Alright, let’s dive deep into the Sony Xperia 5 IV and Motorola Edge 40 Neo. These two are interesting contenders, each bringing a unique blend of features to the table. I’ll break it down, keeping in mind what really matters to us as users.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the specs, translated into real-world implications:
| Feature | Sony Xperia 5 IV | Motorola Edge 40 Neo | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Dimensions | 156 x 67 x 8.2 mm, 172g | 159.6 x 72 x 7.9 mm, 170g | The Edge 40 Neo is slightly taller and wider, while the Xperia 5 IV is a tad thicker. Both are relatively light. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones, not foldables. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.1" OLED | 6.55" P-OLED | The Edge 40 Neo has a noticeably larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2520, 449 ppi | 1080 x 2400, 402 ppi | Xperia 5 IV has a slightly sharper display, but the difference isn't drastic for most users. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 144Hz | Edge 40 Neo offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits (Unspecified) | 1300 nits | Edge 40 Neo is significantly better in bright sunlight. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Dimensity 7030 (6nm) | Xperia 5 IV has a much more powerful chipset, offering superior performance for gaming and demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,021,542 | 527,666 | Xperia 5 IV is almost twice as powerful in benchmarks, indicating faster app loading and multitasking capabilities. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Mali-G610 MC3 | Xperia 5 IV has a significantly more powerful GPU for graphically intensive tasks. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Rear Main | 12MP, f/1.7, 1/1.7", 1.8µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55", 1.0µm | Edge 40 Neo captures more detail with its higher resolution sensor, but Xperia 5 IV has a wider aperture and larger pixels. |
| Telephoto | 12MP, f/2.4, 1/3.5", 1.0µm | None | Xperia 5 IV has a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom. |
| Ultrawide | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.4µm | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12 µm (Macro) | Xperia 5 IV has a dedicated ultrawide, the Edge 40 Neo uses its ultrawide for macro as well. |
| Front Camera | 12MP, f/2.0, 1.25µm | 32MP, f/2.4, 0.7µm | Edge 40 Neo has higher resolution for sharper selfies, but Xperia 5 IV has a wider aperture for low-light performance. |
| Video Features | Up to 4K@120fps, HDR, OIS, EIS | Up to 4K@30fps, EIS | Xperia 5 IV offers more advanced video capabilities, with higher frame rates and superior stabilization features. |
| DxOMark Mobile Score | 119 | 103 | Xperia 5 IV has better overall camera performance. |
| DxOMark Photo Score | 121 | 102 | Xperia 5 IV performed better in photo tests |
| DxOMark Video Score | 113 | 116 | Motorola Edge 40 Neo showed superior video performance. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both have similar battery capacity, suggesting comparable endurance. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 68W Fast Charging | Edge 40 Neo charges significantly faster. |
| Features | Bypass, Reverse Charging | None | Xperia 5 IV can bypass the battery when plugged in and also reverse charge other devices. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 13 (upgradable to 15) | Edge 40 Neo comes with a newer version of Android and has more potential for future upgrades. |
| OTHER | |||
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.4 LE | Motorola Edge 40 Neo features a newer version of Bluetooth. |
| Storage | 128/256 GB | 256 GB | Edge 40 Neo has a single storage option, while the Xperia 5 IV has two. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8/12 GB | Edge 40 Neo has an option for more RAM. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 Mics | Both have stereo speakers; Xperia 5 IV offers additional Hi-Res audio, Motorola has 2 microphones |
| Security | side-mounted fingerprint | basic fingerprint | Sony Xperia 5 IV features a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Xperia 5 IV uses superior screen protection. |
| Environmental Sensors | Barometer | None | Xperia 5 IV includes additional environmental sensors like a barometer for accurate altitude and weather tracking. |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 5 IV
- Strengths:
- Performance Powerhouse: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is a significant step up, making this phone ideal for gaming and resource-intensive tasks.
- Superior Camera System: A versatile triple-lens setup with telephoto, advanced video features, and better DxOMark photo scores gives it the edge in photography.
- Advanced Features: Bypass charging, reverse charging, barometer, Hi-Res audio, and a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor add extra utility.
- Durable Build: Gorilla Glass Victus offers better screen protection.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Better camera versatility and video quality.
- Significantly higher performance for intensive tasks.
- More durable build with better screen protection.
- Trade-offs:
- Slightly older software, although upgradable.
- Slower charging compared to the Edge 40 Neo.
- Unspecified display brightness
Motorola Edge 40 Neo
- Strengths:
- Vibrant and Larger Display: The P-OLED screen with a 144Hz refresh rate and much higher brightness is great for media consumption and outdoor use.
- Faster Charging: 68W charging is a huge advantage for quickly topping up your battery.
- Newer Software: Comes with Android 13, with promises of more future updates.
- Better Bluetooth Version: Uses the newer Bluetooth 5.4 LE version.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Significantly brighter display for outdoor visibility.
- Faster charging capabilities.
- Newer software out of the box.
- Option for more RAM
- Trade-offs:
- Lower performance compared to the Xperia 5 IV.
- Less versatile camera system, missing a dedicated telephoto lens.
- Less durable screen protection with Gorilla Glass 3.
- Lacks features like bypass charging and reverse charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Sony Xperia 5 IV is Ideal For:
- Power Users and Gamers: Individuals who need top-tier performance for demanding apps and mobile games.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value camera versatility, with an emphasis on zoom capabilities and video recording quality.
- Feature-Rich Seekers: Users who appreciate advanced features like bypass charging, reverse charging, barometer, and high-res audio.
- Durability Focused Users: Prefer better screen protection.
Motorola Edge 40 Neo is Ideal For:
- Media Consumers: Users who prioritize a larger, brighter, and smoother display for watching videos and browsing.
- On-the-Go Individuals: Those who need fast charging and appreciate a modern software experience.
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who are looking for a great value.
- Software Focused Users: Those looking for newer software and future updates.
- Users Looking for Higher RAM Option
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you decide, consider these questions:
- Performance: How important is raw power for gaming, multitasking, and resource-intensive apps? (Xperia 5 IV has the edge here)
- Camera Needs: Do you require the flexibility of a telephoto lens and advanced video recording features, or is a simple and good primary camera enough? (Xperia 5 IV is more versatile)
- Display and Charging: Do you prioritize a brighter display for outdoor use and faster charging over slightly sharper display and additional features? (Edge 40 Neo wins here)
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1: Mobile Gaming Enthusiast:
- Recommendation: Sony Xperia 5 IV. Its superior chipset and GPU will provide a much smoother gaming experience.
- Scenario 2: Casual User Who Watches a Lot of Videos:
- Recommendation: Motorola Edge 40 Neo. Its larger, brighter screen, combined with fast charging, is perfect for content consumption.
- Scenario 3: Photography Lover on a Budget:
- Recommendation: Sony Xperia 5 IV. Its higher DxOMark photo scores and versatile camera system provide better image quality and flexibility.
- Scenario 4: Heavy Daily Use, Outdoor Environment:
- Recommendation: Motorola Edge 40 Neo. It has a brighter screen for better outdoor visibility, plus it will charge much faster!
- Scenario 5: User Who Values Durability:
- Recommendation: Sony Xperia 5 IV. It offers better screen protection and environmental sensors
My Pick
If I had to choose between these two, I'd lean towards the Sony Xperia 5 IV. While the Motorola Edge 40 Neo offers a compelling package with its brighter screen and faster charging, the Xperia 5 IV's raw performance and superior camera system are too enticing for me. As a tech journalist and someone who needs a reliable, fast phone for daily use and loves to tinker with photography, the Xperia 5 IV feels like the better long-term companion. The trade-off in charging speed and slightly older software is something I'm willing to make for that performance. The added durability and a versatile camera make it the clear winner for my use case.
Ultimately, both phones are strong contenders in their respective niches, and the best choice really comes down to individual priorities and needs.
