Sony Xperia 10 III vs. Huawei nova Y70 Plus: A Practical Comparison
When choosing between the Sony Xperia 10 III (2021) and Huawei nova Y70 Plus (2022), the decision depends on whether you prioritize performance, display quality, and software (Sony) or battery life and a larger screen (Huawei). Below, we break down the specs, real-world impact, and ideal user scenarios.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova Y70 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 154 × 68 × 8.3 mm | 168.3 × 77.7 × 9 mm | Xperia is more compact and pocket-friendly, while the nova Y70 Plus is bulkier (30g heavier). |
| Weight | 169g | 199g | Xperia is easier for one-handed use; Huawei may feel hefty. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 | Unknown | Xperia is more durable against scratches/drops. |
Display Quality
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova Y70 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.0" OLED | 6.75" IPS LCD | Huawei has a bigger screen, but Sony’s OLED delivers better contrast and vibrancy. |
| Resolution | 1080x2520 (457 PPI) | 720x1600 (260 PPI) | Xperia’s display is much sharper—text, videos, and games look crisper. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | No high refresh rate on either. |
Performance & Software
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova Y70 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 690 5G (8nm) | Kirin 710A (14nm) | Xperia is faster and more efficient (better performance per watt). |
| Benchmark (AnTuTu) | 275,000 | 103,500 | Xperia is 166% faster—better for gaming, multitasking. |
| RAM | 6GB | 4GB | Xperia handles apps better; Huawei may struggle with heavy apps. |
| OS | Android 11 (up to 13) | EMUI (no Google services) | Xperia has full Android, Google apps; Huawei lacks Play Store. |
Camera Comparison
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova Y70 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, Exmor RS) | 48MP (f/1.8) | Huawei’s higher MP count doesn’t guarantee better quality—Sony’s sensor is likely superior. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.2) | 5MP (f/2.2) | Xperia’s ultrawide is sharper. |
| Telephoto | 8MP (f/2.4) | None | Xperia has a dedicated zoom lens—better for portraits. |
| Video | 4K @ 30fps | 1080p @ 30fps | Xperia supports 4K video; Huawei is limited to Full HD. |
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova Y70 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 6000mAh | Huawei lasts longer—great for heavy users. |
| Charging Speed | 18W | 22.5W | Huawei charges slightly faster, but neither is ultra-fast. |
Connectivity & Extras
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Huawei nova Y70 Plus | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ac) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11n) | Xperia has faster Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 (LDAC, aptX) | 5.1 (LDAC, SBC) | Both support high-res audio, but Xperia has aptX. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither has microSD—pick a higher storage variant. |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 10 III Wins In:
✅ Performance – Faster chipset (Snapdragon 690), more RAM (6GB), better optimization.
✅ Display – Sharper 1080p OLED vs. Huawei’s 720p LCD.
✅ Cameras – More versatile with telephoto & better video recording (4K).
✅ Software – Full Android with Google Play, Huawei lacks Play Store.
Huawei nova Y70 Plus Wins In:
✅ Battery Life – 6000mAh vs. 4500mAh gives much longer endurance.
✅ Screen Size – 6.75" is better for media consumption if you don’t mind lower resolution.
Trade-Offs:
- Huawei’s software limitations (no Google Play) make app compatibility difficult.
- Sony’s battery life is decent but not exceptional—Huawei lasts longer.
3. Who Should Buy Which Phone?
Sony Xperia 10 III is Best For:
✔ Performance-first users (gaming, multitasking).
✔ Photography enthusiasts (better cameras, 4K video).
✔ Those who need Google apps (Play Store, full Android).
Huawei nova Y70 Plus is Best For:
✔ Battery life warriors (6000mAh is a beast).
✔ Media consumers who prioritize a big screen over sharpness.
✔ Users okay with Huawei’s ecosystem (AppGallery, sideloading).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I need Google apps? → If yes, Xperia 10 III.
- Do I prioritize battery life over performance? → If yes, nova Y70 Plus.
- Do I care about camera versatility? → If yes, Xperia 10 III.
Scenario Recommendations:
- Student/Professional (needs performance, apps) → Xperia 10 III.
- Casual User (watches videos, needs long battery) → nova Y70 Plus.
- Traveler/Photographer (wants great cameras) → Xperia 10 III.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d go with the Sony Xperia 10 III.
Why?
- Better display (OLED + higher resolution).
- Stronger performance (Snapdragon 690, 6GB RAM).
- More versatile cameras (telephoto, 4K video).
- Full Android experience (Google Play support).
The Huawei nova Y70 Plus is great for battery life and screen size, but the software limitations, weaker performance, and lower-res display make it harder to recommend unless battery life is your #1 priority.
For most users, the Sony Xperia 10 III is the better all-rounder—especially if you can find it at a competitive price.
