Sony Xperia 10 III vs. Motorola Moto G35: A Practical Showdown
These two mid-range smartphones cater to different priorities—Sony’s refined engineering versus Motorola’s value-driven performance. Here’s how they stack up in real-world use.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 154 × 68 × 8.3 mm | 166.3 × 76 × 7.8 mm | The Xperia is more compact and lighter (169g vs. 188g), making it easier for one-handed use. The Moto G35 is larger but slightly thinner. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 | Gorilla Glass 3 | Xperia is more durable against drops/scratches. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both offer quick unlocking, but placement is similar. |
Display
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size & Tech | 6" OLED (1080x2520) | 6.72" IPS LCD (1080x2400) | Xperia’s OLED offers deeper blacks and better contrast, while the Moto G35’s larger screen is better for media, though LCD colors are less vibrant. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Moto G35 feels smoother in scrolling/gaming, but Xperia's OLED helps compensate in motion clarity. |
| Brightness | Not specified (likely ~700 nits) | 1000 nits (peak) | Moto G35 is far superior outdoors—much easier to see in sunlight. |
Performance & Battery
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 690 (8nm) | Unisoc T760 (6nm) | Moto G35 is ~54% faster (AnTuTu 423K vs. 275K), making it better for gaming and multitasking. |
| RAM Options | 6GB | 4GB/8GB | Xperia has a fixed 6GB, while Moto G35’s 8GB variant is superior for heavy users. |
| Battery Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Moto G35 lasts longer (11% bigger battery). Both charge at 18W (slow by 2024 standards). |
Camera
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, Sony sensor) | 50MP (f/1.8, Samsung sensor) | Moto G35 has higher resolution but Xperia’s optics may offer better processing. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Comparable, but Xperia has an extra telephoto lens (8MP 2x zoom). |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP (f/2.0) | 16MP (f/2.45) | Moto G35’s selfie cam is sharper, though Xperia’s wider aperture helps in low light. |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 4K@30fps | Similar capabilities, but Xperia’s Sony sensor may have better dynamic range. |
Software & Extras
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Motorola Moto G35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS Version | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 (newer) | Moto G35 has longer support and newer features (e.g., Material You). |
| Audio | Hi-Res Audio, no stereo speakers | Dolby Atmos, stereo speakers | Moto G35 has better speakers, but Xperia supports high-res wired audio. |
| Storage Options | 128GB (non-expandable) | 128GB/256GB (non-expandable) | Moto G35 offers more storage flexibility. |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 10 III Strengths
✅ Compact & premium design – Easier to handle, better build quality.
✅ Superior display (OLED + higher PPI) – Better colors, deeper blacks.
✅ Telephoto lens – More versatile zoom for photography.
✅ Hi-Res Audio – Great for wired headphones/audiophiles.
Motorola Moto G35 Strengths
✅ Faster performance (54% higher AnTuTu) – Smoother for gaming/multitasking.
✅ 120Hz display + brighter panel – Better for outdoor visibility and fluidity.
✅ Bigger battery (5000mAh) – Longer endurance.
✅ Newer software (Android 14) – More up-to-date features.
Trade-Offs
- Xperia’s 60Hz screen feels dated next to Moto’s 120Hz.
- Moto G35’s LCD panel is less vibrant than OLED.
- Xperia’s older chipset struggles with heavy apps.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Choose the Sony Xperia 10 III if you:
📱 Prefer a compact, stylish phone with better display quality.
🎵 Value high-res audio (via wired headphones).
📸 Want a telephoto lens for more photo versatility.
Choose the Motorola Moto G35 if you:
🎮 Need better performance for gaming/multitasking.
🌞 Want a larger, smoother 120Hz screen with great brightness.
🔋 Prioritize battery life and newer software.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
1️⃣ Do I prefer a premium compact phone or a larger, smoother display?
- Xperia for portability, Moto G35 for media consumption.
2️⃣ Is camera versatility or raw performance more important? - Xperia for photography, Moto G35 for speed.
3️⃣ Do I care more about battery life or display quality? - Moto G35 lasts longer, Xperia has better contrast.
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Casual User / Media Lover → Moto G35 (big screen, battery).
- Photography Enthusiast → Xperia 10 III (telephoto, OLED).
- Budget Gamer → Moto G35 (120Hz, faster chipset).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Motorola Moto G35—it’s the better all-around device in 2024. The 120Hz screen, superior performance, and larger battery make it more future-proof, while the brighter display is a major advantage for outdoor use.
That said, if you prioritize photography or prefer a compact design, the Xperia 10 III still holds up well, especially with its OLED panel and telephoto lens. But for most users, the Moto G35’s value and modern features win out. 🚀
