Sony Xperia 10 III vs. Realme 12+ In-Depth Comparison
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how these two phones compare in real-world usage, covering design, performance, cameras, and more.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Realme 12+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 154 × 68 × 8.3 mm | 163 × 75.5 × 7.9 mm | Xperia is more compact, easier for one-handed use; Realme is larger, offering a bigger screen. |
| Weight | 169g | 190g | Xperia is 21g lighter, more comfortable for long sessions. |
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 | Unknown | Sony has stronger drop protection, while Realme’s durability is unclear. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic (likely in-display) | Sony’s side sensor is faster; Realme’s is more modern but may be slower. |
💡 Key Takeaway:
- Xperia 10 III is more pocket-friendly and durable.
- Realme 12+ is larger, catering to users who prefer a bigger display.
Display
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Realme 12+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.0" OLED | 6.67" AMOLED | Realme’s screen is bigger (better for media), but Sony’s is sharper. |
| Resolution | 1080×2520 (457 PPI) | 1080×2400 (395 PPI) | Xperia’s display is noticeably sharper (62 PPI difference). |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Realme’s 120Hz makes scrolling and gaming smoother. |
| Brightness | Not specified | 2000 nits (peak) | Realme is vastly better in sunlight visibility. |
💡 Key Takeaway:
- For sharpness & compactness: Sony Xperia 10 III.
- For smoothness & outdoor use: Realme 12+.
Performance & Software
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Realme 12+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 690 5G | Dimensity 7050 | Realme’s chip is more efficient (6nm vs. 8nm) and much faster. |
| AnTuTu Score | 275K | 601K | Realme is 119% faster—better for gaming/multitasking. |
| RAM | 6GB | 8GB/12GB | Realme has more RAM, better for keeping apps open. |
| Storage | 128GB (non-expandable) | 128/256/512GB | Realme offers more storage options. |
| OS | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 (up to 16) | Realme has longer software support. |
💡 Key Takeaway:
- Realme 12+ is a clear winner in performance and future-proofing.
- Xperia 10 III is decent for basic tasks but struggles with heavy use.
Cameras
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Realme 12+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8) | 50MP (f/1.88) | Realme has higher resolution, better detail in daylight. |
| Telephoto | 8MP (f/2.4) | ❌ None | Sony wins for zoom shots. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.2) | Tie. |
| Macro | ❌ None | 2MP (f/2.4) | Realme has an extra lens, but quality is basic. |
| Selfie | 8MP (f/2.0) | 16MP (f/2.45) | Realme’s selfie cam is sharper. |
| Video | 4K@30fps (no EIS) | 4K@30fps (with EIS) | Realme stabilizes footage better. |
💡 Key Takeaway:
- For zoom and natural colors: Sony Xperia 10 III.
- For daytime detail & stabilization: Realme 12+.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Realme 12+ | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme lasts longer per charge. |
| Charging Speed | 18W | 67W | Realme charges 3.7x faster (~30 min vs. 1.5+ hours). |
💡 Key Takeaway:
- Realme 12+ has better battery life and way faster charging.
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 10 III Strengths:
✅ Compact & Lightweight – Easier one-hand use.
✅ Sharper Display – Better PPI for text clarity.
✅ Telephoto Lens – Better zoom shots.
✅ Better Build Protection – Gorilla Glass 6.
Realme 12+ Strengths:
✅ Faster Performance – Better chipset, more RAM.
✅ 120Hz Display – Smoother scrolling/gaming.
✅ Bigger Battery + Faster Charging – Less downtime.
✅ Brighter Screen – 2000 nits for outdoor use.
Trade-Offs:
- Sony’s older chipset may struggle in 2–3 years.
- Realme’s size and weight may not suit small hands.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Who Should Buy the Sony Xperia 10 III?
- Compact phone lovers who prioritize portability.
- Casual users who don’t need high-end performance.
- Zoom photography fans (thanks to the telephoto lens).
Who Should Buy the Realme 12+?
- Gamers & power users needing speed and smoothness.
- Media consumers who prefer a bigger, brighter screen.
- Fast-charging enthusiasts (67W is a game-changer).
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I prefer a compact phone or a large display?
- Compact = Sony | Large = Realme
- Do I need long-term performance (3+ years)?
- Yes = Realme | No = Sony
- Is fast charging a priority?
- Yes = Realme | No = Sony
Scenario-Based Picks:
- Best for Travelers: Realme 12+ (better battery & charging).
- Best for Small Hands: Sony Xperia 10 III (lighter & smaller).
- Best Future-Proof Pick: Realme 12+ (faster chip, newer OS).
Final Verdict: Which Would I Choose?
I’d pick the Realme 12+.
While the Sony Xperia 10 III is a solid compact phone, the Realme 12+ offers significantly better performance, battery life, charging speed, and display quality—all for likely a similar or lower price. The 120Hz AMOLED panel, 67W charging, and superior chipset make it the better long-term investment.
The only reason to pick the Xperia 10 III is if you absolutely need a compact, lightweight phone with a telephoto lens—but for most users, Realme 12+ is the smarter buy. 🚀
Which would you choose? Let me know in the comments! 👇
