The Magic V2 features a classic-looking photo block, with three modules arranged vertically on the back of the device. Two sensors of 50 megapixels each, the first by wide-angle (f/1.9, OIS) and the second by ultra-wide-angle (f/2), complemented by a 20 Mpx sensor. 62 mm, i.e. 2.5x magnification (f/2.4). A set that promises absolute photo and video versatility.
Main module: 50 megapixels, f/1.9, eq. 25 mm
For its main module, the Magic V2 uses a Sony IMX800 sensor with a definition of 50 Mpx. Its accompanying wide-angle lens opens at f/1.9 and delivers 12.5 Mpx images by default. Pixel-binning. They are of good quality, showing nice sharpness throughout the image, despite the periphery with perfect sharpness. However, the smartphone is not without some flaws: upon closer inspection, the book’s texture lacks precision and certain colors are not faithful to reality, such as the color chips on our dot sight.
It is in low light that things get worse. Smoothing clearly takes precedence once areas of similar color are detected; A lion’s mane or a book cover thus loses all roughness. The smartphone partially compensates by placing a strong emphasis on micro-contrasts.
50 MP mode
As is often the case, it is possible to adopt the 50 Mpx mode in the Photo application settings. This allows for more generous cropping if we are satisfied with the mode Pixel-binning When there is light. In low light, the gain is not enough to justify using this mode.
Ultra wide-angle module: 50 Mpx, f/2, eq. 13 mm
The ultra wide-angle module works in the same way as the main photo module, meaning it delivers 12.5 Mpx images by default. Despite a tendency to stumble in the treatment of printing characters, reinforcing contrast by lacking some naturalness or small elements (our color chips struggled to be rounded), the following comparison is flattering. Its flaws are more visible outside the lower central area.
It’s essentially digital noise that hampers photos in low light. However, the image is less smooth than photos taken at wide-angle, and its colorimetry is more natural than the OnePlus Open.
Telephoto module: 20 Mpx, f/2.4, eq. 62 mm
It’s a strange choice that Honor has made. Because if its telephoto module is equipped with a 20 Mpx sensor, Honor chooses here too Pixel-binning Combining four pixels into one. This results in 5 Mpx images, meaning lower definition which clearly penalizes the final results. In these situations it is difficult to put images up against competing products, which offer at least twice as high a definition.
When the light is abundant, the smartphone limits the damage. The image is readable in the center and on the periphery, although fine details are generally blurred and cropping is not recommended. In low light, image processing “looks for” these same small elements that it can’t properly distinguish. At the same magnification, we recommend cropping images taken at wide angles. See below images obtained using 20 Mpx mode, not very satisfactory.
Front module, portrait and video mode
There are many options available for those looking to take selfies using the Magic V2. It is possible to use a 16 Mpx sensor located inside the device, a similar sensor located on the side of the folding screen or in its punch. Cover display (both with f/2 optics). The results, rather detailed, are satisfactory despite a tendency to deliver somewhat bland colors. Although we would prefer photos taken using the main module, the smartphone interface, when opened, allows the external screen to be used as a monitor when taking self-portraits. Note that clipping is natural when portrait mode is selected and it is possible to customize the intensity of the bokeh effect.
On the video side, Honor offers up to 4K filming at 60 fps, though some effects are no longer available at more than 30 fps. Stabilization is included and various modes (kinematic effects, LUT) are available. In selfie mode, smartphones usually have 4K at 30 fps.
