Alright, let’s dive into a detailed comparison between the Sony Xperia 5 IV and the Realme 12x. These are two very different beasts, targeting different users and priorities. Buckle up; we’re going deep!
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a side-by-side look at their key specs, with a focus on what they mean for you:
| Feature | Sony Xperia 5 IV | Realme 12x | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 156 x 67 x 8.2 mm | 165.6 x 76.1 x 7.9 mm | The Xperia 5 IV is more compact and pocketable, the Realme 12x is noticeably larger, potentially less convenient to carry. |
| Weight | 172g | 190g | The Xperia 5 IV is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and one-handed operation. |
| Build Quality | Gorilla Glass Victus (screen) | Unknown (screen) | The Xperia 5 IV's screen should be more durable against drops and scratches. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.1" | 6.67" | Realme 12x offers a larger viewing area; Xperia 5 IV is more compact but with richer colors. Ideal for immersive media consumption vs easier handling |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2520 | 720 x 1604 | The Xperia 5 IV's screen is considerably sharper, with far more detail visible, leading to a clearer picture. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 449 | 264 | Xperia 5 IV offers a much sharper text and images, which is noticeable in everyday use and video consumption. |
| Technology | OLED | IPS LCD | The Xperia 5 IV delivers superior color accuracy, deeper blacks, and higher contrast compared to the Realme's LCD panel. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both have a smooth scrolling experience, with fluid animations and less motion blur. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Dimensity 6100+ (6nm) | The Xperia 5 IV has significantly more processing power; it will perform significantly faster with faster app loading and better multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,021,542 | 442,599 | The Xperia 5 IV delivers a much smoother overall experience, especially noticeable in graphically-intensive apps and multitasking, much better for gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Mali-G57 MC2 | The Xperia 5 IV's GPU will handle high-end games and graphics-heavy apps more efficiently. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res | 12MP | 50MP | Realme 12x has a higher-resolution main sensor, but megapixels aren't everything. Sensor size and image processing is also crucial. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.7 | f/1.8 | The Xperia 5 IV's slightly wider aperture captures more light, which can result in better low-light images. |
| Selfie Camera Res | 12MP | 8MP | Xperia 5 IV has higher resolution, better for social media. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/2.1 | Xperia 5 IV has a slightly wider aperture, better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP | None | Xperia 5 IV offers true optical zoom, a big advantage for portrait photography and far-off subjects. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP | None | Xperia 5 IV offers more versatility in photography, a must have for group and landscape shots. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | None | 2MP | Realme 12x can capture depth data for improved background blurring. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K 120fps | 1080p 30fps | Xperia 5 IV can record high-resolution video at higher frame rates, great for creating high-quality vlogs and videos with slow-motion effects. |
| Video Stabilization | Yes (OIS & EIS) | No | Sony Xperia 5 IV provides Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) along with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) for more stable video quality. |
| DXOMark Score (Camera) | 119 | Not Rated | Xperia 5 IV has a reputable camera score based on extensive testing. The Realme 12x has not been rated. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer a full day of typical usage, although real-world results will vary based on usage patterns. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | The Xperia 5 IV charges much faster, reducing downtime spent plugged in. |
| Additional Features | Bypass charging, Reverse charging | None | Xperia 5 IV allows for charging while gaming, saving the battery health and also allows you to charge other devices with your phone (reverse charging). |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 | Realme 12x has a newer OS out of the box with potential for more long term upgrades, but Xperia's OS is very close to vanilla Android. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Xperia 5 IV offers faster speeds and lower latency with newer Wi-Fi standard for better connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 with multiple profiles | 5.2 with limited profiles | Xperia 5 IV supports multiple audio codecs and audio profiles, providing better support for high-quality audio devices. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Xperia 5 IV offers better location accuracy with more supported satellite systems. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 256GB/512GB | The Realme 12x offers more storage at higher configuration, which is better for those with extensive media libraries, while the Xperia 5 IV comes at 128GB and 256GB options. |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB | Realme 12x has more RAM, which is good for multitasking and demanding apps, Xperia 5 IV has capable RAM but not as much as the other phone. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows expandable storage via SD card, which could be a limitation. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | The Xperia 5 IV offers enhanced spatial audio, higher quality audio playback, better audio separation and immersion via Dolby Atmos. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Barometer | Magnetometer | Xperia 5 IV can measure atmospheric pressure, useful for altitude tracking, while Realme 12x can detect magnetic fields used for compass function. |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 5 IV: Strengths
- Premium Display: The OLED panel with higher resolution and PPI is a clear winner for image quality.
- Performance Powerhouse: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is a significantly faster chipset, ideal for gamers and heavy users.
- Superior Camera System: The inclusion of telephoto and wide-angle lenses, along with OIS, significantly enhances photographic flexibility.
- Advanced Features: High-res video recording (up to 4K at 120fps), bypass charging, reverse charging, enhanced audio with Dolby Atmos, and a more comprehensive sensor suite add significant value.
- Compact Design: It is smaller and lighter, very suitable for one-handed use and pocket portability.
Sony Xperia 5 IV: Limitations
- Older OS: Android 12 out of the box is a drawback, though it is upgradable.
- No Expandable Storage: Limited to the built-in storage.
- Battery Charging: While the charging speed is faster than the Realme 12x, it could still be better considering other competitors.
Realme 12x: Strengths
- Larger Display: A bigger screen can be appealing to media consumers who enjoy watching movies and playing games.
- More Storage & RAM: 512GB storage and 12GB RAM offer more space and better multitasking capabilities.
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 14 out of the box.
- Lower Price Point: The phone is likely to be more affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Realme 12x: Limitations
- Lower Quality Display: LCD panel, lower resolution, and lower PPI compared to the Xperia's OLED panel.
- Lower Performance: The Dimensity 6100+ chipset is far less powerful for gaming or high performance applications.
- Basic Camera System: It lacks a telephoto and ultrawide lens and video quality does not match the Sony.
- Slow Charging: 15W fast charging is notably slower than the Xperia.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Sony Xperia 5 IV is Best For:
- Power Users: Those who demand top-tier performance, especially for gaming and heavy multitasking.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value a versatile camera system with optical zoom, OIS, and high-quality video capabilities.
- Audiophiles: Those who want excellent sound quality with Dolby Atmos.
- Compact Phone Lovers: Those looking for a powerful device in a smaller, more pocketable form factor.
Realme 12x is Best For:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those seeking a good phone without breaking the bank.
- Casual Users: Those who don't need top-tier performance, but want a large screen for media consumption and good battery life.
- Multitaskers: Those who needs higher RAM and large storage.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To decide between these two phones, ask yourself these three key questions:
- How important is top-tier performance and camera quality to me? If gaming, high-resolution videos, and advanced photography are priorities, the Sony Xperia 5 IV is the better choice.
- Am I on a budget, and what are my most frequent use cases? If you're primarily using the phone for everyday tasks, social media, and media consumption, the Realme 12x may suffice and save you money.
- How much do I value portability and screen clarity? If a compact, sharp display and premium build is key, the Xperia 5 IV is the winner. If a large screen is most important, then Realme 12x is a better fit.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Gamer/Content Creator: The Sony Xperia 5 IV is a clear winner with its superior processing power, graphics capabilities, 4k 120fps video and higher-quality display.
- The Everyday User: The Realme 12x may be more suitable for everyday tasks due to its more affordable price and a large screen.
- The Photography Enthusiast: The Sony Xperia 5 IV, with its optical zoom, wide angle lens, and stabilization is the superior camera phone.
- The Portable Power User: The Xperia 5 IV is the best option due to its high performance and compact design.
Personal Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would definitely pick the Sony Xperia 5 IV. As a tech journalist and someone who appreciates the finer details in a smartphone, the Sony's superior display, performance, camera capabilities, and compact form factor make it a much more compelling device for me. I value having the flexibility and quality the Sony offers, and though the price point might be higher, the overall experience would justify the cost for me. The Xperia 5 IV is not just a phone; it's a versatile tool that fits perfectly into my lifestyle, enhancing creativity and productivity. The Realme 12x is great for a specific budget and use case but does not meet my demands for a higher performance phone.
