Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact

Into Droid Hardware

The Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact is part of Sony’s XZ2 series, which was introduced in 2018. The “Compact” moniker in Sony’s lineup typically refers to a smaller, more pocket-friendly version of their flagship devices, but without compromising much on the specifications. Here’s an in-depth review of the Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact:

Overview:

Launched in 2018, the Xperia XZ2 Compact was Sony’s answer to users who desired flagship-level performance in a more compact form factor. It retained many of the features of its bigger sibling, the Xperia XZ2, but in a smaller package.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.0 Oreo, upgradable to later versions.
  2. Display: 5.0-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels, supporting HDR10.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845.
  4. Memory: 4 GB RAM with 64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
  5. Camera: Single 19 MP rear camera with 4K HDR video recording and super slow-motion video at 960fps. The front camera is a 5 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 2870 mAh non-removable battery with USB Type-C fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP68 dust/water resistance, stereo speakers, and Dynamic Vibration System.

Pros:

  1. Compact Size: One of the few phones in the market to offer top-tier specs in a compact form factor.
  2. Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 845, the device offers smooth and responsive performance.
  3. Camera Capabilities: The 19 MP Motion Eye camera offers impressive slow-motion video capabilities and 4K HDR recording.
  4. Build Quality: Despite its size, the phone feels premium with a mix of glass and aluminum construction.
  5. Water and Dust Resistance: IP68 rating ensures the phone can handle splashes and brief submersion.

Cons:

  1. Battery Life: While decent, the 2870 mAh battery might not last a full day for heavy users, given the powerful internals.
  2. No Headphone Jack: Unlike its predecessors, the XZ2 Compact dropped the 3.5mm headphone jack.
  3. Design: Some users found the design to be a bit chunky compared to other compact phones.
  4. Front Camera: The 5 MP front camera might not be sufficient for users who prioritize selfies.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its segment, the Xperia XZ2 Compact faced competition from:

  • Samsung Galaxy S9: Offering a 5.8-inch Super AMOLED display, Snapdragon 845 (or Exynos 9810), and a variable aperture camera.
  • iPhone 8: With its 4.7-inch Retina IPS display, Apple A11 Bionic chip, and a single 12 MP camera.
  • Google Pixel 2: Featuring a 5.0-inch AMOLED display, Snapdragon 835, and a highly-praised 12.2 MP camera.

Launch Date:

The Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact was announced in February 2018.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Dynamic Vibration System: Some users found this feature, which adds haptic feedback to media playback, to be more of a gimmick than a useful feature.
  2. Camera Software: While the hardware was capable, some users felt that Sony’s camera software lacked some of the refinements seen in competitors.
  3. Heat Management: Some users reported the device getting warm during extended camera use or gaming.

Conclusion:

The Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact was a unique offering in 2018’s smartphone market. For users who desired flagship specifications but in a more manageable size, the XZ2 Compact was one of the few options available. While it made some compromises, like battery size and the omission of the headphone jack, it didn’t skimp on performance or general capabilities. For those who prioritize one-handed use and portability but still want a powerful device, the Xperia XZ2 Compact was a compelling choice.

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