Sony Xperia Z1 Review

Now, as 2013 draws to a close, we’re witnessing the emergence of a new breed of Android smartphone, with bigger screens than ever, fast new Snapdragon 800 chips from Qualcomm and larger batteries than we’ve seen before.  It’s natural, then, that Sony’s follow-up to its 5-inch Xperia Z should fit into this category. Say hello to the Xperia Z1.

When the Z1 — previously known by its codename of “Honami” — was finally unveiled at IFA 2013 it felt like we were being reintroduced to an old friend because many images were leaked with features like its “Triluminos” display, aliminum frame and 20.7-megapixel camera.

The thing that’s changed least between the Xperia Z and Xperia Z1 is the external design. Though the new phone keeps the same 5-inch screen size and 1920 x 1080 resolution, it’s actually a little larger and heavier than the older model. For the 16 percent increase in weight, you gain a 29 percent bigger battery (now at 3,000mAh) and enough room to fit a new 20.7-megapixel Exmor RS camera sensor.

Xperia Z1’s spec sheet suggests an abatement in the perennial Android spec race. Sony’s opted for the fastest processor around with the 2.2GHz Snapdragon 800, and added 2GB of RAM, microSD storage expansion, Bluetooth 4.0 and NFC connectivity. This sort of unbridled spec lust is echoed in the 5.2-inch G2, which is why I consider it such a close rival to the Xperia Z1. Another commonality between LG and Sony’s flagships is an abundance of dubiously useful software layered atop Android.

For all its branding bluster, the Xperia Z1’s 5-inch display is a letdown, just as the Xperia Z was. The expanded color range is nice to have, but it doesn’t offer distinguishably better images than any of the leading competitors such as HTC’s One series. It also does nothing to rectify Sony’s chronic weakness with displays: poor viewing angles. Colors start washing out as soon as you tilt the phone away from you, and seeing the Z1 sitting side by side with Samsung’s Galaxy Note 3 really puts the Sony phone to shame. So it’s the same old story: a pixel-dense 1080p display that is nevertheless a clear step behind the competition.

Though there’s much-improved aluminum frame, which makes the experience of holding and pocketing the device so much more pleasant than before. It’s another flat, symmetrical, blocky handset — though one that looks and feels much more solid than earlier Sony offerings. In fact, we’d say it’s the best-built Sony phone we’ve seen so far. But with the large screen comes an awful lot of empty bezel, particularly at the top and bottom of the device.

The Xperia Z1 continues Sony's slow but steady improvement, giving just enough reason for owners of its former flagship phone to consider upgrading. The same was true of the Xperia Z, however, and I don’t feel that much more enthusiastic about the Z1. It has more strengths than weaknesses, but just lacks the refinement to mount a true challenge to Samsung’s preeminence on the Android platform. Whereas Samsung ships Super AMOLED displays and the latest Google OS, Sony is a generation behind on both counts.

The Good

Excellent build quality, super-fast UI performance and fluid UI, great camera performance in most areas, well-designed software.

The Bad

Bulky chassis with large bezels, poor display viewing angles.

Conclusion

Not only is the Xperia Z1 Sony’s best phone, it’s a great phone by any standard. The competition is fiercer than ever — and there’s no shortage of great Android phones right now — but I don’t think you’ll be disappointed if you pick up Sony’s new high-end beast.