Indeed and then there's their 21:9 aspect ratios screens instead of the weird half assed ones that are 19:9 or 20:9 and not to mention their new battery care tech that allows the phone to bypass the battery when plugged in to use the power cord to run a power intensive application, yet almost no "big" reviewers talk about but when it is included on the other major brands everyone will praise them
Then there was the 3 layer stacked cmos sensor (that allowed 960 fps slow mo and eliminated rolling shutter), which many people called it useless and a gimmick *Until Samsung copied it*
The problem with the Xperia Z is that there are only reviews with the very first onboard software. Since the phone has been around for more than 1 and a half years, there have been some MAJOR updates, all covering the issues that everybody claimed in the beginning. For example, the sound quality of the internal speaker has been highly improved by adding the features "Clear Phase(TM)" and "xLOUD(TM)". Sony really did its homework and tried to improve as much as possible on their former flagship Xperia Z. It would be interesting to do a comparison video "old software vs. new software on Xperia Z".
I have had the Sony Experia Z for some time now, and I cannot fault it. I am looking to upgrade it soon to a Sony Experia Z3. I would always stick by Sony products as they have never let me down yet - unlike Apple. They are sleek, sexy-looking, and performance-wise, I cannot fault them. One more thing to add is that this review is old. All of the issues that you have come across with this device, have been solved - due to software upgrades. The device has been around for quite a long time now, and Sony have solved all of the problems you have mentioned here. The device is a top-quality product - much more better than Apple Iphone 6. And those who purchase this product will not be disappointed. One very last point. I have accidentally dropped this phone more than once, and it is as tough as nails. Not one mark on it. I was expecting the glass display to shatter, but nothing at all. So, it is not only beautiful but very tough and rugged too. I would NOT RECOMMEND DROPPING IT, I am just saying that I dropped it through being careless. However, it still works as good as new.
Say what you want but almost 3 years later this beast is running the latest android version available ....yeah! that's better product support than even google offers to nexus owners! Sony FTW!
Dude i had this phone 2015 anf 2016... How many years after release and it was awesome.... My favorite phone of all times. Design Still beautiful todah
i have had this phone for 6 months now and i love it! the kitkat firmware is butter smooth and the camera is awesome, i also discovered the z will get the android L update in early 2015 :) Super happy with sony, great company
Twisted Nematic. It's a type of display used in early LCDs mainly used on mobile phones before 2010. Just for comparison, it's the same panel that's implemented on the first iPhone in 2007. LCD panels that are not IPS are mostly TN.
why is viewing angles such a bid deal? You look at your phone straight ok, STRAIGHT. YOU DON'T LOOK ON IT FROM THE SIDE OTHERWISE YOU IT'D BE HARD TO READ TEXTS!!
Thank you Marques for putting quality reviews on RUclips. You are the reason I have purchased many products and been very happy with them! Keep it up bro!
the only bad thing about this phone is the speaker...but if you just use it for gaming or entertainment its perfect, i dont need high volume speaker on a phone that everybody in the park can listen my music...for that i use my headphones... Cam is waaay better than the Nexus, Htc One X, Galaxy S3 and 4... Only Xperia T and Z1 is better in low light...i have the phone for 6 months with 4.3 and it destroys all my friends plastic and non proof phones...
I almost never comment anything on youtube - but: INSANELY nice review, insightful and straight to the point. Keep up the good work and greetings from Germany.
I hardly leave comments on videos, but I have to say that I personally think that your videos are awesome. When I wanted a review on that phone I just searched it, when I didn't find your name in the top results I added it cause I wanted your review about. Nicely done as always, keep it up! ... Peace
I've had the Xperia Z for a few weeks now, I don't have much to compare it to, but the display is beautiful. I love the phone with two pet peeves, first is that the speaker gets covered up easily, and second is that is gets pretty warm after use because there are really no air vents since it's all sealed up.
Marques... This is one of the best reviews i have ever seen from you is honest and is not influenced by favoritism... I use a Nexus 4 and i'm waiting for your thoughts about the new Galaxy S4...
Tried the Xperia Z and was very very impress with it's default camera apps. The Superior Auto is very clever and the flash lighting is the best of all phone camera I've seen.
I have this phone and I love it! The day I got it, my brother called me and said he's going to the T-Mobile store to pick up new phones. So I quickly browsed through T-Mobile's store online and saw this and picked it in a few hours. Best decision ever!
I wouldn't recommend one of these at all. In the two years I've had mine it's been replaced once due to a faulty power button, the gaskets on the flaps have failed meaning they no longer close meaning it's not water resistant, the lag is just awful all of the time, software updates have been slow and very buggy killing the battery, the screen is disappointing beside a Samsung, and it was very expensive. I'll never get a Sony phone again.
I've had mine for about a year and a half now, before it I had a Xperia SP and HTC 1 mini. Both of which gave me terrible trouble. But I have to say, my Xperia Z hasn't given me too many problems. Yeah it freezes the odd time and I have to do a hard reboot but aside from that I can't complain. Maybe you just got a dodgy handset?
Damien McGrath - I have to agree with you. This is my 3rd Xperia Z after returning the other 2 to T-Mobile. They claim I have to pay $318 for water damage after I returned it due to the gasket and flap falling off. I returned it all with original condition and although they claim it is water resistance, it must not be able to handle "humidity". My guess anyways.
I just broke my Galaxy Note 4 and while I'm waiting for the insurance repair I purchased a used xperia z1 compact simply because it was the cheapest phone in the shop. I'm shocked. This phone is 18 months old and scratched to bits but it's still the fastest android phone I've ever used. After my crappy, Laggy, overheating, bad battery life original xperia z this really is a surprise even with all the apps now added same as the Note 4. I've never seen such fast non apple phone. The only reason ill go back to my lagging Samsung is the amoled screen and stylus versatility which I love.
My last comment wasn't an opinion, it's a fact. "I fail to see how anyone would ever use their phone at 90 degress" offended me. Not all people watch the phone's contents alone. Also from a screen purists point of view, it's not all about whether you can see the screen from a certain degree or not. It's about how good the overall screen quality is and the technology behind it.
TFT (Thin film transistor) exists in LCD and AMOLED screen, the display used by xperia z is "TN TFT LCD", actually TN (Twisted Nematic)is the first generation of the LCD, when displaying white, the liquid crystal will try to let as much light to pass the screen, when displaying black,the liquid crystals will try to block as much light as it can, to display black. The screen we normally seen are TFT IPS LCD, IPS= (In Plane Switching) IPS improved contrast ratio and viewing angle, compared to TN.
I have had my Sony Xperia Z for about a month now and I absolutely love it. I don't know if they updated the phone but I do not see any problem with the viewing angle on the screen and the home bar is black on my Xperia not gray. I also love it being waterproof. My friends are amazed to watch me wash my phone in the sink. I am also amazed by the build quality. This phone is amazing. Obviously this is my personal opinion and everyone has a right to there own opinion, this is just mine.
It's ironic how a company like SONY doesn't put a decent display for its flagship device. Sony has always been known for making one of the best TV displays out there.
I find having good viewing angles on the phone is helpful when you're reading an article on the phone while having lunch and the phone is on the table, or even showing something on the phone and finding that you have to angle the entire phone towards them. Small inconveniences that you don't find on other phones.
Thanks for the review Marques... Seriously man... I was waiting for your review for this phone & now that you have thoroughly reviewed & thrown your opinions about it , its much easier for me now to decide ... Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro is 2012... Qualcomm 600 & 800 is what we want to see... Thanks Marques ... Peace :)
This phone survived a Tough Mudder race with me through the mud pits, submerged lakes and dives. It was cool to be able to take pics along the way. For the outdoor oriented surely a great buy. The speakers are a let down but everything else about this phone is awesome!
Im not going to not lie I bought this for my daughter and an S4 for myself, and love both of them...Im pretty excited to see what the are going to do with the sequel to Xperia Z in thr next few months....the lack of bloatware and more google look and awesome build quality is just cool to me
frankly, i got this phone a week ago and the screen angles are no the the best but try watching a movie on it and you will be astonished..premium looks and material, high end specs and waterproofing, that's what made it for me, the camera can take some superb shoots too....comon how many high end 1080p 5" phones can you take to the beach or a swim pool and never worry
Thats soo gonna go for SG S4. If you want waterproof and slim, just go for XPERIA Z. But all other stuff will most likely go with S4. Here what I have: 1. S4 Has SAMOLED screen vs Z's TFT LCD Display 2. S4 uses Gorilla Glass 3 vs the Z's Sony's screen 3. S4 supports dual band connection on wifi modems which makes internet alot more faster. 4. S4's bluetooth supports EDR and LE 5. S4 has an infrared port to control infrared devices 6. In camera, S4 supports alot more features
Love your review, just one thing: the speaker on the Z is on the side, on the opposite side where your mic was in the "music benchmark" and also it has to be water resistant, this means it probably don't let water go inside and air (music) outside easily. So, you're right, it depends on what we want from a phone.
My father owned a xperia z a few years ago. The perk of it being waterproof and taking it to swimming pools was amazing. It also recieved latest Android updates. It was running smoothly until it's screen broke. While putting on a screen protector. Yeah. The screen was replaced for around $150 and then the back glass broke. Then my father bought a new phone since the screen was also not as good as the original. But 1 thing for sure, the Xperia Z is a polished product.
Hey MKBHD Are you going to be reviewing the Xperia Z1? And do you expect the bug bears you had with the Z to be greatly improved or gone all together? I really can't decide on a new phone. I'd like the one but am reluctant because of the camera and also I had a one x which was a complete let down. I like the idea of the Galaxy S4 but I don't care for the cheap feel and some of the gimmicky features and I've never used a Samsung before. As you can tell I like my top end phones. Any advice?
Can I ask you which KW you have? My Xperia Z is KW10 and it has a beatiful display and camera! I compared it to the phones in my shop and I saw a big difference between the two XZ. On mine were much better viewing angels, better colors and a much better camera. The display isn't washed out too. I think sony just built phones with different components.
I know you didn't mention this, but despite the camera, the HTC One brings the aspects of the the SG 4 and Xperia Z together. You get the build quality of the Xperia Z, yet you get the performance of an S4. The only thing thats lacking is the camera so.... Not to mention you still get an amazing display with the HTC One. You make the choice.
This is the best review of the Z that I've ever watched (and I watched almost ALL of them). I am a Sony fan for years I bought their phones before Android and since Android i had X10, Arc, Arc S and currently Xperia S but that was it for me. I loved Xperia Z when was only a rumor but they lost me with that display this time. You are right on every single point about this device and I agree. I'm sorry Sony but now I'm going for the HTC ONE
I bought this phone through T-Mobile; I agree with Marques' review. I do have an issue with dropping calls when it goes from cellular to Wireless. Is that T-Mobile or the phone itself?
By the way for those that do not Follow Sony Ericsson the Z is NOT i repeat NOT the flagship for 2013, Sony's Flagship is a Phablet (coming out sometime q2?) that should set the bar really high, i for one am happy that a new player has joined Sammy and Apple.
I have to agree with Damien McGrath. I have had to replace my original Xperia Z twice in the past 2 years due to the faulty gaskets around the charging port. I just finally paid off this $600 phone from T-Mobile and they are charging me $318 for "alleged water damage". My phone was never near water and is supposed to be water proof and has a hard protective cover over it. I have received the run around from T-Mobile and they put the blame on Sony and Sony puts the blame on T-Mobile. Either way, they are expecting an additional $318 from me. Bottom line, "IF THEY ARE NOT ON DRUGS, THEN THEY NEED TO BE", because I'm done with both.
I don't care about its audio quality because I'm always using headphones. I also don't care if the screen is bad if you view it while tilting it because I'll be using the Z by looking at it DIRECTLY, and not tilted. And why would someone complain if it's screen is bad of you slightly tilt it. Is someone even gonna use their phone that way?? Anyway, awesome review. I'm still getting that phone. :D
Awesome unbias review, i noticed you didnt mention anything about battery life. From the way you described the viewin angles im assuming it will probably be bad under sun light?
What about the ZL , is there any chance of review on this. Good review, I think phones are going beyond what we use and need. This is a good choice this year
The Xperia ZL isn't waterproof, right? So, are there any chances that the screen protector on the display wouldn't be there on the ZL and it might make the viewing angles better?
The dropping of the battery by 3% is normal according to the user guide that's the way it works for them to prolong the life of the battery. It does get hot when I use mobile data a little longer.
I own it for 10 months now. Love water resistance feature: took many photos of kids in summer at the water, also you can relax in a bathtub and watch some videos without risking of damaging you phone :) I am not so much pleased with photo quality in comparison with iPhone 4S I had before. But quality is better than Galaxy S3 which my husband owns. I always make better looking pictures in same circumstances on auto settings. What I do not like is the battery life. Hardly can survive one day in case of heavy usage.
You can get the HTC Sense interface with it when you root your device. And the specs are most likely identical with the S4, except for the display resolution and the size, whereas the pixel density is identical.
Also, the specs are only as good as the software optimization for the hardware which a lot of manufacturers have been lacking, so you may want to look into that.
Hey Marques, I'm kinda finding the Xperiz Z a hard phone to like. Many of the features its got is compatible with the HTC One and the Samsung GS4 but it sorta lacks the features that puts it above the others, it doesn't have an innovattive feature, but is like an underdog rival. I'm not sure if the Sony Xperia Z is my new number one phone, but it does seem like a good nominee. But in terms of performance, storage and graphics, would you recommend it to someone over the HTC One or Samsung GS4?
I love your review, but I thing that the Xperia Z is the best of two worlds, 1. A beautiful desing with great hardware fighting against the biggest phones out there, s4, htc one, iphone 5,and 2. the water and dust proof
Great idea to compare the viewing angles and the speaker with the Oppo find. I've seen reviews were they play music on the Xperia Z but you can't really tell if it sounds good or not, because you have no comparison.
Good point! It's not like you're gonna be using your phone obliquely. It may even help a bit with your privacy as the people beside you have more difficulty reading what you're texting or something...
6 years later and now every high end phone must have ip68, yet when Sony did it, it was a contradiction. Damn...
Indeed and then there's their 21:9 aspect ratios screens instead of the weird half assed ones that are 19:9 or 20:9 and not to mention their new battery care tech that allows the phone to bypass the battery when plugged in to use the power cord to run a power intensive application, yet almost no "big" reviewers talk about but when it is included on the other major brands everyone will praise them
Then there was the 3 layer stacked cmos sensor (that allowed 960 fps slow mo and eliminated rolling shutter), which many people called it useless and a gimmick
*Until Samsung copied it*
It did work
Too bad its the dislike button that actually works
@Kenzo Wilder A pair of bots - better than just one bot!
The problem with the Xperia Z is that there are only reviews with the very first onboard software. Since the phone has been around for more than 1 and a half years, there have been some MAJOR updates, all covering the issues that everybody claimed in the beginning. For example, the sound quality of the internal speaker has been highly improved by adding the features "Clear Phase(TM)" and "xLOUD(TM)". Sony really did its homework and tried to improve as much as possible on their former flagship Xperia Z. It would be interesting to do a comparison video "old software vs. new software on Xperia Z".
Great review man, probably your best looking review yet!
Mhbhd old logo looking a lot like Xiaomi's 😂
Lol it does
I have had the Sony Experia Z for some time now, and I cannot fault it. I am looking to upgrade it soon to a Sony Experia Z3. I would always stick by Sony products as they have never let me down yet - unlike Apple. They are sleek, sexy-looking, and performance-wise, I cannot fault them. One more thing to add is that this review is old.
All of the issues that you have come across with this device, have been solved - due to software upgrades. The device has been around for quite a long time now, and Sony have solved all of the problems you have mentioned here. The device is a top-quality product - much more better than Apple Iphone 6. And those who purchase this product will not be disappointed.
One very last point. I have accidentally dropped this phone more than once, and it is as tough as nails. Not one mark on it. I was expecting the glass display to shatter, but nothing at all. So, it is not only beautiful but very tough and rugged too. I would NOT RECOMMEND DROPPING IT, I am just saying that I dropped it through being careless. However, it still works as good as new.
Are you still using Sony?
@@harryjames7117💀
Im using now sony xperia1iii
Say what you want but almost 3 years later this beast is running the latest android version available ....yeah! that's better product support than even google offers to nexus owners! Sony FTW!
+BakyLive Not FTW, with 5.1.1 there's a huge battery drain for the Xperia Z :/ Have to use my Huawei phone because of this.
lol i still juse it with the android 10 ;)
Dude i had this phone 2015 anf 2016... How many years after release and it was awesome.... My favorite phone of all times. Design Still beautiful todah
i have had this phone for 6 months now and i love it! the kitkat firmware is butter smooth and the camera is awesome, i also discovered the z will get the android L update in early 2015 :)
Super happy with sony, great company
I have it for 2 weeks, it's an alright phone but dear god the battery is a disgrace.
John Doe I'm going to get z3 soon. Does the z3 have bigger battery life than z1?
Daniel Ngo well the z3 has a 3100 mAh battery and the z 2330 mAh battery, so its a better battery.
thx. I was too lazy to google it :p
His voice has deepened nicely for his profession over the years :)
Tell me one good reason to look at your screen in any kind of that weird angles... I have the xperia z and is way better any Samsung I have before
Watching this in 2020, I had this phone when it first came out. Now I'm looking forward to getting the Xperia 1ii.
Did you get it?
2021
shocked you don't have the Xperia Z3 review :( please do Z3
Twisted Nematic. It's a type of display used in early LCDs mainly used on mobile phones before 2010. Just for comparison, it's the same panel that's implemented on the first iPhone in 2007. LCD panels that are not IPS are mostly TN.
why is viewing angles such a bid deal? You look at your phone straight ok, STRAIGHT. YOU DON'T LOOK ON IT FROM THE SIDE OTHERWISE YOU IT'D BE HARD TO READ TEXTS!!
This is a bullshit excuse to defend Sony for that terrible viewing angles. Honestly they fucked up really bad at this department.
+Trevor Philips im not trying to make an excuse. I am not a fan of sony but why would normal people have a big deal about this?
cj eddie because i can and i dont recall liking my own comment.
cj eddie btw no need to swear man, big deal....im just mad at how the guy says it
+cj “toast” eddie So now your saying i cant watch certain videos in RUclips if im not a fan? You aint my mother bro
Thank you Marques for putting quality reviews on RUclips. You are the reason I have purchased many products and been very happy with them! Keep it up bro!
why would any one want to view a phone from different angles, when you could just hold it upright ?
lol exactly,
Thanks man, you're probably the most sensible reviewer I've seen in a long time. Keep it up!
the only bad thing about this phone is the speaker...but if you just use it for gaming or entertainment its perfect, i dont need high volume speaker on a phone that everybody in the park can listen my music...for that i use my headphones... Cam is waaay better than the Nexus, Htc One X, Galaxy S3 and 4... Only Xperia T and Z1 is better in low light...i have the phone for 6 months with 4.3 and it destroys all my friends plastic and non proof phones...
u mean that the camera is better than the S4
I almost never comment anything on youtube - but: INSANELY nice review, insightful and straight to the point. Keep up the good work and greetings from Germany.
I love it, I am just about to buy it and I'm really excited!
Not yet, I found out that my contract has not finished yet :/ It ends on the 26. As soon as I get it I will give you feedback if you want. :)
Im also gonna buy it :D
U will regret it.. for sure
ibrahim mohammed Why do you think so?
slow updates ,
i had this and had some speaker problems ..
its water resistant but it ruined my speaker!
New generation should watch these videos to realise that there was a time when these first generation smartphones were dream of many youngsters.
Hey, I've heard that this phone gets pretty heated while talking for a while... is that true??
Md. Rahman Yep
my first ''high end'' phone, classic!
marques can u tell me what android phone u can recommend.i look forward to hear from u. thanks in advance!
thank you marques. more power and keep it up!!
Get the galaxy s10 plus
I hardly leave comments on videos, but I have to say that I personally think that your videos are awesome. When I wanted a review on that phone I just searched it, when I didn't find your name in the top results I added it cause I wanted your review about. Nicely done as always, keep it up! ... Peace
Xperia ( Ex-pee-ri-ya )
I've had the Xperia Z for a few weeks now, I don't have much to compare it to, but the display is beautiful. I love the phone with two pet peeves, first is that the speaker gets covered up easily, and second is that is gets pretty warm after use because there are really no air vents since it's all sealed up.
Should i get this or a nexus 4?
If i were to get the Z now, it would come with the latest version of android right?
Absolutely man, Android 4.2, the latest and greatest Android version
I have This phone still 2023 and it's working but we facing many problems in this phone now
I didn't know looking at your screen from an angle was such a big deal..
Marques... This is one of the best reviews i have ever seen from you is honest and is not influenced by favoritism... I use a Nexus 4 and i'm waiting for your thoughts about the new Galaxy S4...
2019?
i seriously love your reviews, very simple, beautiful, and smart.
Is it only me getting pissed of with how he pronounces the phone. Speria z........ Na m8, Its the Xperia with a X
Watching this in 2023! Funny to watch MKBHD😂
Me too lol
Watching this on my Xperia Z
same. and i love it
Tried the Xperia Z and was very very impress with it's default camera apps. The Superior Auto is very clever and the flash lighting is the best of all phone camera I've seen.
Speaker is that bad bc of the wateproof cover...
I have this phone and I love it! The day I got it, my brother called me and said he's going to the T-Mobile store to pick up new phones. So I quickly browsed through T-Mobile's store online and saw this and picked it in a few hours. Best decision ever!
Can you get clash of clans on the sony xperia z
You can get that game with ANY Android or iOS device...
So you can get clash of clans on this
Solas Cady ...maybe
I wouldn't recommend one of these at all. In the two years I've had mine it's been replaced once due to a faulty power button, the gaskets on the flaps have failed meaning they no longer close meaning it's not water resistant, the lag is just awful all of the time, software updates have been slow and very buggy killing the battery, the screen is disappointing beside a Samsung, and it was very expensive. I'll never get a Sony phone again.
I've had mine for about a year and a half now, before it I had a Xperia SP and HTC 1 mini. Both of which gave me terrible trouble. But I have to say, my Xperia Z hasn't given me too many problems. Yeah it freezes the odd time and I have to do a hard reboot but aside from that I can't complain. Maybe you just got a dodgy handset?
Damien McGrath - I have to agree with you. This is my 3rd Xperia Z after returning the other 2 to T-Mobile. They claim I have to pay $318 for water damage after I returned it due to the gasket and flap falling off. I returned it all with original condition and although they claim it is water resistance, it must not be able to handle "humidity". My guess anyways.
+Anna Salgado I know, sony is i think have the worst customer service. I am using my 3rd Xperia Z right now.
I just broke my Galaxy Note 4 and while I'm waiting for the insurance repair I purchased a used xperia z1 compact simply because it was the cheapest phone in the shop.
I'm shocked. This phone is 18 months old and scratched to bits but it's still the fastest android phone I've ever used. After my crappy, Laggy, overheating, bad battery life original xperia z this really is a surprise even with all the apps now added same as the Note 4.
I've never seen such fast non apple phone. The only reason ill go back to my lagging Samsung is the amoled screen and stylus versatility which I love.
My last comment wasn't an opinion, it's a fact. "I fail to see how anyone would ever use their phone at 90 degress" offended me. Not all people watch the phone's contents alone. Also from a screen purists point of view, it's not all about whether you can see the screen from a certain degree or not. It's about how good the overall screen quality is and the technology behind it.
Already watched before 10 years
After 10 years Xperia 1 V ❤❤❤❤❤❤
This guy always does the best reviews
I am using Xperia Z for like a year now, and all i can say is that it's the best phone. Fast, no lags it's definitely perfect.
My fav youtuber about tech. Amazing review man.
TFT (Thin film transistor) exists in LCD and AMOLED screen, the display used by xperia z is "TN TFT LCD", actually TN (Twisted Nematic)is the first generation of the LCD, when displaying white, the liquid crystal will try to let as much light to pass the screen, when displaying black,the liquid crystals will try to block as much light as it can, to display black.
The screen we normally seen are TFT IPS LCD, IPS= (In Plane Switching)
IPS improved contrast ratio and viewing angle, compared to TN.
I have had my Sony Xperia Z for about a month now and I absolutely love it. I don't know if they updated the phone but I do not see any problem with the viewing angle on the screen and the home bar is black on my Xperia not gray. I also love it being waterproof. My friends are amazed to watch me wash my phone in the sink. I am also amazed by the build quality. This phone is amazing. Obviously this is my personal opinion and everyone has a right to there own opinion, this is just mine.
why u never review iPhone 5 ????!!! or had any comparisons with it?? just asking
2021 vs 2013 😱
Technology has improved leaps and bounds
It's ironic how a company like SONY doesn't put a decent display for its flagship device. Sony has always been known for making one of the best TV displays out there.
I find having good viewing angles on the phone is helpful when you're reading an article on the phone while having lunch and the phone is on the table, or even showing something on the phone and finding that you have to angle the entire phone towards them. Small inconveniences that you don't find on other phones.
Thanks for the review Marques...
Seriously man... I was waiting for your review for this phone & now that you have thoroughly reviewed & thrown your opinions about it , its much easier for me now to decide ...
Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro is 2012...
Qualcomm 600 & 800 is what we want to see...
Thanks Marques ... Peace :)
This phone survived a Tough Mudder race with me through the mud pits, submerged lakes and dives. It was cool to be able to take pics along the way. For the outdoor oriented surely a great buy. The speakers are a let down but everything else about this phone is awesome!
Im not going to not lie I bought this for my daughter and an S4 for myself, and love both of them...Im pretty excited to see what the are going to do with the sequel to Xperia Z in thr next few months....the lack of bloatware and more google look and awesome build quality is just cool to me
Great review! What do you think about the Xperia ZL?
frankly, i got this phone a week ago and the screen angles are no the the best but try watching a movie on it and you will be astonished..premium looks and material, high end specs and waterproofing, that's what made it for me, the camera can take some superb shoots too....comon how many high end 1080p 5" phones can you take to the beach or a swim pool and never worry
What fps video does this phone record 30p or 50p ❓
Low viewing angles isn't a con for everyone. But low viewing angles literally means cheap display.
Thats soo gonna go for SG S4. If you want waterproof and slim, just go for XPERIA Z. But all other stuff will most likely go with S4.
Here what I have:
1. S4 Has SAMOLED screen vs Z's TFT LCD Display
2. S4 uses Gorilla Glass 3 vs the Z's Sony's screen
3. S4 supports dual band connection on wifi modems which makes internet alot more faster.
4. S4's bluetooth supports EDR and LE
5. S4 has an infrared port to control infrared devices
6. In camera, S4 supports alot more features
Love your review, just one thing: the speaker on the Z is on the side, on the opposite side where your mic was in the "music benchmark" and also it has to be water resistant, this means it probably don't let water go inside and air (music) outside easily. So, you're right, it depends on what we want from a phone.
My father owned a xperia z a few years ago. The perk of it being waterproof and taking it to swimming pools was amazing. It also recieved latest Android updates.
It was running smoothly until it's screen broke. While putting on a screen protector.
Yeah.
The screen was replaced for around $150 and then the back glass broke. Then my father bought a new phone since the screen was also not as good as the original.
But 1 thing for sure, the Xperia Z is a polished product.
Great balanced report in this video. How do you think it would compare to the Nexus 4?
Hey MKBHD Are you going to be reviewing the Xperia Z1? And do you expect the bug bears you had with the Z to be greatly improved or gone all together?
I really can't decide on a new phone. I'd like the one but am reluctant because of the camera and also I had a one x which was a complete let down. I like the idea of the Galaxy S4 but I don't care for the cheap feel and some of the gimmicky features and I've never used a Samsung before. As you can tell I like my top end phones. Any advice?
Can I ask you which KW you have?
My Xperia Z is KW10 and it has a beatiful display and camera! I compared it to the phones in my shop and I saw a big difference between the two XZ.
On mine were much better viewing angels, better colors and a much better camera. The display isn't washed out too. I think sony just built phones with different components.
The latest firmware update improves the display quality and also changes the grey theme to dark black.
You should reconsider it.
I know you didn't mention this, but despite the camera, the HTC One brings the aspects of the the SG 4 and Xperia Z together.
You get the build quality of the Xperia Z, yet you get the performance of an S4. The only thing thats lacking is the camera so.... Not to mention you still get an amazing display with the HTC One. You make the choice.
I had this phone. It was one of my favorite phones of all time!
This is the best review of the Z that I've ever watched (and I watched almost ALL of them). I am a Sony fan for years I bought their phones before Android and since Android i had X10, Arc, Arc S and currently Xperia S but that was it for me. I loved Xperia Z when was only a rumor but they lost me with that display this time. You are right on every single point about this device and I agree. I'm sorry Sony but now I'm going for the HTC ONE
I was nine when I last watched this video ❤
I bought this phone through T-Mobile; I agree with Marques' review. I do have an issue with dropping calls when it goes from cellular to Wireless. Is that T-Mobile or the phone itself?
By the way for those that do not Follow Sony Ericsson the Z is NOT i repeat NOT the flagship for 2013, Sony's Flagship is a Phablet (coming out sometime q2?) that should set the bar really high, i for one am happy that a new player has joined Sammy and Apple.
Love the Xperia Z.......almost 5 years with mine, 0 problem!!!! Now i got the XZ premium!!!
Please tell me speaker was blocked by your desk
Enjoyed the review; has any updates from Sony corrected the screen problems?
Sony Xperia Golden days ❤❤❤
I have to agree with Damien McGrath. I have had to replace my original Xperia Z twice in the past 2 years due to the faulty gaskets around the charging port. I just finally paid off this $600 phone from T-Mobile and they are charging me $318 for "alleged water damage". My phone was never near water and is supposed to be water proof and has a hard protective cover over it. I have received the run around from T-Mobile and they put the blame on Sony and Sony puts the blame on T-Mobile. Either way, they are expecting an additional $318 from me. Bottom line, "IF THEY ARE NOT ON DRUGS, THEN THEY NEED TO BE", because I'm done with both.
Anna Salgado - correction (Water Resistance) not water proof. Either way, it might resist water but not humidity.
@marques...brillant review...im in a dillema whether to go for the note 2 or the xperia z...which one would you recommend ...please please let me know
I don't care about its audio quality because I'm always using headphones. I also don't care if the screen is bad if you view it while tilting it because I'll be using the Z by looking at it DIRECTLY, and not tilted. And why would someone complain if it's screen is bad of you slightly tilt it. Is someone even gonna use their phone that way??
Anyway, awesome review. I'm still getting that phone. :D
Marques, they've just announced a google edition Xperia Z. Thoughts?
Awesome unbias review, i noticed you didnt mention anything about battery life.
From the way you described the viewin angles im assuming it will probably be bad under sun light?
What about the ZL , is there any chance of review on this. Good review, I think phones are going beyond what we use and need. This is a good choice this year
Hey Marques, just wondering, you reckon you'd trade your current smartphone and use the Xperia Z as your primary phone?
The Xperia ZL isn't waterproof, right?
So, are there any chances that the screen protector on the display wouldn't be there on the ZL and it might make the viewing angles better?
The dropping of the battery by 3% is normal according to the user guide that's the way it works for them to prolong the life of the battery. It does get hot when I use mobile data a little longer.
Z Is such a awesome phone I love everything about it and the 4.4.2 kitkat update has made it beautiful
In 2022 still it’s getting ON
I own it for 10 months now. Love water resistance feature: took many photos of kids in summer at the water, also you can relax in a bathtub and watch some videos without risking of damaging you phone :) I am not so much pleased with photo quality in comparison with iPhone 4S I had before. But quality is better than Galaxy S3 which my husband owns. I always make better looking pictures in same circumstances on auto settings. What I do not like is the battery life. Hardly can survive one day in case of heavy usage.
You just earned all my respect by demoing with Purity Ring. You've got a good taste, bro! :)
He reviewd it very well. For gods stop making harsh comments.
Marques i have one question
in your honest opinion which is much better?
iphone 5 or the xperia z?
please answer .
in terms of price wise, z cos its price is quite low compared to ip5.
You can get the HTC Sense interface with it when you root your device.
And the specs are most likely identical with the S4, except for the display resolution and the size, whereas the pixel density is identical.
Maybe you should do a re-review of the Xperia Z. After the firmware update, the colours actually has been fixed along with other bugs.
thanks mate...........and there is no problem to pill off the screen protecter then?
Also, the specs are only as good as the software optimization for the hardware which a lot of manufacturers have been lacking, so you may want to look into that.
Hey Marques,
I'm kinda finding the Xperiz Z a hard phone to like. Many of the features its got is compatible with the HTC One and the Samsung GS4 but it sorta lacks the features that puts it above the others, it doesn't have an innovattive feature, but is like an underdog rival.
I'm not sure if the Sony Xperia Z is my new number one phone, but it does seem like a good nominee. But in terms of performance, storage and graphics, would you recommend it to someone over the HTC One or Samsung GS4?
Marques ... the wallpaper you are using on your devices (Oppo Find 5 and Z ) is from HTC ONE right ?? :)
I love your review, but I thing that the Xperia Z is the best of two worlds, 1. A beautiful desing with great hardware fighting against the biggest phones out there, s4, htc one, iphone 5,and 2. the water and dust proof
How do you get all these phones.. And also you use each one of em as your daily driver for some time.. Cool!
Great idea to compare the viewing angles and the speaker with the Oppo find.
I've seen reviews were they play music on the Xperia Z but you can't really tell if it sounds good or not, because you have no comparison.
Good point! It's not like you're gonna be using your phone obliquely. It may even help a bit with your privacy as the people beside you have more difficulty reading what you're texting or something...