Smartphone Comparison: Realme 8 vs. Sony Xperia 5 V
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Size | 160.6 × 73.9 × 8 mm | 154 × 68 × 8.6 mm | Realme 8 is taller and wider, potentially less comfortable for one-handed use; Xperia 5 V is more compact but slightly thicker. |
| Weight | 177g | 182g | Realme 8 is slightly lighter, which may be noticeable during extended use and portability. |
| Build Quality | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 (screen) | Xperia 5 V has superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones with no foldable capability. |
Display
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.4" | 6.1" | Realme 8 offers a larger viewing area for media consumption and gaming, while Xperia 5 V is more compact and may be better for smaller hands. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2520 | Xperia 5 V has slightly sharper text and images due to higher pixel count. |
| PPI | 411 | 449 | Xperia 5 V has a slightly higher pixel density, resulting in a slightly sharper and more detailed display. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. AMOLED is a marketing term for OLED used by Samsung. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Xperia 5 V provides smoother scrolling and animations, making for a more fluid experience, especially in fast-paced games. |
| Brightness | 1000 nits | 0 nits | Realme 8 has significantly higher brightness for better visibility in direct sunlight. Sony Xperia 5 V brightness is unknown, limiting outdoor use. |
Performance
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Xperia 5 V has vastly superior processing power for demanding tasks, multitasking, and gaming; Realme 8 is more suitable for basic usage. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 1,370,000 | Xperia 5 V is significantly faster in overall performance (234% faster). |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Adreno 740 | Xperia 5 V has significantly better graphics processing, for smoother gameplay and faster image/video processing. |
Camera
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 64MP | 48MP | Realme 8 captures images with more detail in optimal lighting; differences in detail are less noticeable in most scenarios, particularly in low light. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.9 | Realme 8 lets in more light for brighter low-light photos. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/1.4" | Xperia 5 V captures more light and detail, especially in low light, because of the larger sensor. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.70 µm | 1.12 µm | Xperia 5 V captures more light per pixel, which is crucial for improved low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 16MP | 12MP | Realme 8 captures more detail in good lighting; differences in detail are less noticeable in most scenarios, particularly in low light. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.45 | f/2.0 | Xperia 5 V captures brighter selfies due to the wider aperture. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/3.13" | 1/2.93" | Xperia 5 V captures more light and detail, especially in low light, because of the larger sensor. |
| Selfie Camera Pixel Size | 1.00 µm | 1.22 µm | Xperia 5 V captures more light per pixel, which is crucial for improved low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle Camera Resolution | 8MP | 12.2MP | Xperia 5 V takes higher resolution ultrawide photos for capturing more detail and clearer images. |
| Wide Angle Camera Aperture | f/2.25 | f/2.2 | Xperia 5 V lets in slightly more light, resulting in brighter photos. |
| Wide Angle Camera Sensor Size | Unknown | 1/2.55" | Xperia 5 V takes higher quality ultrawide photos because of the larger sensor. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | None | Realme 8 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up photos. |
| Black & White Lens | 2MP | None | Realme 8 has a dedicated B&W lens for artistic black and white photos. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Up to 4K@120fps with HDR, OIS, EIS | Xperia 5 V offers more versatile video capabilities, including HDR, OIS for stabilization and higher frame rates at 4K. |
| Video Stabilization | EIS | OIS & EIS | Xperia 5 V offers superior video stability due to optical image stabilization. |
| Slow Motion Video | Yes, 240fps | Yes, 120fps | Realme 8 can record slower slow-motion video. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Available | Mobile: 118 (Photo: 124, Video: 118) | Xperia 5 V has superior image and video quality. |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Dual camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW | Xperia 5 V offers more comprehensive camera features for better manual control and versatility. |
Battery
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life for both, but real-world usage will vary based on user behavior. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Both phones charge relatively quickly. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging, Non-removable | Xperia 5 V can be used as a power bank and can charge while gaming with bypass charging to prevent overheating. |
Software
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 | Android 13, upgradeable to 14 | Xperia 5 V has a newer OS with more recent features, security updates, and may be more future-proof. |
| Max OS Version | Unknown | 14 | Xperia 5 V is expected to get Android OS updates in the future. |
Connectivity
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/ax (WiFi 6E) | Xperia 5 V has faster, more reliable WiFi for better streaming and downloads on modern networks, and access to 6GHz frequency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 LE | Xperia 5 V has a newer, more efficient Bluetooth version for improved audio quality and connection stability with peripherals. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1 + L5) | Xperia 5 V has more precise positioning for mapping and navigation. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Xperia 5 V supports an eSIM, which can be more convenient for travelers, while Realme 8 has 2 physical SIM slots. |
Storage
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal | 64GB or 128GB | 128GB or 256GB | Xperia 5 V offers more storage for apps, media, and documents. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 8GB | Xperia 5 V can multitask and play games more smoothly with 8GB of RAM. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, which could limit users with larger media collections. |
Audio
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio | Basic Audio Features | Realme 8 offers a higher quality audio playback experience. |
Security
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Xperia 5 V's side-mounted fingerprint sensor is more ergonomic than a rear or front-mounted sensor and offers easier access. |
Sensors
| Feature | Realme 8 | Sony Xperia 5 V | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Xperia 5 V provides more comprehensive sensor suite for enhanced functionality, especially in environmental measurement. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 8 Advantages
- Larger Display: 6.4-inch display offers more screen real estate for media and gaming, which can be better for visual tasks and those who prefer a larger screen.
- Significantly Higher Brightness: 1000 nits brightness for clear visibility in direct sunlight.
- Hi-Res Audio: Superior audio quality
- Dedicated Macro & B&W Cameras: For more versatility in photography (close up images and artistic shots).
- Slower Slow-Motion: Allows 240fps slow-motion video capture.
- Lighter Weight: Offers slight improvement in portability and comfort.
Sony Xperia 5 V Advantages
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster processing and graphics with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, leading to smooth operation and gaming performance.
- Higher Refresh Rate: 120Hz display for smoother visuals.
- Better Main Camera Quality: Larger sensor and pixel size result in better low-light photos.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Produces smoother videos and sharper photos, especially in low light.
- Superior Video Recording: 4K at up to 120fps with HDR, and OIS providing superior stability.
- Newer OS: Android 13 (upgradable to 14) offers better performance, security, and features.
- Better Connectivity: Faster WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for improved network and peripheral connections.
- More Storage: Up to 256GB internal storage for more media and apps.
- Advanced Features: Bypass charging, reverse charging, more comprehensive camera features (RAW, continuous autofocus), and better sensor suite (Barometer).
- Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 offers superior screen protection against scratches and drops.
- eSIM support: For seamless switching between carriers.
Significant Trade-offs
- Realme 8: Sacrifices performance, camera quality, and build quality for a larger screen and higher brightness.
- Realme 8: Lack of OIS results in lower quality video recording compared to Sony Xperia 5 V.
- Sony Xperia 5 V: Less bright display than the Realme 8, which is a major downside for outdoor use in direct sunlight. Slightly less comfortable for one handed use. Smaller display than the Realme 8 may not be preferred by some users.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme 8
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize a larger display and brightness over top-tier performance and camera quality.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday browsing and social media.
- Casual gaming and video watching.
- Users who spend a lot of time outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Users who require longer battery life.
- Basic photography needs
- Users who value Hi-Res Audio.
Sony Xperia 5 V
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize top-tier performance, photography, and videography capabilities, and prefer premium features.
- Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming with smooth graphics and responsiveness.
- Professional photographers and videographers who need advanced camera features and excellent low-light performance.
- Users who value the latest tech advancements, fast performance, and smoother display.
- Travelers needing eSIM support.
- Users who need extensive audio playback capabilities and connect to Bluetooth peripherals often.
- Users who want a more compact, comfortable phone for one-handed use.
Price-to-Value Ratio
- The Realme 8 offers good value at a lower price point. It meets the needs of a basic user.
- The Sony Xperia 5 V is a premium phone with higher quality components, thus commanding a higher price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your primary use case for your smartphone? (Casual browsing vs. heavy gaming and photography)
- Do you prioritize performance and camera quality, or is screen size and brightness more important?
- What is your budget, and how does it align with your needs?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: If you need a phone for basic daily tasks, enjoy having a larger screen and use your phone a lot outdoors, the Realme 8 is a good and more affordable option.
- Scenario 2: If you need a top-performing smartphone for high-end gaming, photography, and video recording, and prefer premium features with a compact form factor, the Sony Xperia 5 V is the better choice.
- Scenario 3: If you want a phone that provides the best value-for-money balance, and if outdoor visibility is not a priority, the Sony Xperia 5 V is the clear winner.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Sony Xperia 5 V.
While the Realme 8 offers a larger and brighter screen at a more budget-friendly price, the overall user experience that the Sony Xperia 5 V offers far surpasses the Realme 8. The superior performance with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, the significantly better camera system, including OIS, higher refresh rate and the more up-to-date software all make it a more compelling device. I appreciate the more compact size and build quality of the Sony. Although the lower display brightness on the Sony is a drawback, the other advantages far outweigh this negative. While the price is substantially higher, the performance and premium features make the Xperia 5 V worth the investment. I am not just a casual user, I often multitask and play mobile games. Additionally, I value high quality audio and video features. For my usage, the Sony is more future proof than the Realme.
