Sony has launched its current flagship smartphone, Xperia Z3 in the Indian market today for a price of Rs 51,990. But, if you own the previous generation smartphone, Xperia Z2 that entered the market only a few months back, here is a comparison between the two high end Sony smartphones to know if you need to upgrade to the Xperia Z3. Let’s take a look at this detailed comparison between the second and third generation Sony phones.
Display and Processor
Both the smartphones score the same in terms of display as both of them include a similar 5.2 inch IPS LCD display boasting FHD 1920×1080 pixel resolution translating to a pixel density of 424 pixels per inch. Also, these screens are layered with a scratch proof protection on top. Like the other high-end Sony smartphones, this one also makes use of the TRILUMINOS display technology with X-Reality engine that will render more colors and for vivid and superior quality content on the screen.
Being the successor, the Xperia Z3 is claimed to be brighter than the Xperia Z2 with 600 nits of brightness that is a significant increase from the latter’s 460 nits. This will make the latest model to be used even under direct sunlight.
In terms of raw hardware, there is not much difference between the two handsets as they are incorporated with the identical quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processors paired with Adreno 330 graphics unit and 3 GB of RAM to handle the graphics and multi-tasking needs of the users. The difference is that the processor in the Xperia Z3 operates at a faster clock speed of 2.5 GHz as compared to the relatively slower 2.3 GHz chipset in its predecessor. But, this is only a minor difference and we cannot expect the current generation model to render an impeccable performance due to this difference in the clock speed.
Camera and Internal Storage
Again, on the photography department, both the Sony smartphones are identical with a 20.7 MP primary snapper with auto focus, LED flash, panorama and HDR features. There is an identical 2.2 MP front-facing selfie camera onboard these smartphones that can make FHD video calls and click attractive self portrait shots. But, the Xperia Z3 uses a 25 mm wide angle lens that can click wider shots and better snaps even under low light conditions as compared to the Xperia Z2.
Both the smartphones have 16 GB of storage capacity and they include a micro SD card slot supporting up to 128 GB of additional storage space.
Battery and Features
The Xperia Z3 has a 3,100 mAh battery, while the Xperia Z2 has a 3,200 mAh one, but Sony promises up to two days of life with moderate use on the latest model that is marginally more than the Z2’s backup.
The Xperia Z3 runs on Android 4.4.4 KitKat with more resources than the v4.4.2 KitKat in Xperia Z2. The connectivity options on both the smartphones are much the same too with support for Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G LTE, NFC and Bluetooth 4.0. Sony Xperia Z3 is a little more water and dust resistant than its predecessor with the IP68 certification, while the Xperia Z2 is IP58 certified But this will not make a major difference as both the devices can survive getting splashed or rained on.
There is the PS4 Remote Play feature in the Xperia Z3 that will allow users to stream PS4 games to the smartphone’s display and play them. For this, the users will need a PlayStation 4 and a controller and the same Wi-Fi network as the console to play it effectively. This feature for the PS4 enthusiasts is missing in the Xperia Z2 though it is not of much use for all users.
In terms of design, both the smartphones feature glass back and metal frame that provide a premium look. But the Xperia Z2 has flat edges and angular corners, whereas the Xperia Z3 is slimmer and lighter and features slightly rounded edges. Also, the corners of the smartphone feature a nylon protection to protect it from scrapes and falls.
Key Specs
| Model | Sony Xperia Z3 | Sony Xperia Z2 |
| Display | 5.2 inch, FHD | 5.2 inch, FHD |
| Processor | 2.5 GHz Quad Core Snapdragon 801 | 2.3 GHz Quad Core Snapdragon 801 |
| RAM | 3 GB | 3 GB |
| Internal Storage | 16 GB, Expandable up to 128 GB | 16 GB, Expandable up to 128 GB |
| OS | Android 4.4.4 KitKat | Android 4.4.2 KitKat |
| Camera | 20.7 MP/ 2.2 MP | 20.7 MP/ 2.2 MP |
| Battery | 3,100 mAh | 3,200 mAh |
| Price | Rs 51,990 | Rs 39,990 |
Comparison
Both the Sony smartphones are better devices, but being the latest iteration in the lineup the Xperia Z3 features some advanced aspects such as a PS4 Remote Play feature, ability to click wider shots and a much better design. The rounded edges will make the Xperia Z3 more comfortable to operate adding to its slim and lightweight profile. However, those who want to experience an almost similar experience and save a few thousands and opt for the Xperia Z2. Do you feel that extra 12,000 INR for these minor improvements will be worth it?
