For many consumers, standalone devices are becoming outdated as smartphone cameras emerge as the mainstream devices in the field of photography.

Given that smartphone cameras are improving in quality many people would rather purchase a high-end phone with an embedded camera than purchasing another unit just for snapping photographs or video shooting.

Big names in smartphones, like Google, Motorola, Samsung and Oneplus, is in the race to be the leading company in the $399 segment.

Here are some of the affordable yet excellent-quality cameras in the market today:

Best Camera Smartphones for Just Over $400

Google's Pixel 6a

The 6GB RAM/128GB variant of Google's Pixel 6a costs $420.

However, you have an opportunity to buy it cheaper by 10% with Axis Bank Credit Card. It has Full HD+ OLED screen with 2400 x 1080 pixels supported with HDR technology, covered with Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

The phone comprises a dual back camera, which is 12.2MP primary plus 12MP ultra-wide, and an 8MP front camera that supports 1080p video at fps.

The Pixel 6a competes against its counterparts in the market offering premium features at affordable costs.

Samsung Galaxy F54 5G

With its 6.7-inch sAMOLED+ screen, seamless 120 Hz refresh rate, and Vision Booster for improved visuals, the Samsung Galaxy F54 5G is an impressive device.

Its stylish metal camera module comes in Stardust Silver and Meteor Blue and has rounded corners. It boasts fluid multitasking and the newest One UI 5.1 for a user-friendly experience thanks to its Exynos 1380 5nm processor.

An added plus is Samsung's pledge to provide security updates for five years and four OS generations.

With a 32 MP front camera, it has a 108 MP primary camera, an 8 MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens. AI-based processing and Night Mode are two technologies that bring refinement to photography.

You can grab it now for only $450.

Motorola Edge 40

Motorola Edge 40 is a trendy phone for Android lovers with an uncluttered look. Its 6.5-inch pOLED display makes 3D viewing a reality with an unmatched 144Hz refresh rate and full HD resolution, providing an exhilarating visual experience.

It is elegant yet strong, appealing to customers looking for a combination of beauty and durability, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8020 SoC.

With an IP68 rating, 256GB of storage (UFS 3.1), and 8GB of RAM (LPDDR4X), it is the world's slimmest 5G smartphone.

Its selling price is now $493.

Best Camera Smartphones Below $400

OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G

The OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G is a camera-oriented smartphone with a captivating screen. This 6.7-inch, fluid AMOLED screen offers a 120 Hz refresh rate and 2160HZ PWM dimming support, giving you an amazing viewing impression.

Powered by the SnapdragonTM 782G chipset, it has 8 GB memory expansion with 512 GB of internal storage. This smartphone has a 50 MP Sony IMX890 sensor with OIS in its camera array for an advanced photography experience for users who require a high-quality imaging device.

Get it now for $325.

Realme C35

In the UK and USA, a 64GB or 128GB storage capacity is available for Realme C35.

A 50 MP primary camera, usually found in high-end smartphones, and a new IMX766 sensor by Sony make up its distinguishing characteristic.

However, it is rather typical that its set of cameras excludes an ultra-wide angle lens. This notwithstanding, it is better than what could be expected for its price concerning image quality.

The selling price is $179.00

The battery life of this cheap phone is quite good, lasting several days. It has 600 nits and full HD quality, making it suitable for video streaming, though this might not go well with everyone.

Nevertheless, considering the affordability of the handset, this is a fair deal and an acceptable choice for shoppers who emphasize the economy.