1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Sony Xperia 1 III | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 148 × 68.5 × 8.9 mm | 165 × 71 × 8.2 mm | Zenfone 8 is more compact and pocketable; Xperia 1 III is larger, may be less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 169g | 186g | Zenfone 8 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.5" | Xperia 1 III offers a larger screen for immersive media and multitasking; Zenfone 8 is better for one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1644x3840 | Xperia 1 III delivers sharper and more detailed visuals, especially for high-resolution content. |
| PPI | 446 | 643 | Xperia 1 III has much higher pixel density leading to a much sharper image. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Similar technology, both provide vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Zenfone 8 provides better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. The Sony Xperia 1 III specification is missing, meaning that we are unable to verify. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G | Identical performance for daily tasks and demanding games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 891,700 | 889,100 | Virtually the same performance benchmark. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 660 | Equal graphics processing power for gaming and video editing. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 4500mAh | Xperia 1 III has a larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Both phones have the same fast-charging capabilities, but the Xperia may have faster overall charging due to higher mAh. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | Xperia 1 III allows charging whilst using to minimize battery degradation during gaming and media use. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 64MP | 12MP | Zenfone 8 captures higher-resolution images, but the Xperia 1 III uses pixel binning, which results in better light sensitivity |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.7 | Xperia 1 III gathers more light, improving low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.7" | - | The Zenfone 8 has a slightly larger sensor than the Sony. We are unable to verify the exact size of the sensor of the Sony. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.80 µm | Sony Xperia 1 III's larger pixel size can result in better low-light sensitivity and dynamic range |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 12MP | 8MP | Zenfone 8 captures higher resolution selfies |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.45 | f/2.0 | The Sony Xperia 1 III has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.93" | 1/4" | Zenfone 8's larger sensor is likely to produce better quality selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Pixel Size | 1.22 µm | 1.12 µm | The Zenfone 8 has slightly larger pixels. |
| Telephoto Lens | No | Yes (12MP) | Xperia 1 III offers optical zoom for more versatile photography. |
| Wide Angle Lens | No | Yes (12MP) | Xperia 1 III allows capturing wider landscapes or group photos. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | No | Yes | Xperia 1 III has depth mapping for better portraits. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | Yes (12MP) | No | Zenfone 8 allows to take macro and wide angle photos. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@120fps | Zenfone 8 captures 8K videos; Xperia has a more comprehensive stabilization system. |
| DXOMark Mobile Score | 116 | 105 | Asus Zenfone 8 has significantly better camera performance and video quality. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 11 | Same starting operating system |
| Max OS Version | Android 13 | Android 13 | Both phones have access to the same Android version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both offer modern Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE | Both offer modern Bluetooth standards. |
| GPS | Multiple systems | Multiple systems | Both have good GPS systems, though the Zenfone 8 supports GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both phones offer dual sim functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 256/512 GB | Xperia 1 III offers more storage options for larger media libraries. |
| RAM | 6/8/12/16 GB | 12 GB | The Zenfone 8 can be configured with more RAM, improving performance and multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res, Noise Cancellation Mic, Stereo Speakers, 3 Mics | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Zenfone 8 excels in call quality and vocal capture, while the Xperia 1 III offers better media audio with Dolby Atmos |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | The side-mounted sensor on Xperia 1 III is more convenient and less prone to accidental touches. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus | Same screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Barometer | Xperia 1 III includes a barometer for environmental data, the Zenfone 8 has a gravity sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- Compact Size and Lighter Weight: Significantly more portable and comfortable for one-handed use.
- Higher Brightness Display: Much better visibility in bright sunlight.
- Potentially Better Camera Quality Higher DxOMark scores indicate superior photo and video performance.
- More RAM Options: Up to 16GB for heavy multitasking and gaming.
- 8K Video Recording: Capability for shooting professional-grade videos.
- Additional Microphone: Better voice capture and noise cancellation.
- Lower Price: Generally more affordable.
Sony Xperia 1 III Advantages:
- Larger Display with Higher Resolution: More immersive experience for media consumption.
- Larger Battery: Longer battery life for extended use.
- Telephoto and Wide Angle Lenses: More versatile photography capabilities.
- Dolby Atmos Audio: Enhanced audio for a better media experience.
- More Storage Options: Up to 512 GB of storage available.
- Bypass Charging: Reduces battery degradation during heavy use.
- Barometer: Additional sensor for environmental data.
Trade-offs:
- Zenfone 8: Smaller screen, less versatile camera system compared to the Xperia 1 III.
- Xperia 1 III: Larger size and heavier, lower DxOMark score, lacks 8K video recording.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 8 Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize portability and one-handed use.
- Users who need a bright display for outdoor visibility.
- Users who want excellent camera performance.
- Users who value high performance in a compact form.
- Users who prefer a more affordable option.
Use Cases:
- Commuters needing a pocketable phone.
- Users who often take pictures and videos in different settings.
- Gamers and power users needing high performance.
Sony Xperia 1 III Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize a large, high-resolution display for media.
- Users who need versatile photography options with zoom and wide angle.
- Users who want the best possible audio for media consumption.
- Users who need extended battery life.
- Users who need additional storage.
Use Cases:
- Media enthusiasts who want the best display experience.
- Photography enthusiasts who need more zoom and wide-angle capability.
- Users who need a long battery life for heavy use.
- Travelers and photographers wanting versatile capabilities.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Size & Portability: Do you prioritize a compact, one-handed phone or a large, immersive display?
- Camera Needs: Do you value high-resolution images and 8K video, or versatile lenses with more zoom capability?
- Battery and Usage: Do you need maximum battery life, or is fast charging sufficient?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Compact & Bright): If you need a very pocketable phone with high performance and excellent daylight visibility, choose the Asus Zenfone 8.
- Scenario 2 (Media & Photography): If you want the best possible media experience with a high-resolution screen, Dolby Atmos audio, and versatile photography lenses, choose the Sony Xperia 1 III.
- Scenario 3 (Balanced User): If you seek a balance of performance, a good screen, and a capable camera, choose the Asus Zenfone 8. You will sacrifice on media consumption with its smaller screen but gain more compact use with brighter visibility.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Asus Zenfone 8. While the Sony Xperia 1 III has a compelling display and more versatile camera system, I value the compactness, brightness, and overall camera performance of the Zenfone 8 more. The 8K video recording is a significant advantage, and the lighter weight and smaller size make it much more practical for daily use. The DxOMark scores also indicate better performance, which I value more than zoom lenses. Finally the price point tends to be lower than the Xperia, making it a good choice for value.
