Sony Xperia 10 III vs. Huawei nova 9: A Practical Comparison
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 9 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 154 × 68 × 8.3 mm | 160 × 73.7 × 7.8 mm | The Xperia is more compact and easier for one-handed use, while the nova 9 offers a larger screen in a still-sleek form. |
| Weight | 169g | 175g | The difference is minimal, but the Xperia feels slightly lighter. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 | Unknown | Sony’s display is more durable against scratches/drops. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic | Sony’s side-mounted sensor is more ergonomic and faster. |
Display
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 9 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.0" OLED | 6.57" OLED | The nova 9 is better for media consumption, while the Xperia is sharper. |
| Resolution | 1080x2520 (457 PPI) | 1080x2340 (392 PPI) | The Xperia has a crisper image, especially for text and fine details. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The nova 9’s smoother scrolling and animations enhance gaming and UI fluidity. |
Performance
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 9 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 690 (8nm) | Snapdragon 778G (6nm) | The nova 9 is significantly faster, with better thermals and efficiency. |
| RAM | 6GB | 8GB | The nova 9 handles multitasking and heavy apps more smoothly. |
| Antutu Score | 275K | 578K (~110% faster) | The nova 9 is far better for gaming, video editing, and demanding apps. |
Camera
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 9 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, Sony Exmor RS) | 50MP (f/1.9, Sony IMX766) | The nova 9 has better detail and low-light performance. |
| Ultra-Wide | 8MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Similar performance for wide shots. |
| Telephoto | 8MP (f/2.4) | None | The Xperia offers better zoom flexibility. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP (f/2.0) | 32MP (f/2.0) | The nova 9 is vastly superior for selfies and video calls. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | 720p@960fps (EIS) | The Xperia supports higher-quality recording, but the nova 9 has better stabilization. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova 9 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4300mAh | The Xperia lasts slightly longer, but the difference is minor. |
| Charging Speed | 18W | 66W | The nova 9 charges 3.6x faster—full in ~30 mins vs. ~2 hours. |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 10 III Strengths:
✅ Sharper, more compact display (better for reading, one-handed use)
✅ Telephoto lens (useful for portrait and zoom shots)
✅ Durability (Gorilla Glass 6, side-mounted fingerprint sensor)
✅ Better audio (Hi-Res support, dual mics for clearer calls)
Huawei nova 9 Strengths:
🔥 Much faster performance (Snapdragon 778G vs. 690, 2x benchmark score)
🔥 120Hz display (smoother scrolling, better gaming)
🔥 Superior main & selfie cameras (50MP + 32MP vs. 12MP + 8MP)
🔥 Blazing-fast 66W charging (huge convenience factor)
Trade-offs & Limitations:
- Xperia 10 III: Slower performance, basic charging speed, weaker selfie cam.
- nova 9: No expandable storage, lacks telephoto lens, lower display sharpness.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Sony Xperia 10 III?
✔ Compact phone lovers – Prefer a smaller, sharper screen.
✔ Audiophiles – Value Hi-Res audio and call clarity.
✔ Casual photographers – Want a telephoto lens for versatility.
Who Should Buy the Huawei nova 9?
✔ Power users & gamers – Need speed and a 120Hz display.
✔ Selfie & social media enthusiasts – 32MP front cam is a big upgrade.
✔ Fast-charging fans – 66W charging is a game-changer.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I prioritize performance or display sharpness? (nova 9 for speed, Xperia for clarity)
- How important is fast charging to me? (nova 9 wins easily)
- Do I need a telephoto lens or better selfies? (Xperia for zoom, nova 9 for selfies)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Best for Gaming & Speed? → Huawei nova 9
- Best for Media & Reading? → Sony Xperia 10 III
- Best All-Rounder? → Huawei nova 9 (unless you really need a telephoto lens)
Final Verdict: What Would I Choose?
Winner: Huawei nova 9
Despite the Xperia 10 III’s sharper display and telephoto camera, the nova 9’s superior performance, 120Hz screen, 50MP camera, and 66W charging make it the better all-around device. Unless you must have a compact phone or a dedicated zoom lens, the nova 9 delivers more value for most users.
That said, if you’re an audiophile or prefer Sony’s minimalist design, the Xperia 10 III remains a solid choice—but in 2024, the nova 9 is the more future-proof pick.
Which would you choose? Let me know your thoughts! 🚀
