Table of Contents
Introduction: smartphone Sony XZ
When Sony launched the smartphone Sony XZ back in 2016, it was positioned as a true flagship in the Xperia lineup. Equipped with advanced camera technology, a sleek design, and powerful performance, it quickly became a favorite for Android enthusiasts. But in 2025, many consumers still ask: Is the Sony Xperia XZ worth considering today?
This article explores everything you need to know—its specs, camera, display, comparisons with rivals, real-world performance, and whether it holds value in the modern smartphone market.
If you’re a fan of the Sony Xperia lineup, you’ll appreciate how the brand has consistently pushed innovation in smartphone design, display technology, and mobile photography. From the early Xperia Z series to the latest Xperia 1 models, Sony has built a reputation for delivering premium devices with unique features like 4K HDR screens, Motion Eye cameras, and Hi-Res Audio.
Sony Xperia XZ at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2016 (IFA Berlin) |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 |
| RAM | 3GB |
| Storage | 32GB / 64GB + microSD |
| Rear Camera | 23MP Motion Eye |
| Front Camera | 13MP |
| Display | 5.2-inch Full HD, Triluminos, X-Reality |
| Battery | 2900mAh with Quick Charge 3.0 |
| Build | IP68 water and dust resistant |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, LDAC, stereo speakers |
| OS | Launched with Android Nougat, updated to Android Oreo |
Design & Build Quality
The smartphone Sony XZ carries the iconic Xperia design—rectangular, sharp edges, and premium ALKALEIDO metal finish. Unlike today’s curved glass designs, the Xperia XZ focused on durability and grip.
- IP68 rating meant it could survive water splashes and dust.
- Gorilla Glass protection added durability.
- Available colors: Mineral Black, Platinum, Forest Blue, Deep Pink.
Compared to Samsung’s Galaxy S7 or Apple’s iPhone 7, the Xperia XZ looked more industrial and professional.
Display: Triluminos & X-Reality Engine
Sony has always been a pioneer in display technology. The Sony Xperia XZ featured:
- 5.2-inch Full HD IPS panel
- Triluminos technology for vivid colors
- X-Reality engine for enhanced video playback
- High brightness for outdoor readability
Although it didn’t offer Quad HD like Samsung Galaxy S8, it delivered balanced contrast, sharpness, and battery efficiency.
Camera: Motion Eye Technology
One of the main selling points of the smartphone Sony XZ was its 23MP Motion Eye camera, a technology borrowed from Sony’s professional Alpha cameras.
Key Features:
- Predictive Capture: Camera starts buffering before you press the shutter.
- Super Slow Motion (960 fps): Captures incredible detail.
- 5-axis stabilization: Reduced blur in photos and videos.
- 13MP front camera: Wide-angle selfies, great low-light performance.
📊 DxOMark Score: 87 (competitive at launch, slightly behind iPhone 7 at 90).
Performance: Snapdragon Power
The Xperia XZ used Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 with Adreno 530 GPU, which was powerful at launch.
- Antutu Score (2016): ~140,000
- Geekbench Single-Core: ~1800
- Geekbench Multi-Core: ~4300
In 2025, this performance is outdated for heavy gaming, but still handles calls, browsing, messaging, and light apps.
Battery & Charging
With a 2900mAh battery, the smartphone Sony XZ wasn’t the best in its class, but Sony included smart features:
- Quick Charge 3.0 via USB-C
- Qnovo adaptive charging to extend battery lifespan
- STAMINA mode for power saving
🔋 Battery Endurance Test: Around 9 hours screen-on time, which was decent at launch.
Audio & Multimedia Experience
Sony always emphasized audio quality. The Xperia XZ included:
- Hi-Res Audio with LDAC codec
- Stereo front-facing speakers
- DSEE HX for upscaling MP3s
- 3.5mm headphone jack (unlike today’s flagships).
For music lovers, this made the Xperia XZ a standout choice.
Software & Updates
The Xperia XZ launched with Android Nougat and later received Android Oreo. However, support ended after a few years.
In 2025, most Xperia XZ devices require custom ROMs for latest Android versions. Tech-savvy users often install LineageOS for security updates.
Comparisons: Sony Xperia XZ vs Competitors
Xperia XZ vs Samsung Galaxy S8
| Feature | Xperia XZ | Galaxy S8 |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 5.2” Full HD | 5.8” Quad HD AMOLED |
| Camera | 23MP | 12MP Dual Pixel |
| Battery | 2900mAh | 3000mAh |
| Chipset | Snapdragon 820 | Snapdragon 835 |
| Design | Flat | Curved Edge |
Verdict: Galaxy S8 had a better display & battery, but Xperia XZ excelled in camera versatility.
Xperia XZ vs iPhone 7
- Camera: Xperia XZ offered higher resolution and slow-motion, iPhone 7 had better consistency.
- Performance: iPhone’s A10 chip was faster than Snapdragon 820.
- Design: iPhone was sleeker; Xperia more durable.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Excellent camera with Motion Eye
- Durable IP68 water resistance
- Hi-Res audio features
- Premium ALKALEIDO metal design
❌ Cons
- Average battery life
- Performance outdated in 2025
- Software support ended years ago
Real-World Usage in 2025
- Photography: Still capable of good photos, but lags behind modern AI cameras.
- Gaming: Can run PUBG, Asphalt, and COD Mobile at low settings.
- Business Use: Reliable for calls, emails, and documents.
- Daily Driver? Only for budget-conscious or collectors.
FAQs About Smartphone Sony XZ
1. Is the Sony Xperia XZ still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, if you’re looking for a budget secondary phone with a great camera. But for modern features like 5G, better battery, and AI photography, newer Xperia models are better.
2. Does Xperia XZ support 5G?
No. It only supports 4G LTE.
3. Which Xperia phone has the best camera?
As of 2025, Xperia 1 V and Xperia Pro-I are Sony’s top camera smartphones.
4. Can I upgrade Xperia XZ to Android 13?
Officially no, but custom ROMs like LineageOS may support newer versions.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Smartphone Sony XZ in 2025?
The smartphone Sony XZ remains a nostalgic piece of Sony’s innovation story. With its Motion Eye camera, durable design, and Hi-Res audio, it was a premium choice in 2016. In 2025, it’s no longer a flagship but still serves as a reliable backup device or budget option.
