Smartphone Comparison: Asus Zenfone 8 vs. Sony Xperia 1 VI
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Asus Zenfone 8 | Sony Xperia 1 VI | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-05-13 | 2024-06-03 | Xperia 1 VI is significantly newer, with more modern features and software. |
| Dimensions | 148 × 68.5 × 8.9 mm | 162 × 74 × 8.2 mm | Zenfone 8 is more compact and pocketable; Xperia 1 VI has a larger screen but is taller and wider. |
| Weight | 169g | 192g | Zenfone 8 is lighter, making it more comfortable for one-handed use and extended periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 5.9" | 6.5" | Xperia 1 VI offers more screen real estate for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Similar sharpness, but the higher PPI of Zenfone 8 can mean slightly crisper text and images. |
| PPI | 446 | 396 | Zenfone 8 has a sharper display due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; similar quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Zenfone 8's higher brightness offers better outdoor visibility; missing data on the Xperia's brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | Xperia 1 VI has a much more powerful and efficient processor, leading to better performance in demanding tasks. |
| Antutu Score | 891,700 | 2,110,000 | Xperia 1 VI has significantly higher performance, suitable for heavy gaming and multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 750 | Xperia 1 VI's GPU provides better graphics performance for gaming and other intensive graphical tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000mAh | 5000mAh | Xperia 1 VI should offer longer battery life due to its larger capacity. |
| Charging | 30W fast charging | 30W fast charging | Both phones offer similar fast charging speeds. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, Reverse wireless charging | Xperia 1 VI offers more charging options and can act as a power bank. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Resolution | 64MP | 48MP | Zenfone 8 has higher megapixel count; image quality is also determined by sensor, software and other factors. |
| Standard Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.9 | Zenfone 8's wider aperture should result in slightly better low-light performance. |
| Standard Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.7" | 1/1.4" | Xperia 1 VI has a larger sensor, often leading to better light capture and dynamic range. |
| Standard Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.17 µm | Xperia 1 VI's larger pixel size captures more light per pixel for potentially better low-light shots. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.45 | f/2.0 | Xperia 1 VI's wider aperture should result in slightly better low-light selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 12MP | Xperia 1 VI offers optical zoom capabilities, missing on the Zenfone. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 12.2MP | Xperia 1 VI offers a dedicated wide-angle camera, useful for landscape and group shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | 12MP | N/A | Zenfone 8 offers a wide-angle macro camera for close-up shots. |
| Video Resolution | 8K@24fps | 4K@120fps | Zenfone 8 offers 8K recording, but both record up to 4k@120 with HDR |
| Video Stabilization | EIS | OIS, EIS | Xperia 1 VI's optical image stabilization is superior to Zenfone 8's digital stabilization. |
| DXOMark Score | Mobile: 116 (Photo: 120, Video: 118) | N/A | Zenfone 8 has a tested score, Xperia 1 VI has no published score. |
| Camera Features | 4K, 8K Video, OIS, Digital Zoom, Dual Camera... | 4K Video, OIS, Digital & Optical zoom, Triple Camera... | Xperia 1 VI offers advanced features like Noise Reduction, optical zoom, and Night Mode |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Up to 13) | Android 14 (Up to 17) | Xperia 1 VI has a more modern OS with longer support, enhancing security and features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 7 | Xperia 1 VI supports newer WiFi for faster wireless speeds. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.4 | Xperia 1 VI has a newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5) | Zenfone 8 has more satellite navigation options for better accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Xperia 1 VI offers more flexibility with eSIM support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 256GB/512GB | Xperia 1 VI offers larger storage capacities. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB/12GB/16GB | 12GB | Zenfone 8 offers up to 16GB of RAM, while the Xperia comes with 12GB. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Zenfone 8 provides higher quality audio playback and recording. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Xperia 1 VI's side fingerprint sensor is often more ergonomic and faster. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Both offer strong screen protection; Xperia 1 VI is slightly better with the Victus 2. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Pedometer | Xperia 1 VI has additional environmental sensors including a barometer. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Asus Zenfone 8 Advantages:
- More Compact Design: Its smaller size makes it easier to handle and pocketable, ideal for those who prioritize one-handed usage.
- Lighter Weight: Significantly lighter, enhancing comfort during extended use.
- Sharper Display: Higher PPI provides a slightly crisper visual experience.
- Higher Video Resolution: Offers 8K video recording, a feature not available on the Xperia 1 VI.
- More Satellite Navigation Support: Provides more satellite navigation systems that may enhance accuracy for specific use-cases.
- Higher RAM Option: Offers up to 16GB of RAM
Sony Xperia 1 VI Advantages:
- Significantly Newer & More Powerful Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 provides superior performance, better efficiency and more modern capabilities.
- Larger Display: Offers more screen real estate for media consumption, gaming, and productivity.
- Larger Battery Capacity: Provides longer battery life, crucial for all-day use.
- More Advanced Camera System: Includes a telephoto lens for optical zoom and a dedicated wide-angle lens; larger sensor for better low-light performance.
- Superior Video Stabilization: Optical image stabilization (OIS) provides smoother footage compared to Zenfone 8’s EIS.
- Newer Software: Runs Android 14 with longer software support.
- eSIM Support: Offers eSIM functionality for greater flexibility in carrier choices.
- Wireless & Reverse Charging: Can act as a power bank for other devices with reverse wireless charging.
- More Storage: Comes with a larger storage option (512GB).
- More Advanced Fingerprint Scanner: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, usually more ergonomic and faster than basic sensors.
- Environmental Sensors: Includes a barometer, and pedometer.
- Newer Connectivity Options: Features Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for better speeds and latency.
Trade-offs:
- Size vs. Portability: Xperia 1 VI's larger size may be less convenient for users who prefer a smaller, more pocketable phone.
- Camera Features vs. Video Resolution: Zenfone 8 offers 8K video, while Xperia 1 VI excels in versatility and low-light performance across its lenses.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Asus Zenfone 8 is Ideal For:
- Users who prioritize one-handed use and portability: Its compact size and lighter weight make it easier to carry and use on the go.
- Casual gamers who prioritize video resolution: While its chipset is older, its still performs well, especially with the option for higher video recording resolution.
- Users who prefer a simpler, more affordable option: It's likely to be more affordable than the newer Xperia 1 VI, offering good value for the price.
- Users who value high-quality audio and recording: Offers higher quality audio recording with 3 microphones and hi-res audio output.
Use Case Examples:
- Commuters who need a phone that fits comfortably in their pocket and is easy to use on the go.
- Users who prefer a more basic smartphone experience for day-to-day tasks and simple gaming.
- Budget-conscious buyers who need good performance.
Sony Xperia 1 VI is Ideal For:
- Power users who demand the best performance: Its cutting-edge chipset handles demanding tasks smoothly.
- Photography enthusiasts who want versatile camera features: Its telephoto, wide-angle, and larger sensor provide more options for creative shooting.
- Users who value long battery life: Its larger battery ensures all-day use without frequent charging.
- Users who prefer a more immersive media experience: Larger display is ideal for video consumption, gaming and multitasking.
- Users who need a future-proof device: Newer chipset, software support, and connectivity options.
- Users who use wireless charging often: The device offers wireless and reverse wireless charging, allowing it to power other devices.
Use Case Examples:
- Content creators who need excellent camera and video capabilities.
- Gamers who need a powerful device for demanding games.
- Business users who need a reliable device for multitasking and productivity.
- Users who require long battery life for travel or extended use.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your priority in terms of size and portability? (Smaller phone for one-handed use vs. larger screen for media).
- What is your budget and desired price-to-value ratio? (Affordable good performance vs. top-tier features).
- What do you value more, video resolution or overall camera versatility and performance? (8K video vs. multi-lens system with OIS).
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Basic User, Budget-Conscious:
- Recommendation: Asus Zenfone 8. It is more affordable and offers a compact design, high PPI, 8K video recording and decent performance for everyday tasks.
- Scenario 2: Performance-Driven, Heavy User:
- Recommendation: Sony Xperia 1 VI. Its cutting-edge chipset and versatile camera system, combined with a larger battery and other modern features, make it ideal for power users.
- Scenario 3: Mobile Photography Enthusiast:
- Recommendation: Sony Xperia 1 VI. The dedicated telephoto and wide angle lenses, combined with a larger sensor and OIS, offer more creative options and superior image quality in various scenarios.
- Scenario 4: Portability Focused:
- Recommendation: Asus Zenfone 8. The more compact, lightweight design makes it a better fit for users who want something that fits easily in their pocket or is more comfortable for one-handed use.
Personal Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Sony Xperia 1 VI. While the Asus Zenfone 8 is a solid device with some compelling features (like 8K recording and a compact design), the Xperia 1 VI offers a more modern and robust experience. The significantly better performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, combined with the larger battery, advanced camera system (with a telephoto lens and superior stabilization), and newer software, makes it a more future-proof and versatile option.
Although the Zenfone 8's compact size and lighter weight are appealing, I often prioritize performance and camera capabilities, especially in mobile photography and for running demanding applications. The lack of a telephoto lens in the Zenfone 8 and its older chipset are significant drawbacks for me. The advantages of the Xperia 1 VI in these areas outweigh its larger size. The increased storage options, eSIM support and environmental sensors also play a role in this decision.
