1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the vivo V21 5G and Sony Xperia 1 IV, focusing on practical implications:
| Feature | vivo V21 5G | Sony Xperia 1 IV | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.7 x 73.9 x 7.3 mm | 165 x 71 x 8.2 mm | Xperia 1 IV is taller and thicker, while the V21 5G is wider. The V21 is more pocketable due to its thinner design |
| Weight | 176g | 185g | V21 5G is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.44" | 6.5" | Negligible size difference, both comfortable for media consumption |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1644 x 3840 | Xperia 1 IV offers significantly sharper text, images, and video content. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 409 | 643 | Xperia 1 IV display will appear crisper and more detailed. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Similar display quality but with slightly different color science, both produce vibrant colors |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Xperia 1 IV has smoother scrolling, animations, and gameplay. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness is unknown and could affect outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Xperia 1 IV provides considerably faster app loading, multitasking, and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 1,076,100 | The Xperia 1 IV offers drastically superior performance overall. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Adreno 730 | Xperia 1 IV GPU will handle graphically intensive tasks much more smoothly. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera Res. | 64MP | 12MP | V21 5G captures more detail in ideal lighting, the Xperia 1 IV aims for better low-light with larger pixels. |
| Rear Main Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.7 | Xperia 1 IV lets in slightly more light, helpful in low-light conditions. |
| Rear Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80µm | 1.80µm | Xperia 1 IV larger pixel captures more light, enhancing low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Res. | 44MP | 12MP | V21 5G captures more detail for selfies, likely better in good lighting conditions. |
| Telephoto Lens | No | 12MP | Xperia 1 IV can zoom in without losing detail. |
| Wide Angle Lens Res. | 8MP | 12MP | Xperia 1 IV captures more detail in wide-angle shots |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | No | V21 5G can capture close-up shots of small subjects. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | No | Yes | Xperia 1 IV has improved depth detection for portrait photos and augmented reality. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 4K@120fps | Xperia 1 IV offers more versatile video recording capabilities, including smoother slow-motion and HDR |
| Video Stabilization | OIS | OIS, EIS | Both phones have image stabilization for smoother videos. Xperia 1 IV includes EIS for extra stability. |
| DXOMark | - | 105 (Mobile), 107 (Photo), 92 (Video) | Xperia 1 IV camera is rated well for photo and video. V21 5G has no tested score, making comparison difficult. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Xperia 1 IV likely offers better battery life, potentially lasting a full day of heavy usage. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | V21 5G is slightly faster, reducing time spent waiting for a charge. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | Xperia 1 IV can be used while charging without degrading battery health. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 (Upgradable to 13) | Xperia 1 IV has a more recent OS, benefiting from newer features and improved security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | Xperia 1 IV supports WiFi 6, offering faster speeds and better performance on compatible networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 | Xperia 1 IV has a slightly newer version for better connectivity and efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Xperia 1 IV has more advanced satellite support for better accuracy in difficult locations. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM, eSIM | Xperia 1 IV has eSIM support for digital carrier switching. V21 5G supports two physical SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 256/512 GB | Xperia 1 IV offers significantly more storage for apps, media, and files. |
| RAM | 8GB | 12/16 GB | Xperia 1 IV has significantly more RAM for smooth multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xperia 1 IV provides immersive, high-quality audio for multimedia consumption. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint sensor | Xperia 1 IV fingerprint scanner is more conveniently located. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Xperia 1 IV has a far more durable screen, reducing the risk of damage from scratches and falls. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Xperia 1 IV features more comprehensive environmental and motion sensors, providing advanced features and better gaming experience. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
vivo V21 5G Advantages:
- Lighter and Thinner Design: The vivo V21 5G is more comfortable to hold for extended periods.
- Faster Charging: Slightly faster 33W charging can be convenient if you need to quickly top up your battery.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for close-up photography.
- Potentially Better Selfie Camera in Good Lighting: Higher megapixel selfie camera may provide slightly more detail in bright conditions.
- More Affordable Price: Generally at a lower price range making it a more accessible option.
Sony Xperia 1 IV Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset delivers significantly faster performance for all tasks, including gaming.
- Higher Resolution and Refresh Rate Display: The 4K 120Hz OLED display provides a sharper, smoother viewing experience.
- Larger Battery: 5000 mAh battery provides longer usage times.
- More Versatile Cameras: The combination of a telephoto lens, wide-angle, and ToF sensor provides a more versatile shooting experience and better image quality in various situations.
- Better Low-Light Performance: With larger pixel size on the main camera, and a better sensor, low light pictures should be better.
- Advanced Video Recording Capabilities: 4K up to 120fps with HDR, OIS and EIS make it a superior video recorder.
- More RAM and Storage: More RAM for smoother multitasking and larger storage options for media.
- Superior Audio: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, and stereo speakers offer a much better audio experience.
- Modern Software: Comes with Android 12, with upgrade to Android 13.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus provides enhanced durability.
- Bypass Charging: Extends battery lifespan by not charging the phone when it reaches 100%.
Significant Trade-offs:
- vivo V21 5G:
- Compromises on raw performance, camera versatility, and display quality for a lower price.
- The lack of modern features and slower chipset may not be as future-proof.
- Basic audio experience.
- Sony Xperia 1 IV:
- More expensive price.
- Slightly thicker and heavier design.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
vivo V21 5G:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize a sleek, lightweight design and good selfie camera performance, and who engage in light to moderate daily use.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday social media use.
- Casual gaming.
- Photography and videography in good lighting conditions.
- Users who want a more affordable device.
Sony Xperia 1 IV:
- Ideal User: Power users, content creators, mobile gamers, and multimedia enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance, a superior display, and a versatile camera system, willing to pay a higher price for a premium device.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming with high frame rates.
- Creating and editing high-quality photo and video content.
- Demanding productivity tasks.
- Enjoying high-fidelity audio.
- Media consumption.
- Photography in varied conditions.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The price difference is substantial; this will be the biggest decision point.
- How important is performance? If you need a very fast phone, the Xperia 1 IV is the clear choice.
- Do you prioritize display quality and camera versatility? If yes, Xperia 1 IV is preferable.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If you are on a tight budget, need a decent phone for everyday tasks and don't require flagship-level features, the vivo V21 5G is a reasonable option.
- Scenario 2: Performance Seeker: If you are a mobile gamer or a power user, the Sony Xperia 1 IV's powerful processor, high refresh rate display, and impressive cameras make it the clear winner.
- Scenario 3: Content Creator: If you plan to create videos and take pictures in various conditions, the versatile camera system of the Sony Xperia 1 IV, is well worth the price.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Sony Xperia 1 IV. Despite the higher price point and slightly less comfortable design, the sheer performance increase, the far superior display, the extremely versatile camera system, significantly better video capabilities, and superior audio quality make it the better long-term option for me. As someone who values performance, image quality and modern software, I believe the Xperia 1 IV offers a much more complete and future-proof experience. The vivo V21 5G is a capable phone, but it compromises in too many important areas. If price was a major factor, the vivo is a reasonable option, but, I would try to find the extra funds for the Sony if possible.
