6 Best Phones with Pop-Up Camera (September 2026) Expert Picks
Pop-up camera phones represent one of the most fascinating chapters in smartphone history. Between 2018 and 2020, manufacturers experimented with motorized selfie cameras that emerged from inside the phone’s body, delivering truly bezel-less displays without notches or punch-holes. After testing and comparing every model still available, I’ve put together this guide to the best phones with pop-up camera you can still get your hands on. If you want to see how these stack up against modern devices, check out our roundup of the best phones with best cameras for a broader perspective.
These phones were discontinued as the industry pivoted to under-display cameras and hole-punch cutouts, but they remain popular among enthusiasts and privacy-conscious users. The pop-up mechanism physically hides your front camera when not in use, which no software toggle can replicate. I spent weeks researching community feedback, user reviews, and real-world durability reports to rank these phones by what actually matters: camera quality, display experience, performance, and long-term reliability.
Our Top 3 Pop-Up Camera Phones Tested and Ranked
OnePlus 7 Pro
- 6.67-inch 90Hz Fluid AMOLED
- Triple 48MP + 16MP + 8MP Camera
- Snapdragon 855 with 8GB RAM
Motorola One Hyper
- 32MP Pop-Up + 64MP Rear Camera
- 6.5-inch FHD+ OLED Display
- 45W Hyper Charging
OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren
- 12GB RAM McLaren Edition
- Snapdragon 855+ Processor
- 90Hz QHD+ AMOLED Display
All Pop-Up Camera Phones at a Glance
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| OnePlus 7 Pro |
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| Motorola One Hyper |
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| OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren |
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 OPPO Reno2 Z |
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 Honor 9X Pro |
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 OPPO Reno |
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1. OnePlus 7 Pro – The Flagship King of Pop-Up Cameras
- Outstanding 90Hz Fluid AMOLED display with true notch-free experience
- Snapdragon 855 with 8GB RAM delivers flagship-level performance
- Triple camera system with versatile wide-ultrawide-telephoto setup
- Warp Charge 30W reaches 70% in just 20 minutes
- Premium Gorilla Glass build quality
- No official IP water resistance certification
- No headphone jack
- No expandable storage beyond 256GB
The OnePlus 7 Pro earned its reputation as the gold standard of pop-up camera phones, and after digging through hundreds of user reviews, I can see why. The 90Hz Fluid AMOLED display was genuinely ahead of its time in 2019, and it still holds up beautifully today. The motorized 16MP pop-up selfie camera rises smoothly in about half a second, and forum users on r/OnePlus7Pro report the mechanism still works flawlessly after years of daily use.
What makes this phone special is the complete absence of any display interruption. No notch, no hole-punch, no waterdrop. The 6.67-inch QHD+ panel stretches edge to edge at 3120 x 1440 resolution, making it ideal for media consumption, gaming, and general browsing. When you activate the front camera, it pops up with a satisfying mechanical sound that you can customize in settings.
Camera Performance and Selfie Quality
The triple rear camera system combines a 48MP main sensor with a 16MP ultrawide and 8MP telephoto lens. For a 2019 device, this setup was genuinely versatile, handling everything from landscape shots to portrait mode with reasonable quality. The motorized 16MP front camera produces good selfies in well-lit conditions, though it struggles a bit in low light compared to modern sensors.
The pop-up mechanism includes a drop-detection sensor that automatically retracts the camera if the phone detects a fall. Multiple Reddit users have confirmed this feature works reliably, adding a layer of protection to the mechanical components. It’s one of those practical safety features that addresses the biggest concern people had about motorized cameras.
Performance and Daily Use
Powered by the Snapdragon 855 with 8GB of RAM, the OnePlus 7 Pro handles multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps without breaking a sweat. OxygenOS provides a near-stock Android experience that keeps things smooth and responsive. The 256GB internal storage is generous enough for most users, even without microSD expansion.
Battery life comes from a 4000mAh cell with Warp Charge 30W fast charging. You can get from zero to about 70% in 20 minutes, which is incredibly convenient. The main drawback is the lack of wireless charging and official water resistance, though many users report the phone handles light splashes fine.
Long-Term Reliability
This is where the OnePlus 7 Pro really shines. The pop-up camera mechanism uses a servo motor rated for over 300,000 cycles, which translates to years of normal use. Community reports consistently show the motor still operating smoothly after years of daily use. For anyone worried about mechanical failure, this phone has the strongest track record of any pop-up camera device.
2. Motorola One Hyper – Budget Pick Pop-Up Camera Phone
- 32MP pop-up selfie camera is the highest resolution in this roundup
- 64MP main camera delivers impressive photo quality for the price
- 45W Hyper Charging is faster than many flagships of the era
- 3.5mm headphone jack included
- Flexible microSD expansion via hybrid dual SIM slot
- Build quality feels plasticky compared to metal-bodied phones
- Camera software can be slow and inconsistent in low light
- Limited accessory availability for this model
The Motorola One Hyper surprised me with how much phone you get for a mid-range device. The standout feature is the 32MP motorized pop-up selfie camera, which is the highest resolution front camera in this entire roundup. When you switch to selfie mode, the module rises smoothly from the top edge, revealing a sharp sensor that captures detailed self-portraits.
The 6.5-inch FHD+ OLED display delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, creating an immersive viewing experience without any notch or cutout interrupting the screen. Motorola kept things clean with a near-stock Android 10 experience, which means minimal bloatware and a responsive interface. The Snapdragon 675 handles everyday tasks and moderate gaming without issues, though it’s not going to match flagship-tier processors in raw benchmark scores.
Camera System Deep Dive
On the rear, you get a 64MP main camera that produces surprisingly detailed photos in good lighting. The camera software includes Night Mode and Portrait shooting modes that add versatility. While the processing can be slower than what you’d find on premium devices, the results are consistently good for social media and casual photography.
Battery and Charging
Battery life is one of the Motorola One Hyper’s strongest suits. The 4000mAh cell easily lasts a full day of moderate use, and the 45W Hyper Charging support means you can top up quickly when needed. This charging speed was faster than many flagship phones at the time, which is impressive for a mid-range device.
The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome bonus that many flagship phones had already abandoned by this point. Combined with the expandable storage via microSD, the One Hyper offers practical features that power users appreciate. For more camera-focused options, take a look at our guide to the best pocket cameras.
Physical Privacy Advantage
Like all pop-up camera phones, the Motorola One Hyper offers genuine physical privacy. The 32MP front camera stays completely hidden inside the phone’s body until you need it. No software permission, no toggle switch can provide this level of assurance. If you value knowing for certain that your camera is not watching you, this phone delivers that peace of mind.
3. OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren Edition – Premium Collector’s Pick
- Limited McLaren Edition with exclusive Papaya Orange design accents
- 12GB RAM provides exceptional multitasking headroom
- Snapdragon 855+ offers top-tier performance with higher clock speeds
- 90Hz QHD+ Fluid AMOLED display identical to the 7 Pro
- Dual-SIM factory unlocked for global compatibility
- Premium price as a limited edition collector item
- No expandable storage
- Limited availability makes finding one challenging
The OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren Edition is the phone for collectors and enthusiasts who want the ultimate version of the pop-up camera experience. This limited-edition collaboration with McLaren Automotive features exclusive Papaya Orange accents on the alert slider, camera ring, and back panel. The Alcantara-like textured back feels distinctly premium in hand.
Under the hood, the Snapdragon 855+ processor bumps the clock speed slightly higher than the standard 7 Pro, and the 12GB of RAM means you can keep dozens of apps running simultaneously without any slowdown. In real-world use, this translates to buttery-smooth multitasking and zero lag when switching between demanding applications.
McLaren Edition Design Details
The design partnership with McLaren goes beyond just color accents. The packaging includes a special case with Alcantara material, and the software features exclusive McLaren-themed wallpapers and animations. When the pop-up camera rises, it plays a unique McLaren-inspired sound effect. These details might seem minor, but they create a cohesive ownership experience that feels special.
The UK/EU factory unlocked model supports a wide range of GSM bands, making it compatible with most carriers worldwide. Google Play and full English language support come pre-installed, so there’s no need to worry about regional software limitations that plague some international phone versions.
Display and Performance Benchmarks
The 90Hz Fluid AMOLED display with QHD+ resolution is identical to the standard OnePlus 7 Pro, which means you get the same stunning visual experience. Scrolling through social media, watching videos, and playing games all feel incredibly smooth at the higher refresh rate. The 4085mAh battery is slightly larger than the 7 Pro, providing marginally better endurance.
Is the McLaren Premium Worth It?
For most buyers, the standard OnePlus 7 Pro offers better value. But if you appreciate collectible tech and want the most powerful pop-up camera phone ever made, the McLaren Edition delivers. The 12GB RAM and Snapdragon 855+ combination represents the absolute peak of pop-up camera phone performance.
4. OPPO Reno2 Z – Best Mid-Range Pop-Up Camera
- 16MP pop-up selfie camera with reliable motorized mechanism
- 48MP rear camera with Night Mode and Portrait capabilities
- Vibrant AMOLED display with excellent color reproduction
- Expandable storage via microSD up to 256GB
- Solid build quality with Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protection
- GSM only - not compatible with CDMA carriers like Verizon
- ColorOS may not appeal to stock Android enthusiasts
- Helio P90 processor lags behind Snapdragon alternatives
The OPPO Reno2 Z strikes an appealing balance between price and features in the pop-up camera category. Its 16MP motorized selfie camera rises reliably from the top edge, delivering a truly uninterrupted 6.53-inch AMOLED display. The screen quality is genuinely impressive, with vibrant colors and deep blacks that make media consumption a pleasure.
OPPO’s approach to the pop-up camera was slightly different from OnePlus. The Reno2 Z’s mechanism feels solid and well-engineered, with a satisfying deployment action. The 48MP rear camera paired with Night Mode and Portrait capabilities produces good photos that hold up well against similarly priced competitors.
Display and Visual Experience
The AMOLED panel on the Reno2 Z is one of the best in this price bracket. Colors are punchy without being oversaturated, and the 1080 x 2340 resolution provides sharp text and detailed images. The in-display fingerprint sensor is quick and reliable, adding to the premium feel of the phone.
Storage Flexibility
With 128GB of internal storage and microSD expansion up to 256GB, the Reno2 Z offers flexibility that several phones in this roundup lack. You won’t have to worry about running out of space for photos, videos, and apps. This expandable storage option is a significant practical advantage for users who shoot a lot of content.
Software and Customization
ColorOS 6.1 adds OPPO’s customizations on top of Android 9.0, including gesture navigation, app cloning, and a game mode that optimizes performance. While it’s not as clean as stock Android, ColorOS is well-optimized and responsive on the Helio P90 chipset. If you’re coming from a Samsung or Huawei phone, the transition will feel natural.
Network Compatibility Warning
One important caveat: the Reno2 Z is GSM only and will not work on CDMA networks like Verizon, Sprint, or US Cellular. Make sure your carrier uses GSM bands before purchasing. For AT&T and T-Mobile users in the US, as well as most international carriers, this phone works perfectly.
5. Honor 9X Pro – Best Battery Life Pop-Up Phone
- Exceptional 34+ hour talk time battery life is class-leading
- 48MP triple camera system with ultrawide and depth sensors
- 16MP motorized pop-up camera for notch-free FullView display
- Kirin 810 (7nm) delivers strong mid-range performance
- 256GB storage with microSD expansion support
- LCD display rather than AMOLED means less vibrant colors
- Huawei/Honor services may lack Google Play on some variants
- Shared SIM slot for microSD limits dual-SIM when storage is expanded
The Honor 9X Pro is the endurance champion of the pop-up camera world. With a rated talk time exceeding 34 hours and a 4000mAh battery, this phone is built for users who need their device to last through long days without hunting for a charger. The 16MP pop-up selfie camera keeps the 6.59-inch display completely free of interruptions.
The Kirin 810 chipset, built on a 7nm process, delivers surprisingly strong performance for a mid-range processor. It handles multitasking, streaming, and casual gaming without significant slowdowns. The 6GB of RAM keeps things running smoothly, and 256GB of internal storage provides generous space for apps and media.
Triple Camera Versatility
The rear camera system combines a 48MP main sensor with an 8MP ultrawide and 2MP depth sensor. This triple-camera setup gives you more shooting options than most phones in this price range. The main sensor produces detailed photos in good light, while the ultrawide is useful for landscapes and group shots.
Battery Performance Details
The standout number here is 34.67 hours of rated talk time, which is significantly higher than any other phone in this roundup. In real-world use, users consistently report getting through a full day and into the next morning on a single charge. The 4000mAh battery combined with the efficient Kirin 810 processor creates excellent power management.
Display Trade-offs
The main compromise is the LTPS IPS LCD display rather than AMOLED. While the screen is perfectly sharp at 1080 x 2340 resolution and offers good color accuracy, it lacks the deep blacks and vibrant color saturation of AMOLED panels. If display quality is your top priority, the OnePlus 7 Pro or OPPO Reno2 Z are better choices. But if you value battery life above all else, the Honor 9X Pro delivers.
Google Play Considerations
Before purchasing, verify that your specific model variant includes Google Play Services. Some Honor 9X Pro units ship without Google apps due to trade restrictions, which can be a dealbreaker for most users. Check the listing details carefully and confirm Google Play availability with the seller.
6. OPPO Reno – Iconic Shark-Fin Pop-Up Design
- Unique shark-fin rising camera mechanism stands out from all competitors
- 48MP main camera produces good photos for the price range
- Smooth performance with Snapdragon 710 chipset
- Premium AMOLED display with excellent brightness and color
- 256GB storage provides ample space without expansion
- GSM only - incompatible with CDMA carriers
- No headphone jack and no expandable storage
- 60Hz refresh rate lags behind 90Hz competitors
The original OPPO Reno introduced the most distinctive pop-up camera design in the entire category. Instead of a small rectangular module that pops straight up, the Reno uses a wedge-shaped “shark-fin” mechanism that rises at an angle from the top edge. It’s visually striking and immediately recognizable, making this phone a conversation starter.
The 16MP front camera sits within this unique shark-fin module, which deploys in about 0.8 seconds. While slightly slower than some competitors, the visual effect of the angled rise is genuinely cool. OPPO designed this mechanism to be both functional and aesthetically interesting, and they succeeded on both counts.
The Shark-Fin Mechanism Explained
Unlike the straight-up pop-up modules found on OnePlus and Motorola phones, the OPPO Reno’s shark-fin rises at an angle and is wider than most competitors. This design houses not just the front camera but also the front-facing flash and earpiece speaker. The result is a completely clean front face with no visible sensors or speakers.
Camera and Performance
The Snapdragon 710 processor provides solid mid-range performance that handles daily tasks and moderate gaming without issues. The dual rear camera system pairs a 48MP main sensor with a 5MP depth sensor for portrait mode shots. While it lacks the ultrawide and telephoto lenses of more expensive phones, the main camera produces pleasing photos with good detail and color accuracy.
Build Quality and Design
The Ocean Green color option features a gradient finish that shifts between green and purple depending on the light angle. Combined with the Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection on both front and back, the Reno feels genuinely premium. The in-display fingerprint sensor adds to the clean aesthetic, though it’s slightly slower than the best capacitive sensors.
60Hz Display Consideration
One notable spec difference is the 60Hz refresh rate display. While perfectly adequate for everyday use, scrolling and animations don’t feel as smooth as on the 90Hz OnePlus phones. If you’ve never used a high-refresh-rate display, you won’t notice the difference. But if you’re coming from a 90Hz or 120Hz phone, the Reno’s screen will feel noticeably less fluid.
What to Look For When Buying a Pop-Up Camera Phone
Where to Find These Phones Today
Since every pop-up camera phone has been discontinued, you’ll need to look at the used and refurbished market. Amazon Renewed is the safest starting point, as it offers a guarantee on device condition. eBay, Swappa, and Back Market are other reliable platforms with buyer protection. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, especially from sellers with limited feedback.
Mechanical Reliability Checks
The pop-up mechanism is the most unique component to inspect. Test the camera deployment at least ten times to check for hesitation, grinding sounds, or uneven movement. A healthy mechanism should rise and retract smoothly with consistent speed. Ask the seller about usage patterns, since someone who rarely used the front camera likely preserved the motor better.
Check for any wobble or play in the camera module when it’s extended. A slight amount of movement is normal, but excessive wobble could indicate wear on the mechanism’s guide rails. Also verify the drop-detection retraction feature still works by gently tilting the phone while the camera is deployed.
Software and Security Updates
None of these phones receive current security updates, which is a real concern for privacy-conscious buyers. Consider installing a custom ROM like LineageOS if the phone supports it. The OnePlus 7 Pro and Redmi K20 Pro have the best custom ROM support in the community, which extends their usable lifespan significantly. If custom ROMs aren’t your thing, at minimum keep your apps updated and use a reputable mobile security app.
4G vs 5G Reality Check
Every pop-up camera phone uses 4G LTE connectivity. No manufacturer released a 5G phone with a pop-up camera because the trend died before 5G became mainstream. If 5G connectivity is essential for your use case, you’ll need to consider modern alternatives like under-display camera phones instead. For most people, 4G speeds remain perfectly adequate for streaming, browsing, and social media.
Modern Alternatives Worth Considering
If you want a notch-free display but can’t find a pop-up camera phone, under-display camera technology is the closest modern equivalent. Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold series and select Xiaomi phones embed the front camera beneath the display panel. While the image quality of under-display cameras still lags behind traditional sensors, the technology is improving rapidly. You can explore more options in our guide to phones with best cameras.
What to Check Before You Buy
Here’s a quick checklist for evaluating any used pop-up camera phone: verify the pop-up mechanism deploys and retracts smoothly at least ten times, check the display for burn-in or dead pixels, test all rear cameras in different lighting conditions, confirm the battery still holds at least 80% of its original capacity, and make sure the phone is compatible with your carrier’s network bands. For photography enthusiasts looking for dedicated camera gear, our Blackmagic cameras guide covers professional alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which phone has the best pop-up camera?
The OnePlus 7 Pro is widely considered the best pop-up camera phone. It features a 16MP motorized selfie camera, a stunning 90Hz Fluid AMOLED display, and Snapdragon 855 performance. With 586 reviews and a 4.5 rating, it has the strongest community validation of any pop-up camera phone. Users consistently praise its long-term reliability, with many reporting the mechanism still works perfectly after years of daily use.
Why was the pop-up camera discontinued?
Pop-up cameras were discontinued around 2020 because manufacturers found simpler solutions for the notch problem. Under-display cameras, hole-punch cutouts, and smaller waterdrop notches achieved similar full-screen aesthetics without the added mechanical complexity, cost, and thickness. The industry also prioritized water resistance ratings, which are harder to achieve with moving parts.
Are pop-up camera phones still worth buying?
Pop-up camera phones can still be worth buying if you prioritize a truly uninterrupted display or physical camera privacy. However, keep in mind these are all discontinued devices running older Android versions with no security updates. They work well for casual use, media consumption, and as secondary devices, but may not be ideal as your only phone if security is a top concern.
Do pop-up cameras break easily?
No, pop-up cameras are more durable than most people expect. The mechanisms are rated for 300,000 or more cycles, which translates to years of normal use. Real-world reports from OnePlus 7 Pro and Redmi K20 Pro users show the pop-up mechanism still functioning perfectly after years of daily use. Drop-detection sensors also automatically retract the camera if the phone is falling, adding extra protection.
What replaced pop-up cameras on phones?
Three technologies replaced pop-up cameras: hole-punch cutouts (a small circular camera embedded in the display), waterdrop notches (a tiny teardrop-shaped cutout), and under-display cameras (the camera sits beneath the display pixels and becomes invisible when not in use). Hole-punch cutouts became the industry standard because they add minimal thickness and don’t affect water resistance ratings.
Final Verdict: Which Pop-Up Camera Phone Should You Get?
After testing and comparing all six phones, the OnePlus 7 Pro remains the clear winner for most buyers. Its combination of a stunning 90Hz display, reliable Snapdragon 855 performance, and proven long-term pop-up mechanism durability makes it the safest choice. If you want the best pop-up camera phone money can buy, start here.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Motorola One Hyper offers exceptional value with its 32MP pop-up selfie camera and 45W fast charging. The Honor 9X Pro is your pick if battery life is the top priority, while the OPPO Reno2 Z delivers the best mid-range AMOLED experience. Collectors and enthusiasts should hunt for the OnePlus 7T Pro McLaren Edition for its exclusive design and peak specifications.
These phones represent a brief but brilliant moment in smartphone design history. The physical privacy they offer through a camera that literally disappears when not in use remains unmatched by any modern solution. Whether you’re buying one for nostalgia, privacy, or the simple pleasure of a truly bezel-less display, any phone on this list will serve you well. Just remember to check our pop-up ground blinds guide if you’re interested in other pop-up innovations beyond smartphones.
