It's rare to see two top-selling smartphones on the market each year. This usually happens with flagship models, but until now, it's never been the case with phablets. The Galaxy Note has a rival, and it's from Sony. We compare the two devices in this review: Samsung Galaxy Note 3 vs Sony Xperia Z Ultra.
This guide brings together key technical data , everyday usage differences, and extras that might sway your decision. In addition to retaining the essentials from our initial test, we've integrated concrete figures for dimensions , weight , pixel density , connectivity , S Pen software improvements, and camera details from leading industry sources to give you a truly comprehensive overview.
Screen and camera
The screen is the star of this comparison. Phablets are characterized by one main feature: a larger screen than conventional smartphones. The Sony Xperia Z Ultra's screen is almost twice the size of screens from just a few years ago. In fact, it's a 6,44-inch screen with Triluminos technology . The difference compared to the Galaxy Note 3 is significant, as the latter has a 5,7-inch screen . However, in terms of resolution, there's no difference, as both screens are 1920 x 1080 pixels , Full HD. The South Korean smartphone's technology is also different, featuring a Super AMOLED screen . In any case, the only real difference is the screen size, and here it's a matter of choosing between one that's almost tablet-sized or something more standard.
Adding up the reference data, the Note 3 packs that resolution into a more compact panel, offering around 386 ppi compared to the Xperia Z Ultra's approximately 341-344 ppi . In practice, this translates to sharper text on the Note 3, while the Sony gains in usable screen space for productivity and entertainment. The Note 3's AMOLED panel delivers very deep blacks and high contrast, while the Z Ultra's LCD panel with Triluminos boasts more natural colors and excellent uniformity in bright sunlight. The choice depends on whether you prioritize perceived quality or size.
In terms of ergonomics, it's worth noting that the Z Ultra measures approximately 179,4 x 92,2 x 6,5 mm and weighs around 212 g , while the Note 3 measures 151,2 x 79,2 x 8,3 mm and weighs 168 g . As a result, the Note 3 is more manageable and suitable for one-handed use, and the Sony, despite being thinner, is noticeably larger and heavier.
Expanding on some important details, the Note 3 includes an LED flash and a 2MP front-facing camera , while the Xperia Z Ultra, with its 8MP Exmor RS sensor , lacks a built-in flash and also has a front-facing camera of around 2MP . In terms of video, the Note 3 records up to 4K at 30fps and offers slow motion in certain modes, a valuable feature for creators; the Sony records reliably at 1080p at 30fps . If advanced photography and video are priorities, the Note 3 is the better choice; if you prefer a simple yet capable setup, the Z Ultra delivers.
Processor and RAM
We've left this aspect for later because in this case it wasn't as relevant as the screen and camera. The processor is also the same in both cases, although there will be a version of the Galaxy Note 3 with a different processor. However, the version of the Note 3 that will arrive in Spain will have a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor , the same one found in the Sony Xperia Z Ultra.
However, the RAM in both phones will differ. The Japanese smartphone will have 2GB of RAM , while the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 will have 3GB . It's also worth noting that this is the only smartphone currently available on the market with this amount of RAM. This is certainly something to consider.
Breaking down the platform, both use the Snapdragon 800 (8974) with an Adreno 330 GPU , although the Note 3 operates at a slightly higher frequency, around 2,3 GHz , compared to the Z Ultra's typical 2,2 GHz . Depending on the region, the Note 3 also had a variant with an Exynos 5 Octa . In real-world performance, the leap is most noticeable in heavy multitasking and when using S Pen features, where the 3 GB of RAM makes it easier to keep more apps open smoothly. In gaming, the combination of the Adreno 330 and Full HD displays ensures stable frame rates in demanding titles on both devices.
Operating System
And if the Galaxy Note 3 was superior to the Sony Xperia Z Ultra in the previous aspects, this will be no different. Although there won't be many differences in essence, the Note 3 will run Android 4.3 Jelly Bean , while the Sony Xperia Z Ultra will have Android 4.2 Jelly Bean . While it's obvious they won't be long in updating, and probably to Android 4.4 KitKat , it's always something to consider when choosing between one smartphone or the other. As far as the software is concerned, it's a matter of personal preference. Some prefer Samsung's interface and apps, while others prefer Sony's.
Furthermore, Samsung enhances its offering with the S Pen and dedicated features like Air Command , Scrapbook , and Pen Window , which streamline content cropping, floating windows, and gesture navigation without touching the screen. Sony, on the other hand, focuses on a cleaner Android experience with tools such as Small Apps , handwriting recognition , and one-handed modes . The choice here depends on whether you prioritize stylus productivity or a lighter interface.
Battery and memory
Finally, we need to focus on the battery and memory of these two devices. The Sony Xperia Z Ultra has 16 GB of internal storage , expandable up to 64 GB with a microSD card . However, the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 comes with either 32 or 64 GB of storage , also expandable via microSD card. Furthermore, the Galaxy Note 3 boasts a 3.200 mAh battery , while the Sony smartphone has a 3.050 mAh battery and a screen that is expected to consume more power.
In practical terms, the Note 3 offers slightly better battery life for video and browsing under similar usage conditions , thanks to its AMOLED panel and smaller screen size. The Z Ultra compensates with energy optimizations and can achieve impressive standby times . Manufacturer estimates suggest 3G talk time of 16-21 hours and standby time of 17-34 days , depending on the network. A key advantage of the Note 3 is its removable battery , allowing you to replace it or use an extended battery; it also features USB 3.0 for faster data transfers and improved charging. Both phones accept microSD cards and support advanced multimedia profiles.
Miscellany
There are two things to keep in mind. The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 has an S Pen stylus , which the Sony Xperia Z Ultra lacks. However, the latter incorporates technology that allows you to use any common object as a stylus , such as a regular pencil or marker. This is a truly important feature. On the other hand, the Z Ultra is water-resistant , while the Galaxy Note 3 is not, and again, this feature could be the deciding factor when choosing between the two.
We add here several nuances that influence the decision:
- Complete connectivity: both models offer NFC, Bluetooth 4.0, WiFi a / b / g / n / ac, LTE 4G y GPS. The Note 3 adds USB 3.0 and, depending on the market, IR emitter to control televisions.
- Materials and design: The Note 3 opts for a back with a finish like synthetic skin Made of polycarbonate, comfortable and with good grip. The Xperia Z Ultra maintains its lines angular and a premium style with Cristal and 6,5mm slim frame.
- Dimensions and weight: : the size of the Sony brings it closer to a typical use compact tablet, while the Note 3 is more balanced for the pocket.
Availability and price
The Sony Xperia Z Ultra will be available for purchase on September 12th for €799 . Two weeks later, the new Samsung Galaxy Note 3 will arrive; we don't yet have a price for it, but we can expect the price to be announced soon.
These prices are for the launch and may change over time depending on offers, carriers, and promotions. The final decision may depend on availability in your region and bundles with accessories or data plans.
As a general idea, those looking for a productivity- focused phablet with an advanced stylus, better camera , and more compact body will find the Galaxy Note 3 a more versatile companion; if the priority is a huge screen for multimedia, an ultra-thin design, and water resistance , the Xperia Z Ultra offers a different experience that many users appreciate, especially if they also use it as an occasional tablet substitute.
