Sony Xperia 1 IV vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4: A Detailed Comparison
Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Sony Xperia 1 IV and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4, two phones targeting distinct user profiles with unique strengths.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Sony Xperia 1 IV | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 165 x 71 x 8.2 | 165.2 x 71.9 x 6.9 | Xperia 1 IV is taller and slimmer; Z Flip4 is more compact when folded. |
| Weight (g) | 185 | 187 | Negligible weight difference. |
| Foldable | No | Yes | Z Flip4 offers portability and a unique form factor. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.5 | 6.7 | Z Flip4 has a slightly larger screen. |
| Resolution (px) | 1644 x 3840 | 1080 x 2640 | Xperia 1 IV boasts a significantly sharper display with a higher pixel density (643 ppi vs 426 ppi). |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 120 | 120 | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Display Type | OLED | AMOLED | Both provide vibrant colors and deep blacks. Xperia 1 IV's 21:9 aspect ratio is ideal for media consumption. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 | Z Flip4 has a slightly newer, more power-efficient processor. |
| CPU | Octa-core | Octa-core | Both offer high-end performance, but the 8+ Gen 1 should deliver slightly better speeds and efficiency. |
| RAM (GB) | 12 | 8 | Xperia 1 IV offers more RAM for multitasking. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera (MP) | 12 + 12 + 12 | 12 + 12 | Xperia 1 IV has a triple camera system with a dedicated telephoto lens; Z Flip4 has dual cameras. |
| DxOMark Score | 105 | 112 | Z Flip4 scores higher overall in DxOMark tests, indicating better image quality. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 5000 | 3700 | Xperia 1 IV has a significantly larger battery, promising longer usage time. |
2. Key Insights
- Display: The Xperia 1 IV's 4K HDR OLED display with a 21:9 aspect ratio is a standout feature, offering an unparalleled mobile cinematic experience. While the Z Flip4's foldable AMOLED display is impressive in its own right, it falls short in resolution sharpness.
- Performance: Both phones are performance powerhouses. However, the Z Flip4's Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip provides a slight edge in efficiency and speed. The Xperia 1 IV's 12GB RAM makes it a multitasking champion.
- Camera: The Z Flip4 edges out the Xperia 1 IV in overall image quality according to DxOMark, particularly in video recording. However, the Xperia 1 IV's dedicated telephoto lens offers greater versatility for zoom photography.
- Battery: The Xperia 1 IV's significantly larger battery capacity should translate to considerably longer usage on a single charge. The Z Flip4's smaller battery is a trade-off for its compact, foldable design.
- Form Factor: The Z Flip4's foldable design is its defining feature. Its compact size when folded is undeniably appealing for portability. However, the Xperia 1 IV's traditional candybar design offers a more immersive media experience thanks to its larger, uninterrupted display.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xperia 1 IV: Ideal for power users, content creators, and mobile photography enthusiasts who prioritize a stunning display, exceptional battery life, and a dedicated telephoto lens.
- Z Flip4: Best suited for users who value portability and style above all else. The compact foldable design is a conversation starter and incredibly pocket-friendly.
4. Buying Decision Framework
- Is a foldable design a must-have? If yes, the Z Flip4 is your only option here.
- What is your priority: battery life or portability? The Xperia 1 IV excels in battery life, while the Z Flip4 prioritizes portability.
- Are you a content creator or heavy media consumer? If so, the Xperia 1 IV's display and camera features will be particularly appealing.
My Choice: Sony Xperia 1 IV
While the Z Flip4's foldable design is undeniably cool, the Xperia 1 IV aligns more closely with my priorities. As a tech journalist, I value a stellar display for reviewing media, a large battery for long days of work, and a versatile camera system for capturing events. The Xperia 1 IV's 4K HDR OLED screen and superior battery life are compelling advantages that outweigh the Z Flip4's portability benefits for my specific needs. The dedicated telephoto lens also aligns with my preference for capturing detailed shots from a distance. While benchmarks suggest the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip is slightly faster, the real-world performance difference is likely negligible for my usage, and the Xperia 1 IV's extra RAM is a welcome bonus for multitasking.
