Category: Hardware

Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact

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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.

Sony Xperia XZ2

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The Sony Xperia XZ2 is the larger sibling to the Xperia XZ2 Compact and was a part of Sony’s flagship lineup for 2018. Here’s an in-depth review of the Sony Xperia XZ2:

Overview:

Introduced in 2018, the Xperia XZ2 showcased Sony’s revamped design language, moving away from the “OmniBalance” design to the “Ambient Flow” design. It was a significant step forward in terms of aesthetics and features for Sony.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Initially shipped with Android 8.0 Oreo, but upgradable to later versions.
  2. Display: 5.7-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels, supporting HDR10.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 845.
  4. Memory: 4/6 GB RAM (depending on the region) with 64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
  5. Camera: Single 19 MP rear camera with capabilities like 4K HDR video recording and super slow-motion video at 960fps. The front camera is a 5 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 3180 mAh non-removable battery with USB Type-C fast charging and wireless charging support.
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP68 dust/water resistance, stereo speakers, and Dynamic Vibration System.

Pros:

  1. Performance: With the Snapdragon 845 at its core, the Xperia XZ2 offers top-tier performance, handling tasks and games with ease.
  2. Camera Capabilities: The 19 MP Motion Eye camera is capable of impressive slow-motion video and 4K HDR recording.
  3. Design and Build: The new design language offers a fresh look, with a curved back and premium materials.
  4. Audio Experience: Front-facing stereo speakers and support for LDAC and aptX HD offer a rich audio experience.
  5. Wireless Charging: The inclusion of wireless charging is a welcome feature, adding to the convenience.

Cons:

  1. No Headphone Jack: The XZ2, like its Compact sibling, dropped the 3.5mm headphone jack, which was a point of contention for some users.
  2. Dynamic Vibration System: While unique, some users found this feature, which provides haptic feedback during media playback, to be more gimmicky than practical.
  3. Camera Software: Despite having capable hardware, some users felt the camera software could benefit from further refinements, especially in low light scenarios.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its segment, the Xperia XZ2 faced competition from:

  • Samsung Galaxy S9+: Offering a 6.2-inch Super AMOLED display, Snapdragon 845 (or Exynos 9810), and a dual-camera setup.
  • iPhone X: With its 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display, Apple A11 Bionic chip, and a dual 12 MP camera system.
  • Google Pixel 2 XL: Featuring a 6.0-inch P-OLED display, Snapdragon 835, and a highly-praised 12.2 MP camera.

Launch Date:

The Sony Xperia XZ2 was announced in February 2018.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Fingerprint Scanner Placement: Some users found the rear fingerprint scanner’s placement to be a bit too low, leading to occasional mis-taps.
  2. Weight and Thickness: The device was considered a bit chunky and heavy compared to some of its competitors.
  3. Heat Management: Similar to the Compact version, some users reported the device getting warm during extended camera use or gaming.

Conclusion:

The Sony Xperia XZ2 marked a significant shift in Sony’s smartphone design and was a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and quality. While it had its set of drawbacks, the device offered a balanced mix of performance, camera capabilities, and design. For Sony enthusiasts and users looking for a flagship experience with unique features like the Dynamic Vibration System, the Xperia XZ2 was a solid choice in 2018.

Motorola Moto G6 Plus

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The Motorola Moto G6 Plus was the more advanced sibling in the G6 lineup, offering enhanced specifications and features. Here’s an in-depth review of the Motorola Moto G6 Plus:

Overview:

Introduced in 2018 alongside the Moto G6, the Moto G6 Plus aimed to cater to users who wanted a bit more power and features from their mid-range device, without a significant jump in price.

Features:

  • Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.0 Oreo.
  • Display: 5.9-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels.
  • Processor: Qualcomm SDM630 Snapdragon 630 Octa-core.
  • Memory: Options of 4/6 GB RAM with 64/128 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD.
  • Camera: Dual rear camera setup – 12 MP primary sensor and 5 MP depth sensor. An 8 MP or 16 MP front camera (varies by region).
  • Battery: 3200 mAh non-removable battery with TurboPower fast charging.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC (in certain regions), and GPS.
  • Other Features: Front-mounted fingerprint sensor, USB Type-C, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Pros:

  • Performance: The Snapdragon 630 chipset, combined with options for more RAM, ensured smoother multitasking and overall performance compared to the standard G6.
  • Build and Design: Like the G6, the G6 Plus featured a glass back and aluminum frame, offering a premium feel in the mid-range segment.
  • Clean Software: Motorola’s near-stock Android with minimal additions was a highlight, ensuring a bloat-free experience.
  • Battery Life: The 3200 mAh battery, combined with efficient software optimizations, ensured a day’s worth of usage for most users.

Cons:

  • Camera Low-light Performance: While the camera was decent in well-lit conditions, it struggled to capture detail in low-light scenarios.
  • Weight and Size: The G6 Plus was slightly larger and heavier than the G6, which might not be comfortable for all users.
  • Competitive Market: The mid-range segment in 2018 was fiercely competitive, with several brands offering devices with similar or better specs at comparable prices.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2018, the Moto G6 Plus faced competition from various devices in the mid-range segment:

  • Nokia 7 Plus: Offering a larger battery, Android One experience, and a more powerful Snapdragon 660 chipset.
  • Xiaomi Mi A2: Known for its clean Android One experience, powerful specs, and impressive camera performance.
  • Asus Zenfone 5: With its AI-enhanced features, dual-camera setup, and Snapdragon 636 chipset.

Launch Date:

The Motorola Moto G6 Plus was announced in April 2018 and released in May 2018.

Common Issues/Problems:

  • Software Update Delays: Like the G6, the G6 Plus faced criticism for not receiving timely software updates.
  • Speaker Quality: The single front-facing speaker, while decent, wasn’t the loudest or clearest in its segment.
  • Durability Concerns: The glass back, though aesthetically pleasing, was prone to smudges and potential breakage upon impact.

Conclusion:

The Motorola Moto G6 Plus was a solid addition to the G series, offering users an option with enhanced performance and features compared to the standard G6. It retained the strengths of the G6, such as its design and clean software, while addressing some of its limitations with a more powerful chipset and increased RAM options. For users loyal to the Motorola brand or those looking for a balanced mid-range device with a touch of premium design, the G6 Plus was a compelling choice. However, in a saturated market, it faced stiff competition from brands offering devices with similar or better value propositions.

Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1

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The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1 was a notable release from Asus, targeting the mid-range segment with a focus on battery life and a clean Android experience. Here’s an in-depth review of the Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1:

Overview:

Introduced in 2018, the Zenfone Max Pro M1 was Asus’s attempt to capture a larger share of the competitive mid-range market. The device emphasized its massive battery and departure from the typical ZenUI in favor of a more stock-like Android experience.

Features:

  • Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.1 Oreo with a near-stock experience.
  • Display: 5.99-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels.
  • Processor: Qualcomm SDM636 Snapdragon 636 Octa-core.
  • Memory: Options of 3/4/6 GB RAM with 32/64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD.
  • Camera: Dual rear camera setup – 13 MP (or 16 MP for the 6 GB RAM model) primary sensor and a 5 MP depth sensor. An 8 MP (or 16 MP for the 6 GB RAM model) front camera.
  • Battery: A whopping 5000 mAh non-removable battery.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, and GPS.
  • Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a dedicated microSD slot.

Pros:

  • Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery was one of the main selling points, ensuring the phone lasted well over a day for most users, even with heavy usage.
  • Stock Android Experience: A departure from Asus’s typical ZenUI, the near-stock Android experience was a refreshing change and was well-received by users.
  • Performance: The Snapdragon 636 chipset, combined with ample RAM options, ensured smooth multitasking and decent gaming performance.
  • Value for Money: The device offered a balanced set of features for its price point, making it a compelling option in the mid-range segment.

Cons:

  • Camera Performance: While decent in well-lit conditions, the camera struggled in low-light scenarios and lacked some of the refinements seen in competitors.
  • Build Quality: The all-metal design, while sturdy, lacked the premium feel of glass-backed devices in its segment.
  • Slow Charging: Despite the large battery, the device did not support fast charging, making charging times lengthy.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2018, the Zenfone Max Pro M1 faced stiff competition in the mid-range segment:

  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro: With a similar Snapdragon 636 chipset, enhanced camera capabilities, and MIUI software experience.
  • Motorola Moto G6: Offering a glass design, clean software, and focus on camera capabilities.
  • Nokia 6.1 (Nokia 6 2018): With its robust build, clean Android One experience, and reliable performance.

Launch Date:

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1 was announced in April 2018 and released in May 2018.

Common Issues/Problems:

  • Software Bugs: Some users reported occasional software glitches and inconsistencies, especially with the camera app.
  • Delayed Updates: Despite the stock Android experience, the device faced delays in receiving timely software updates.
  • Speaker Quality: The single bottom-firing speaker, while decent, wasn’t particularly loud or clear.

Conclusion:

The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1 was a significant release for Asus, showcasing their ability to adapt to market demands and preferences. The device’s massive battery, combined with its clean software and balanced performance, made it a favorite among users looking for longevity and a no-nonsense Android experience. While it had its challenges, especially in the face of fierce competition, the Zenfone Max Pro M1 marked a positive direction for Asus in the mid-range smartphone market.