By definition, Crosscall mobiles are not photophones, and this Core-Z5 is no exception. It is nevertheless equipped with a 48 Mpx sensor whose lens opens at f / 1.8.
At 799 €, we are nevertheless entitled to expect quality equipment, especially since the capture of images can have a real interest for professionals. We will compare it to the Nothing Phone (1), which ranks well in its segment.
Main module: 48 megapixels, f/1.8
This wide-angle module takes 12-megapixel shots using the technique of pixel-binning, which allows pixels to be merged by four in order to capture more light when it runs out.
In good light conditions, the photos of this Crosscall are correct, but we might have expected better, especially since the Action X5 released last year (and sold for €549) is a little more efficient. The shots, however, benefit from a good exposure, which will allow us to take images that can be used during the day. The Nothing Phone (1) offers a much higher level of detail and sharpness. Same observation for the colorimetry, much better controlled (see the color charts). The two devices therefore do not play in the same court.
At night, the difference is even more marked. The Core-Z5 just can’t capture the elements of the scene clearly. A pronounced blur has fallen on the photo, and digital noise does not help. It is disappointing insofar as its professional use in nocturnal conditions can have a real interest.
Here once more, the difference is striking with the Nothing Phone (1), which delivers an excellent result in its price segment. The digital smoothing is quite gentle and allows you to maintain a very satisfactory level of detail.
Mode 48 Mpx
Day or night, switching to full definition does not bring any significant gain to the image. We can always use it for cropping, but the shots weigh more heavily on the (already limited) storage of the device.
Front module, portrait and video mode
An 8 Mpx (f/2) sensor is housed in the front notch. It allows you to capture rather convincing selfies, even if they lack a bit of sharpness. The management of the dynamics can become risky in the event of strong light sources.
The Core-Z5 is capable of filming in 4K at 30 frames per second. The result is satisfactory, even if the stabilization is not optimal. We prefer the Full HD mode, which does its job well and weighs less on storage.