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[Q] Sony Z1 vs Nexus 5, Help

Hi all just wanted to have your opinion since most of you are Z1 owners and I'm thinking of buying either the Sony Z1 Compact which just got announced and has the same specs as the Z1 but in a smaller formfactor or the Nexus 5.
I used to have the htc One mini coz it's more suited for one hand use than the htc One but the battery life is simply horrible and not a lot of ROM support.
So I'm asking Z1 users if you recommend the Z1 over the Nexus or vice versa ???
And is Sony updating their devices to the latest Android version or Like Samsung they just slow in pushing updates??????

ironfoxmind said:
Hi all just wanted to have your opinion since most of you are Z1 owners and I'm thinking of buying either the Sony Z1 Compact which just got announced and has the same specs as the Z1 but in a smaller formfactor or the Nexus 5.
I used to have the htc One mini coz it's more suited for one hand use than the htc One but the battery life is simply horrible and not a lot of ROM support.
So I'm asking Z1 users if you recommend the Z1 over the Nexus or vice versa ???
And is Sony updating their devices to the latest Android version or Like Samsung they just slow in pushing updates??????
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally bro I'd recommend the z1, it really is a monster Android device which is SUPER smooth and handles anything you can throw at it (software wise), personally I also think it is the better looking of the two. Honestly people have ripped this phone to shreds with saying this and that but at the end of the day (I must be very lucky) mine is perfect and it works like a charm
I think Sony is definitely one of the better manufactures to release timely updates, Samsung are just horrible!!! The z1 is getting KitKat very soon, in a few weeks time so that's awesome! But NO phone on earth can compete with a Nexus device when it comes to the latest and greatest Android release from Google. I really like Nexus for that reason, and also custom firmware support far out shines most (if not) all devices.
At the end of the day, it all boils down to personal preference. Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe that spec wise, the Nexus 5 doesn't even come close to the z1.
Good luck in your decision :good:
EDIT: Oh I just saw on phonearena that they are pretty similar spec wise.

It's really hard to compare the two because software-wise they may be on the same level, but just about everything else is different. I've owned both the Z1 and the N5 and I plan to get the Z1S the day it comes out.
They're so different because of the size. I truly felt like the Z1 was the size of a "phablet," and yes I hate that term but for lack of a better word, I'll use it. I had trouble fitting the Z1 in my pocket whereas the N5 was a perfect form factor for me. If you're dead set on getting KitKat and the latest updates, Nexus 5 or Moto X are your best choices (Moto X got KitKat before the Nexus 4, which was impressive). I've used the Moto X as my daily driver for a few weeks and have zero complaints. Switching carriers, however, is bringing me back into the market of new phones on T-Mobile.
Anyway, I really suggest trying to go to a Sony store to see the Z1. You're in for a very rude awakening if one-handed use is of utmost priority. I think I have normal-sized hands and the phone felt very large. I owned the G2 as well (which I would HIGHLY recommend you consider) and it was every bit as good as the Sony in every way sans build quality. It's fine, but, it's no Sony! Sony has a truly unique, high-end design. The penalty, however, is the bulk and weight. Also, even though the G2 and Z1 had the same battery size, the G2 lasted WAY longer on a charge for me.
To be honest there is no bad choice and I don't know if I made your decision any easier, but there's my objective thoughts on each of the phones. We're fortunate to have to make these hard decisions because really, you cannot go wrong.
On a final note, I found the battery life to be unacceptable on the N5 which was my reason for return. I also found it had extreme difficulty picking up and keeping a signal in comparison to the Moto X. Sometimes we forget that phones need to, well, work as phones and signal strength is a top priority for me.
Cheers!
-Collin-

Here is my hands on comparison between the two. Maybe that will help you to make up your mind. I would choose the Z1 without a doubt.

Like @NanoSurfer already says: all boils down to personal preference
I was also comparing this 2 devices. I like to have the newest OS, but I also like to have a device that is not only a plastic-bomb. So my preference went to Sony and Z1 because of the design and the specs that alltogether make my decision easy. Sure, 4.4 is out, Nexus devices had it and the number of CustomROMs is not so small. But, when the time comes, we also get 4.4 and with this there would be some other ROMs available.

I didn't see it mentioned anywhere in this thread so I'm bringing it up. The Xperia Z1 Compact is IP58 waterproof (continuous submersion at 1.5m), so on that account you can't really compare the two... and by that I mean that between the top of the line specs in a small form factor, the support for external storage, the premium feel from the Xperia Z1, the far above average developer support from the manufacturer and the waterproofing, I'd certainly have the Xperia Z1 Compact above literally any other smartphone available on the market today.
That said there are obviously pros to the Nexus 5 as well, such as the extreme level of community development going on, the wireless charging and the speedy official updates.
Compared to the Nexus 5 I think the Z1 Compact will have better battery life as well, on account of it having the same amperage battery, slightly slower clock frequency and lower (but still definitely high enough) resolution.
In the end the Z1 Compact is a clear winner in my book.

I share the exact same thoughts. Can't believe I glossed over the water-proofing in my initial comparison
-Collin-

CollinFX45 said:
It's really hard to compare the two because software-wise they may be on the same level, but just about everything else is different. I've owned both the Z1 and the N5 and I plan to get the Z1S the day it comes out.
They're so different because of the size. I truly felt like the Z1 was the size of a "phablet," and yes I hate that term but for lack of a better word, I'll use it. I had trouble fitting the Z1 in my pocket whereas the N5 was a perfect form factor for me. If you're dead set on getting KitKat and the latest updates, Nexus 5 or Moto X are your best choices (Moto X got KitKat before the Nexus 4, which was impressive). I've used the Moto X as my daily driver for a few weeks and have zero complaints. Switching carriers, however, is bringing me back into the market of new phones on T-Mobile.
Anyway, I really suggest trying to go to a Sony store to see the Z1. You're in for a very rude awakening if one-handed use is of utmost priority. I think I have normal-sized hands and the phone felt very large. I owned the G2 as well (which I would HIGHLY recommend you consider) and it was every bit as good as the Sony in every way sans build quality. It's fine, but, it's no Sony! Sony has a truly unique, high-end design. The penalty, however, is the bulk and weight. Also, even though the G2 and Z1 had the same battery size, the G2 lasted WAY longer on a charge for me.
To be honest there is no bad choice and I don't know if I made your decision any easier, but there's my objective thoughts on each of the phones. We're fortunate to have to make these hard decisions because really, you cannot go wrong.
On a final note, I found the battery life to be unacceptable on the N5 which was my reason for return. I also found it had extreme difficulty picking up and keeping a signal in comparison to the Moto X. Sometimes we forget that phones need to, well, work as phones and signal strength is a top priority for me.
Cheers!
-Collin-
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've thought about the G2 its an awesome device with a huge battery and fits the hand perfectly but i got turned off by the horrible Android layout of LG and the plastic build quality. plus its more expensive than the Z1 Compact & Nexus 5 at least in my country.
I used to love Sony-Ericsson mobile before the Android era and especially now that they finally announce the Z1 compact which is the Z1S high end specs and not so large for one hand use made it so appealing to me

ironfoxmind said:
I've thought about the G2 its an awesome device with a huge battery and fits the hand perfectly but i got turned off by the horrible Android layout of LG and the plastic build quality. plus its more expensive than the Z1 Compact & Nexus 5 at least in my country.
I used to love Sony-Ericsson mobile before the Android era and especially now that they finally announce the Z1 compact which is the Z1S high end specs and not so large for one hand use made it so appealing to me
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why do people keep talking about the Z1S? You know it's just the Z1 with T-Mobile support, plastic frame and a larger body right?
EDIT: The Z1S is literally a cheaper-to-manufacture, higher-margain-for-carrier, version of the Z1.

shem2409 said:
Here is my hands on comparison between the two. Maybe that will help you to make up your mind. I would choose the Z1 without a doubt.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
awesome review

Rekoil said:
Why do people keep talking about the Z1S? You know it's just the Z1 with T-Mobile support, plastic frame and a larger body right?
EDIT: The Z1S is literally a cheaper-to-manufacture, higher-margain-for-carrier, version of the Z1.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately that's correct, but the addition of wifi calling is why I have to go with that version. When I step inside my building at work, T-mo drops and I rely on the wifi. The normal Z1 doesn't have it obviously.
I cannot believe they made this BIGGER! I mean, the Z1 is big, but why would this one be bigger? Argh.
-Collin-

[Q] Do i buy a z3 compact? Or better a LG G2?

Hello,
I am Daniel, from Argentina, and I am doubting on buying a LG G2 or a Z3 Compact.
I know they are quite diferent (z3 is from 2014 and G2 is from 2013), but Snapdragon 800 or 801 does not make difference to me.
My first choice is Z3 compact for its battery, but is that good? Because someone talks about 5 hours screen, other of 8 hours, so, is good or G2's battery is better?
Is there any con of Z3C? I have read about glass cracking by itself, i should worry about that? Is there other con?
Prices here are, LG G2 is 500uss and z3 700uss. Which one i pick??
Thanks and sorry for my english
Daniel

I'd wait for the z4, it will be announced in January..
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Premium HD app

pricey2009 said:
I'd wait for the z4, it will be announced in January..
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pricey first of all first of answering
The problem of waiting is that i am from Argentina, and here we are like Cuba or Venezuela and our president block imports. So smartphones come late, and as you see expensive.
If i wait for z4 compact, here is reaching on march luckily and very expensive. Also i heard that z4 compact will have 1080p so i think that is going to reduce battery endurance that is what matters me.

Just suck it up and go for z3c u wont regret it

Do you have any knowledge, experience or opinion of LG and Sony's respective versions of Android, as that might be a factor for you too.
I have both phones and although the G2 is still a fine phone with regard to hardware, I personally disliked LG's software. The good news is if you are not afraid to root there is a strong community here on XDA and Lollipop is already available through CM 12 and other custom roms. LG's own official version of 5.0 should reach the G2 early next year, so you will get the sanctioned update soon.
The Z3c wins out over the G2 for me through it's better form factor and also support for external storage. I love both the back buttons and the resultant ultra thin bezels on the G2 but the Z3c is pretty much the perfect size for my tastes. I do have Google Music locker but prefer to have most of my music and other media stored locally, which I can do on my 128GB sd card. I am not sure if storage capacity is important to you - if it is you should definitely look at the Z3c, or maybe a cheaper phone with a SD card slot.
I believe the battery life is slightly better on the Z3c vs the G2, but that's just with my usage patterns, YMMV. Both have strong battery life in general and most reviews I've read have seen them both compare well to rivals like the M8 or SGS5.
I don't doubt those people who have suffered spontaneous glass cracking but I do believe it to be a tiny minority versus those who like me have had no issues to date.
The key imo for your decision is the price differential. I think that assuming the $200 difference between the phones is without any special discount to either, the G2 is better value for money. In isolation I definitely would take the Z3c over the G2, but if you can get the G2 for that much cheaper I would go with that.

These are my two favorite android phones. The LG G2 has a triple threat for themes: If you like LG's heavy theme, that's the stock theme. If you want something more minimalistic but not stock, there are roms based on the LG G3 revisions. If you like AOSP, it's similarity with the Nexus 5 means it will usually have things ported quickly. If a US version only had microSD, it would be the perfect phone. LG, having the Nexus phone assignment for two years, grew big in their android phone sales and support.
In the $175-250 USD Range (ebay selling prices of US LG G2s), there is no better value for the money as the snapdragon 800 is very similiar to the 801 and the screen/body ratio is great (and it's not 5.5").
The Z3 is the android phone we've been waiting for, putting best in class performance in a small-phone package. My biggest issues with the phone are the glass back (solved with a 1.29 case) and the screen/weight ratio. Sony's anti-root policy is such that unlocking the boot-loader disables camera algos, ps4 and screen mirroring capability.
Battery life on both phones is very good, as both phones have large batteries. The camera's on both phones are very good. The screens are very good on both phones. The sound is better on the sony.
On an economic level, it's hard to recommend paying anywhere near retail for an android phone so close to the CES/MWC 2015 as Snapdragon 810s may do to our phones what the Snapdragon 800/801 did to the Snapdragon 600 (remember the last time a phone even used a SD 600).

rp3 said:
On an economic level, it's hard to recommend paying anywhere near retail for an android phone so close to the CES/MWC 2015 as Snapdragon 810s may do to our phones what the Snapdragon 800/801 did to the Snapdragon 600 (remember the last time a phone even used a SD 600).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks rp3, do you think Sony is launching a z4 compact on CES/MWC 2015? Or will be only z4 with no compact version as z2?

You may be surprised, but G2 wins
Hi DanielGatti, since your criteria is the battery life, Z3 Compact has slightly better battery life than G2. But that's it actually. I'm using Nexus 5 (over a year now), G2 (July 2014) and Xperia Z3C (end of Oct 2014) at the moment and all I can say the only thing I like with Xperia Z3C is that it's fit in the hand. So it's very comfortable to hold. Actually no, because the glass back is very slippery in the hand. But G2's bigger screen is much more compelling.
The thing is, G2's still stuck with KitKat 4.2, so some apps may crash regularly (one of them is mobileVoIP I often use). But if you ask me what is my favourite: Nexus 5 is still the king (shame that LG doesn't put the same battery capacity in it that it built in G2!).

I have read rumors of a Z4C. They are just that. I'd say 50/50 that sony launches one and 75/25 that someone else launches a high-end sub 5" phone. My reason is this: the iphone 6 and 6+ launch means every android maker needs to compete on the high end with 4, 4.7 and 5.5 standard bearer (and beat them on either performance, weight or screen/body). The HTC rumors of a 5' flagship (and the samsung Galaxy Alpha starting a new design language) make it more likely that sub 5" phones will have better than a snapdragon 410 next year.

pricey2009 said:
I'd wait for the z4, it will be announced in January..
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is it sure there'll be a compact version?

slaia said:
But G2's bigger screen is much more compelling.
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Click to collapse
Is G2 display better than Z3C display???? {obviusly not having on count the size, i am talking about nits and other technical stuff}

According to their GSM Arena reviews, the Z3 Compact is 10% brighter at full brightnes but 30% less contrast. The Z3C also has 30% better sunlight visability contrast. Having those two phones in hand now (just bought a LG G2 and listing Z3c on swappa), I wouldn't disagree with the indoors ratings (I am rarely outside during sunlight looking at my phone screen).

DanielGatti said:
Is G2 display better than Z3C display???? {obviusly not having on count the size, i am talking about nits and other technical stuff}
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not competent enough to talk about nits and other technical stuff. But for me as user it's enough to put the device side by side and see which one looks better. G2's screen is better because it looks gorgeous with its bigger size, while everything looks tiny on Z3C's screen. Z3C display also looks too dark and cold. You have to play with the settings in order to find the best for you.

I had an LG G2 on Verizon in the US and switched to a Z3 Compact on T-Mobile. Comparing the two for you, I'd go with the LG G2 because it's less expensive and performs basically identically. If you want a smaller phone, go for the Z3 Compact.

size matters... a lot!
I think first and foremost you need to decide what size you prefer.
The G2 is fantastic. I liked it better than the Galaxy S4/S5 and Nexus 5. But it was too big for me, along with the others I mentioned. My Z3c is perfect!
Once you decide on size, then you pick one or the other, whichever is closer, OR, compare similar size phones and make your decision even harder!

I also wanted to decide so I bought both.

Well, since difference in money was more or less U$S275 i went with LG G2, because as they said, differences were not very important.
Also SnapDragon 810 is about to come and may be it will a huge change, so i'll want a z4 compact, and has no sense buy a z3 compact now, it was a waste of money.
Thanks to everyone

slaia said:
I'm not competent enough to talk about nits and other technical stuff. But for me as user it's enough to put the device side by side and see which one looks better. G2's screen is better because it looks gorgeous with its bigger size, while everything looks tiny on Z3C's screen. Z3C display also looks too dark and cold. You have to play with the settings in order to find the best for you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're basing your "what's better" on looks. So, in that sense, Beats by Dre are better than a pair of ATH-ADG1s?
Sure, it might look bigger and it's easier to see, but that's nowhere near being better. There's still how the colors look, how much power it drains, contrast, sunlight visibility etc. If the OP was making his comparison purely based on screen size, he would either be considering getting the Z3 would had been on his way to the store to get a G2 instead of opening the thread.
@DanielGatti: The 810 doesn't bring anything big in terms of performance, except maybe the new GPU (now with a flashy new number). But the difference won't be visible going from a Z3C to a Z4C if rumors are to be believed though because of the increased resolution (1080 vs 720).
The G2 should be getting OEM updates for at least one more year as it basically uses the same chipset as some other 2014 devices. After that, it'll have a long life here on the Forums. At this point, quite the opposite could be said about the Z3C (though that may change anytime).

I came from g2 to z3c and i love the compact. G2 is not a bad phone but at least it was to big for me

DanielGatti said:
Hello,
I am Daniel, from Argentina, and I am doubting on buying a LG G2 or a Z3 Compact.
I know they are quite diferent (z3 is from 2014 and G2 is from 2013), but Snapdragon 800 or 801 does not make difference to me.
My first choice is Z3 compact for its battery, but is that good? Because someone talks about 5 hours screen, other of 8 hours, so, is good or G2's battery is better?
Is there any con of Z3C? I have read about glass cracking by itself, i should worry about that? Is there other con?
Prices here are, LG G2 is 500uss and z3 700uss. Which one i pick??
Thanks and sorry for my english
Daniel
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As someone who came from the G2 and now has the Z3c I feel like I can be some help.
First of all i will start by saying I love the Z3c, its a great phone, really attractive, and the battery is great.
But the G2 was and is still the best phone I've ever had.
It was perfect in my opinion in ever front, its powerful, has a huge battery, is extremely comfortable in hand, has a great screen, and the ROM community is huge and there are a lot of amazing roms available. (It is basically an better Nexus 5) Something the Z3 is unfortunately completely missing. Plus I LOVED the back button placement, felt very natural, and with the tap to wake you don't have to use them if you don't like. After having the z3c for a few months I think that the G2's size / screen ratio is perfect for me. (The only reason I did't get the G3 was because it's so big).
If you can get the G2 for a good price I can't see any reason why you shouldn't go with it. I
It's a great phone. I wish I didn't lose it abroad or I would definitely would still be using it.

[Q] Would you still buy the Z3c today?

Hello from North Carolina, US.
After carrying the Note 2 for two years, I am over the large phone form factor and was considering the Z3c back when it was released. But, I'm on Verizon (CDMA) and it just wasn't a good time to shift to TMobile. My Note 2 died, and I started carrying my wife's old Galaxy S3, which confirmed my preference for a smaller handset. Since my contract with Verizon is over in June, I figured I would carry the S3 until then, see what phones were announced at MWC and make my next phone decision based on that.
Frankly, for my use cases... MWC was MEH.
The S6/edge and HTC One M9 are both lovely phones, but I don't feel like they meet my needs as well as the Z3c. With the Z3c, I love the small form factor, the waterproofiness, the battery and the dedicated shutter button. Also, an S6 with as much storage as the SD card I already own will be hundreds of dollars more expensive than the Z3c.
That said, is it crazy to buy a 6 month old phone? Considering my use cases (primarily utilitarian - music, email, rss, news/weather, social, navigation, camera - no processor intensive games) and considering how surprisingly well the S3 is still running with these use cases at nearly three years old, I am thinking the Z3c may still be a good fit for me. And, I don't want to wait as long as the rumors are saying I would need to wait for the Z4 series (autumn 2015).
What about you, would you still buy the Z3c today? Do you think, based on how I've described my uses, that it would be a good fit for me? Is there another small form factor device I should be considering? Should I suck it up and wait for autumn and the Z4's?
Thanks in advance for your thoughts on this.
Cheers
Jack

JackinNC said:
Hello from North Carolina, US.
After carrying the Note 2 for two years, I am over the large phone form factor and was considering the Z3c back when it was released. But, I'm on Verizon (CDMA) and it just wasn't a good time to shift to TMobile. My Note 2 died, and I started carrying my wife's old Galaxy S3, which confirmed my preference for a smaller handset. Since my contract with Verizon is over in June, I figured I would carry the S3 until then, see what phones were announced at MWC and make my next phone decision based on that.
Frankly, for my use cases... MWC was MEH.
The S6/edge and HTC One M9 are both lovely phones, but I don't feel like they meet my needs as well as the Z3c. With the Z3c, I love the small form factor, the waterproofiness, the battery and the dedicated shutter button. Also, an S6 with as much storage as the SD card I already own will be hundreds of dollars more expensive than the Z3c.
That said, is it crazy to buy a 6 month old phone? Considering my use cases (primarily utilitarian - music, email, rss, news/weather, social, navigation, camera - no processor intensive games) and considering how surprisingly well the S3 is still running with these use cases at nearly three years old, I am thinking the Z3c may still be a good fit for me. And, I don't want to wait as long as the rumors are saying I would need to wait for the Z4 series (autumn 2015).
What about you, would you still buy the Z3c today? Do you think, based on how I've described my uses, that it would be a good fit for me? Is there another small form factor device I should be considering? Should I suck it up and wait for autumn and the Z4's?
Thanks in advance for your thoughts on this.
Cheers
Jack
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For sure I'd still buy the Z3C today.
You're using your wife's S3 which is over 3 years old, so calling a 6 month old phone 'old' is kind of bs (No offense @ all)
As for the Z4, well.... there is no word about a Z4C and based on what Sony previously did, there shouldn't be a Z4C, but a Z5C (if ever).
The Z3C is a great phone, besides the occasional build flaws and bad camera under low light conditions.

That's great feedback, thank you.
Dsteppa said:
You're using your wife's S3 which is over 3 years old, so calling a 6 month old phone 'old' is kind of bs (No offense @ all)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
None taken. The last 5 phones I've bought for myself or my wife have been purchased within 2 weeks of release, sometimes by me standing in line on release day. I buy them early, use them for 2 years when I can contractually upgrade and get a new one and start the cycle over. I typically use a phone for two years and it starts to feel "old" to me at ~18-20 months when a couple new cycles of phones and android versions have been released. My concern is not that the phone is "old" now, rather that, being 6 months old now, it may start to feel old at 12-14 months rather than 18-20.
Btw, I followed your photo link from another post of yours. Like you comments here, your sample photos are really helpful.
Thanks again
Jack

JackinNC said:
That's great feedback, thank you.
None taken. The last 5 phones I've bought for myself or my wife have been purchased within 2 weeks of release, sometimes by me standing in line on release day. I buy them early, use them for 2 years when I can contractually upgrade and get a new one and start the cycle over. I typically use a phone for two years and it starts to feel "old" to me at ~18-20 months when a couple new cycles of phones and android versions have been released. My concern is not that the phone is "old" now, rather that, being 6 months old now, it may start to feel old at 12-14 months rather than 18-20.
Btw, I followed your photo link from another post of yours. Like you comments here, your sample photos are really helpful.
Thanks again
Jack
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you.
Well I don't know, in terms of specs I don't see much changing any time soon, unless all manufacturers decide to make 64bit phones or use a new type of battery that either lasts long and/or charges super fast.
In the end as long as you're doing 'normal' things the phone should be your companion for at least 2 years without you really noticing a difference between your phone and other people's.

Z3 and Z3 compact are best options on android right now.
implying you don't want a phablet.
new phones like GS6 and ONE M9 are cool but you can find a Z3 for 500€/$ and a Z3C for 400, (gs6 and one ~750$)
you'll have same software 5.0.2 with better UI, and better battery, only the camera will be a bit behind but still excellent.
so unless you have money to waste just go for it it's a good deal

I love my z3 compact but if I were to buy a new phone now, I would get the galaxy s6 edge.
The biggest issue I have with the z3c is the speaker. Currently if I am in a semi loud surrounding, I can hardly hear the other person on the line.
Sent from my D5803 using XDA Free mobile app

As usual it depends on what you need. Me personally there is no other phone than the Z3c atm. Size/hardware/design... its perfect for me.
So if you're looking for a smaller phone (one hand use) with excellent battery life and fast hardware just go for it there is nothing that comes even close in that department.

I'm very torn right now, I'm frustrated that I would have to use the bloated stock software to get decent camera quality (no barrel distortion and better low light) and that CM12, while it runs decently doesn't support the features locked away by DRM. I'm contemplating reverting back to a Nexus 5...I think my biggest issue would be the camera, I thought it would be superb but in reality it only matches my nexus considering the distortion. And Sony's DRM and bootloader locking nonsense seems ridiculous to me.

zander21510 said:
I'm very torn right now, I'm frustrated that I would have to use the bloated stock software to get decent camera quality (no barrel distortion and better low light) and that CM12, while it runs decently doesn't support the features locked away by DRM. I'm contemplating reverting back to a Nexus 5...I think my biggest issue would be the camera, I thought it would be superb but in reality it only matches my nexus considering the distortion. And Sony's DRM and bootloader locking nonsense seems ridiculous to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can just root and then debloat.

2mal16 said:
you can just root and then debloat.
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Click to collapse
That's easy...the hard part is losing all the customizations. I went to stock 5.0.2 rooted, system R/W support isn't there, I lose all sorts of little features like expanded desktop, quick unlock, navigation customization...

zander21510 said:
That's easy...the hard part is losing all the customizations. I went to stock 5.0.2 rooted, system R/W support isn't there, I lose all sorts of little features like expanded desktop, quick unlock, navigation customization...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rw is already fixed though you wont like the process if you want to Stay on locked bl. Those features will be implemented either by Sony or more likely xposed working. Just give it some time

2mal16 said:
Rw is already fixed though you wont like the process if you want to Stay on locked bl. Those features will be implemented either by Sony or more likely xposed working. Just give it some time
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Click to collapse
Pretty sure Sony is done with us after this update, minus maybe a couple security patches there won't be any new features. I already tried CM12 for a good month, just couldn't stand the camera and the bugs were a bit too much for a DD. Hoping for xposed and working recoveries on lollipop...that's about all I can do right now.

zander21510 said:
Pretty sure Sony is done with us after this update, minus maybe a couple security patches there won't be any new features. I already tried CM12 for a good month, just couldn't stand the camera and the bugs were a bit too much for a DD. Hoping for xposed and working recoveries on lollipop...that's about all I can do right now.
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Jeah it will Come soon enough, I mean lolli was just released and recoveries,custom Kernels and a working xposed will all make their way on this device sooner or later. Just play the waiting game... again

zander21510 said:
Pretty sure Sony is done with us after this update, minus maybe a couple security patches there won't be any new features. I already tried CM12 for a good month, just couldn't stand the camera and the bugs were a bit too much for a DD. Hoping for xposed and working recoveries on lollipop...that's about all I can do right now.
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Let's see... The Xperia Z that has been released for about 2 years also received the Lollipop update, why would you think that Sony would stop update a phone that's just been out 6 month's. Can you please tell me your logic?
Sent from my D5803

Nice Features
There are some things which are so nice. Most of the new phones arent waterproof. Phones are getting bigger and bigger. But the z3c is smaller but quite good.

I certainly would buy the Z3C again, the biggest gripe I have is the lack of Quality Case choices. Great phone IMO, size, battery, speed and takes above average pictures(Auto mode) and if you take the time to use the manual settings it can take excellent pictures.

So far, Sony Z3C has no real competition. In android world. I just bought one.

Dsteppa said:
Let's see... The Xperia Z that has been released for about 2 years also received the Lollipop update, why would you think that Sony would stop update a phone that's just been out 6 month's. Can you please tell me your logic?
Sent from my D5803
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Well with the persisting rumors that Sony is either scaling back or dropping their mobile division...I just have a gut feeling.
And I guess I changed my mind. Just ordered a replacement Nexus 5 like my old one. I will miss the size and it is a sharp looking phone, but the broken features that can never be fixed (mostly camera stuff) and the DRM nonsense really turned me off of this phone. I may be an oddball but I just don't like that I'm missing all the little customizations and things on CM12 when I'm on stock, and Xposed will probably only fix about half of those features. Miss Privacy Guard, Quick unlock, all that good stuff. And I just don't like the UI design choices. Plus all the no-name "device reporting" and "anonymous reporting" services running in the background that can't be disabled.
I'm sure in a few months CM12 will have the microphone & other issues ironed out, but what's the point of having a 20MP camera that has distortion and poor image quality that (from what I've read) can never be fixed in an AOSP rom?
I would recommend it to my fiancee that doesn't use her phone for much more than texting and Youtube, but not for a tinkerer like myself.

FOR SURE! Unless you want to wait for a Z4 Compact to even be announced, and then eventually come out, I'd say the Z3 Compact remains the best phone at it's size from anyone, still to this day. The Galaxy S5 Mini just came out recently, and it's a Snapdragon 400! The Z3 Compact has a great, waterproof build, MicroSD, Camera Button, and 801 processor. Nothing else comes close unless you're okay with a leviathan of a phone I love my Z3 Compact and really do not desire a new phone or ever again something larger...

Would definitely still buy again. Just ticks so many boxes that other devices don't (size, speed, battery, microSD, camera). It really has no competition. I'm not sure we'll see a Z4 compact at all - doubt z3 compact is a big seller and with Sony in such a mess, they may just focus on the Z4. If that happens, we're in bad shape for fully spec'd < 5" Android devices. The good news is that the hardware is advancing so slowly now, the z3c will probably be a viable platform for quite awhile.
My Galaxy S4 (two generations old!) still runs CM12 perfectly fine. It's an SD600!

Why should I buy Xperia X Performance?

I have been a big fan of Xperia Z series since the first Z. I changed my phone every time the new Z came out (except Z1 since I just started my career life without much savings).
Every time the new Z came out, I could find its awesomeness, imo, for example the first Z was stylish, waterproof, and powerful but it suffers a lot from heat,washed out display, and loosen waterproof charging caps. Then Z1 came out with more charming metal body, magnetic charging port, and 20 Mpixels camera, highest for a smartphone at the time.
Z2 came out as what the first Z should be at the first place with bigger and vivid screen, stereo speakers, and battery life is awesome to the point that I never found any others with this battery longevity at the time . For Z3, is almost identical to Z2 in term of spec sheet but I found it's very nice to hold in my hand plus the speaker is a lot better, far better than even Z5.
Z4 was very good on the spec sheet, especially with no more microusb cap but the battery life is a very big disappointment with almost half what Z3 lasts. It also suffers a lot of heat from normal uses. Z5 premium is, imo, the most refined Xperia with decent battery life, big screen, stylish material and colors selection.
Also, I don't know if it's me alone but every time I got the new Xperia on my hand, I felt really good and every single one of them was attractive.
Strangely, I can't explain but when I hold X/XP on on my hand, I didn't feel a thing, not even a glimpse of attractiveness although my country is offered 64GB/dual sims variant at the same price as Galaxy S7 (32GB/dual sims variant) with contract. I was never really into Samsung before (not because I hate it but I just neither found it attractive) but this time, I event think of waiting for Note7.
What are you guys' opinions? What are your before and after buying feelings toward X Performance?

How I've tired from this speech. Shut up and go to gnusmas, apple, htc, moto/lenovo, xiaomi, zte, huawei and where u want! DON'T BUY SONY! Moaner!

Desperanto86 said:
How I've tired from this speech. Shut up and go to gnusmas, apple, htc, moto/lenovo, xiaomi, zte, huawei and where u want! DON'T BUY SONY! Moaner!
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Click to collapse
Thanks a lot for your opinion. Actually I was about to buy XP. The price without contract is very high but the price with contract is acceptable. The plan that I will have to pay for is quite similar to what I currently use but I have to stay with it for a whole year. That's why I ask foy you guys' opinion at the first place. Because I love Xperia but this time I'm not really sure if it worth changing (not in term of spec sheet but your real experience of using it.
It seems you are extremely not appreciate the question but you made a good answer anyway. If a current user doesn't have such a good thing about it to say but purely throwing back a bad temper. It absolutely clarifies my answer.

If you are a dual sim user, you should note that the S7 forces the 2nd sim to be in 2G mode when the 1st sim is in 4G/3G, and vice versa.
On the other hand, the XP allows the 2nd sim to be in 3G-voice standby when the 1st sim is in 4G/3G. This functionality is important for countries like Korea or Japan which no longer have 2G, or countries like Singapore, Australia or USA which are going to shutdown their 2G networks soon. The other phones such as Mi5, Moto G4, Zuk Z2/Pro, etc which support this feature are from Chinese OEMs.
Another advantage the XP has over the S7 is Sony's willingness to allowing unlocking of the bootloader.

Im also considering getting a XP but with its cost here in the Philippines, i might get a S7 or a Z5.
I always look at the batt first, then the speakers, then the cam, then lastly the specs.

Get the sony xperia x performance. Hope getting a blazingly fast phone with a processor that snap dragon actually really refined and improved with a bigger jump than previous iterations.
Your being the best camera in a smart phone and one of the best android UIs on the market. And a nice phone that isn't riddled by logos. It's Sonys best. Everything you need nothing you don't. And the best waterproofing.
Sent from my F8132 using Tapatalk

^ I've been backreading the XP thread for quite some time now. How's the batt life and the speakers?

i bought mine for good stereo speakers screen size ,can change os if needed, underwater just in case , didn't but HTC cause is was to big and clumsy for me and mini specs wasn't the same at all
but sony dont have same and good speakers anymore
my last phone was twice louder and more bass (wt19i walkman)
but i would've wait for XP is about 50% different from Z5's( i have z5c) 80K and antutu against 120K (XP) and more 200$ bit didn't know how much it would take and my phone was really slow and old 6-5year old
btw Regular Xperia X is less fast than Z5's
anyway it was BIG different from my old sony (LWW wt19i) 10K score 700% LOL.... 1100% could be nicer.. but
to the point if you have Z5 dont buy the XP phone up to 40-60% overall performance does not worth spend another 750US$

The XP is waterproof, you have to get the S7 active of you want that feature, which is locked to AT&T in the US and is priced about 25% more than the XP. That made my choice pretty simple.
Sent from my F8132 using Tapatalk

I had XPERIA Z5 and bought XPERIA X Performance. This is the best Sony phone to date with no good battery life (battery life is better then one on XPERIA Z5 at the moment). Only reason to buy XPERIA X Performance if you already have XPERIA Z5 is because of heat. XPERIA X Performance only heats when using camera longer or if you play games too long and now in Croatia outside temperature is about 35 C. So if the heat is your reason buy it. Otherwise don't buy it. But if you have some older phone you should buy it.
About swiching to Samsung instead I don't know. I am not Samsung fun because of their UI.

Coming from z1c, z3c, z5c to now owning the XP for less then a week.
Before the XP the z5c was a let down compared to its predecessor the z3c. Particularly in general performance but moreover the lacklustre camera performance (the plagued 810 chip didn't help the Z5 line.)
Now, the XP.
Hands down is a far more refined device. As refined as the z3c. The performance is lightning - thanks to the 820 chip and the extra GB ram (3gb.)
Coupled with the lightning performance on the camera FUNCTIONALITY (I'm not stating the QUALITY of the Shots are the best - however the quality is drastically better then the z5c predecessor.)
But what I am stating is that the camera responds and opens and takes pictures faster then on any Sony I've played with (those of you coming from the z5 line know exactly what I'm on about.)
For instance, from standby/sleep mode. As long as the camera settings are preset to 'Launch & Capture.' Then when taking a picture from standby you will notice the picture that has been captured is of that instance of when you clicked the camera button... Although the UI hasn't even rendered. Try this with a moving object and you will notice how frkin fast the capture time is.
Again not professing the QUALITY of the Shots are superior, but simply that the function of the camera is now quite sublime.
The XP works VERY VERY WELL, overall outstanding performance. Yes it will have its niggles. But generally it's the best of what Sony have been trying to achieve.
I don't care for 4k video capture. Nor a 4k or QHD screen. This 1080p is more then ample for a phone. For me coming from the zCompact series (720p screens), this XP screen is amazing and more then enough.
I am very pleased with this device.
The only drawback is the lacklustre Sony Stamina mode. But this is almost not there fault. For OEMs to provide Android phones officially they must adopt key features from Google's updates, hence Sony HAD to employ Google Doze feautre, in this forced effort they clearly couldn't employ Sony's native Stamina Mode (succesfully at least) in the way we'd been accustomed to especially on the z3 line (you can imagine Doze and Sony Stamina not working happily hand in hand, as they both in essence are trying to achieve the same thing, albeit Sony Stamina Mode was far superior.)
Just my 2cents on anyone fighting with Sony Stamina Mode.
Fantastic device.
Sent from my F8131 using XDA-Developers mobile app

I agree with every word you wrote.

tomo100brt said:
I agree with every word you wrote.
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[emoji106]
Having read through the XP forum here, and then this thread, I felt some '1st Hand Heritage Sony User' experience and comprehension was required.
I also can attest that the fingerprint sensor on the XP is insanely faster then the z5c. Wasn't expecting it to be quite this responsive. Impresses on that front too.
Sony UI is second to the Nexus Line. That's a fact.
As good as Samsung's hardware is, there software is like a step backwards from Androids look/feel. Whereas Sony manage to keep the look/feel impressively Stock (replace Sony Launcher with Nova all day everyday, and I don't think you would notice much difference between a Nexus user experience and the Sony User' experience - again this is from my 1st hand experience.)
1 niggle I've noticed, actually since the z3 line, is that the WiFi signal has typically got poorer over longer distance from the WiFi router.
I can achieve a better WiFi signal on my z3c then I can on my z5c and XP.
This thread should be changed to 'Why wouldn't you buy the XP?' ?
Sent from my F8131 using XDA-Developers mobile app

I've been a Sony Fanboy since the Release of the Xperia S, I owned the SP, the ZR bought the Z1 Compact as well and finally the Z3 Compact and I must say they did really well on those devices, especially the Z3 Compact. But looking at the X Performance, I think they're just trying too hard, the price tag to begin with doesn't even look welcoming at 700 Dollars for a phone without any fingerprint scanner, and the battery life isn't any good as well reading from numerous reviews which compares it to the previous flagship the Z5. For now I have my eyes set either on the S6 or the One M9, especially the M9. Those boomsound speakers sound better than Sony's speakers any time.
This is just my opinion tho, If coming from the Z3 Device line, stick with your Z3 and wait for newer models. The Z3 is by far one of the best Sony Z Line phones, stable, doesn't overheat and an active community to keep it going.

So true RE Z3 as the standout of all Sony's.
When it comes to a price war, then yes, the XP price is very overzealous. Can't argue there.
But i find when it comes to a User requiring the 3 points below (such as myself, typically coming from Sony's compact range):
1. Comfortable 1 handed ergonomics.
2. Up to date hardware
3. a Nexus like - look & feel (an unadulterated Android experience.)
Then I conclude the XP is at the forefront in this regard.
Personnel preferences as always ?
Sent from my F8131 using XDA-Developers mobile app

Would you recommend this phone to a friend? Or another device with Nougat?

Are people still enjoying the Z3+ (E6553)? I read it has Nougat and I want that. My last good phone was a Note 3, but Samsungs have a variety of issues like GPS and dead screens (not to mention exploding batteries) so I am looking at Sony. What do people think?

First of all, the phone is still on Marshmallow, and battery is awful and heat as well, there isn't much development so NO

Hell NO, stay away from this piece of sh*t.

If I returned back to purchasing point, I would grab a nexus 5x over this one. Right now there are numerous great offers and I don't recommend this one.

if a friend dosent play games its really good.
but if a friend would play pokemon go (just for example) an old samsung s3 would be better.

Worst phone, ever.

wow, thanks. Are any Sony phones good?
Also the sony website says the phone is getting Nougat. Is it not out yet?
http://blogs.sonymobile.com/2016/08/23/sony-xperia-and-android-7-0-nougat/

X
X performance
XZ
I don't own any of those, but they all seem good.

I bought the z3 plus for my girlfriend over the summer. Haven't had any issues with it. She plays the occasional game or two. But mostly uses it for Facebook, spotify and texting. Battery life is pretty good. Easily lasts a full day. Finally, haven't noticed any heating issues either. Sony definitely fixed the heating issues that were present when the device first came out. I would recommend the z3 plus if you can get it for a good price.

Got z3+ half a year ago. Using fot twitter, instagram, phone and playing ingress. Got 4-5 hours of ingress, no overheating. I would recommend.

overheating is not happening for me because i just check telegram and instagram but battery is really bad! z5 has the same battery but it is really better than z3+,plz go find something else,if you can buy it i suggest z5,its really good and after you buy sony phone i say you will never buy another companys phone bro

i LOVE the z4/z3+ and heat, for me, is now gone... perfect ( for me ) form factor, awesome screen... I feel like Z4 is THE pinnacle of Xperia's design language, the last flagship to bear the iconic power button.
...the battery life not as great when compared to other newer Xperia offerings which are now already coming down in price. Camera is ok in daylight.
Huge fan... have recently made x compact my daily, mostly for camera and battery,
and have XZ as well, but still prefer the in-hand feel of Z4 and will never get rid of it.

no Nougat.
Carlito17_2000 said:
Are people still enjoying the Z3+ (E6553)? I read it has Nougat and I want that. My last good phone was a Note 3, but Samsungs have a variety of issues like GPS and dead screens (not to mention exploding batteries) so I am looking at Sony. What do people think?
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Sony Phones are just fancy phones. They all are appealing look. But their build sucks. I prefer Samsung over Sony and now a days OPPO phones are better than both Sony and Samsung.

You're in the minority, but I appreciate the opinion
DZH1 said:
i LOVE the z4/z3+ and heat, for me, is now gone... perfect ( for me ) form factor, awesome screen... I feel like Z4 is THE pinnacle of Xperia's design language, the last flagship to bear the iconic power button.
...the battery life not as great when compared to other newer Xperia offerings which are now already coming down in price. Camera is ok in daylight.
Huge fan... have recently made x compact my daily, mostly for camera and battery,
and have XZ as well, but still prefer the in-hand feel of Z4 and will never get rid of it.
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Click to collapse
I might go LG instead