Alright, let's dive deep into this comparison between the Sony Xperia 1 III and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. It's a fascinating match-up, pitting Sony's unique approach against Samsung's flagship dominance. I'll break down the specs, give you my insights, and help you figure out which one might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these phones stack up, focusing on what matters to you, the user:
| Feature | Sony Xperia 1 III | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Dimensions | 165 x 71 x 8.2 mm | 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 mm | The Xperia 1 III is taller but narrower, better for one-handed use for some; S24 Ultra is wider, providing a more immersive experience and bigger screen estate but less comfortable in the hand for extended use |
| Weight | 186g | 232g | Xperia 1 III is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for extended holding. S24 Ultra feels more premium. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.8" | S24 Ultra offers a slightly larger canvas for content and productivity. |
| Resolution | 1644 x 3840 | 1440 x 3120 | Xperia 1 III has a sharper display, resulting in better clarity for text and images. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 643 | 505 | Xperia 1 III’s display is exceptionally sharp, almost unmatched; S24 Ultra is still very sharp, just not as much. |
| Technology | OLED | Unknown | Xperia 1 III’s OLED screen offers superior contrast and colors. S24 Ultra most likely has OLED as well, but the specific technology isn't listed. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both phones provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2600 nits | S24 Ultra is much better in outdoor visibility under bright sunlight. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | S24 Ultra’s newer chip handles demanding apps, games, and multitasking with more speed and efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 889,100 | 1,814,869 | S24 Ultra is significantly faster in benchmarks, translating to more responsive performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 750 | S24 Ultra's GPU is more powerful and will offer better graphics performance for gaming and demanding applications. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Standard Lens | 12MP, f/1.7, 1.8µm | 200MP, f/1.7, 1.0µm, 1/1.3" | S24 Ultra's main camera captures much more detail and allows for greater flexibility in editing. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | None | 50MP, f/2.4, 1.0µm, 1/1.56" | S24 Ultra offers a dedicated telephoto camera for portrait photography and enhanced zoom capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm, 1/4" | 12MP, f/2.2 | S24 Ultra captures more detail and delivers slightly better selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | 10MP, f/3.4, 1.12µm, 1/3.52" | Xperia 1 III's telephoto has a slightly wider aperture, but S24 Ultra is equipped with different, more advanced sensors and computational photography algorithms. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.3 | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1.4µm, 1/2.55" | S24 Ultra captures more light and offers better low-light performance for wide-angle shots. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | Yes | None | Xperia 1 III has depth mapping capabilities for more accurate portrait shots. |
| Video | Up to 4K@120fps | Up to 8K@30fps | S24 Ultra allows for more detailed video recordings up to 8K, more suitable for professional-grade filming. |
| DxOMark | 105 | 144 | S24 Ultra has dramatically better camera performance, especially in photos and videos. |
| Additional Features | Ultra stable video, continuous autofocus | Night Mode 2.0, 8K Video | S24 Ultra has more features, such as an improved Night Mode and the ability to shoot in 8K. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | S24 Ultra has larger battery, expected to offer better endurance. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | S24 Ultra charges faster, minimizing downtime and keeping you mobile for longer. |
| Features | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging, 15W Wireless Charging, 4.5W Reverse Wireless Charging, Non-removable | S24 Ultra offers more battery options with Wireless and Reverse charging capabilities |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 (up to 21) | S24 Ultra provides more up-to-date software, with more updates to be expected in the future. |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6E | S24 Ultra has better connectivity, supporting higher bandwidth for faster download speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.3 LE | S24 Ultra has a newer and more efficient bluetooth standard, leading to a better battery efficiency when using bluetooth devices. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | L1+L5, L1, B1, E1+E5a, L1+L5 | S24 Ultra supports more satellite systems, providing better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM/eSIM | S24 Ultra offers eSIM capabilities, making it easier to switch carriers while also having physical SIM capabilities. |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal | 256GB/512GB | 256GB/512GB/1024GB | S24 Ultra provides additional storage options for users with large media libraries and demanding apps. |
| RAM | 12GB | 12GB | Both provide plenty of RAM for seamless multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD cards, it is important to get the right storage configuration, since there is no way to upgrade after purchasing. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Xperia 1 III has superior sound quality and immersion, S24 Ultra has a better microphone for voice recording. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Xperia 1 III provides a more convenient placement for the fingerprint sensor. S24 Ultra has a basic fingerprint sensor, but its precise techology is unknown. |
| BUILD | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Armor | S24 Ultra provides better screen protection. |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Geomagnetic | S24 Ultra has additional Geomagnetic Sensor. |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 1 III
- Strengths:
- Sharper Display: Its 4K OLED display with a super-high pixel density offers unparalleled clarity.
- Unique Design: A taller, slimmer profile that some users find more ergonomic for one-handed operation.
- Audio Prowess: Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio support deliver an exceptional listening experience.
- Camera: Features a ToF 3D sensor which allows for more accurate depth mapping.
- Trade-offs:
- Older Chip: Snapdragon 888 is not as powerful as the S24 Ultra’s newer silicon.
- Lower Brightness: The display isn't as bright as its competitor, making it less usable in very bright conditions.
- Less Versatile Camera System: Though capable, its cameras are not as feature-rich or performance-oriented as the S24 Ultra.
- Older Software: The phone is currently not supported for latest android features, as it will most likely not receive any further software updates.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Strengths:
- Raw Power: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is incredibly fast, making it ideal for demanding tasks.
- Stunning Display: A large, vibrant, and extremely bright display that is also very clear.
- Incredible Camera: A more versatile camera system with a 200MP main sensor and a telephoto + portrait lens.
- Battery Life: Longer battery life due to a bigger battery.
- Latest Software: More up-to-date software with updates to be expected in the future.
- Additional Features: Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, better microphone and latest standards.
- Trade-offs:
- Larger Size and Weight: Can feel bulky and heavy for some users.
- Less Comfortable One-Handed Usage: Due to the larger width, using the phone with one hand will feel less comfortable.
- Audio Quality: Although the S24 Ultra features stereo speakers, it does not offer the same immersion and enhanced audio quality as the Sony.
- Basic Fingerprint Sensor: S24 Ultra uses a basic fingerprint sensor, the technology behind which is unknown.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- For the Sony Xperia 1 III:
- Audiophiles and Cinephiles: If you prioritize audio and video fidelity, this phone is excellent for media consumption.
- Users Seeking a Slimmer Design: Ideal for those who prefer a more compact and ergonomic phone.
- Photography Enthusiasts: While its camera is not as powerful as the S24 Ultra, its TOF 3D sensor and precise color reproduction make it a good option.
- For the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra:
- Power Users and Gamers: This is the top choice if you need maximum performance for demanding applications.
- Photography and Videography Pros: Offers high-resolution cameras and video capabilities for versatile creative work.
- Professionals: The device's premium features and functionality make it a great tool for professional use.
- All-Rounder Users: The S24 Ultra caters to a broad range of needs, from content creation to media consumption, gaming and work.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help guide your decision:
- What is your primary use case? Do you prioritize visual quality and a slimmer build, or raw power and a versatile camera?
- How important is display brightness? Are you often using your phone outdoors under bright sunlight?
- Do you value up-to-date software? Or would you sacrifice software updates for other features like more immersive audio quality?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Tech Minimalist: If you are looking for a great content consumption and creative experience on a smaller, more compact device, then the Sony Xperia 1 III is the right choice.
- For the Content Creator: Choose the S24 Ultra for its versatile camera system and powerful video capabilities.
- For the Performance Enthusiast: Pick the S24 Ultra for its higher processing power and all-around advanced tech specs.
What I would choose and why:
Personally, I'd lean towards the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. While I appreciate the Sony's sharper display and unique design, the S24 Ultra's raw power, more versatile camera system, brighter display, and better battery life make it a better all-around tool. As someone who relies on their phone for both work and play, I need the most up-to-date software and hardware available to maximize my productivity and creative expression. The S24 Ultra offers a more comprehensive package, excelling in performance, camera capabilities, and overall usability, which makes it the better choice.
