Sony Xperia 10 III vs. Samsung Galaxy A04s: Which Budget Phone Wins?
If you're torn between Sony's refined mid-ranger and Samsung's ultra-affordable A04s, this comparison breaks down the key differences in design, performance, cameras, and battery life—helping you pick the right device for your needs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Design & Build
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 154 × 68 × 8.3 mm (slimmer) | 164.7 × 76.7 × 9.1 mm (larger) | Xperia is more compact and pocket-friendly; A04s is bulkier but offers a bigger screen. |
| Weight | 169g (lighter) | 195g (heavier) | Xperia is easier for one-handed use; A04s feels sturdier but heavier. |
| Build Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 | Unknown protection | Xperia has better drop resistance; A04s' durability is uncertain. |
🔹 Verdict: If you prefer compact, lightweight phones, the Xperia wins. If you want a larger screen, the A04s is the choice—but it's bulkier.
Display
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6" (OLED) | 6.5" (PLS LCD) | A04s offers more screen real estate, but OLED on Xperia means deeper blacks & better contrast. |
| Resolution | 1080x2520 (457 PPI) | 720x1600 (270 PPI) | Xperia is significantly sharper—better for reading & media. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | A04s feels smoother in scrolling, but Xperia’s OLED still looks better. |
| Brightness | (Not specified) | (Not specified) | Both likely similar in daylight; OLED usually performs better in contrast. |
🔹 Verdict: Xperia for display quality, A04s for larger size & smoother motion.
Performance
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 690 5G (8nm) | Exynos 850 (8nm) | Xperia has better CPU/GPU performance—better for gaming & multitasking. |
| Benchmark (AnTuTu) | 275,000 | 117,300 | Xperia is over 2x faster—better for demanding apps. |
| RAM | 6GB | 3GB / 4GB | Xperia handles multitasking better; A04s may struggle with heavy apps. |
🔹 Verdict: Xperia is the clear winner for performance—A04s is only good for light tasks.
Camera
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP (f/1.8, Sony sensor) | 50MP (f/1.8) | A04s has higher resolution, but Xperia’s Sony sensor may offer better processing. |
| Ultrawide | 8MP (f/2.2) | ❌ None | Xperia has more versatility for landscapes. |
| Telephoto | 8MP (f/2.4) | ❌ None | Xperia offers optical zoom; A04s relies on digital crop. |
| Selfie | 8MP (f/2.0) | 5MP (f/2.2) | Xperia has better selfies. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 120fps slow-mo | 1080p@30fps, 34fps slow-mo | Xperia shoots higher quality video with smoother slow-motion. |
🔹 Verdict: Xperia has a more versatile camera setup with better video, but A04s has a higher-res main sensor.
Battery & Charging
| Feature | Sony Xperia 10 III | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | A04s lasts longer on a single charge. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 15W fast charging | Xperia charges slightly faster (but not a huge difference). |
| Battery Tech | Li-Polymer (better lifespan) | Li-Ion | Xperia's battery may degrade slower. |
🔹 Verdict: A04s for endurance, Xperia for faster charging & longevity.
2. Key Insights: Strengths & Weaknesses
Sony Xperia 10 III Wins If You Want:
✅ Better performance (2x faster in benchmarks)
✅ Sharper, more vibrant OLED display
✅ More versatile cameras (ultrawide, telephoto, 4K video)
✅ Compact, lightweight design
✅ Faster charging & better battery tech
Samsung Galaxy A04s Wins If You Want:
✅ Bigger screen (6.5" vs. 6")
✅ Longer battery life (5000mAh vs. 4500mAh)
✅ Higher-res main camera (50MP vs. 12MP)
✅ Cheaper price (likely more budget-friendly)
3. Who Should Buy Which Phone?
Sony Xperia 10 III Is Best For:
- Tech enthusiasts who want strong performance & camera flexibility.
- Media lovers who prefer OLED screen quality & 4K video.
- Compact phone users who dislike bulky devices.
Samsung Galaxy A04s Is Best For:
- Budget buyers prioritizing big screen & battery life.
- Casual users who don’t need high-end performance.
- People who want a simple, large-display phone.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- Do I prioritize performance & display quality? → Xperia 10 III
- Do I want a bigger screen & longer battery? → Galaxy A04s
- Am I a casual user or a power user?
- Casual → A04s
- Power user → Xperia
Final Verdict: Which Would I Pick?
I’d choose the Sony Xperia 10 III—it’s a better all-rounder with superior performance, cameras, and display quality, while still being lightweight. The A04s is great for budget buyers, but the Xperia’s OLED, faster chip, and extra cameras make it worth the premium for most users.
If you’re on a tight budget, the A04s is fine, but if you can stretch, the Xperia is the smarter long-term investment.
