Sony Xperia 1 IV vs. Realme 12 Pro+: A Deep Dive for the Discerning Smartphone User
Hello fellow tech enthusiasts! Alex Griffin here, ready to dissect the Sony Xperia 1 IV and the Realme 12 Pro+. These phones cater to different audiences, but both offer intriguing features. Let's break down the specs and see how they translate to real-world performance.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Sony Xperia 1 IV | Realme 12 Pro+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 165 x 71 x 8.2 | 161.5 x 74 x 8.8 | Xperia 1 IV is taller and slimmer, Realme 12 Pro+ is slightly shorter and wider. |
| Weight (g) | 185 | 196 | Xperia 1 IV is noticeably lighter, improving one-handed use. |
| Display | |||
| Type | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | Realme 12 Pro+ offers a slightly larger screen for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1644 x 3840 | 1080 x 2412 | Xperia 1 IV boasts a significantly sharper display (643 ppi vs. 394 ppi). |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 | Xperia 1 IV packs a flagship processor, promising significantly better performance. |
| CPU | Octa-core (1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X2 & 3x2.5 GHz Cortex-A710 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A510) | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.95 GHz Cortex-A55) | Xperia 1 IV has a more powerful and efficient CPU architecture. |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB | Xperia 1 IV offers more RAM for multitasking and demanding applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Sensor | 12MP Sony Exmor RS | 50MP Sony IMX890 | Realme 12 Pro+ boasts higher resolution; image quality depends on sensor and processing. |
| Telephoto | 12MP, 3.5-5x Optical Zoom | 64MP, 3x Optical Zoom | Realme has a higher resolution telephoto, but Xperia offers continuous optical zoom range. |
| Video | Up to 4K@120fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Xperia 1 IV provides more advanced video recording capabilities. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacities suggest comparable longevity. |
| Fast Charging | 30W | 67W | Realme 12 Pro+ offers significantly faster charging. |
2. Key Insights
The Xperia 1 IV is a powerhouse geared towards demanding users and content creators. Its superior display, flagship processor, and advanced video capabilities are unmatched by the Realme. The continuous optical zoom lens is a unique feature rarely found in smartphones.
The Realme 12 Pro+ aims for a balance between performance and affordability. Its strengths lie in its faster charging, high-resolution main and telephoto cameras, and modern Android OS.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xperia 1 IV: Ideal for professionals, gamers, and photography/videography enthusiasts who prioritize performance, a stunning display, and advanced camera features.
Realme 12 Pro+: Suitable for users seeking a well-rounded phone with good performance, a decent camera system, and fast charging, all at a more accessible price point.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- What is your budget? The Xperia 1 IV is a premium device, while the Realme 12 Pro+ offers better value for money.
- What are your primary use cases? For demanding tasks and media creation, the Xperia excels. For everyday use with a focus on social media and casual gaming, the Realme is sufficient.
- Which features matter most? Prioritize display quality and performance? Choose the Xperia. Prioritize fast charging and a modern OS? Consider the Realme.
My Choice: Sony Xperia 1 IV
While the Realme 12 Pro+ is a compelling mid-range option, the Xperia 1 IV resonates more with my personal needs and priorities. As a tech journalist, I demand top-tier performance and a display that accurately represents visual content. The Xperia's 4K HDR OLED screen and Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 deliver exactly that. The unique continuous optical zoom lens and professional-grade video recording capabilities further solidify its appeal for content creation. The lighter weight is also a significant factor for me. While the price premium is substantial, the Xperia 1 IV's unparalleled combination of features justifies the investment for my specific use case. The faster charging of the Realme is tempting, but the overall experience offered by the Xperia is more aligned with my workflow and preferences.
