Google Camera (GCam) vs Native Camera App on OnePlus 6T: Which One is Better?

In the world of smartphone photography, software plays an equally crucial role as hardware. Google's approach to computational photography has revolutionized the mobile camera industry, often outperforming flagship devices with multiple lenses using just a single or dual-camera setup. If you're a OnePlus 6T user, you've probably wondered whether the stock camera app is good enough or if Google Camera (GCam) is worth installing. Let’s take a deep dive into the comparison and find out which one comes out on top.

Why Google Restricted GCam Support?

Google has always been a step ahead in smartphone photography, not because of superior hardware but because of its exceptional software processing. With its AI-driven image processing techniques, Google managed to set new benchmarks with the Pixel series. To maintain an edge over competitors, Google restricts native support for GCam on other devices, but thanks to third-party developers and the XDA forum, patched versions are available for devices like the OnePlus 6T.

When I first installed a GCam port on my OnePlus 6T, I didn’t notice a drastic difference in image quality. In fact, I even uninstalled it once. However, after extensive side-by-side comparisons, the differences became apparent. Let’s analyze how GCam stands against OnePlus 6T’s stock camera app in terms of crucial photography aspects.

1. Sharpness Control

OnePlus 6T’s native camera app does a great job in daylight conditions, delivering vibrant and contrast-heavy images. The sharpness level, however, depends on the subject's location in the frame.

GCam, on the other hand, ensures consistent sharpness across the entire scene. In close-up shots, both apps produce a decent background blur with selective focus. But when shooting landscapes, GCam stands out by maintaining contrast, highlighting details, and delivering better overall sharpness.

A major advantage of GCam is its advanced highlight and shadow processing, which significantly enhances the texture and depth of images. This ensures that fine details are retained even in high-contrast lighting conditions.

2. Dynamic Range

Dynamic range is one of the strongest points of GCam. The HDR processing in GCam allows it to capture a balanced image without overexposing highlights or crushing shadows.

With OnePlus 6T’s stock camera app, bright areas of an image often appear overexposed, while darker regions tend to lose details. GCam mitigates this issue by effectively managing both ends of the spectrum. The difference is particularly evident in landscape shots taken on a bright day, where GCam successfully retains cloud textures and shadow details that OnePlus’s native app fails to preserve.

3. Low-Light Performance and Noise Reduction

When it comes to night photography, both apps offer dedicated night modes: Night Sight (GCam) and Nightscape (OnePlus Camera). However, GCam’s approach to noise reduction gives it a significant edge.

OnePlus 6T’s stock camera app reduces noise by applying aggressive smoothing, which results in loss of detail. On the contrary, GCam uses AI-driven HDR processing to maintain sharpness and clarity while effectively reducing noise. The outcome is a more natural-looking image with better color reproduction.

I tested both apps under artificial and natural lighting conditions to compare their night modes. The results were clear: GCam handled highlights and shadows more efficiently while maintaining overall clarity. The image produced by GCam looked more balanced and detailed, making it the ideal choice for low-light photography.

4. Color Reproduction and Contrast Handling

Color accuracy is another critical factor that distinguishes GCam from OnePlus’s stock app. While OnePlus enhances colors for a punchy look, GCam produces a more natural output. The stock camera app often oversaturates colors, making them appear unnatural, whereas GCam maintains realistic color tones while still making the image visually appealing.

In contrast-heavy scenes, GCam excels at preserving both highlights and shadows without making the image look overly processed. The level of detail retained in GCam images is superior, making it a better option for users who prefer a more natural look in their photos.

5. Portrait and Edge Detection

Portrait mode is another area where GCam proves its superiority. Thanks to Google’s AI-driven edge detection, the subject is sharply separated from the background, resulting in a professional-looking blur (bokeh) effect.

On the OnePlus 6T’s stock camera app, portrait mode often struggles with edge detection, leading to occasional blurring of hair or accessories. GCam, however, accurately differentiates the subject from the background, delivering a more refined portrait shot.

How to Install GCam on OnePlus 6T?

If you’re interested in trying out GCam on your OnePlus 6T, follow these steps:

1. Check for Compatibility: Look for a GCam port that supports OnePlus 6T. Websites like XDA Developers and APKMirror often have working versions.

   
   

2. Download the APK: Choose a stable version with good user reviews.

   
   

3. Enable Unknown Sources: Go to Settings > Security > Enable ‘Install from Unknown Sources’.

   
   

4. Install and Configure: Install the APK and tweak settings based on recommendations from forums.

   
   

5. Test and Compare: Capture images in different conditions and analyze the difference.

   
   

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Use?

If you’re a casual photographer who enjoys vibrant, punchy images without much post-processing, OnePlus 6T’s stock camera app is decent. However, if you prioritize sharpness, dynamic range, low-light performance, and accurate colors, GCam is the clear winner.

For users who love mobile photography, installing GCam on OnePlus 6T is highly recommended. Its superior HDR, noise reduction, and AI processing make it the better choice for capturing high-quality images. While the stock camera app performs well in certain scenarios, it simply can’t match the computational photography magic that Google brings with GCam.

Final Thoughts

GCam is a game-changer for mobile photography enthusiasts. It maximizes the potential of the OnePlus 6T’s hardware, providing superior image quality with minimal effort. If you haven’t tried it yet, download a GCam port and experience the difference for yourself!

For the latest GCam ports and installation guides, check out the XDA forum or other tech communities. Whether you're capturing landscapes, portraits, or night shots, GCam is undoubtedly a worthy addition to your OnePlus 6T.