Is this worth the upgrade from a Z3C? - Xperia Z5 Compact Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Hi all,
Just wondered what people's opinions are on upgrading from the Xperia Z3 compact to the Z5 Compact.
I generally keep my phones for 12 months then upgrade to get a decent resell value.
I love the Z3c and don't really want to go any bigger. Looking at the reviews the Z5c comes out as better value than the full size Z5, with almost identical hardware.
Any thoughts?
Sent from my D5803 using Tapatalk

Honestly, now its NO, but in month or two it just might be a YES. But keep tracking threads here to see general opinions.

Unless your waiting for the price to come down, I say buy! I also have the z3c but I feel the fingerprint scanner alone is worth the upgrade if you can handle it. The z5c has quick charging, a more powerful processor a more attractive build and improved speakers from what I gather. I was hesitant as well but actually because of things I read about performance problems but it seems there has been software updates to clean it up. Some say the Camara has a blurred edge at distance but honestly I could care less. Pictures for the Internet or the kids at events will be fine to take with this Camara and I'm not sure it's indicative of all units. I just ordered mine and can't wait! Remember Marshmallow hopefully in December!
Sent from my D5803 using Tapatalk

YesEvil said:
Hi all,
Just wondered what people's opinions are on upgrading from the Xperia Z3 compact to the Z5 Compact.
I generally keep my phones for 12 months then upgrade to get a decent resell value.
I love the Z3c and don't really want to go any bigger. Looking at the reviews the Z5c comes out as better value than the full size Z5, with almost identical hardware.
Any thoughts?
Sent from my D5803 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have upgraded from Z3c recently. After the latest software update, I can say that Z5c is better than Z3c in nearly every way. The battery life is a little worse but the camera is far better. The z5c is much better for gaming but there are occasional stutters in the UI. Once those are fixed, Z5c > Z3c
Speakers with clear audio turned on, are far better. And the fingerprint sensor is awesome. Plus, i LOVE the new back *_*

Sadman Khan said:
I have upgraded from Z3c recently. After the latest software update, I can say that Z5c is better than Z3c in nearly every way. The battery life is a little worse but the camera is far better. The z5c is much better for gaming but there are occasional stutters in the UI. Once those are fixed, Z5c > Z3c
Speakers with clear audio turned on, are far better. And the fingerprint sensor is awesome. Plus, i LOVE the new back *_*
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What stutters do you still see?
Sent from my D5803 using Tapatalk

What stutters? I dont see any with new update...

A few here and there. I see them hardly nowadays except for when i tap on a contact in the contacts app. Does anyone else have this? Other than that, it's perfect. Getting better everyday in fact

I've upgraded from Z1c(and also own a S6). The battery performance is identical to Z1c, it won't be as good as Z3c but still good enough for one day normal use.
The screen is much better than Z1c(should little better than Z3c as well). The real major improvement comes from camera, the focus is incredible now about the same with S6 while I think the details remain the same level on Z1c, still not as nice as S6 though. BTW, they finally fixed the annoyed focus which is a big big big mile stone.
If you don't always shoot photo then I think no need to Z5c wait one more year until SD820 Z6c comes out because Z5c is very hot during heavy gaming or video recording. My S6 performs much cooler, not to mention my even cooler SD810 Z1c. SD820 speed is real quick, though a bit slower than Exynos 7420 but on a 720P screen, I think the smoothness is nearly same, noticeably faster than Z1c.

I won't upgrade from my z3c.
The screen is basically the same, and the z5c is not as beautiful.
The battery is better on the z3c, and I am currently happy with the camera but I know it can probably be better in certain conditions.
I don't miss the fingerprint scanner since the lockscreen is automatically triggered with my smartwach presence.
Oh and my z3c is fast as hell and do not heat.
I don't thing the extra cost with it for me.
Envoyé de mon D5803 en utilisant Tapatalk

Sichroteph said:
I won't upgrade from my z3c.
The screen is basically the same, and the z5c is not as beautiful.
The battery is better on the z3c, and I am currently happy with the camera but I know it can probably be better in certain conditions.
I don't miss the fingerprint scanner since the lockscreen is automatically triggered with my smartwach presence.
Oh and my z3c is fast as hell and do not heat.
I don't thing the extra cost with it for me.
Envoyé de mon D5803 en utilisant Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I upgraded from z1 compact to z3 compact and was disappointed that nothing had improved. Now having upgraded from z3 compact to z5 compact and couldnt be more impressedimpressed.
1. Much better camera - video and pictures are great. Video is next to perfect!
2. The build and finish off the phone is impeccable. So nice in the hand.
3. The glass, front and back is 100% better. No finger prints on the back due to the frosting but the front glass is amazing! On the old z1 and z3 I had to wipe it all the time as the oil and prints from my fingers were always over it. (and I got super oily fingers) on the z5 compact it just stays clean! I never have to wipe it!
4. Screen viewing and brightness - on the z1 and z3 the white balance was easy off (blueish) on the z5-compact it's pretty spot on. The screen is also way brighter, I only need the brightness on about 25% most of the time and 50% - 70% in bright sunlight.
5. Speakers - 3x louder than the previous compacts and clearer.
6. Fingerprint sensor - works fast every time, all the time.
7. No stutters or lags ever with the 32.0.A.6.152 firmware.
8. Battery life - wasn't as good at first but once Google play services fix was applied and google chrome (merge tabs and apps) disabled, it's now the same as previous models.
9. I think many things will improve even further with the next firmware update and android 6.0.
Cheers mate

Woza72 said:
I upgraded from z1 compact to z3 compact and was disappointed that nothing had improved. Now having upgraded from z3 compact to z5 compact and couldnt be more impressedimpressed.
1. Much better camera - video and pictures are great. Video is next to perfect!
2. The build and finish off the phone is impeccable. So nice in the hand.
3. The glass, front and back is 100% better. No finger prints on the back due to the frosting but the front glass is amazing! On the old z1 and z3 I had to wipe it all the time as the oil and prints from my fingers were always over it. (and I got super oily fingers) on the z5 compact it just stays clean! I never have to wipe it!
4. Screen viewing and brightness - on the z1 and z3 the white balance was easy off (blueish) on the z5-compact it's pretty spot on. The screen is also way brighter, I only need the brightness on about 25% most of the time and 50% - 70% in bright sunlight.
5. Speakers - 3x louder than the previous compacts and clearer.
6. Fingerprint sensor - works fast every time, all the time.
7. No stutters or lags ever with the 32.0.A.6.152 firmware.
8. Battery life - wasn't as good at first but once Google play services fix was applied and google chrome (merge tabs and apps) disabled, it's now the same as previous models.
9. I think many things will improve even further with the next firmware update and android 6.0.
Cheers mate
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Two of the annoyances I have with my z3c is the bluish screen and the speakers being low, especially in a call. I'm glad to see they have improved things that need improving and made pretty much everything else better. My z5c should be here early next week and I can't wait!
Sent from my D5803 using Tapatalk

Notchr302 said:
Two of the annoyances I have with my z3c is the bluish screen and the speakers being low, especially in a call. I'm glad to see they have improved things that need improving and made pretty much everything else better. My z5c should be here early next week and I can't wait!
Sent from my D5803 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly, you'll love it. My two previous compacts were black. I got the white now, it just oozes style, it's the bomb ?

Woza72 said:
Honestly, you'll love it. My two previous compacts were black. I got the white now, it just oozes style, it's the bomb ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My previous one was white so I got black. Lol. I actually think it's more gunmetal color which I think I'll like. The white does look stylish though!
Sent from my D5803 using Tapatalk

Z5c ordered, hopefully here in a couple of days.
Thanks for all the input guys
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Mine is grey and it looks just *_* i'm loving this phone more and more and the camera is VERY impressive. Just the auto mode on 8 mp is enough for any shot. The best feature is that the exposure and saturation can be tweaked even in Superior Auto to get the best colours.

I would upgrade from my x3c in a heartbeat, but they dropped the aws 1700 band and that's what my carrier uses. reading this post makes me pissed that sony dropped the aws 1700 band.
oh well what to do.

HackitZ said:
I would upgrade from my x3c in a heartbeat, but they dropped the aws 1700 band and that's what my carrier uses. reading this post makes me pissed that sony dropped the aws 1700 band.
oh well what to do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that the Tmobile band?
Sent from my D5803 using Tapatalk

T mobile now uses the 1700 for lte, im on wind in Canada and I need 1700 for hspda.

Woza72 said:
8. Battery life - wasn't as good at first but once Google play services fix was applied and google chrome (merge tabs and apps) disabled, it's now the same as previous models.
Cheers mate
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you offer your GServiceFix patch?

TheEndHK said:
Can you offer your GServiceFix patch?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Read the opening post. Download Gservicefix from play store

Related

Can't make up my mind about buying the Z2

Hello,
I'm currently an owner of an S3 . I've been wanting to upgrade for some time now and I just can't decide what to buy.
I love the M8, but the camera is so awful that I am just not ready to pay a flagship-phone price for a phone like that. (my old s3 beats m8's camera (!!) )
I loved the G3 too , but reading in the GSMaren's review how bad its battery is (aside from 3G talk time , it really isn't that different than my ancient S3 in terms of its battery life which is just ridiculous! )
The Z2 has a boring and an outdated UI which is just a shame for a 2014 phone.
But , its battery ,camera, overall performance are superb. At least compared to its rivals. (Though it seems that the screen is rather dim and dark compared to the S5 and M8).
But my main concern , is that Video shooting and overheating issue.
I don't need to record videos in 4K. But as far as I understand the the overheating issue occurs even when shooting an 1080p video, and that's a problem.
Does 1080p shooting cause the overheating and camera app shut down for everyone?
If you really think the UI is "boring and outdated" (really?!) it is easily remedied with any launcher of your choice..
Regarding the overheating issue, I have been recording 12 minute 4K videos (it shut down by itself) and 30 minute 1080p videos (I stopped recording, I could have gone longer the phone was warm but not hot at that point) without any issues.
That being said, based on what everyone on here has been saying my experience is not the same as most.
At the end of the day mate, it's a mobile phone. You don't have much to lose picking this over one of the other flagships.
Have you seen the phone in person and used it? I read a lot of reviews complaining about the brightness but when I got it I was quite surprised I could use it in daylight with no issues. As for the UI you can alway use a launcher or themer to change the look of the phone, as for the 4K video recording it seems to be an issue across all companies I think it's probably being an issue of the hardware not being at that level yet. I am hoping that there will be a software fix for the overheating issues. I'm not sure if you are in the US but there are sellers who are Amazon verified once in a while that will let you do no hassle returns if you dont like it. I was really impressed with the phone but ended up returning it because it was a bit too big for my tastes but I am planning on buying it again when the prices go down. Good Luck!
jawang26 said:
Have you seen the phone in person and used it? I read a lot of reviews complaining about the brightness but when I got it I was quite surprised I could use it in daylight with no issues. As for the UI you can alway use a launcher or themer to change the look of the phone, as for the 4K video recording it seems to be an issue across all companies I think it's probably being an issue of the hardware not being at that level yet. I am hoping that there will be a software fix for the overheating issues. I'm not sure if you are in the US but there are sellers who are Amazon verified once in a while that will let you do no hassle returns if you dont like it. I was really impressed with the phone but ended up returning it because it was a bit too big for my tastes but I am planning on buying it again when the prices go down. Good Luck!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
One thing for sure when the price reduces the phone will NOT reduce in size
Ryland
Somnium1 said:
The Z2 has a boring and an outdated UI which is just a shame for a 2014 phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would have to disagree with you here. The Z2 has a beautiful elegant UI IMO, one of the best Android "skins" aside from stock Android on the flagship devices. I've owned the One M8, Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 3, and this is my favorite device by far.
I had...well,still have a z2 (its in for repair, after three days of light use the back panel cracked).
I did want to like it, but a few things missing from it that I missed from previously having Samsungs. Yes the ui is cleaner,closer to stock android but the the features of Touchwiz for me, make android better.
Like the swipe left to call/right to text.... Vibrate when there is an unread text, scheduled text messages, block numbers etc.
Ok, apps can be installed to mimic most of these but arnt as fluid as the built in features of Touchwiz.
Also had issues with the volume of notifications and screen brightness in the sun.
Great looking phone tbh, but have a play properly with a demo unit before committing.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk (how ironic is that eh)
Somnium1 said:
Does 1080p shooting cause the overheating and camera app shut down for everyone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is the ambient temperature where you will be shooting ?
---------- Post added at 05:54 AM ---------- Previous post was at 05:52 AM ----------
ProdigalFather said:
Regarding the overheating issue, I have been recording 12 minute 4K videos (it shut down by itself) and 30 minute 1080p videos (I stopped recording, I could have gone longer the phone was warm but not hot at that point) without any issues.
That being said, based on what everyone on here has been saying my experience is not the same as most.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It isn't from what i can see and i'm trying to figure it out.
Go on then. Tell us what was the ambient temperature when you recorded those vids ? particularly that half hour long 1080p one.
Ryland Johnson said:
One thing for sure when the price reduces the phone will NOT reduce in size
Ryland
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah I know, I got a Z1 Compact as primary would like a Z2 eventually for those times I want a bigger screen
jawang26 said:
Yeah I know, I got a Z1 Compact as primary would like a Z2 eventually for those times I want a bigger screen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Get the Z2 tablet.
irishrally said:
Get the Z2 tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha I have an iPad already (don't judge!) like having a different eco system...We'll see hopefully I can hold out of the Z3 or Sony releases something similar in the 4.7 - 5 range.
As of now the Z2 is the best phone I've used compared to the S5 and the HTC One M8 but everyone has different preferences and tastes
I wrote a FULL REVIEW of the Xperia Z2 here - http://bit.ly/1kPjBJP
Read it and i'm pretty sure you will make up your mind easier.
One Twelve said:
What is the ambient temperature where you will be shooting ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ambient temp is around 30-40C (Sometimes more). Summers are hot here.
And I still can't understand.. the overheating issue occurs in 1080p videos too?? Or just for some..?
If it's only with 4K I can live with that, but 1080p... sucks.
It's weird that no serious mobile reviews mention that.(Engadget,GSMarena,etc.)
One Twelve said:
It isn't from what i can see and i'm trying to figure it out.
Go on then. Tell us what was the ambient temperature when you recorded those vids ? particularly that half hour long 1080p one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Around 11-13C for both.
Any Middle east user out there? How is the heat problem with z2 as ambient is around 45+ C
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk
I'm reading answers here and it's very annoying to see some of them...
Most of us choose one brand and stick to it, why?
Just because we found something on that brand that cannot be found on others.
To compare touchwiz and Sony UI is... Hmm...let's say odd..
Why to compare?
I like Sony UI and I'm using Xperia devices, for years.
I don't like touchwiz so I don't use it.
Sony UI isn't outdated, dev brought UI on XS and older devices back in 2012/2013 but it wasn't meant to be for those devices.
Sony UI (new UI) was built for Honami, for Z1 and that's not old guys...
I thought I won't buy Z2, I own Z1 and Z2 now and I can't tell which one is Z2 from distance...so, yeah, there's not much new when you look device while it's off.
But...
When you take Z2 in your hands, when you feel it, when you see that fantastic IPS screen - you'll see the difference.
While I'm talking about screen I'll say just a few things about heating, not overheating.
If you watch 4K video or shoot one, play heavy games - it'll be hot, quite hot but there'll be no apps crashing or device freezing - that's the difference between heating and overheating.
That's perfectly normal and I'm sure next update will reduce that a bit...
Also, screen is a bit dark and you'll have trouble to watch video outside on bright sun.
You won't see problems in menus and other apps but video is hard to watch...
That's minus, at least for me...
But that's something next firmware releases could fix without any problems.
Even custom kernels could fix something like that...
If you can wait, wait for next Xperia device, it'll be better, that's for sure.
But comparing this device with Z/ZL/ZR/Z1 I can say this is not just a better device, Z2 is something new from Sony...
Believe me, I'm using Z1 at the same time and comparing them all the time - Z2 is really, really something else...
Is it better then competitions flagships?
For me it is but if you like Sony and their ideas it'll be best for you as well...
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 11:58 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:55 AM ----------
Somnium1 said:
Ambient temp is around 30-40C (Sometimes more). Summers are hot here.
And I still can't understand.. the overheating issue occurs in 1080p videos too?? Or just for some..?
If it's only with 4K I can live with that, but 1080p... sucks.
It's weird that no serious mobile reviews mention that.(Engadget,GSMarena,etc.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait for a new update and we'll confirm if that heating is fixed.
55 has that problem and I think next one has it to (I think it's 402 or 420, I'm not sure) so next firmware update could fix that problem.
Wait for that and you'll know...
BTW, I just tried to shoot 1080 / 60fps video.
I recorded 3.20mins and played it, so it's almost 7 mins of 1080p videos and no heating at all.
Device is just a bit warmer (top back) but that's nothing.
It's not hot at all....
Sent from my D6503 using Tapatalk
I have the M8 and Z2. The screen on the Z2 is brighter than my M8.
Sent from my C6806_GPe using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
jawang26 said:
Yeah I know, I got a Z1 Compact as primary would like a Z2 eventually for those times I want a bigger screen
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A suggestion. If you have the Z1 compact as your mobile phone and desire on times a larger viewing area I would skip the Z2 and go for the Xperia Z Ultra. Prices are incredibly low now and its one hell of a viewing experience. I own the Ultra and Z2 and think the Ultra is certainly better quality in terms of materials used and construction methods. Nothing wrong with the Z2 but I was some what surprised when I received it last week. I used to own the Xperia Z and that was, despite many negative comments, a very good phone. I am unsure if the jump in size from the compact to the Z2 would be worth the financial outlay. Now the Ultra has a far greater viewing area and its less than half the price of the new Z2.
Again, just some food for thought. Your choice will be right for you I am sure of that. Good luck with what ever you purchase.
Ryland
Why I like the Xperia Z2 over other competitors (Galaxy S5, One M8, G3). Below are just my personal opinion and observations. I have used my Z2 for 3 weeks now. This is my first noob review so please bear with me.
Camera
I was disappointed when I first heard that Sony limited its Superior Auto mode to 8MP only, I admit Im one of the people who believes more megapixel the better, but I was wrong. Even at 8MP, Z2 captures amazing shots, HDR is not as great as Galaxy S5s HDR shots, but as a whole camera, its better. Color accuracy is near perfect as I have compared through reviews. 4K video, although it heats up the phone quickly, I dont often use them. 1080p video recording is great, with a choice of 30fps or 60fps, sound is loud. Shots are fast and focus is 90% hit. Dont mind about HTC One M8's "Ultrapixel", they shoot awful shots.
Battery
3200mah Z2 vs 3200mah G3? G3 with QHD screen undoubtly will eat up more battery that Z2's FHD screen. Galaxy S5's 2800mAh and HTC One 2600 will normally never last longer than Z2. Rocking the phone for 24 hrs is a piece of cake. Dont forget Sony's Stamina mode that saves up a significant amount of juice.
Screen display
Although many people have been complaining about Z2's screen a bit dim. In my opinion its not too dim or too bright that I have to squint to see what im looking at. In my observation, Z2's brightness bursts from 75% and above. Previous flagships use TFT LCD and that was a big deal breaker for me. I could have got the Z1 if the screen was IPS. Texts and icons are sharper and brighter. Images are more vivid and accurate. Coming from Galaxy S4, I am used to those AMOLED displays, downside is that its not as sharp as IPS LCD, plus X-Reality does the job well done to movies and pictures (sharper and more vivid). As for HTC One M8, screen is comparable to IPS, but gives a bluish tint as I have read. Imagine yellows with blueish/colder colors.
Stereo Speakers/Sound
HTC is undoubtly the champ. But we are pinning Z2's dual front facing stereo speakers at 2nd, ahead of Galaxy S5 or G3 with one speaker. Sound is a bit soft/low even at 50%. You wont even notice a significant change from 1%-50% volume. Volume bursts from 50% and above. Thats just my opinion. Theres a little bit of trick with Z2's speakers to sound great or at least better. Watching movies or listening to music in landscape greatly improves the audio experience. Its probably because sound is distributed well to your left and right ear.
Noise-cancelling headphones
Its my first ever high-end earphones ever had. I was amazed how it cancels out 98% of background noise. And its 0 outside noise when im playing music. I couldnt even hear my friend shout at me. Bass is good, im not a boomboom person but I think its better than my GS4 generic headphones, or my Sony MDR ZX100. Definitely a steal.
Design/Build Quality
Coming from GS4, im loving my premium Z2. The glass and metal finish it has over Samsung's plastic, and horrible GS5 design, GS3 was good though. M8s design is good too, but that camera and battery . G3 is a bit big for me, and the back buttons are something that needs to get used to. Although heavy (Z2), Im getting used to it. Im using Spigen Ultra Fit case for increased grip and protection. I believe its a must for cases because the sides of the Z2 is kinda slippery. And I dont wanna scratch the back glass, lol.
User Interface and features
I find Z2 a wee bit lacking of features, like Touchwiz S-Beam. Palm tap to mute, especially calls and alarm and Smart Stay. Nevermind smart scroll and Air view stuff, they are hardly useful. The Sony UI feels light, not much bloated than Samsung. And it doesnt lag!! Unlike Samsung. Generally speaking. The UI is simple and snappy, though personally I feel its getting old/outdated. Needs to freshen up the icons and apps. With the new Quick Settings tab under notification, its a big improvement from older android versions with only limited and un-editable quick settings
Conclusion:
Coming from Galaxy S4, I am not disappointed that I ditched GS4 for Xperia Z2. With the screen improved from TFT LCD to IPS LCD, with 2 front facing stereo speakers, with the much improved camera than the previous Z1, the premium noise cancelling earphones, a premium phone made with glass and aluminum, water-proof, and ofcourse the massive 3200mAh battery. You cant go wrong buying the Xperia Z2.
Upon writing this lousy review back from a fresh shower, I just dropped my Z2 (with case ofcourse, 2nd time) from shoulder height to the floor tiles, and survived. Not a single scratch or crack.
I came from the SIII and certainly don't regret it. My main concern was the size. Whilst I have got used to it, it definitely is not pocket sized. In fact, ignoring weight and thickness it is the same size as my first ever mobile, the Ericsson Hotline EH97! Ok, the screen is a bit larger
On the plus side, the biggest improvement is the battery. I always struggled to get one day out of the SIII but get a day and a half comfortably now.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Somnium1 said:
Ambient temp is around 30-40C (Sometimes more). Summers are hot here.
And I still can't understand.. the overheating issue occurs in 1080p videos too?? Or just for some..?
If it's only with 4K I can live with that, but 1080p... sucks.
It's weird that no serious mobile reviews mention that.(Engadget,GSMarena,etc.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How long do you want to shoot 1080p ? Also if you don't use stabilisation then it will last longer. But this may not always be an option you want.
Not a problem for those that shoot at half the temperature.
The thread on undervolting looks promising. There apparently is a difference with .420, maybe they will lower it further in future updates.
---------- Post added at 04:02 AM ---------- Previous post was at 04:00 AM ----------
funky0308 said:
While I'm talking about screen I'll say just a few things about heating, not overheating.
If you watch 4K video or shoot one, play heavy games - it'll be hot, quite hot but there'll be no apps crashing or device freezing - that's the difference between heating and overheating.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like a fair way to draw a distinction
People tend to use it in a relative way though, this other device does not get so hot so Z2 gets hotter than them therefore it overheats.

[Q] Xperia Z3 or Z2? Which shall i get?

I was looking into the Xperia Z line because of the IP rating and the awesome battery life.
I hate Samsung and Apple so those phones aren't even going to be on my list of options.
I currently have a HTC One m7ul. I was going to buy a Z3 on Amazon and it goes for around ~$630+ while the Z2 is a more friendly $450+.
They both seem to have very similar specs just with some minor changes. I plan on rooting and flashing to most recent version of Sony's software.
1) Is there really much of a difference between the IP58 (Z2) and IP68 (Z3)? I know what they mean and the numbering system, just don't know if it really will make a difference for me...
2) Is paying ~$150 for the Z3 worth it over the Z2? (To me it doesn't seem so, but if anyone has more insight into this)
3) Does the Z2 have double tap to wake (yes, i know this is very minor, but i love this feature)?
Thanks!
1.IP68
6 is for dust and 8 is for water
Z3 has better dust resistance
Z2 is IP58, less dust resistancy and same water resistancy
2. Z2 will be recieving shortly almost all Z3 features, only difference is design, display and camera
More better camera, higher iso range, 12800 vs Z2 3200
Display, identicle but slightly brighter backlight
3. Z2 has double tap to wake
Envious_Data said:
1.IP68
6 is for dust and 8 is for water
Z3 has better dust resistance
Z2 is IP58, less dust resistancy and same water resistancy
2. Z2 will be recieving shortly almost all Z3 features, only difference is design, display and camera
More better camera, higher iso range, 12800 vs Z2 3200
Display, identicle but slightly brighter backlight
3. Z2 has double tap to wake
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! You think I should go with the Z2 and save a little extra cash?
Its honnestly worth it concidering they are simular
Z3 all it has is better camera, brighter backlight and slighly different design for almost %200 the price of Z2
I would take Z2 over Z3 if i was in your place
Envious_Data said:
1.IP68
6 is for dust and 8 is for water
Z3 has better dust resistance
Z2 is IP58, less dust resistancy and same water resistancy
2. Z2 will be recieving shortly almost all Z3 features, only difference is design, display and camera
More better camera, higher iso range, 12800 vs Z2 3200
Display, identicle but slightly brighter backlight
3. Z2 has double tap to wake
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're wrong on the camera side Bro! It's iso 12800 vs 6400. Also those high iso values are only available in auto mode and since that's the worst shooting mode on Sony smartphones, I'd say the 12800 thing is just a marketing gimmick. In manual mode both phones have a max iso option of 3200 and then only at 8mp. At full res, they both max out at 800 iso.
The z3 produces sharper photos at full res but as I understand it 4.4.2 has a focusing bug which Google fixed with 4.4.4. Sony obviously didn't compensate for this bug on their 4.4.2 firmware as others did. Also quite a few reviews have claimed the z2's camera to actually perform better especially in video recording. Z3 has a better mic though but the mic on the z2 is said to improve with 4.4.4.
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---------- Post added at 10:41 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:32 AM ----------
Chubby_Skunk said:
I was looking into the Xperia Z line because of the IP rating and the awesome battery life.
I hate Samsung and Apple so those phones aren't even going to be on my list of options.
I currently have a HTC One m7ul. I was going to buy a Z3 on Amazon and it goes for around ~$630+ while the Z2 is a more friendly $450+.
They both seem to have very similar specs just with some minor changes. I plan on rooting and flashing to most recent version of Sony's software.
1) Is there really much of a difference between the IP58 (Z2) and IP68 (Z3)? I know what they mean and the numbering system, just don't know if it really will make a difference for me...
2) Is paying ~$150 for the Z3 worth it over the Z2? (To me it doesn't seem so, but if anyone has more insight into this)
3) Does the Z2 have double tap to wake (yes, i know this is very minor, but i love this feature)?
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In terms of ip rating, I doubt users will be able to tell the difference. The z2 survived 6 weeks in sea water. I think that should be fine for anyone lol
Is the z3 worth $150 more than z2? Emphatically NO! The most I'd pay extra for rounded sides and brighter display is maybe $40. That's being generous actually. I also prefer the colour calibration of z2's display. Much warmer than the colder z3.
The z2 has double tap to wake and will soon be on par softwarewise with the z3 once it gets the 4.4.4 update up to and including ps4 remote play.
My advice is wait for z4 in a few months but if you want to take the plunge now, go with z2. Z3 is over priced. It's in the same category of smartphone as z2,m8,s5 and g3 and it's price will drop in line with those soon enough.
Save yourself the $150. Spend it elsewhere. Why give it to Sony for rounded sides?
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
zodiac100 said:
You're wrong on the camera side Bro! It's iso
Save yourself the $150. Spend it elsewhere. Why give it to Sony for rounded sides?
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If i understanded right your saying its pointless going for both Z2 or Z3
It would make sense, but seeing Z4 probably being the same as Z3
Id say just go for a ZU or Z at this point, both are cheaper and both are quite nice devices, Z1 i didnt like so much
(its morning time excuse my reading skills)
Envious_Data said:
If i understanded right your saying its pointless going for both Z2 or Z3
It would make sense, but seeing Z4 probably being the same as Z3
Id say just go for a ZU or Z at this point, both are cheaper and both are quite nice devices, Z1 i didnt like so much
(its morning time excuse my reading skills)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not saying it's pointless. At this point with the z4 only months away, I'd recommend waiting to see that but if one had to make a choice now, I'd say go with z2. You'll get essentially the same package and user experience for a lot less.
Z and Z1 lack ips live colour led panels and don't have a lot of software features available on the newer models so unless you're after a bargain I wouldn't go with either of those.
I suppose my advice is, go with z2 now or wait for z4. Z3 is over priced!
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zodiac100 said:
Not saying it's pointless. At this point with the z4 only months away, I'd recommend waiting to see that but if one had to make a choice now, I'd say go with z2. You'll get essentially the same package and user experience for a lot less.
Z and Z1 lack ips live colour led panels and don't have a lot of software features available on the newer models so unless you're after a bargain I wouldn't go with either of those.
I suppose my advice is, go with z2 now or wait for z4. Z3 is over priced!
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed
Z2 or Z4
Im not sure about it being a few months away because sony was playing with the idea of 1 year instead of 6 months and it came through a couple times on their social networking pages
Envious_Data said:
Agreed
Z2 or Z4
Im not sure about it being a few months away because sony was playing with the idea of 1 year instead of 6 months and it came through a couple times on their social networking pages
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've heard that too but trust me if Sony's going to can any of its flagship releases, it'll be the September IFA releases and not the MWC release. There's no way they'll wait until September 2015 to launch a new flashship. They need to have something to go up against the likes of the S6,M9 and G4.
The z3 doesn't stand a chance against any of those. It's already lower specced than the note 4 and even nexus 6.
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I dont know if the thread is over or not but id like to say that the Z2 is an excellant phone, i got mine a month ago, the display is sharp, it never lags and the battery life still amazes me, today I was travelling all day listening to music , playing games and taking photographs from 7:30 A.M and now at 8:00 its at 30%, it is still an excellant phone to this day and i would highly recommend it
Envious_Data said:
Agreed
Z2 or Z4
Im not sure about it being a few months away because sony was playing with the idea of 1 year instead of 6 months and it came through a couple times on their social networking pages
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
zodiac100 said:
I've heard that too but trust me if Sony's going to can any of its flagship releases, it'll be the September IFA releases and not the MWC release. There's no way they'll wait until September 2015 to launch a new flashship. They need to have something to go up against the likes of the S6,M9 and G4.
The z3 doesn't stand a chance against any of those. It's already lower specced than the note 4 and even nexus 6.
Sent from my D6503 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would like to wait for the Z4, but isn't that going to end up being $700+ on launch?? I don't get phones on contract so that generally why i wanted to go with the Z2 in the first place, other than the fact that the Z3 isn't much of an upgrade over the Z2.

Should I get a Z2 or the Z Ultra?

I'm well aware of the specs and I have been wanting to get a Z ultra for quite some time but I have waited until now.
Hands down, I like the bigger screen on the Z Ultra and the price of it makes it even more enticing. Where as the Z2 has faster/newer internals(CPU, etc.), better camera, and a flash(I'm so annoyed by the ZU not having a flash! I used the led flash as a flashlight all the time), but at a more expensive price.
What's your guys' take on it? Waiting is kind of out of the question(I heard about the Z3X which sounds like my next phone after this one... I don't like paying premiums for new releases)... I prefer something stable and working decently out of the box(I know, this is xda).
Key points:
Z Ultra:
+Price is lower
+Bigger screen
-slower
-worse camera, no flash
Z2:
+Faster/updated internals
+better camera
-costs more
Also, I heard there was a decent note taking app from Sony for the Z Ultra, where you could use a stylus and take notes(sort of like the Samsung Galaxy Note series), is that app available for the Z2 as well(anyone happen to know?)?
Thanks in advance, I appreciate any input. What's your take on it? I think I could go either way, I hear about lag on both units(I'm sure rooting can help, but I might keep it simple for now and use it out of the box for rooting/modding).
I happens to have a Z2 here (it is not mine but I got the responsibility to configure it) and all I can say is that it is a great device BUT wouldn't dream about replacing my Ultra. My Ultra is very smooth (CandyKat at the moment with GreatDevs V1 and OC to 2.46 GHz) and the only benefit I can see with the Z2 is more or less the camera when I make the comparison.
I am not talking down the Z2 when I say this but the Ultra offer a great package with a screen that make it a tablet replacement. The Z2 on the other hand is a great device for a person that has a Z today (which I also have) and I would recommend it warmly... if there wasn't an Ultra in the house (or rather two).
Since I read a lot and browse the Internet and so forth, the big screen of the Ultra wins me over - hands down.
camera camera camera. if you want to take even one photo then z2. i own a ultra as a backup to my note 4. the camera on the ultra is really just sad. but everything else is great.
pushcush1983 said:
camera camera camera. if you want to take even one photo then z2. i own a ultra as a backup to my note 4. the camera on the ultra is really just sad. but everything else is great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The camera is poor in poor light but otherwise is not that bad other than over sharpining of the jpg
a buddy of mine has the z2...
i bought a z ultra like 2 weeks ago since its even cheaper than the original z
he saw it today and now he wants to replace his z2 with an z ultra
he doesn't use the camera and also he doesnt game much
camera would be my only concern though
also the led flash, if you just wanna have a flashlight, you can the big screen, its decent enough for finding your stuff in the dark
cant talk about hickups since i dont run stock (and never will / or did)
both phones seem blazing fast to me, i really dont think the performance of the z2 is much better
my last phones were a htc magic and galaxy s-plus, just so u know
also i have to say, since i got the ultra, i don't want to use any smaller phone anymore.. they seem so small and bad to use
Thanks to everyone who responded!
Helps a lot. It seems like the more I hear from Z Ultra users, the more I hear about how they love the device despite it's shortcomings(ie: camera and no flash).
I agree, once you behold such a big screen it's hard to go back!
How is battery life? And just to throw it out there, what are some of the custom roms you guys recommend that may improve the battery life/performance?
I was slightly concerned that the slower cpu/gpu might affect performance, and I was going to try to avoid custom roms for the sake of simplicity, but haha, it seems to be unavoidable with most devices I get.
You can slash "Slower" right away. If you care about games, the Z ultra is better desipite having an Older SoC, simply because of its Size.
Besides, even in stock rom, I experience no lags, even with the stock launcher, im in 4.4.4.
Get the Z2 If you want relatively smaller phone, 5 coll isnt really "Small" but compared to the Z ultra, it is.
The camera in the Z2 is also better and has flash LEd.
You should ask yourself, do you want a one handed phone thats fairly recent and a good camera or a 2 handed one, which is amaizing for multi media and reading.
Considering the price of the ZU, you get a premium phone for an amaizing price, just dont treat this phone as a normal phone, it might not fit in the pockets.
I love my ZU.
I snooze I lose, I should've gotten a Z Ultra from the Sony store US site while I still had the chance for it's great price, now it's gone and taken off the site. Now, I'm only looking at the Z2, and behold, my waiting has resulted in the Z2 being back ordered. I could really use a phone by mid January. So I'm still open, but the ZU is probably a closed door for me unless I can find it brand new for a great price and with a warranty. I'm also looking at the LG G pro 2(but it's really pricey for the F530-US At&t compatible LTE) or even a Samsung Galaxy Note 3 (the price has really fallen on that phone lately).
A lot of people are having this problem right now as ZU gotten much cheaper. First of all you should decide what's most important for you in your smartphone and how you're going to use it. Both are really great but designed for different kind of people. To help you choose, I'll give you some pros and cons of both devices.
Xperia Z Ultra (I own standard edition but this will mostly apply to GPE as well)
Pros:
- huge screen, which makes browsing the web and watching the movies very comfortable,
- excellent performance in applications and games, backed up by nicely optimized system and solid stock kernel,
- because of it's size ZU doesn't throttle, which is not common in most of the high end 5 inch +/- smartphones packed with Snapdragon 800+, including Xperia Z2, (actually ZU does throttle but just a little, which is not event felt in games)
- operating temperatures are acceptable during stress, which makes sure that battery and hardware will last a little longer (especially non replaceable battery),
- very solid stand by and calling battery life,
- excellent microphone which makes calls really great,
- it's very cheap, considering how premium it's.
Cons:
- lack of flash, this is a problem if you want to make a photos in bad lighting conditions or you need a lighter,
- still photos quality is decent, improved auto mode is kind of useless and makes photos with huge amount of noise. You can
make some of the nice photos during day out of the ZU using manual settings though, photos made in poor lighting conditions are out of question,
- it's too big to use single handed (unless you have huge hands) and you might have some problems putting it in your pocket, might be too heavy for some people,
- front camera is pretty bad,
- battery life is at best only decent, if you're using a lot of screen, you'll need to charge everyday,
- speakers could be louder.
Xperia Z2:
Pros:
- Excellent cameras, still photos and recordings have amazing quality, both selfie and back camera,
- Can record very detailed 4K videos,
- It's much more handy and can be used single handed without problems, it's also much lighter than ZU and easilly pocketable,
- Pretty great battery life, especially with screen on, in some cases almost 2 times better than ZU,
- Speaker is much louder and call quality is also very good,
- It has 3 GB of ram,
- Propably it will be updated to 5.0 faster than ZU.
Cons:
- it has updated specs but in real usage it's weaker than Z Ultra, especially in games because of bigger throttling,
- it's not that smooth, compared to Z Ultra, on 4.4.2 in Z2 i experienced a bit of lagging, opposite to silky smooth ZU on 4.4.4,
- has much smaller screen, which is not as comfortable as ZU screen to use,
- can get very hot during games,
- overheating problems during 4k recording.
Both are finely crafted devices, you can't go wrong with both of them. But keep in mind, that if you need a handy smartphone that can be used single handed then ZU it's not a good choice for you.

Moving from Z1 compact to Z5 compact? . . . . or what?

I decided to change mi phone (Z1 compact), but I'm very exigent and the rest of the "mini" models are extremely poor in specs, build quality, well in everything. I have to mention that my gadgets lives in an Android/Windows ecosystem.
IMO the models to choose would be the Z5 compact or Z3 compact. But It's because I don't know if there are better models on sale or coming.
I'll list the technologies I'm interested in.
Longest battery life
IPXX Certification
Magnetic/fast charging
Aptx/High-res Audio codecs
5 poles audio jack
Memory card support
ac WiFi/ LTE cat 6
FullHD Camera + the best focus at night
The fastest mobile GPU available
Mini/Compact body desing
What's your suggestion??
Thanks.
Info
[email protected] said:
I decided to change mi phone (Z1 compact), but I'm very exigent and the rest of the "mini" models are extremely poor in specs, build quality, well in everything. I have to mention that my gadgets lives in an Android/Windows ecosystem.
IMO the models to choose would be the Z5 compact or Z3 compact. But It's because I don't know if there are better models on sale or coming.
I'll list the technologies I'm interested in.
Longest battery life YES
IPXX Certification YES
Magnetic/fast charging YES
Aptx/High-res Audio codecs YES
5 poles audio jack YES
Memory card support YES
ac WiFi/ LTE cat 6 YES
FullHD Camera + the best focus at night YES
The fastest mobile GPU available YES
Mini/Compact body desing YES
What's your suggestion??
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
SO YES Upgrade to XZ5c
:good:
[email protected] said:
I decided to change mi phone (Z1 compact), but I'm very exigent and the rest of the "mini" models are extremely poor in specs, build quality, well in everything. I have to mention that my gadgets lives in an Android/Windows ecosystem.
IMO the models to choose would be the Z5 compact or Z3 compact. But It's because I don't know if there are better models on sale or coming.
I'll list the technologies I'm interested in.
Longest battery life
IPXX Certification
Magnetic/fast charging
Aptx/High-res Audio codecs
5 poles audio jack
Memory card support
ac WiFi/ LTE cat 6
FullHD Camera + the best focus at night
The fastest mobile GPU available
Mini/Compact body desing
What's your suggestion??
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bro, just get the Z5 compact......unless if you are picky on the design and pricey, then get the Z3 compact
Okay
So guys are you saying that there are not another devices with those features??
In a positive way, I'm right with my idea.
In a negative way, the rest of the manufactures dissapointed me :'(
Thank you so much.
[email protected] said:
So guys are you saying that there are not another devices with those features??
In a positive way, I'm right with my idea.
In a negative way, the rest of the manufactures dissapointed me :'(
Thank you so much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's true at this moment. The manufacturers are all looking for the big screens.[emoji174]
㊙Send from somewhere on the earth™ ?
I went from Google Nexus 5 to z5c because I felt I wanted a smaller phone. Even though the difference is not that big, it feels a lot smaller and looks a lot better.
To answer your question, I found z5c to be one of the only small phones compared to all other phones out there. It feels good in my hand, I can reach the whole screen and it is very good looking. The size is the same as z3c but with better specs and new design on the outside. If the price is a big deal, go with z3c. If not, go with z5c. It is about the same size as iPhone 5s, slightly thicker. Holding it in my hand, I recommend it. Keep in mind that I got it this Monday, I have only had it for two days. Wait a few weeks until all the cons have appeared.
Only drawback so far, the placed the volume button at a very awkward location, below the lock button..
Unfortunately, the Z5 compact is the only hi-end (2015) Android phone with small size. Your other 2015 option is the iPhone 6S but it has a totally different OS as you probably know.
Other old options are:
Z3 compact: still a good phone, still supported, not too old.
Moto X 2013: small with excellent grip and battery life, awesome phone, but I think it's no longed maintained.
itaq said:
I went from Google Nexus 5 to z5c because I felt I wanted a smaller phone. Even though the difference is not that big, it feels a lot smaller and looks a lot better.
To answer your question, I found z5c to be one of the only small phones compared to all other phones out there. It feels good in my hand, I can reach the whole screen and it is very good looking. The size is the same as z3c but with better specs and new design on the outside. If the price is a big deal, go with z3c. If not, go with z5c. It is about the same size as iPhone 5s, slightly thicker. Holding it in my hand, I recommend it. Keep in mind that I got it this Monday, I have only had it for two days. Wait a few weeks until all the cons have appeared.
Only drawback so far, the placed the volume button at a very awkward location, below the lock button..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I read that about the volume button position. But, Ok, it's nothing really severe.
I'm coming from a Nexus 5 too. Do you feel the camera better or worse? (I really like the HDR+ quality of the Nexus 5).
I have moved from Z3c into Z5c and I can't complain. The only issue i have is its little but slippy but my old iPhone was that too.
Build quality is very good as well as screen and speakers (which are btw louder than in Z3c)
New UI looks more vanilla which if you are Nexus fan a good think (I am )
I havent tested camera yet nor battery life but it drops around 4% in 7 hours standby (considering push emails, bt on)
thesebastian said:
...
Moto X 2013: small with excellent grip and battery life, awesome phone, but I think it's no longed maintained.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I recently sold an unlocked Moto X 2013 and it had Lollipop on it. I doubt it will get updated again but it was good to get it to 5.1.
About z5c vs nexus 5 camera: I can't compare because after I dropped my nexus, the camera became useless. It could not focus anymore.

I wanna buy z5c

Hi guys, I am undecided between z3c and z5c and I don't know what to choose. I know that if I wanna be sure about battery I should choose z3c but for a future proof phone I should go for z5c which is a real good upgrade of z3c in everything except probably the cpu that is almost a downgrade. What do you guys suggest to this poor guy? I've got another question. This time I read that you can unlock the bootloader easier. Do you lose the drm if you do that and do you lose any feature if you lose it? Like low light post processing or stuff like that that happens on z3c?
Same as all xperias, you will lose low light in camera and some image/screen enhancements, but there is way to get them back with fixed stock/custom kernel
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
I have my experience with both.
I left Z3C just because of louisy build quality - 4 times display assembly peeled off the body (within 1y!) which automatically means no water proof and sooner later
also problems with low upper speaker volume and unreliable proximity sensor.
Could be that many people even do not realize it but problem with Z3C build quality is there in every piece, it's simply not sturdy enough design.
Beside that was Z3C really great phone but build quality sucks.
Thus I got my money back and switched to Z5C.
Some things are worse - slightly worse battery life (MM) but still high above average, gets easier warm - well known problem with 810
Many things are better - sturdy build quality, audio quality, camera, no cover on USB, no fingerprints on back, GPS is great
Fingerprint reader sucks but I don't care (XPOSED + NoLockHome works great for me).
Frankly speaking, I was really skeptical whether swiching from Z3C to Z5C is a good step while reading many negative feedback
and coments from disappointed users.
And you know what? I am really happy I decided to go for that. :good:
unotretresette said:
Hi guys, I am undecided between z3c and z5c and I don't know what to choose. I know that if I wanna be sure about battery I should choose z3c but for a future proof phone I should go for z5c which is a real good upgrade of z3c in everything except probably the cpu that is almost a downgrade. What do you guys suggest to this poor guy? I've got another question. This time I read that you can unlock the bootloader easier. Do you lose the drm if you do that and do you lose any feature if you lose it? Like low light post processing or stuff like that that happens on z3c?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
your better off with the z5c.....Its a good phone, sure it has its pros and cons but it still a great phone. Price of it should go down more since theres rumors that a new "compact phone" known as the "X Compact" is gotta be released in September
The Z3/Z3c is very easy to get touch screen problem and Sony officially said that Z3c no Android 7.0 few days ago so I'll say stick with Z5c for future proof.
Z5c battery performance is identical to my Z1c, not as good as Z3c but above average. Rear and face camera is Z5c better especially Z5c face camera is 5MP while Z3c only 2MP, Z5c screen and speaker should be improved too.
We can backup TA partition before unlock BL now no avoid warranty. We also got DRM patch so after rooted no downgrade low light camera quality. After rooted and lower CPU clock or apply thermal patch, the hot issue is more acceptable now.

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