Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Sony Xperia 1 III and the Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra. These are two very different beasts, each with its own distinct character, and the right choice really comes down to individual needs. Let's break it all down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the specs, translated into real-world implications:
| Feature | Sony Xperia 1 III | Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-08-25 | 2024-04-14 | Zenfone 11 Ultra is significantly newer, likely benefiting from newer technology and software optimizations. |
| Dimensions | 165 × 71 × 8.2 mm | 163.8 × 76.8 × 8.9 mm | Xperia 1 III is taller but narrower and thinner; Zenfone 11 Ultra is wider and thicker, offering a larger feel. |
| Weight | 186g | 224g | Xperia 1 III is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.78" | Zenfone 11 Ultra has a larger display for more immersive media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1644x3840 | 1080x2400 | Xperia 1 III’s higher resolution offers a much sharper, more detailed viewing experience. |
| PPI | 643 | 388 | Xperia 1 III's screen is noticeably sharper. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer excellent color and contrast, but AMOLED can sometimes offer slightly better blacks in certain conditions. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 144Hz | Zenfone 11 Ultra offers marginally smoother animations and scrolling. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2500 nits | Zenfone 11 Ultra is significantly brighter, offering much better outdoor visibility, especially under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | Zenfone 11 Ultra has a considerably newer and more powerful chip, offering better performance across the board, including significantly better gaming performance and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 889,100 | 1,532,000 | Zenfone 11 Ultra is substantially faster in benchmark tests, which translates to faster app loading, more responsiveness, and a more fluid user experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 750 | Zenfone 11 Ultra offers better graphical performance, crucial for gaming and graphically intensive tasks. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5500mAh | Zenfone 11 Ultra has a significantly larger battery, which should offer noticeably longer battery life. |
| Charging | 30W fast charging | 65W fast charging | Zenfone 11 Ultra charges much faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Features | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | Non-removable, 15W wireless charging, 10W reverse wired | Zenfone 11 Ultra offers the convenience of wireless charging and reverse wireless charging while the Xperia can bypass charging to minimize battery degradation when plugged in. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.7, 1.8µm pixel size | 50MP, f/1.9, 1.0µm pixel size | Zenfone 11 Ultra’s main sensor is much higher in resolution and, according to DxOMark, provides overall better image quality. Xperia has a wider aperture that may allow for better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm pixel size | 32MP, f/2.5, 0.7µm pixel size | Zenfone 11 Ultra has a much higher-resolution front camera, useful for detailed selfies. Xperia has a wider aperture for better low light. |
| Telephoto lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | 32MP, f/2.4 | Zenfone 11 Ultra offers higher resolution on the telephoto lens; Xperia has a wider aperture for better low light. |
| Wide Angle lens | 12MP, f/2.3 | 13MP, f/2.2 | Zenfone 11 Ultra has a slightly higher resolution and wider aperture for better low light, providing great landscape images. |
| ToF 3D sensor | Yes | No | Xperia 1 III has a ToF 3D sensor which should enhance depth perception capabilities. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K 120fps | Up to 8K 24fps | Zenfone 11 Ultra can record in 8K, suitable for high-resolution footage; Xperia 1 III offers a high 4K frame rate (120fps) . |
| DxOMark Score | 105 (Mobile); 107(Photo); 92 (Video) | 125 (Mobile); 131(Photo); 115 (Video) | Zenfone 11 Ultra has significantly better camera performance in real-world testing. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 13 | Android 14, upgradable to 16 | Zenfone 11 Ultra ships with a newer OS and is promised longer support with newer Android releases. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 7, Wi-Fi 6E | Zenfone 11 Ultra supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, potentially providing faster and more stable connections; Zenfone 11 Ultra also supports Wi-Fi MiMO. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.4 LE | Zenfone 11 Ultra has newer version of Bluetooth technology. While both have a variety of audio features, Sony has additional features for profiles. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, NavIC System | Zenfone 11 Ultra supports more satellite systems offering potentially greater GPS accuracy, especially in challenging areas. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 256GB/512GB | 256GB/512GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB or 16GB | Zenfone 11 Ultra offers a higher RAM option, better for heavy multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Both offer great audio, Zenfone has better noise cancelation for calls, Sony has Dolby Atmos for media. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Xperia 1 III offers a more ergonomic side mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Zenfone 11 Ultra has a slightly newer, more robust version of screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity, Proximity, Fingerprint | Xperia 1 III has additional environmental sensors, while the Zenfone has gravity. |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 1 III Strengths:
- Ultra-Sharp Display: The 4K OLED display is incredibly crisp, making it great for detailed viewing.
- Premium Build: A sleek and sophisticated design with a lightweight feel, which might be preferred for extended use.
- Unique Features: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and the ToF 3D sensor are differentiating points.
Sony Xperia 1 III Weaknesses:
- Older Technology: The 2021 launch date means it's lagging in processing power, camera capabilities, and connectivity.
- Battery Life: Smaller battery compared to the Zenfone, with no wireless charging option.
Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra Strengths:
- Cutting-Edge Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip provides a massive boost in performance for everything from daily tasks to intense gaming.
- Brilliant Display: Very bright display which makes it more suitable for outdoor use.
- Superior Camera: Higher resolution sensors in both front and main camera, which result in better image quality according to DxOMark.
- Long Battery Life: Much larger battery and significantly faster charging.
- Newer Technology: Benefits from newer software (Android 14) and connectivity features like Wi-Fi 7.
Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra Weaknesses:
- Size and Weight: Larger and heavier, which can make it less comfortable for some users to handle.
- Display Resolution: While large and vibrant, it can't compete with the sharpness of the Xperia's screen.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Sony Xperia 1 III is ideal for:
- Media Enthusiasts: Those who value a super-sharp display for viewing content, and who do not need the brightest screen.
- Design-Conscious Users: Those who prioritize a sleek, compact design.
- Users who prefer legacy audio features: Sony has a variety of Bluetooth profiles.
Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra is ideal for:
- Power Users: Those who need maximum performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Frequent Travelers: Those who need long battery life and fast charging on the go.
- Photography and Videography Enthusiasts: Those who would benefit from an 8K camera.
- Users who want the latest tech: The Zenfone has a more modern chipset, screen technology, and wireless charging.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask yourself these three questions to make the right choice:
Do I prioritize display sharpness and design, or raw performance and battery life? If the former, the Xperia 1 III may be your best choice; if the latter, go for the Zenfone 11 Ultra.
How much do I value a top-tier camera and the latest software? The Zenfone 11 Ultra will have superior camera performance and software.
Do I need wireless charging and the convenience of reverse wireless charging? The Zenfone has more charging options.
Here are some specific scenario-based recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Media Consumption in Indoor Settings: If you mainly watch movies at home and prefer a sharper display, the Xperia 1 III is a great option.
- Scenario 2: Gaming and Heavy Mobile Usage: The Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra is the clear choice, with its powerful processor, better graphics, higher refresh rate, and larger battery.
- Scenario 3: Outdoor Use: The Zenfone 11 Ultra with its brighter display is the clear choice, especially for those that live in sunny climates.
- Scenario 4: Photography and Videography: The Zenfone 11 Ultra will provide better results, due to its higher camera scores and 8k video.
Personal Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I'd personally go with the Asus Zenfone 11 Ultra. Here’s why:
While the Sony's 4K display is stunning and it's a beautiful piece of hardware, the Zenfone 11 Ultra's overall package is more compelling in today's landscape. The combination of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, the dramatically improved battery life, faster charging, brighter display, more advanced camera, and up-to-date software provides a future-proofed experience that I value. It can easily handle any task I throw at it, whether it’s gaming, editing on the go, or long days out and about without worrying about battery life. The superior camera performance is also a strong advantage. While I appreciate the sleekness of the Xperia, the Zenfone's performance and features would have a more tangible impact on my daily workflow and entertainment.
