Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Sony Xperia 5 IV and the Motorola Edge (2022). These phones might have launched on the same day, but they carve out their own niches with distinct strengths. I'll break it down, tech-journalist style, so you can see what really matters.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the key specs, emphasizing real-world implications:
| Feature | Sony Xperia 5 IV | Motorola Edge (2022) | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Size | 156 x 67 x 8.2 mm | 160.9 x 74.2 x 8 mm | Xperia is more pocketable, Edge is larger with more screen |
| Weight | 172g | 170g | Both are lightweight; negligible difference |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.1" | 6.6" | Edge offers more screen real estate for media, games |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2520 | 1080 x 2400 | Xperia is slightly sharper |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 449 | 399 | Xperia has noticeably crisper text and images |
| Technology | OLED | OLED | Excellent contrast, vibrant colors on both |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 144Hz | Edge is slightly smoother for scrolling & gaming |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones offer the same peak brightness level |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Dimensity 1050 (6nm) | Xperia has significantly faster performance and gaming capability |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,021,542 | 522,375 | Xperia is much faster for demanding apps and games |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Xperia is better for graphic-intensive tasks |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.7 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Edge has higher res., Xperia has a larger sensor, wider aperture |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.0 | 32MP, f/2.45 | Edge has higher res., Xperia captures more light in lower light |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP, f/2.4 | None | Xperia offers optical zoom and greater flexibility |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/1.5 | Edge wider aperture for better low light on wide angle |
| Macro Lens | None | 20MP, f/2.4 | Edge has a dedicated macro for close up shots |
| Video | Up to 4K@120fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Xperia is much more versatile in terms of video capture |
| DxoMark Mobile Score | 119 | N/A | Xperia has a good camera performance |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life on average use |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Same charging speeds, pretty standard |
| Battery Features | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging | Reverse Charging, 15W wireless charging, 5W reverse charging | Edge has Wireless Charging and better reverse charging |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12, Upgrade to 13 | Android 12, Upgrade to 13 | Both get upgraded to the same OS |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax | Both support similar standards |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.2 LE | Xperia supports more advanced codecs and profiles |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | Xperia has more accurate GPS with additional systems |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Both have same capability |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Same options |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6/8 GB | Both phones have the same top configuration |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither support Micro SD cards |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Edge has noise cancellation and better voice capture |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Xperia has a more convenient fingerprint sensor |
| Build | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Xperia has much superior screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer, Hall | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer; Environmental: Barometer | Comprehensive sensor suite for both, but the Motorola has a dedicated magnetometer for augmented reality experiences |
2. Key Insights
- Sony Xperia 5 IV:
- Strengths: The Xperia 5 IV is a performance powerhouse with a top-tier Snapdragon chipset, which translates into incredibly smooth, responsive performance for all kinds of tasks, especially heavy gaming or demanding creative workflows. Its screen, while smaller, boasts a higher pixel density for sharper details. The camera setup is also more advanced, offering true optical zoom and a comprehensive set of video capture features, catering to both photography and videography enthusiasts. It has more advanced GPS, Bluetooth, and security features. It also offers bypass charging for a better experience while plugged in for long gaming sessions.
- Trade-offs: The display is smaller, which might not be ideal for everyone. Wireless charging is not supported, which may be a deal-breaker for some users.
- Motorola Edge (2022):
- Strengths: The Edge offers a larger display, with a slightly faster refresh rate, making it a better choice for media consumption and casual gaming. It includes wireless charging and a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, which adds to its utility. The inclusion of a dedicated noise cancellation microphone and 3 microphones leads to better quality sound during phone calls, and more immersive audio.
- Trade-offs: It has weaker performance due to a mid-range chipset and a less sharp display. The camera system is more basic, lacking true optical zoom capabilities. It uses an older generation Gorilla Glass, meaning screen protection is less effective. The fingerprint sensor is also basic, lacking the sophistication of the side mounted sensor on the Sony.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Sony Xperia 5 IV:
- Best For: Power users, gamers, and content creators who need top-tier performance and advanced camera capabilities in a more compact form factor. It's perfect for those who value precision and control.
- Use Cases: Demanding mobile gaming, professional photography/videography, intensive multitasking, and users who appreciate a premium, compact device.
- Motorola Edge (2022):
- Best For: Everyday users, media consumers, and those who prioritize a large screen with a smooth experience. It's a good balance of features for the average user.
- Use Cases: Watching movies/videos, browsing social media, casual gaming, and users who appreciate wireless charging and more robust audio capabilities.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
How important is raw processing power and performance?
- If you need top-tier speed for gaming or resource-intensive tasks, the Xperia 5 IV is the clear winner. If you are a more casual user, the Edge is more than capable.
How much does display size and refresh rate matter?
- If you need maximum screen real estate for media and a slightly smoother display, the Edge is preferable. If you prefer a sharper image on a more pocketable device, the Xperia 5 IV wins here.
Do you need professional grade camera features?
- If optical zoom, more advanced video features, and a superior photo processing chip are crucial for you, go for the Xperia 5 IV. If you prefer a basic experience, the Edge will suffice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Gamer: Go for the Sony Xperia 5 IV. Its high-performance chipset, advanced cooling, high refresh rate, and advanced audio features will provide a more immersive, better gaming experience.
- The Media Buff: The Motorola Edge (2022) would be ideal due to its larger, smoother screen and its wireless charging for ease of use. The superior audio will add to the enjoyment of the viewing experience.
- The Photographer/Videographer: The Sony Xperia 5 IV offers advanced controls, optical zoom, and a more versatile video recording suite. It offers greater flexibility and control.
- The Casual User: The Motorola Edge (2022) offers a large screen, solid camera, wireless charging, and great audio. It is great for everyday use.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Sony Xperia 5 IV. As a tech journalist with an engineering background, I appreciate the raw power, superior display pixel density, advanced camera setup, and enhanced connectivity features it offers. I also find the inclusion of bypass charging a valuable feature for long gaming or editing sessions. While it's not perfect, its strengths align more closely with what I look for in a premium smartphone. The slightly smaller form factor doesn't bother me, and I know the screen is still excellent. While the Motorola Edge 2022 is great for casual users, it can't compete with the Xperia in terms of pure performance and camera ability.
