Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the Sony Xperia 5 IV and the Google Pixel 8 Pro. This isn't just about specs; it's about how these devices fit into your life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the key technical specifications, highlighting what they mean for you in the real world:
| Feature | Sony Xperia 5 IV | Google Pixel 8 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 156 × 67 × 8.2 mm, 172g | 162.6 × 76.5 × 8.8 mm, 213g | The Xperia 5 IV is noticeably smaller and lighter, making it more pocketable and comfortable for extended single-handed use. The Pixel 8 Pro is larger and heavier, which can feel more substantial but less convenient. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.1" | 6.7" | The Pixel 8 Pro offers a larger screen, great for media consumption, gaming, and multi-tasking. The Xperia 5 IV's smaller screen is more compact and easier to manage with one hand. |
| Resolution | 1080x2520 | 1344x2992 | The Pixel 8 Pro's higher resolution provides sharper images and text, enhancing the viewing experience. The Xperia 5 IV's resolution is still crisp, but not as detailed. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 449 | 489 | The Pixel 8 Pro has a slightly sharper display due to its higher pixel density, but both displays are very sharp and provide great clarity. |
| Technology | OLED | OLED | Both use OLED panels, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both displays provide smooth scrolling and animations with a 120Hz refresh rate. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2400 nits | The Pixel 8 Pro's display gets significantly brighter, making it much more usable under direct sunlight. The Sony's brightness is not specified and might be less ideal for outdoor use. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | Google Tensor G3 | Different chipsets with slightly different architectures. The Pixel 8 Pro’s Tensor G3 is optimized for AI and machine learning tasks, and general performance is slightly higher based on benchmark scores. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,021,542 | 1,142,984 | The Pixel 8 Pro benchmarks higher, suggesting it may have slightly snappier performance in resource-intensive tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | The Pixel 8 Pro's GPU is likely to offer better performance in graphically demanding games and applications, although both provide good graphics performance overall. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 12MP | 50MP | The Pixel 8 Pro captures significantly more detail with its higher resolution sensor. This will be noticeable when cropping or printing photos. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.7 | f/1.69 | The Pixel 8 Pro's slightly wider aperture should allow for slightly better low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.7" | 1/1.31" | The Pixel 8 Pro has a larger sensor, which generally allows for better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. |
| Front Camera Resolution | 12MP | 10.8MP | The Xperia 5 IV has a slightly higher resolution front camera, however, both are fairly equal for most standard front camera use cases. |
| Telephoto Resolution | 12MP | 48MP | The Pixel 8 Pro's higher telephoto resolution provides significantly more detail when using optical zoom. |
| Telephoto Aperture | f/2.4 | f/2.8 | The Xperia 5 IV's slightly wider aperture should allow for slightly better low-light performance with the telephoto lens. |
| Telephoto Sensor Size | 1/3.5" | 1/2.55" | The Pixel 8 Pro's larger telephoto sensor generally means better low-light performance with the zoom lens. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 12MP | 48MP (Wide + Macro) | The Xperia 5 IV has a dedicated ultrawide lens for expansive landscape shots. The Pixel 8 Pro has a wide-angle + macro lens which is versatile for capturing wide shots and close-ups |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@120fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Both offer excellent video capabilities, however, the Xperia 5 IV offers 4k at 120fps for higher frame rate footage, but the Pixel 8 Pro has the advantage in slow-motion with 240fps capabilities. |
| DxOMark Scores | Main: 119 | Main: 153, Selfie: 145 | The Pixel 8 Pro significantly outperforms the Xperia 5 IV in camera tests, particularly in photo and video quality. The Pixel 8 Pro also has a significant lead in selfie camera performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5050mAh | Both phones have similar battery capacities, suggesting comparable battery endurance. Real-world battery life will depend on usage patterns and other settings. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Both phones support similar fast-charging speeds. |
| Wireless Charging | No | 23W | The Pixel 8 Pro supports fast wireless charging, a feature the Xperia 5 IV lacks. This adds a layer of convenience. |
| Battery Features | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging | Reverse charging | Both phones offer reverse charging, allowing you to charge other devices wirelessly. The Xperia 5 IV has Bypass charging which is helpful for long gaming sessions without damaging battery. |
| Software | Android 12/13 | Android 14 | The Pixel 8 Pro offers the latest version of Android with the most up-to-date features and security patches, where as the Xperia 5 IV has software that's a year old. The Pixel line also has longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | The Pixel 8 Pro supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard, offering faster speeds and better network performance. The Xperia 5 IV uses an older but still capable Wi-Fi 6. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.3 | The Pixel 8 Pro features a newer Bluetooth standard, providing potential benefits in terms of efficiency and connectivity range, the differences are minimal though. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB | The Pixel 8 Pro offers more storage options, with a larger capacity of up to 1TB. The Xperia 5 IV is limited to 256GB maximum. |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB | The Pixel 8 Pro's higher RAM should translate to better multitasking and smoother performance with demanding applications. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers microSD card support for storage expansion. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res | Noise Cancellation, 3 Mics | The Xperia 5 IV offers a richer audio experience with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res, while the Pixel 8 Pro features noise cancellation and triple microphones, important for audio quality. |
| Security | Side-Mounted Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | The Xperia 5 IV provides more advanced security with a side-mounted fingerprint reader, offering quick and reliable access. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | The Pixel 8 Pro uses newer generation of Gorilla glass, offering slightly better protection. |
| Sensors | Compass, Hall | Thermometer, Magnetometer | Sony has a compass while google has a thermometer |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 5 IV:
Strengths:
- Compact and Lightweight: Exceptionally comfortable for one-handed use and fits easily in pockets.
- Excellent Video: Offers 4K recording at 120fps with features like Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) and Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS) for smooth, high-quality footage.
- Strong Audio: Features Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res audio, making it great for immersive audio experiences.
- Bypass Charging Great for extended gaming sessions
- More Advanced Biometric Security: The side-mounted fingerprint sensor provides a secure and quick way to unlock your device.
- Strong Satellite System: Great for more accurate location, especially when hiking or in urban environments.
Trade-offs:
- Smaller Display: The 6.1" screen is less ideal for media consumption compared to the Pixel 8 Pro.
- Weaker Camera System: Significantly out-performed by the Pixel 8 Pro based on DxOMark scores.
- Older Software: Ships with an older version of Android, which will have fewer updates and security patches and can also limit some features from newer OS versions.
- Lower Brightness: The display is not as bright, which could make it less visible outdoors.
Google Pixel 8 Pro:
- Strengths:
- Superior Display: A larger, higher-resolution display with higher brightness is great for media consumption, gaming, and general use.
- Exceptional Camera System: Outstanding image quality, especially in low light, and the advanced telephoto lens. Significantly outperforms the Xperia 5 IV based on DxOMark scores.
- Cutting-Edge Software: Ships with the latest Android version, offering the best of Google's software ecosystem.
- Better Multitasking: 12GB of RAM allows for smoother multitasking and handling of more demanding apps.
- Wireless Charging: Supports 23W fast wireless charging.
- Newer WiFi & Bluetooth Technologies: Better speeds and more efficient connectivity
- Trade-offs:
- Larger and Heavier: Not as comfortable for one-handed use, and less pocket-friendly.
- Basic Fingerprint Security: Uses a less secure fingerprint sensor compared to the Sony.
- Less Satellite Support: Not as many satellite systems supported compared to the Xperia 5 IV
- Less Immersive Audio: Does not have Dolby Atmos or Hi-Res
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Sony Xperia 5 IV:
- Best suited for:
- Users who prioritize portability and single-handed usability.
- Those who need a high-quality video camera for on-the-go recording.
- Audiophiles who appreciate high-quality sound, with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio.
- Users who value a physical fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication.
Google Pixel 8 Pro:
- Best suited for:
- Users who prioritize the best camera system, especially for photography in various conditions.
- Those who want the latest Android experience and longer software support.
- People who engage with multimedia content regularly and need a larger screen.
- Users that want to make use of the latest wireless charging and fast network technologies
- Users who want the ability to carry a lot of data or media with larger storage options
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- How important is physical size and comfort to you?
- If compact design and ease of one-handed use are essential, the Xperia 5 IV is the better choice.
- If you prefer a larger display for media consumption and don't mind a bulkier device, go with the Pixel 8 Pro.
- Which is more important to you: Video or Photo Quality?
- If you need top-tier photo quality for a variety of different photography use cases, choose the Pixel 8 Pro.
- If you do a lot of video recording, especially in high frame rate, the Xperia 5 IV is great, but if you want top-tier photo quality, choose the Pixel 8 Pro
- Do you care about cutting edge OS and tech or better audio and security?
- If you like the newest android operating system with wireless charging and fast network connectivity, choose the Pixel 8 Pro.
- If you are okay with older OS and want to get Hi-Res audio, Dolby Atmos and side-mounted security, choose the Xperia 5 IV.
Scenario-based recommendations:
- The On-the-Go Creator: If you're constantly filming videos and value compact devices, the Xperia 5 IV will be great, but if you are constantly taking photos, the Pixel 8 Pro is better.
- The Power User: If you need the most powerful hardware, latest software and the best possible camera, the Pixel 8 Pro is the obvious choice.
- The Multimedia Enthusiast: If you consume a lot of content, the larger screen of the Pixel 8 Pro is ideal, however, the audio quality of the Sony is better.
- The Minimalist: If you prefer a small, compact and easy to use phone, choose the Sony Xperia 5 IV.
What I Would Choose
If I were choosing between these two devices, I would choose the Google Pixel 8 Pro. While I appreciate the compact design and video capabilities of the Sony Xperia 5 IV, the Pixel 8 Pro's superior camera system, combined with its more modern software, brighter screen, and wireless charging, make it the more compelling device for my needs. As a tech journalist, I'm constantly taking photos and recording videos for reviews, and the Pixel 8 Pro's camera system is simply unmatched for overall quality. The larger screen is also better for working and reviewing content, and the latest OS will ensure my device stays up to date for longer. Finally, the increased RAM is helpful when running heavy programs. The slightly bulkier design and basic fingerprint reader are trade-offs, but they don't outweigh the overall advantages.
