Huawei nova 9 SE vs Sony Xperia 5 IV - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date March 20, 2022 September 22, 2022
Release Year 2022 2022

Physical

Volume 98.31 cm³ 85.71 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.55 "/g 3.55 "/g
Weight 191 g 172 g
Height 164.6 mm 156 mm
Width 75.6 mm 67 mm
Thickness 7.9 mm 8.2 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Midnight Black
  • Pearl White
  • Crystal Blue
  • Black
  • Green
  • Ecru White

Display

Screen Size 6.78 " 6.1 "
Resolution 1080 x 2388 1080 x 2520
Aspect Ratio 20:9 21:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 89.5 % 83.2 %
Pixel Density 387 PPI 449 PPI
Refresh Rate 90 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A N/A
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 87.02 mAh/in² 134.37 mAh/in²
Battery Density 40.69 mAh/cm³ 58.34 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4000 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM6225 Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) Qualcomm SM8450 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm)
CPU Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Kryo 265 Gold & 4x1.9 GHz Kryo 265 Silver) Octa-core (1x3.00 GHz Cortex-X2 & 3x2.50 GHz Cortex-A710 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A510)
GPU Adreno 610 Adreno 730

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 3.2
OTG Support 1 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0, OTG USB Type-C 3.2, OTG, Video Output

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 12
Maximum OS Version 13

Comparison Summary

Huawei nova 9 SE vs. Sony Xperia 5 IV: A User-Centered Comparison

Let's move beyond the numbers and delve into the heart of what makes these phones unique, focusing on the experience they offer.

1. Design and Usability Assessment:

FeatureHuawei nova 9 SESony Xperia 5 IVUser Experience Impact
Interface DesignEMUI 12 (Android-based)Xperia UI (Android-based)EMUI might offer more customization options, while Xperia UI leans towards a cleaner, stock Android feel. Impact depends on user preference for customization vs. simplicity.
Interaction FlowStandard Android navigation with Huawei customizationsNear-stock Android navigation with Sony enhancementsSony's approach likely offers a more familiar Android experience. Huawei's customizations might introduce a learning curve for some users.
Accessibility FeaturesStandard Android accessibility featuresStandard Android accessibility features, potentially enhanced by SonyBoth phones likely offer basic accessibility features. Deeper analysis of specific features (e.g., text scaling, color inversion) needed for thorough evaluation.
Design ErgonomicsLarger (6.78"), heavier (191g)Smaller (6.1"), lighter (172g)Nova 9 SE better for media consumption due to larger screen but less pocketable. Xperia 5 IV offers greater one-handed usability and portability.

2. Narrative-Driven Feature Exploration:

Scenario: Imagine a photography enthusiast, Sarah. The Nova 9 SE boasts a 108MP main camera, seemingly impressive. However, megapixels don't tell the whole story. Sony, with its triple 12MP camera system featuring renowned ZEISS optics and advanced video capabilities, offers Sarah finer control over her shots. The Xperia's dedicated hardware buttons for shutter and focus further enhance the tactile experience, making her feel like a professional photographer.

3. Inclusive Technology Evaluation:

  • For a budget-conscious user: The Nova 9 SE offers compelling value with its high-resolution camera and large display.
  • For a power user: The Xperia 5 IV's superior processing power (Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 vs. Snapdragon 680), 120Hz display, and advanced camera system cater to demanding tasks and multimedia experiences.
  • For an older adult: Both phones offer standard Android accessibility features. However, the Xperia 5 IV's compact size might be more manageable for users with limited dexterity.

4. Design-Centric Decision Framework:

Beyond raw specs, consider:

  • Prioritize User Experience: Do you value a customizable interface (Huawei) or a cleaner, stock Android experience (Sony)?
  • Screen Size and Portability: Larger screen for media consumption (Nova 9 SE) or pocketability and one-handed use (Xperia 5 IV)?
  • Camera Needs: High megapixel count (Nova 9 SE) or superior image quality and control (Xperia 5 IV)?

My Choice: Sony Xperia 5 IV

While the Huawei nova 9 SE offers a tempting 108MP camera and larger display, the Sony Xperia 5 IV resonates more with my user-centered approach. Its superior processing power, advanced camera system with ZEISS optics, compact design, and smoother 120Hz display cater to a more refined and enjoyable user experience. The dedicated hardware shutter button adds a touch of professional-grade control, appealing to my appreciation for thoughtful design details. The Xperia 5 IV's overall package feels more meticulously crafted, promising a user experience that goes beyond impressive specifications. The higher price tag is justified by the tangible benefits in performance, camera quality, and overall usability.

Sophia Rodriguez
Sophia Rodriguez

Technology Communications Specialist

Expert in transforming complex technological innovations into accessible, engaging narratives.

Key Strengths:

  • Technology storytelling
  • User experience design analysis
  • Inclusive technology communication
  • Design-driven technology insights

Bridging technical complexity with human-centered understanding.