After Official presentation of the Sony Xperia Z1 Dozens of comparisons of the new flagship of the brand are already flooding the network. Sony with some of the heavyweights of the world's leading smartphone brands. Obviously, in AndroidHelp We were not going to be less but, if you allow us, we would like to confront the latest from the Japanese company with one of the devices that since its presentation in early August had been well deserved with the award of being One of the best on the market. Well, we invite you to see them face to face.
It will be obvious to any seasoned reader - and in this house you are the vast majority - that we are talking about two smartphones of high end and, therefore, with retail prices that go beyond the average budget. Nevertheless, it is equally evident that we are referring to two devices in which Price and quality are not the only things they have in common; so is the powerful processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 with which they are equipped.
What do they have inside?
To make the comparison of these two monsters of mobile telephony as deep as possible, we are going to rely on the comparator of technical sheets that our colleagues provide us with. another blog and whose capture you can see above these lines. In the same way and as the first thing that reaches our eyes is the exterior, we will go from inside to outside.
In this way we will highlight that, although both smartphones are equipped with the same chipset Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 with graphics processor (GPU) Adreno 330, we must emphasize that The LG's quad-core processor runs at 2,26 GHz, a little above - even a little is already something - of the 2,2 GHz from Sony. The GPU in both cases runs around 450 MHz, which translates into very reliable graphics performance for heavy games and apps.
With regards to RAM, both devices match by having 2 GB. There are important nuances regarding internal storage: The Sony Xperia Z1 was marketed with 16 GB y supports microSD cards up to 64GB for expansion, while The LG G2 is offered in 16 or 32 GB internal memory no microSD slotThis point is key for those who need a lot of local space for photos, videos, or music.
In the same line, Both the Sony Xperia Z1 and LG G2 came with Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean and its own customization layers, with subsequent updates distributed by each manufacturer. To close the "insides" section, both integrate a 3.000 mAh battery, a figure that at the time set the bar for the high-end range and which still today guarantees long days with balanced use.
Screen
We now move on to the specifications, which, although we can see them with the naked eye, hold more secrets than we might initially expect. 5,2-inch display of the LG G2 is slightly larger than that of the Sony Xperia Z1 – just five inches –. Both are capacitive and multi-touch; in the case of the LG is dealing with an IPS panel (True HD-IPS+) with consistent colors and 424 dpi, while Sony's flagship is betting on a TFT panel with Triluminos technology y 441 dpi. Going back to coincidences, Both offer Full HD resolution (1.920 x 1.080 pixels).
Beyond resolution the screen-to-body ratio makes a difference on the front: the LG G2 is around 75,8%, which results in very contained frames, and the Xperia Z1 close to 64,5%, with a more classic design in which the frame is visible. This explains why the LG, even with a larger panel, feels more compact in the hand.
In protection, both resorted to Gorilla Glass to minimize scratches on the panel. The technology Triluminos The Z1's provides purer colors through a nanoparticle lighting system, while the G2 IPS stands out for its wide viewing anglesIf you value viewing the screen from different angles without color loss, the G2 has the advantage; if you prioritize sharpness and its own image processing, the Z1 has a plus with X-Reality for mobiles.
Camera
We now enter the section that is possibly more unbalanced than those we will review in this comparison. Without wanting to detract at any time 13 megapixels of the very interesting camera of the LG G2, we must admit that this is the section in which The Sony Xperia Z1 puts much of the meat on the grillIn this sense, we are talking about a 20,7 megapixel camera with 1/2,3 inch sensor, BIONZ image processor y G Lens lensesSony's proposal adds High ISO, smart modes like Info-eye, Timeshift burst and AR Effect, and the possibility of a approximate 3x zoom with minimal loss thanks to the cropping on the high-resolution sensor.
On LG's part, the G2's camera incorporates Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), a key plus for cleaner night photos y more stable video. Additionally, the G2 can record in 1080p is 60 fps, while the Z1 offers 1080p is 30 fps with options like HDR in video and digital stabilization. In front cameras, both are betting on 2 MP with 1080p recording, enough for video calls and occasional selfies.
With everything and with that, we must admit that there are certain sections in which both terminals coincide, such as, for example, the led flash, digital zoom, The possibility of record video in Full HD (1080p) or compatibility with common video formats in playback and capture. The difference comes in how each brand implements processing and in the presence of OIS on the LG G2 Front of Superior resolution and sensor size in the Z1.
Exterior and dimensions
We finally turn to the most obvious of all: the external appearance of the two models in competition. With overall dimensions of 144 millimeters high, 74 millimeters wide and 8,5 thick; The Sony Xperia Z1 is at first glance slightly larger than its LG competitor except for the thickness – the LG G2 has dimensions of 138,5 by 70,9 by 8,9 millimeters –. The weight also makes a difference: the G2 is around 143 gr and the Z1 is coming close to 170 gr.
Regarding its general appearance, in Sony has opted for a more 'serious' look with clean lines similar to those we're already familiar with from other models from the house. In addition, It is resistant to dust and water with IP55/58 certifications, a feature that distinguishes it and provides peace of mind during splashes or dives controlled. For its part, LG has wanted to innovate in the image of its new model star including some revolutionary rear buttons to control the volume up and down. A striking and controversial design that also improves accessibility in one-handed use and releases the side frames.
A differential detail of the Z1 is its aluminium frame which provides rigidity and can also act as part of the antenna system. On the front, the taking advantage of the LG G2 It is notable thanks to its contained frames, while the Z1 opts for a more classic symmetrical aesthetic in the Xperia family.
Battery and connectivity
Both ride 3.000 mAh, a figure that in its configuration and optimization offers very good performance on a daily basis. The savings software also influences: Sony incorporates modes such as stamina y Low battery to cut down on background syncs and processes when needed, while LG intelligently adjusts network activity and brightness on its layer Optimus UIWith mixed usage (data, social media, camera, and some video), it's reasonable to complete the day without any problems.
In terms of connectivity, both offer what you'd expect from a high-end model: LTE (depending on variants and markets), Dual-band WiFi with 802.11ac support, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS with GLONASS y NFCThe physical part is completed with microUSB with MHL for multimedia output and compatibility with USB OTG, plus FM radio with RDS For those who don't want to rely on streaming. For calls, both offer high voice quality with noise cancellation and support for HD Voice when the operator's network allows it.
Software and extra features
Both share the same Android base but differ in their layers and add-ons. In the LG G2 Highlighting functions such as Answer me (automatically pick up the phone when the terminal is brought close to the ear), Plug & Pop (suggestions when connecting headphones or USB), QuickRemote (remote control thanks to infrared) and Guest Mode (guest mode with limited access). These improvements streamline common tasks and add value without overcomplicating the experience.
On Sony Xperia Z1 Its multimedia ecosystem stands out with Walkman, Album y Movies integrated with services such as Gracenote y Video/Music Unlimited, as well as applications for squeeze the camera , the Info-eye, Timeshift burst y AR EffectThe set maintains a relatively light and aesthetic layer consistent with the Xperia family.
Ergonomics and actual usage details
The ergonomics change noticeably between the two. The LG G2, more compact and lighter, feels very balanced for its screen size and the back buttons make it easy to control the volume during calls and navigate media without changing your grip. X, with straight lines and greater weight, transmits sturdiness and a premium feel in hand; its water resistance introduces protective caps which, although well resolved, involve opening/closing to access certain ports.
In pure performance, the experience with the Snapdragon 800 is outstanding in both: fluid interface, fast navigation y 3D games with a high frame rate. When choosing, preferences for camera, screen, ergonomics y software extras that the raw power, practically identical.
Either of the two models are winning bets for that pocket that can afford the price that Sony o LG go definitely ask for them. Either way, the potential buyer may opt for one or the other based on their personal preferences. If as a user you attach special importance to photography, you will obviously opt for the 20,7 megapixels of the Sony Xperia Z1. While that other lucky buyer who puts the availability of a slightly larger screen without losing the possibility of having a more than presentable camera and with optical stabilization, maybe I can choose the LG G2 for being a new looking smartphone and that will undoubtedly arouse the interest and praise of those who admire him - which does not mean that the Sony don't do it, mind you.
It is worth keeping in mind some nuances that can tip the balance: if you need microSD and you are attracted to it water resistance, the Z1 fits like a glove; if you're looking for maximum use of the front, a terminal lighter y OIS On camera, the G2 is a very solid choice. Both share the Snapdragon 800 heart and a generous battery, so the final decision comes down to those fine details of use and the type of experience you prefer.