Alright, let's dive deep into the Sony Xperia 5 IV and the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. These two phones represent different philosophies in the smartphone world, and picking the right one depends on what you value most. I'll break down the specs, focusing on what they actually mean for you, the user, and provide a clear recommendation to help guide your choice.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how the Sony Xperia 5 IV and Samsung Galaxy S24 FE stack up, focusing on real-world implications:
| Feature | Sony Xperia 5 IV | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 156 × 67 × 8.2 mm | 162 × 77.3 × 8 mm | Xperia is more compact and pocketable; S24 FE is larger, better for media consumption. |
| Weight | 172g | 213g | Xperia is significantly lighter, more comfortable for long periods of use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.1" | 6.7" | S24 FE offers a larger screen, great for movies and games; Xperia is better for one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2520 | 1080x2340 | Xperia has higher pixel density, sharper text and images. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 449 | 385 | Xperia’s display looks crisper and more detailed, ideal for viewing high-resolution content. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; similar viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness (nits) | 0 | 1900 | S24 FE is dramatically brighter, much better for use outdoors in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Exynos 2400e (4nm) | S24 FE boasts higher benchmark scores, likely translating to faster app loads and better gaming. |
| Antutu Score | 1,021,542 | 1,600,000 | S24 FE's chipset performs significantly better, ideal for demanding users. |
| GPU | Adreno 730 | Xclipse 940 | S24 FE's GPU should deliver superior graphics performance in gaming and video editing. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4700mAh | Xperia has a slightly larger battery, but real-world battery life depends on usage. |
| Charging | 30W Fast | 25W Fast | Xperia charges a bit faster, meaning less time tethered to the wall. |
| Battery Features | Bypass, Reverse | Bypass, Reverse, Wireless | S24 FE adds wireless charging for greater convenience; Both can charge other devices. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.7, 1/1.7" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" | S24 FE captures more detailed images with its higher-resolution sensor; Xperia has larger pixels and a wider aperture for potentially better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.0 | 10.8MP, f/2.4 | Xperia captures brighter selfies with a wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP, f/2.4, 1/3.5" | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4" | Xperia’s telephoto lens has a higher resolution and larger sensor. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1" | S24 FE has slightly higher wide-angle resolution, but Xperia has a bigger sensor. |
| Video | 4K@120fps | 8K@30fps | S24 FE offers 8K recording, useful for professional video; Xperia excels at 4k 120fps for smooth slow motion. |
| DxoMark Scores (Mobile) | Main 119, Photo 121, Video 113 | Main 133, Photo 136, Video 125 | S24 FE demonstrates better all-around camera performance according to DxoMark. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 13) | Android 14 | S24 FE ships with a newer Android version, better long-term software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6E | S24 FE supports newer WiFi standard for faster speeds and better performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | S24 FE features a newer Bluetooth version for better connectivity. |
| GPS | L1+L5, E1+E5a | L1+L5, L1, E1+E5a, NavIC | S24 FE has more satellite systems, potentially improved location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano+eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano/eSIM + Nano/eSIM) | Both offer dual-SIM capability, with the S24 FE having more flexible options. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256/512 GB | S24 FE offers a 512GB storage option for users with large media libraries. |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB | Sufficient for smooth multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both phones lack expandable storage; choose a sufficient storage option. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res | Noise Cancellation Mic | Xperia offers enhanced audio immersion; S24 FE has noise cancellation features for clearer calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Xperia has a more advanced fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus+ | Both provide excellent screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Geomagnetic | Xperia includes additional biometric sensors, while S24 FE adds geomagnetic and ultrasonic proximity features . |
2. Key Insights
Sony Xperia 5 IV Strengths
- Compact and Ergonomic Design: The Xperia 5 IV's smaller size and lighter weight make it exceptionally comfortable for one-handed use, a standout in today's large-screen smartphone landscape.
- Sharper Display: Its higher pixel density results in a more detailed viewing experience, noticeable for text and high-resolution images.
- Advanced Audio Features: With Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio, the Xperia is geared towards audiophiles who appreciate superior sound quality.
- Strong Camera Features: The Xperia 5 IV excels with its triple 12MP camera array, especially when shooting at 4K 120fps for smooth slow motion shots.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Strengths
- Superior Performance: With a significantly higher AnTuTu score, the S24 FE’s Exynos chipset offers more power for demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking.
- Brighter Display: The S24 FE’s 1900 nits of brightness ensures excellent outdoor visibility, a huge advantage in sunny conditions.
- Versatile Camera System: The 50MP main camera captures greater detail, with an overall better DxoMark score for photo and video.
- Latest Software: Running Android 14 out-of-the-box, the S24 FE provides the latest features, security patches, and longer software support.
- Wireless Charging: It offers greater convenience for charging.
- Larger Storage Option: The 512GB option caters to users with lots of apps, media, and files.
Significant Trade-offs
- Size and Weight: The S24 FE is larger and heavier, which might not be ideal for users who prefer a compact phone.
- Audio: The S24 FE doesn't offer features like Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio, so its audio quality might not be as immersive as the Xperia's.
- Camera Complexity: While it excels in overall performance, the Xperia 5 IV camera setup can be a bit more complex.
- Software Updates: The Xperia 5 IV is older, so it might not receive as many future software updates as the newer S24 FE.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Sony Xperia 5 IV
- Ideal User: Users who value a compact, easy-to-handle phone, prioritize audio quality, enjoy photography with advanced camera features, and don't necessarily need top-tier performance.
- Use Cases: Perfect for media consumption, on-the-go content creation (especially video), and users who prefer one-handed operation.
- Price-to-Value: A solid choice for those who want a premium, but compact phone that also has high audio quality and camera performance.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
- Ideal User: Users who want the best possible performance, a bright and large display, a versatile and capable camera, and the latest software features.
- Use Cases: Perfect for gaming, watching videos, heavy multitasking, and professional mobile photography.
- Price-to-Value: An excellent choice for users looking for flagship-level performance without breaking the bank.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- What’s more important to me: Performance or Portability? If you need the raw power of the chipset, choose the S24 FE. If you prefer a more pocketable phone with great one-handed use, the Xperia 5 IV is the way to go.
- Do I prioritize a great display for outdoor viewing? The S24 FE is significantly brighter, making it much more suitable for outdoor use. If you mostly use your phone indoors, this difference will be less noticeable.
- How important are Audio Quality and Camera features to me? If you are an audiophile, choose the Sony for the superior sound experience. If you are a photography enthusiast, the S24 FE provides a more versatile camera system with better performance according to DxoMark.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- The Gamer: If gaming is your primary use, the S24 FE is the clear winner due to its superior performance.
- The Content Creator: The S24 FE is better for those focusing on professional photos and videos in 8k quality. The Xperia might be ideal for those who would like to use smooth slow motion shots with its 4k 120fps quality.
- The Daily Commuter: If you primarily use your phone for browsing, social media, and media consumption on the go, both phones would do a great job, but the smaller size of the Xperia 5 IV may be a better fit for you. However, S24 FE provides a bigger screen and wireless charging if you want those additional features.
- The Audiophile: The Sony Xperia 5 IV, with its Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res audio support is the clear choice for you.
- The Professional: The S24 FE is the better choice for professionals who need a phone with a versatile camera, better outdoor visibility, and faster overall performance.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two, I would go for the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. While I appreciate the Xperia’s compact design and advanced audio, the S24 FE's overall package is just more compelling. The significantly faster performance, brighter display, more versatile camera, and the latest Android version, along with wireless charging, are key features for me. The 512 GB storage option is also a plus for me, since I tend to have a lot of files on my phone. As a tech journalist, I often find myself using my phone for multiple purposes, and the S24 FE has the edge for demanding tasks and general usage.
