DxOMark has now introduced its first-ever test protocol for smartphone front cameras. The aim is to offer neutral and reliable test data about selfie cameras like DxOMark already does for rear cameras. The Galaxy Note 9 selfie camera has topped the leaderboard.

It makes perfect sense for DxOMark to start ranking selfie cameras as well. The technology in this area has improved significantly over the past few years. Front cameras have also become a major selling point for smartphones as the selfie-obsessed generation is very particular about capturing the perfect shot.

Galaxy Note 9 selfie camera is one of the best on the market

The Galaxy Note 9 selfie camera is unique in its own right. The 1/3.6-inch sensor with 8-megapixel resolution may not be something to write home about. However, the fact that it has an autofocus lens certainly is. It can also capture 1440p video at 30 frames-per-second.

The new DxOMark Selfie test protocol is based on the same procedures and methodologies as the protocol for primary cameras. The tests are conducted in both lab and real-world situations with different subjects and light conditions. Approximately 1,500 images and dozens of video clips are captured as part of the test. All devices are tested in identically-configured lab setups with the same scenes, procedures, software, and evaluation methodologies.

DxOMark released the first ranking chart of its Selfie test protocol today. The Galaxy Note 9 front camera has topped the leaderboard with 92 points but it’s not alone up there. It actually tied with the Google Pixel 3. The Galaxy Note 9 scored 96 points in the photo and 86 points in the video test for this combined score. The Galaxy S9+ and the Galaxy S8 have found a place further down on the list as well.

Full marks to Samsung for shipping an exceptional front camera with the Galaxy Note 9. What many of us will now be interested in seeing is how the Galaxy S10 fares.