Sony Xperia 10 III vs. Nokia G42: A Practical Comparison
Both the Sony Xperia 10 III (2021) and Nokia G42 (2023) are affordable mid-range smartphones, but they cater to different priorities. Below, we break down their specs, real-world implications, and ideal user profiles.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Nokia G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 154 × 68 × 8.3 mm | 165 × 75.8 × 8.6 mm | Sony is more compact and easier for one-handed use. Nokia is larger, offering a bigger screen but bulkier feel. |
| Weight | 169g | 193.8g | Sony is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for long sessions. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 | Gorilla Glass 3 | Sony offers better drop protection, but neither is shatterproof. |
🔹 Key Takeaway: If you prioritize portability, the Xperia 10 III wins. If you want a bigger screen, the Nokia G42 is better.
Display
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Nokia G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6" OLED | 6.56" IPS LCD | Nokia has a larger screen, but Sony's OLED provides deeper blacks and better contrast. |
| Resolution | 1080x2520 (457 PPI) | 720x1612 (269 PPI) | Sony's display is far sharper, making text and images clearer. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Nokia's 90Hz makes scrolling smoother, but the lower resolution offsets some of the benefit. |
🔹 Key Takeaway: If you care about visual quality, Sony wins. If you prefer a larger, smoother display, Nokia is better.
Performance
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Nokia G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 690 5G | Snapdragon 480+ 5G | Both are mid-range, but Nokia has a slight edge in benchmarks. |
| Antutu Score | 275,000 | 380,000 | Nokia performs better in multitasking and gaming (though neither is a powerhouse). |
| RAM Options | 6GB | 4GB / 6GB | Sony ensures a smoother experience by sticking to 6GB. |
🔹 Key Takeaway: Nokia has better raw performance, but Sony’s 6GB RAM keeps it competitive in daily use.
Camera
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Nokia G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, Sony Exmor RS) | 50MP (f/1.8) | Nokia has higher resolution, but Sony’s sensor is more advanced for better low-light shots. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.2) | None | Sony has a dedicated ultrawide lens, making it better for landscapes and group shots. |
| Telephoto | 8MP (f/2.4) | None | Sony offers real optical zoom, while Nokia relies on digital cropping. |
| Extra Lenses | - | 2MP macro & depth | Nokia adds niche features, but Sony’s triple-camera setup is more practical. |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Sony captures higher-quality video, making it better for content creators. |
🔹 Key Takeaway: Sony’s camera system is more versatile, especially for video and zoom. Nokia’s 50MP sensor is good for high-res shots but lacks flexibility.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Nokia G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Nokia lasts longer on a single charge. |
| Charging Speed | 18W | 20W | Nokia charges slightly faster (but no included charger). |
🔹 Key Takeaway: Nokia wins in battery life, but Sony is still solid if you don’t need extreme endurance.
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 10 III Strengths:
✅ Superior display quality (OLED, higher resolution)
✅ More versatile camera system (ultrawide + telephoto)
✅ Lighter, more compact design
✅ 4K video recording
✅ Better audio (Hi-Res support, LDAC Bluetooth codec)
Nokia G42 Strengths:
✅ Larger battery (5000mAh vs. 4500mAh)
✅ Faster refresh rate (90Hz vs. 60Hz)
✅ Slightly better performance (higher benchmark scores)
✅ Newer software (Android 13 vs. Sony's Android 11, upgradable to 14)
3. Who Should Buy Which Phone?
Get the Sony Xperia 10 III if:
✔ You prefer a premium display (OLED + high PPI).
✔ You take lots of photos (better camera flexibility).
✔ You want a lighter, more compact phone.
✔ You record video (4K support).
Get the Nokia G42 if:
✔ You prioritize battery life (5000mAh).
✔ You prefer smoother scrolling (90Hz).
✔ You want newer software (Android 13).
✔ You don’t need ultrawide or telephoto cameras.
4. Buying Decision Framework (3 Key Questions)
Do you care more about camera versatility or battery life?
- Sony = Better cameras. Nokia = Better battery.
Do you prefer a sharper OLED screen or a bigger 90Hz LCD?
- Sony = OLED clarity. Nokia = Bigger + smoother.
Do you need Android 13+ or can you live with Android 11?
- Nokia gets updates faster.
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Sony Xperia 10 III.
Why?
- Better display (OLED vs. Nokia’s lower-res LCD).
- More useful camera setup (ultrawide + telephoto).
- 4K video recording (Nokia caps at 1080p).
- Lighter and more compact (easier one-handed use).
The Nokia G42 has merits (better battery, newer software), but the Sony offers a more premium experience despite being older. If battery life is your top priority, Nokia wins—otherwise, the Xperia 10 III is the better all-rounder.
