Okay, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Xiaomi 12X and the Sony Xperia 1 IV. We'll cut through the spec jargon and see what these differences actually mean for you.
Xiaomi 12X vs. Sony Xperia 1 IV: A Detailed Analysis
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of the specs, focusing on real-world implications:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | Sony Xperia 1 IV | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 × 69.9 × 8.2 mm | 165 × 71 × 8.2 mm | Sony is taller and slightly wider; Xiaomi is more compact and pocketable. |
| Weight | 176g | 185g | Xiaomi is slightly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.5" | Sony has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1644x3840 | Sony’s higher resolution means sharper text, images, and video, resulting in a clearer, more detailed viewing experience. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 419 | 643 | Sony’s much higher PPI translates to a noticeably crisper display with finer detail. |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. Minimal real-world difference. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both will feel smooth and responsive when scrolling or gaming. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits (specification provided is incorrect) | The 12X's advertised 1100 nits means better outdoor visibility, but it seems the Sony's rating was omitted. Most sources indicate that the Sony is capable of about 700-800 nits max. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 (7nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) | Sony's newer, smaller process chipset offers faster processing and better power efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 1,076,100 | The Sony will be noticeably faster in demanding tasks and games. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Adreno 730 | Sony’s GPU offers better graphics performance, leading to smoother, more detailed gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56" sensor, 1.0µm | 12MP, f/1.7, 1.8µm | Xiaomi boasts higher resolution, but Sony's larger pixel size means better low-light sensitivity and improved overall image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45, 1/3" sensor, 0.7µm | 12MP, f/2.0 | Xiaomi’s higher res, but Sony's larger aperture allows for more light, leading to better low-light performance. The 12X will result in higher quality photos. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 12MP, f/2.3 | Sony offers optical zoom, providing better image quality at a distance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.4, 1/3.06" sensor, 1.12µm | 12MP, f/2.2 | Sony's wider aperture may capture more light, but Xiaomi captures higher resolution in its wide angle photos. |
| ToF 3D Sensor | N/A | Yes | Sony can capture depth data, potentially improving portrait mode and AR applications. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP | N/A | Xiaomi allows for detailed close-up shots that are difficult to capture with regular lenses. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps w/ EIS | Up to 4K@120fps w/ OIS, EIS, and HDR | Both are capable, but Sony’s more advanced video capabilities (120fps, OIS, HDR) make it better for content creation and action recording. |
| DxoMark | N/A | Main Score: 105 (Photo: 107, Video: 92) | Sony has a tested and rated camera, showing a respectable, good all-round image quality. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Sony's larger battery is likely to give longer battery life. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Xiaomi charges much faster, allowing quick top-ups when you’re in a hurry. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | Both are sealed; Sony bypass charging can minimize battery degradation during extended use. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 12/13 | Sony has a more current OS, which may mean longer software support and more features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6, MIMO | Wi-Fi 6 | Both are fast; Xiaomi's MIMO may offer slightly improved network performance in some cases. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1, APT-x, LDAC | 5.2, extensive support | Sony has a more modern Bluetooth that may be better in niche scenarios. |
| GPS | Multi-System GPS | Multi-System GPS | Xiaomi's NavIC support is relevant to the Indian region, but in general performance would be similar. |
| SIM Support | Dual SIM (Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Sony has an eSIM, which is handy for travel or multiple lines. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 256/512GB | Sony offers more base storage, which is handy since there’s no microSD support. |
| RAM | 8/12GB | 12/16GB | Sony offers greater RAM capacity for smoother performance in very heavy multitasking and heavy games. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage, so choosing the right base configuration is key. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo, 2 mics | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo | Both will have similar speaker quality; Xiaomi’s additional microphone might make for slightly better audio recordings. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint | Side-Mounted Fingerprint | Sony’s side-mounted fingerprint sensor is more convenient and faster in most scenarios. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus | Both offer top-tier screen protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Full sensor package | Full sensor package | Both devices have excellent sensor packages, but the Sony has a Barometer which could be useful for those who are interested in atmospheric pressure. |
2. Key Insights
- Xiaomi 12X: This phone is the value play, offering a flagship-level display with a solid processor for a great price. Its faster charging is a standout feature for users who need to quickly top up their phones.
- Sony Xperia 1 IV: Sony packs in a higher-end display, a newer processor, a very impressive camera system (including an optical zoom), and more RAM. Its video capabilities are geared towards content creators, and it is designed with more premium materials.
Strengths:
- Xiaomi 12X:
- Excellent display brightness and contrast.
- Much faster charging speeds.
- A lighter build, making it easier to handle.
- Sony Xperia 1 IV:
- Significantly sharper display with much higher resolution.
- More powerful chipset, leading to faster performance.
- Superior camera versatility with optical zoom and advanced video recording.
- Higher base RAM and storage options.
- More modern operating system, and more future operating system upgrades expected.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Xiaomi 12X:
- Less capable camera system than the Sony (no optical zoom or advanced video features)
- Older chipset and less RAM.
- Older Android version.
- Sony Xperia 1 IV:
- Significantly more expensive.
- Slower charging speeds.
- Larger size and heavier build may not be appealing to all users.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Xiaomi 12X:
- Best for: Users who value great screen quality, good overall performance, and fast charging at a more budget-friendly price point.
- Use Cases: Daily social media browsing, media consumption, mobile gaming, general use.
- Sony Xperia 1 IV:
- Best for: Professional users, content creators, mobile photographers, and those who value the highest performance and camera quality.
- Use Cases: Professional photography/videography, demanding mobile gaming, detailed work, travel, and media consumption with excellent sound.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help guide your decision:
- What's Your Budget? If you are budget-constrained, the Xiaomi 12X will be more suitable than the Sony.
- How Important is the Camera? If you’re a photography or video enthusiast, the Sony is the clear winner with its more versatile camera system. If you just need a decent, all-round experience, then the Xiaomi will suit you fine.
- What do you prioritize in Performance? If you are a content creator, or someone who needs a device with maximum power and capabilities, then the Sony is the clear choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget User: Go for the Xiaomi 12X. It provides an excellent screen, a solid processor, and very fast charging at a reasonable price point.
- Content Creator: The Sony Xperia 1 IV is the better choice, with its superior video capabilities, optical zoom, and advanced camera features.
- Power User: If you need the fastest processing, the best multitasking capabilities, and a high resolution display, the Sony is the clear choice.
My Choice:
Personally, I would choose the Sony Xperia 1 IV. While the Xiaomi 12X is a fantastic phone, the Sony's newer chipset, superior camera with the telephoto lens and advanced video recording features, significantly better display, and higher storage and RAM capacity all outweigh the slower charging and larger size for me. As someone who enjoys photography and needs the best possible performance, the Xperia 1 IV is the device that aligns better with my needs. Furthermore, the updated Android version is a significant advantage for futureproofing and functionality. It's definitely a premium device, but for someone who relies heavily on their phone, the extra investment is justified.
