-Replacement Phone
Before we look at specific models, here are key features to check:
- Large sensor size: Bigger sensors give better dynamic range, low-light, shallow depth-of-field. Many “phone as DSLR alternative” lists mention 1-inch sensors or equivalent. (freejobalert.com)
- Optical zoom / periscope lenses: A true telephoto optical zoom helps replicate DSLR lens versatility. (techscr.com)
- Manual / Pro mode + RAW support: Ability to adjust shutter speed, ISO, white balance, focus, and shoot RAW for serious editing. (Cashify)
- Excellent video capability: 4K/8K, LOG profile, good stabilization — important if you also shoot video. (discover.celcomdigi.com)
- Trusted brand, local availability & service in Malaysia: Since you’ll rely on it as your main camera, local support matters.
- Real-world reviews showing DSLR-level results: Some articles assert phones now can replace DSLRs for many users. (clippingpathhouse.com)
Comparison Table: Top DSLR-Replacement Phones
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
top camera flagship
RM 5,099.00
Xiaomi 15 Ultra
pro photography phone large sensor
RM 5,199.00
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
iOS flagship pro camera
RM 7,499.00
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
iOS flagship max camera
RM 5,999.00
Apple iPhone 17
iOS flagship camera value
RM 3,999.00
Samsung Galaxy S25
flagship value camera
RM 3,999.00
Google Pixel 9a 128GB
budget camera phone
RM 2,150.00
Here’s a quick summary of each:
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: Top-tier camera flagship with very large sensor + periscope zoom + pro features — excellent for DSLR replacement.
- Xiaomi 15 Ultra: A “pro photography phone” built for enthusiasts, with large sensor, pro controls, and optics collaboration (Leica).
- Apple iPhone 17 Pro: iOS ecosystem, excellent photo/video capability, strong for creators who also value simplicity + ecosystem.
- Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: Bigger variant, more headroom (likely for demanding use), good if you also shoot video or high res.
- Apple iPhone 17: Entry into iPhone 17 series, good camera phone and easier price than Pro/Max; still strong for many photography needs.
- Samsung Galaxy S25: Flagship value camera phone — not quite Ultra tier but still excellent for many users.
- Google Pixel 9a 128GB: Budget camera phone option; for those who want strong photo results but not spend flagship money.
Detailed Reviews
1. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Short Overview
This is arguably the most capable smartphone in the “can replace a DSLR” category. It features a massive sensor, optical zoom, RAW capture, pro modes and brand trust. Reviews list it as top in 2025 for DSLR-like photography. (freejobalert.com)
Key Specifications Table
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Main Sensor | ~200 MP large sensor + big pixel binning (for low light) (clippingpathhouse.com) |
| Zoom / Lenses | Optical/periscope zoom + ultrawide + telephoto lenses |
| Pro Mode / RAW | Yes — for enthusiasts |
| Video | High-end, good stabilization, etc. |
| Availability in Malaysia | Expect local availability via Samsung Malaysia, import/reseller may vary |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Top class camera hardware + pro features | Premium price (RM level) |
| Versatile lens set (wide, ultra, tele) | Big camera bump, large device size |
| Good brand/service support in Malaysia | To fully replace DSLR may still have limitations in sensor size vs full-frame DSLR |
Harga Terkini di Malaysia (RM)
Estimated pricing in Malaysia: around RM 5,099 (subject to variant/stock/promos).
Local Buy Tips:
- Buy via Samsung Malaysia authorised retailer or trusted seller on Shopee/Lazada.
- Consider bundles (trade-in your old phone) to reduce price.
- For photography-enthusiasts: invest in good memory/storage (large RAW files) and learn pro mode.
2. Xiaomi 15 Ultra
Short Overview
This phone is built for photography enthusiasts: large sensor (1-inch class), Leica optics, and accessories to enhance the experience. One review says “I swapped my USD 3,000 camera for the 15 Ultra for a month”. (TechRadar)
Key Specifications Table
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 1-inch main sensor (rare in a phone) (TechRadar) |
| Optics / Zoom | Telephoto lens plus Leica tuning |
| Pro Features | Manual control, accessories (Photography Kit) |
| Availability in Malaysia | Listed in Malaysia via Xiaomi Malaysia (approx RM 5,199) |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional camera hardware (for phone) | Price is high; still smaller sensor than full DSLR but among best for phone |
| Photography-first design, enthusiasts will love it | Some bulk / maybe less ergonomic for everyday carry |
Harga Terkini di Malaysia (RM)
Approx RM 5,199 for 16GB + 512GB variant (at launch)
Local Buy Tips:
- For serious photography use consider extra accessories (grip, better lens/use tripod).
- Learn shooting in Pro/RAW mode to get DSLR-style results rather than relying only on automatic.
3. Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Short Overview
If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, the iPhone 17 Pro is a strong contender for replacing a DSLR — excellent photo/video quality, pro modes, very good user experience.
Specifications & Features
- Strong camera system, good video modes, Apple’s image processing.
- Local service/support: Apple authorised stores in Malaysia.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great ecosystem, consistent image quality, video is strong | Price-premium; less manual control than some Android phone grads for enthusiasts |
| Good resale value in Malaysia | To get full DSLR control you may still need more accessories/training |
Local Buy Tips
- Buy via authorised reseller (Machines, Switch) for local warranty.
- Use large storage variant if you shoot lots of RAW files/video.
- Consider external lens/rig accessories for even more flexibility.
4. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
Short Overview
Basically the “max” version of the above — more headroom (battery, maybe lens hardware) so useful if you shoot loads of video or high resolution.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Larger size/hardware for serious users | Even higher cost; size may be less portable |
Local Buy Tips
- Similar to Pro but weigh size vs portability.
- Good if you are serious about mobile photography/video and need maximum flexibility.
5. Apple iPhone 17
Short Overview
If your budget is more constrained, the iPhone 17 gives you excellent camera capability (though not quite Pro level) and still may replace a DSLR for many everyday use-cases.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower cost than Pro/Max but still strong camera | Some high-end DSLR features (zoom, sensor size, lens change) still missing |
Local Buy Tips
- Good value photography phone in Malaysia.
- If you are more casual photographer than pro, this might be “enough”.
6. Samsung Galaxy S25
Short Overview
A strong value flagship option: still high end camera hardware and features, may get you near DSLR-replacement quality for less cost than Ultra.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent camera, still flagship spec | Slightly less extreme than Ultra; may lack the most advanced lens/sensor combos |
Local Buy Tips
- Good “step-down” choice from Ultra for many users.
- Check promos to reduce effective RM cost.
7. Google Pixel 9a (128 GB)
Short Overview
Budget-camera phone option. Not fully DSLR level hardware, but very strong camera phone performance — good if you don’t want to spend ultra flagship money.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very good camera for price; Google’s computational photography is strong | Sensor/optics still behind dedicated DSLR or ultra-flagship phone cameras |
Local Buy Tips
- Great for everyday photography, travel, content creating on budget.
- Accept that there may be some limitations in zoom/low-light compared to top phones.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can a smartphone really replace a DSLR camera?
For many users and many use-cases — yes, absolutely. As one source states: “Top 5 Smartphone that can beat DSLR cameras in 2025!” (techscr.com) However — for professional photography where you need interchangeable lenses, very large sensors, extreme low light, dedicated optics, large prints, you may still prefer a DSLR or mirrorless. It’s about how you use it and what you need. (Malaysia (EN))
Q2: What are the main limitations compared to a DSLR?
- Sensor size: even the best phones have smaller sensors than APS-C or full-frame DSLRs.
- Lens flexibility: while phones have multiple lenses, they cannot match full lens interchange sets.
- Ergonomics, manual controls, battery life, accessory system may be less extensive.
- Low-light and dynamic range still often better in dedicated cameras.
Q3: What should I look out for when buying in Malaysia?
- Confirm “Malaysia set” variant (local warranty, correct bands, local service).
- Check the camera features: sensor size, lens set, zoom, RAW capability.
- Use local promos: Shopee / Lazada big sale events, bank credit card offers, bundle trade-in.
- Storage: if you shoot RAW/photos/videos, higher storage is beneficial.
- Tripod/rig compatibility: If you intend to use the phone for serious photography, get a good tripod, lighting, maybe attachable lenses or grips.
Q4: Are cheaper phones a bad idea for photography?
Not necessarily. If your use-case is casual (social media, travel, family photography), a good mid- or even budget phone can do a great job. The premium phones listed here are more for enthusiasts and creators who want near-DSLR quality, pro controls, and the best hardware.
Q5: Will I need extra accessories for mobile photography to match DSLR style?
Often yes: good tripod/rig, external lenses (clip-on), external light/flash, maybe a shutter grip, and software that supports RAW editing. Some phones like the Xiaomi 15 Ultra offer “Photography Kit” accessories. (TechRadar)
Q6: Should I still buy a DSLR instead?
If you already own a good DSLR and enjoy using it (interchangeable lenses, full manual control, large prints, specialized optics) and you’re comfortable with that workflow, then maybe yes — you may retain it. But if you prefer portability, convenience, all-in-one device you carry everyday, then these smartphones listed are convincingly strong alternatives.
Final Verdict
If I were selecting one phone today in Malaysia to really replace a DSLR: go with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra — best‐in‐class camera hardware, pro features, and brand/service support.
If you’re a photography enthusiast and willing to invest, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is perhaps the “camera phone” equivalent of a DSLR alternative in your pocket.
If you prefer iOS or are already in Apple’s ecosystem, the iPhone 17 Pro (or Pro Max) is an excellent choice with superb quality and ecosystem integration.
For more budget-conscious buyers, the Samsung Galaxy S25 or Google Pixel 9a still offer high quality and may sufficiently replace a DSLR for many real-world uses.
Call-to-Action: Semak Harga Terkini di Shopee Malaysia! Use voucher codes, check telco bundle deals (Maxis / CelcomDigi) and ensure the phone you pick supports the full camera features you want — then carry a powerful “DSLR-replacement” in your pocket.
