DPReview smartphone reviews are written with the needs of photographers in mind. We focus on camera features, performance, and image quality.
The Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge were launched at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona earlier this year and follow on last year's Galaxy S5. Apart from the curved screen edges of the S6 Edge, the models come with identical specifications, including the camera module. We used an S6 Edge for this test but due to the identical camera specifications results are valid for both the S6 and S6 Edge models.
With a 16MP BSI CMOS sensor, faster F1.9 lens and the addition of an optical image stabilization system the Galaxy S6 Edge camera is, at least on paper, a clear improvement on the already very well performing module in the S5. Additionally the camera is now always in stand-by mode which means it can be launched very quickly by double-clicking the home button.
Samsung has also improved the front camera, which now offers a 5MP resolution and 43% larger pixels than its equivalent on the Galaxy S5. It features real-time HDR and multi-frame low light modes. Compared to previous generation Galaxy S phones, the entire user interface has been simplified with fewer menus and pre-installed apps. The camera app has been included in the simplification process and comes with a slimmed-down interface with most essential settings directly accessible from the main screen. A Pro mode is also offered with a range of manual controls including ISO, exposure compensation and white balance. Control over shutter speed is available through third party apps but the S6 does not currently support DNG Raw capture as specified in the latest Android camera API.
With its impressive spec sheet, premium materials and solid look and feel the Galaxy S6 Edge falls firmly into the high-end bracket of the smartphone market. Read our comprehensive review to find out how it performs as a camera.
Key Photographic / Video Specifications
- 16MP BSI CMOS sensor
- F1.9 lens
- Optical Image Stabilization
- 4K video
- 5MP front camera with F1.9 lens and real-time HDR
- Support for manual shutter speed control in third-party apps
Other Specifications
- 5.1-inch Quad-HD Super AMOLED display, 577ppi
- Exynos 7420 64-bit octa-core processor
- 3GB DDR4 RAM
- 32, 64 or 128GB of storage
- 3GB DDR4 RAM
- 2600 mAh battery
- Wireless charging
- Heart-rate sensor
Our 9-page review
We've considered every aspect of the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge, with the photographer in mind. We examined the user interface of the native camera app and its special features. We experimented with the camera's performance when taking stills and video, and had a play with the device's many special feature modes. Click any of the links below for more information of specific functions and continue to our conclusion for a final summary of our findings.
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