Just picked up an Xperia Zl (C6506) and using it on Bell Mobility Canada. I currently use a Note II (came from a Note I prior, and an iPhone 4S before that). After just a few hours here are my thoughts (I'll update this later as I get to try battery power and reception a bit more).
I will be using this for a week or two for sure, and I'll either give this to my wife and grab a Galaxy S4, or I will keep this and get an Xperia ZL for the wife too. I'll decide when the S4 comes out, but so far I could happily live with this device.
Obviously, the points below are incomplete. I'll update over the next few weeks:
Screen:
- Nice and sharp. Boy was I more worried than I should have been about the 'terrible' viewing angles. I am picky about the display too, so I was worried I would not like it. Display is fine (yes, colours washed out a bit on an angle but its really not a big deal).
- Screen size is great! If the Note's screen size has you spoiled, the Xperia is a good device to move to if you want a smaller 'pocket' footprint.
Build quality/Size:
- Feels great in the hand. The plastic feels better quality than the Note II or S3s. Does not feel cheap.
- Wife who has iPhone 4S loves it too (she has very small hands, unlike the big ones I have). She says it "does not feel dainty like the iPhone". I asked her if she would be happy with it and she said she will use this no prob, and she hates big phones.
- Feels great in the pocket (but I did not mind the Note II in my jeans so that that into account).
Performance:
- snappy scrolling and app launching. Comparable to the Note II (in my eyes).
- Took my 64GB microSD card no problems. It was formatted by my Note II (not sure of the file format) and the ZL took the card and reads all the data already on it without an issue or need to reformat.
Conclusion (after 3 hours of use):
- Nothing to worry about as far as screen size and screen quality if you are a Note II user.
There's already a thread regarding this in the Q&A section as many of us (ZL owners) have/had note2. I've done my comparison of the two here. Anyway thanks for sharing your views!
Dpk1 said:
There's already a thread regarding this in the Q&A section as many of us (ZL owners) have/had note2. I've done my comparison of the two here. Anyway thanks for sharing your views!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haha awesome. I did not look too closely at the Indian ZL thread. Looks like your experiences are close to what I am seeing (the model numbers of the Note II and ZL differ mostly in just the available modems correct?)
chriskwarren said:
Haha awesome. I did not look too closely at the Indian ZL thread. Looks like your experiences are close to what I am seeing (the model numbers of the Note II and ZL differ mostly in just the available modems correct?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I guess. Lol, we do share quite similar thoughts !
came from note 2 here as well. loving the phone!
Sent from my C6502 using xda premium
hyelton said:
came from note 2 here as well. loving the phone!
Sent from my C6502 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So actually whats the Difference you found in Xperia Zl vs Galaxy Note II ?
Why you choose Zl, instead of getting S4?
All people having complain about viewing angle, I also want to go for Xperia Zl but now by people reviews I really disappointed to go for it, but I love Xperia Zl
If you're another victim of the viewing angle plot, get your self a s4 and end convo now. What is the matter with people and viewing angles? **** is a useless extra that Samsung fan boys dug out their ass to justify the flat looking icons their Ui looks. And even so, who looks into their screens from an angle? Rreally? Common people.
Sent from my LT29i using Tapatalk 2
Lusterboi said:
If you're another victim of the viewing angle plot, get your self a s4 and end convo now. What is the matter with people and viewing angles? **** is a useless extra that Samsung fan boys dug out their ass to justify the flat looking icons their Ui looks. And even so, who looks into their screens from an angle? Rreally? Common people.
Sent from my LT29i using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No Brother you are wrong I'm not victim of Bloody viewing angles, but I'm just try to asking actually How the screen of Xperia Zl is looking ???
Because I love the Simplicity of Sony UI & also compact design,
One-thing more is ntt-docomo Xperia is using looking better than normal Xperia line, do you know about it?
jhony.liver said:
No Brother you are wrong I'm not victim of Bloody viewing angles, but I'm just try to asking actually How the screen of Xperia Zl is looking ???
Because I love the Simplicity of Sony UI & also compact design,
One-thing more is ntt-docomo Xperia is using looking better than normal Xperia line, do you know about it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Compared to other flagship, screen is good. Nothing spectacular, but nothing to keep nagging about either. You see so many complaining about it, because there is very little wrong with the ZL. The best thing to do, if you are on the fence, would be to compare them once the S4 is out. The screen looks insanely sharp on their new ads.
As for the NTT DOCOMO version, remember that its bootloader will be locked. Whether its unlockable or not, you will need to check.
I think you need to decide if you want
Soft buttons or Sammy style buttons
Dedicated camera button or not
Touch whiz or Sony styling
Lcd or amoled
Removable battery or not
When you have decided you have made your decision.
The rest just doesn't matter.
Processor - you won't know the difference
Camera - both good
Battery life - comparable
Good luck.
Sent from my C6502 using xda premium
Week 2 after trading Note 2 for X ZL
I was in the same boat as you. Actually, I loved my Note 2 I used the hell out of it, the screen size was enough that I almost completely abandoned my Nexus 7, it just fit the gap between Tablet and phone so close that I hardly ever felt myself needing to switch to the Nexus 7.
Not to mention the battery was awesome and I don't remember ever having a day where I didn't get a full day of heavy use out of it. It was my favorite gadget ever so, as you can imagine, I was a bit reluctant to give it up easily. I actually had no real intention of selling my note 2 but I've had it for a while and it started to show it's age.
I was in a mobile shop the other day and I saw a ZL there. It was used 2 days and almost $200 dollars off the new price. In the end it cost me a grand total of $50 and heavily used, year old Note 2 as a trade in. Pretty damn good deal if you ask me. The phone was in mint condition. I had some experience with the Xperia Z which a friend bought and I really, really liked it. At first I was kind of sad that the Z was not available but I couldn't pass it up at that good of a deal. Now having used it for a couple weeks, I like the ZL much, much better than the Z
So, two weeks in and I am super happy. I love the ZL completely. I was a worried I wouldn't like it as much because the screen a little smalled but the nearly invisible bezel on the ZL and the build quality made it all worth it. ( I would love to see a 5.5" screen on the next version of it )
All in all I don't regret my decision at all and I don't think I will be giving it up anytime soon ( that is maybe until the note 3 is released, or the fabled Xphone from Motorola ) until then I will love and enjoy my ZL.
I do have a few minor issues with the ZL. First and foremost it seems to get a bit warm pretty quickly, I'm not exactly sure why this is but I never had any heat issues with any of my previous phones ( samsungs and nokias mostly )
People mention the viewing angles, and I honestly can't understand why this is an issue. With A TV I could understand because you sometimes have to sit at weird angles., but on a mobile I don't understand why anyone would want ( or would be able to ) use their phone at any angle that would cause any problems. In my experience the ZL has an awesome screen, althoughI did notice a single dead pixel which kinda makes me sad but you can't really notice it.
My other issues are simply, I can't find any aftermarket stuff for it in my area. There are no cases or anything to speak of so I am super paranoid about dropping it.
And finally, there is a lack of custom roms out there for the ZL. This is more because I'm a Rom addict and not smart enough to bake my own ;D
I rooted it and unlocked the boot-loader out of the box I would love to put PAC Rom on it at some point.
Again, it took my 64GB SD card with no problems.
The battery life is not as good as the Note 2 but it is very, very good. I make it through a whole day, with heavy use no problem.
In closing, if you are on the fence about trading in your Note 2, don't be. It's a worthy upgrade.
chriskwarren said:
Just picked up an Xperia Zl (C6506) and using it on Bell Mobility Canada. I currently use a Note II (came from a Note I prior, and an iPhone 4S before that). After just a few hours here are my thoughts (I'll update this later as I get to try battery power and reception a bit more).
I will be using this for a week or two for sure, and I'll either give this to my wife and grab a Galaxy S4, or I will keep this and get an Xperia ZL for the wife too. I'll decide when the S4 comes out, but so far I could happily live with this device.
Obviously, the points below are incomplete. I'll update over the next few weeks:
Screen:
- Nice and sharp. Boy was I more worried than I should have been about the 'terrible' viewing angles. I am picky about the display too, so I was worried I would not like it. Display is fine (yes, colours washed out a bit on an angle but its really not a big deal).
- Screen size is great! If the Note's screen size has you spoiled, the Xperia is a good device to move to if you want a smaller 'pocket' footprint.
Build quality/Size:
- Feels great in the hand. The plastic feels better quality than the Note II or S3s. Does not feel cheap.
- Wife who has iPhone 4S loves it too (she has very small hands, unlike the big ones I have). She says it "does not feel dainty like the iPhone". I asked her if she would be happy with it and she said she will use this no prob, and she hates big phones.
- Feels great in the pocket (but I did not mind the Note II in my jeans so that that into account).
Performance:
- snappy scrolling and app launching. Comparable to the Note II (in my eyes).
- Took my 64GB microSD card no problems. It was formatted by my Note II (not sure of the file format) and the ZL took the card and reads all the data already on it without an issue or need to reformat.
Conclusion (after 3 hours of use):
- Nothing to worry about as far as screen size and screen quality if you are a Note II user.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you're a flash a holic and you made a new account and this is your first post?
thx bro for the review btw. this is good to hear as I am also considering Sony Xperia ZL, but strictly for the ROMs (because I thought development for Sony was better, vs Samsung's AT&T Note 2 ROMs which I found a bit lacking even after one year).
I'm currently on GSM Galaxy Nexus which has a boat load of ROMs to flash.
I might wait a year to see how the development shapes up. I will get the ZL that comes with LTE support so I'm reading around for a while.
abuayyoub said:
I was in the same boat as you. Actually, I loved my Note 2 I used the hell out of it, the screen size was enough that I almost completely abandoned my Nexus 7, it just fit the gap between Tablet and phone so close that I hardly ever felt myself needing to switch to the Nexus 7.
Not to mention the battery was awesome and I don't remember ever having a day where I didn't get a full day of heavy use out of it. It was my favorite gadget ever so, as you can imagine, I was a bit reluctant to give it up easily. I actually had no real intention of selling my note 2 but I've had it for a while and it started to show it's age.
I was in a mobile shop the other day and I saw a ZL there. It was used 2 days and almost $200 dollars off the new price. In the end it cost me a grand total of $50 and heavily used, year old Note 2 as a trade in. Pretty damn good deal if you ask me. The phone was in mint condition. I had some experience with the Xperia Z which a friend bought and I really, really liked it. At first I was kind of sad that the Z was not available but I couldn't pass it up at that good of a deal. Now having used it for a couple weeks, I like the ZL much, much better than the Z
So, two weeks in and I am super happy. I love the ZL completely. I was a worried I wouldn't like it as much because the screen a little smalled but the nearly invisible bezel on the ZL and the build quality made it all worth it. ( I would love to see a 5.5" screen on the next version of it )
All in all I don't regret my decision at all and I don't think I will be giving it up anytime soon ( that is maybe until the note 3 is released, or the fabled Xphone from Motorola ) until then I will love and enjoy my ZL.
I do have a few minor issues with the ZL. First and foremost it seems to get a bit warm pretty quickly, I'm not exactly sure why this is but I never had any heat issues with any of my previous phones ( samsungs and nokias mostly )
People mention the viewing angles, and I honestly can't understand why this is an issue. With A TV I could understand because you sometimes have to sit at weird angles., but on a mobile I don't understand why anyone would want ( or would be able to ) use their phone at any angle that would cause any problems. In my experience the ZL has an awesome screen, althoughI did notice a single dead pixel which kinda makes me sad but you can't really notice it.
My other issues are simply, I can't find any aftermarket stuff for it in my area. There are no cases or anything to speak of so I am super paranoid about dropping it.
And finally, there is a lack of custom roms out there for the ZL. This is more because I'm a Rom addict and not smart enough to bake my own ;D
I rooted it and unlocked the boot-loader out of the box I would love to put PAC Rom on it at some point.
Again, it took my 64GB SD card with no problems.
The battery life is not as good as the Note 2 but it is very, very good. I make it through a whole day, with heavy use no problem.
In closing, if you are on the fence about trading in your Note 2, don't be. It's a worthy upgrade.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow. I'm impressed with the reviews from Note users.
At this point the lack of Roms that's stopping me. I had the XS and used the KA roms and see he is developing for the the ZL which is good.
never stock always tweaked
I had a ZL for 10 days, loved the build quality & size. I would have kept it, but the locked bootloader convinced me that it wasn't worth keeping it. I did find battery life is longer on the Note2. I am hanging on to my Note2 for now.
me too came from note 2.. the phone is pretty badA$$.
I'm surprised I'm not the only Note 2 user looking at this phone... I wonder what it is about it that attracts the Note 2 userbase??
Question for those who have switched regarding the screen, how are the blacks? I know they aren't AMOLED black, but are they still pretty dark?
arthurbrownleeiv said:
I'm surprised I'm not the only Note 2 user looking at this phone... I wonder what it is about it that attracts the Note 2 userbase??
Question for those who have switched regarding the screen, how are the blacks? I know they aren't AMOLED black, but are they still pretty dark?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They're ok, about average for a TFT screen. Nothing compares to AMOLED when it comes to blacks.
Not a note 2 owner
I was torn between Xperia ZL and note 2, because here in my country, they are sold for almost exactly the same price.
With much thinking and reading, I have decided to go for the ZL mainly because of: Compactness, and a brighter future ahead in terms of development support (as I see it).
Getting it next week. Sooo excited
JRBT24 said:
I was torn between Xperia ZL and note 2, because here in my country, they are sold for almost exactly the same price.
With much thinking and reading, I have decided to go for the ZL mainly because of: Compactness, and a brighter future ahead in terms of development support (as I see it).
Getting it next week. Sooo excited
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup its a great phone but don't bother to sell your note 2 ...
Sent from my SM-G900F using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Related
I thought I might start a thread for people who are getting or want to get the Xperia ZL coming from the Galaxy Note 2.
I myself just listed mine up for sell to pay for the ZL I could had last week but didnt know so I canceled it which I should not have
So Will you be switching from the Note 2?
Kind of "I selling my horse to bay an donkey" story! But maybe you can explain why?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
zmadaric said:
Kind of "I selling my horse to bay an donkey" story! But maybe you can explain why?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Huh?
hyelton said:
Huh?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What he meant is Galaxy Note 2 is better than the Sony ZL. I want to try one but but it is more expensive than the note 2. I am not a Samsung fan but I have to admit that No other smart phones can beat the Note 2 right now.
I just sold my note 2...going get xperia zl when it becomes available...
htc fan89 said:
I just sold my note 2...going get xperia zl when it becomes available...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sold mine a few days after I bought my ZL, Now to pay the credit card haha. I love the ZL! The Note 2 camera was way better though.
zmadaric said:
Kind of "I selling my horse to bay an donkey" story! But maybe you can explain why?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk HD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ha ha.. Sold my note2 as well in a heartbeat as soon I laid my hands upon the ZL. And I'm very happy with my decision.
Apart from the bigger screen & battery life on note2, I find everything else better on the ZL (which also doesn't have buggy emmc nor corrupts those 64gb SanDisk SDXC cards like note2/GS3 ).
Sold note 1 for zl tho.. Im quite satisfied. My samsung experience was horrible. Batt bloated 3xs for one year of usage. Cant waste more money.
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
what? note 2 camera much more better?hyelton
jianlinooi said:
what? note 2 camera much more better?hyelton
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think this camera is better than the note 2 camera
Sent from my C6502 using Tapatalk 2
Yes it is
Sent from my C6502 using xda premium
Camera wise, it seems out of focus at times... From my opinion, samsung is a lil bit better.. For now. Not sure bout you guys
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
safuan7822 said:
Camera wise, it seems out of focus at times... From my opinion, samsung is a lil bit better.. For now. Not sure bout you guys
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It really depends on how u use it. If u like to simply point and shoot, I would say Samsung (note2/GS3) is bit better for day photography, but Sony is better for indoors & night shots. But, if you workaround (play with different modes/settings ), then Xperia camera beats Samsung's, whether day or night. I've had some decent shots with my note2, but some really good ones with the ZL. Having said that, I have no doubt that the camera hardware is much better in the ZL, but sony really need to fix the default high ISO preference (auto mode) & resulting loss of sharpness (due to over smoothening). Besides, I feel that Samsung camera software is zippier, with better optimised post processing, but always liked the colours (also details due to higher pixel count) captured by Sony more than by Samsung.
Dpk1 said:
It really depends on how u use it. If u like to simply point and shoot, I would say Samsung (note2/GS3) is bit better for day photography, but Sony is better for indoors & night shots. But, if you workaround (play with different modes/settings ), then Xperia camera beats Samsung's, whether day or night. I've had some decent shots with my note2, but some really good ones with the ZL. Having said that, I have no doubt that the camera hardware is much better in the ZL, but sony really need to fix the default high ISO preference (auto mode) & resulting loss of sharpness (due to over smoothening). Besides, I feel that Samsung camera software is zippier, with better optimised post processing, but always liked the colours (also details due to higher pixel count) captured by Sony more than by Samsung.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can you gives us some pointers on what mode/settings to use for best pictures in different sceneries.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
cheapshot789 said:
Can you gives us some pointers on what mode/settings to use for best pictures in different sceneries.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know about Dpk1's experience, but I've had better luck with getting good pictures switching to Normal mode instead of using the default Superior+ mode. I seem to be able to get the right exposure and focus on a consistent basis this way.
cheapshot789 said:
Can you gives us some pointers on what mode/settings to use for best pictures in different sceneries.
Sent from my SGH-T889 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Try this. What I usually do is use the auto mode with auto flash at night/poor light, and Normal mode with ISO auto, hdr off, center metering, flash off in bright light. For indoors ISO 200/400, flash off, hdr off, average metering. For landscapes (in daylight), the scene mode "landscape" does a decent job. I'm yet exploring other options. I've also noticed that auto mode sometimes delivers quite good results even in daylight (its a hit or miss). Burst mode (mid) does provide crisp images in bright daylight. Sony really needs to improve on the post processing, i.e reduce & optimise its aggressive noise reduction. Hope it helps.
Iv been a Note 2 user since it came out and i have zero complaints..I wanted to give the ZL a try because i figured google wallet would work on an unlocked phone. When i got the ZL i was very happy. But the happiness didnt last long. I love the looks of the phone but there are alot of downsides that i experienced (which might not be what you guys experience).
First the size, im so used to using the big note 2 its hard to use something smaller even if it is only .5 smaller. its a big difference when you type and web browse etc.
2nd, google wallet doesnt work unless you root and tweak and tweak and etc..i want google wallet working straight out of the box since its an unlocked non carrier specific phone with nfc.
3rd, the signal on the ZL is not the greatest, it doesnt seem to get my wifi signal too well compared to my note 2 and it would be in hsdpa(+) mode in an LTE area sometimes where my note 2 would be in LTE all the time. also the LTE signal is weaker by one bar compared to my note 2.
4th, the screen is beautiful and crisp but the note 2 screen seems so much brighter and more vibrant, thats just my opinion.
5th, camera start up time is like 4 seconds..this is on the initial start up..from then when i close the camera and reopen it it starts up within 2 seconds which the note 2 does every single time.
6th, i compared the call quality to the note 2 since i heard the quality on the ZL was awesome. I heard alot of hissing noise when calling someone and during the call. I know that has alot to do with the network but when i called on the note 2 right after i get no hissing noise. its just a cleaner call quality on the note 2..much cleaner..for me
7th, battery. I knew going into this the battery wouldnt compare to the note 2 but my god the battery sucks..im to used to the note 2 lasting 2 days.
8th, the loud speaker sounds good but the note 2 speaker blows it away..there is a big difference in the speaker quality and music output
there were few other minor issues like the notification light bug which i got around and fixed it.. but those r the main ones..so im keeping my note 2 and selling the ZL..I hope you guys have a better experience with the ZL than me..i wanted to like this phone so bad but it cant beat the note 2 sorry guys.
I LOVE The size of my zl but its sitting in a box. I ordered a note 2 and should be here Monday. The value of the zl dropped big time. I paid 635 when it came out and I can't even sell it used for 500
Sent from my HTC One X+ using xda premium
Well
I Just ordered a Xperia ZL today - Will be here Tuesday - Paid $515 delivered to me - Put my Note II for sale online and locally.
The 1080p Screen and easier "pocket-ability" is what got me Interested - and the fact that I could get it for almost nothing after I sell my Note II.
It was an impulse buy as it was a good price and only 2 of them were available.
This thread has me wondering - I expect the battery life to be less - But I think I'll be happy with it.
bigystyle84 said:
Well
I Just ordered a Xperia ZL today - Will be here Tuesday - Paid $515 delivered to me - Put my Note II for sale online and locally.
The 1080p Screen and easier "pocket-ability" is what got me Interested - and the fact that I could get it for almost nothing after I sell my Note II.
It was an impulse buy as it was a good price and only 2 of them were available.
This thread has me wondering - I expect the battery life to be less - But I think I'll be happy with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Battery life is definitely note2's forte (7hrs vs 5.5hrs screen time for me). But I am enjoying my ZL and certainly don't miss my note2 (sold). It's more portable & fits in pocket/hand better than note2. I'm much impressed with sony's build quality! Mine survived a 3ft drop (without case) on concrete floor with minor scratches on two edges, which note2 certainly wouldn't have imo. I think the call signal/volume is as good as on note2 (even louder maybe) on C6502. Camera launches faster than note2 within 1-1.5 secs from screen off/sleep (using camera button). Default sound quality (via headphones) is better on the ZL to my ears & speakers are loud enough (note2 was louder). I can't even think of going back to 270ppi AMOLED display after being spoiled by super crisp 441ppi Sony ZL's display! Reading text is much better on ZL, its like night and day for me !
Remember, every device has its pros n cons. So, don't be bothered and enjoy your new purchase!
I get my shiny new 6502 today and I am sooo excited I am coming from a Note II.
Reasons I switched:
Love the fact that it is a 5" screen but compact, tired of lugging around such a huge phone but love a bigger screen.
Love the clean UI, almost Nexus 4'ish.
Love that it's not all glass like the Z because I use my phones naked so less chance of damage there.
Love the fact that I bought a factory unlocked phone and that I am actually going to finally give T Mobile a try (coming from AT&T), will save $70 a month.
Love the fact that my phone will be different than the other 90% of the population because its not an iPhone or Samsung.
Love the fact that paired up with my shiny new black Pebble watch, this will be a sick combo!
Love 13MP camera so i can zoom into everything. (use phone a lot for engineering work and take pictures of things for notes)
Also love the fact that I bought an HTC One (still waiting for it) and will probably use both as my daily driver (I get bored really quick haha)
Concerns:
I hope that the camera is good and if not that we can either tweak the software for the original camera app, or get a custom camera app that will work better.
I hope the display doesn't wash out as bad as everyone says (or that I don't actually use the screen from a different angle, because I have never thought of it)
Hope the external speaker is at least decent enough that if I watch youtube videos I can hear them ok.
Hope I can tweak the heck out of the phone.
Hope I can get the camera app to launch faster. (might just have to keep it loaded in memory before I know I am going to use it, but what happens when you need it quickly...)
Just some of my thoughts for now as I day dream of my new phone today.
Come on mail lady, please be swift today!
If you have any thoughts on any of these things, or your own reasons you switched or concerns, I would love to hear them.
I will post back on here as soon as I get the phone in my hands (my precious will be with me soon) haha
Guess what I just got in my hands! My little precious!!!
Congratulations! I find that my zl battery got so much better after about 5 days, also I find it gets less warm these days. I have action launcher, lmt launcher and the phone is great. I find the camera launches pretty fast using the shutter key.
Absolutely love the screen and the feel of this device! Cannot believe how small this is with a 5" screen, amazing. Excellent build quality, screams elegant.
10x faster than my Note 2.
Will continue to download all my apps and get it fully customized and write more later on it.
1st impressions; love it!
Hardcore73 said:
Absolutely love the screen and the feel of this device! Cannot believe how small this is with a 5" screen, amazing. Excellent build quality, screams elegant.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree! Every single time I pick up the phone, it just sits so well in the hand. I wanna touch it over and over again. I even run my hands over it gently when its lying in front of me with that gorgeous back
Hardcore73 said:
Absolutely love the screen and the feel of this device! Cannot believe how small this is with a 5" screen, amazing. Excellent build quality, screams elegant.
10x faster than my Note 2.
Will continue to download all my apps and get it fully customized and write more later on it.
1st impressions; love it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
awesome...seriously that faster over note 2? haha
If you live in a major city. Try T-Mobile, they are upgrading their network at the moment to 4g/LTE. Although LTE is not ready to be turned on. I'm working on the NYC metro market.
Sent from my Inspire 4G using xda app-developers app
6502 does not have LTE
After using this phone for a full day I am so in love with it. I really was unsure and thought it would just get me by until the HTC showed up.
This might actually become my new daily driver.
Been messing with camera app all day. It is hit or miss.
Everything about the phone is great. I can also go a whole day with moderate use.
only downfall of this phone is the camera software. Pictures are hit or miss.
I have to say i'm very disappointed.
Not comparable to the HTC ONE or the Galaxy S4. Maybe new design but we didn't even get flagship. Sorry Sony.
GodKingKnight said:
Not comparable to the HTC ONE or the Galaxy S4. Maybe new design but we didn't even get flagship. Sorry Sony.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wtf is we didn't even get flagship? That's a reason the zl can't beat one or s4? Wow the people on this forum does not fail to amaze me with their stupidity every single day.
Sent from my LT29i using Tapatalk 2
This phone is a flag ship. Sony may be behind on processor and screen but the difference against the competition in real world use is not visible. If you read all the blogs and believe everything you read you may believe this phone is inferior. Actually the ZL holds its own. Just sold my htc one for it. Horses for courses.
Sent from my C6502 using xda premium
GodKingKnight said:
Not comparable to the HTC ONE or the Galaxy S4. Maybe new design but we didn't even get flagship. Sorry Sony.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I prefer ZL over the two phones u mentioned. Overall ZL seems well rounded device & better suited to my use. Of course, ZL is a flagship (along with Z). I'd have answered objectively if only your post were so!
switching from nexus 4
I just ordered a 6502 today, should be here tuesday or wednesday.
I'm switching from a nexus 4. Yes I know but I have always liked Sony:laugh:
glovesave said:
I just ordered a 6502 today, should be here tuesday or wednesday.
I'm switching from a nexus 4. Yes I know but I have always liked Sony:laugh:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will keep picking it up, just feels so good in the hand. Sony has come along way from the days of x10
Sent from my C6502 using Tapatalk 2
Hey, I liked the x10!!!
ronj1986 said:
Hey, I liked the x10!!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
software was so blotted and the built quality was alright..
Great phone!
I'm also waiting for my HTC One in the mail. My carrier was offering a ridiculous deal for the ZL so I went for it, and will make my decision when it comes. The ZL is awesome for many unique reasons and could very well become my DD
Elegant design - great feel in the hand!
Can use one handed because of compact design and small bezel
Display is gorgeous. Yeah we know about the poor viewing angles...but we mainly look at our phones straight on...right?
Sexy and visible LED notification light (HTC take note)
Power button has perfect placement. It's just accessible no matter how you pick up the phone (again take note HTC)
Expandable storage
Dedicated camera button
Clean and unbloated Android experience. Super fast ui response!
IR blaster works great with other devices
Great sound with headphones
No point in outlining negatives here. Either way you slice it this is a fantastic phone....enjoy it!
got it....love my 6502
It came today, haven't had time to play too much with it so still setting it up.
So far I am loving it.
Don't have to enable data to receive pictures in my texts (that always annoyed me on the Nexus 4). Also I am torn between all the updates vs giving even more info to Google. I picked the Sony route for a bit.
Love the 5 inch size, with the screen taking most of the front it is just right it seems
Went with the unlocked 6502, won't pay $200 extra for LTE (I'm on WIFI all the time anyways)
I have been using mine for a few hours now and decided to write a bit about my first impressions. I hope these will be helpful.
Here are my initial thoughts (I am coming from the iPhone 5 that I had been using for the last 5 mos)
- The phone is light (feels too light for its size), but well made and well balanced in terms of weight. No issues with build quality (except for the one mentioned below). But it's so freaking slippery. I can't wait for my Spigen case to arrive.
- The screen is gorgeous. Large and vibrant. If you don't like AMOLED oversaturation, there is a "Movie" preset that tones down the colors.
- Battery life is the best I've ever experienced. Even compared to the iPhone. I used the phone for about 3 hours and was only down 25% (I understand that the gauge still needs to be calibrated and the battery life so far may not be typical).
- I am not a fan of stock Android, but Touchwhiz is bloated and laggy. With the specs that the phone has, there shouldn't be any choppiness or waiting for stock apps (caller, etc.) to open. But there is. I am hoping that Samsung will optimize the skin's performance in the next update.
- Related: People who put so much non-removable bloatware should be hung by their necks. Why is Flipboard, Chrome, Lookout and tens of other apps non-removable and always seem to run in the background? I'll wait for a verified list of safe-to-remove apps and bye-bye bloatware.
- Overall Touchwhiz is inconsistent. The design of stock apps varies so much. And damn those stupid bubble sounds.
- Camera is amazing in well-lit environments (better than the iPhone's), but not so much in low light (The Night mode fixes the issue for static objects though).
- Call sound quality is great.
- The only minor gripe about the build quality / design that I have concerns the power button. It's small, almost flush, and has very weak, almost non-existent tactile feedback. Just the opposite of what the power button on the iPhone is like. The volume rocker is fine though.
I will update this thread if I discover anything new.
Please, post your mini-reviews and first impressions here as well. Thanks.
Thanks for the early review. I'm getting mine tomorrow, so the wait is killing me.
Which color did you get by the way? And what did you think of that color?
I got black but still have some urge to get white. It might not matter because I also bought the Neo Hybrid case.
It does seem Samsung and T-Mo have put a lot of bloatware into the device - I can't wait for a good ROM to come by.
From my showrooming at AT&T and Best Buy, the display is indeed gorgeous and the design is better. I don't know.
I've seen the HTC One side by side with the S4 in AT&T and Best Buy, and I don't think the S4 is that much worse/cheap-feeling.
I actually found the S4 to be more comfortable to hold, and seems to fit more comfortably into my hand. The HTC One,
with all its aluminium glory, feels more rigid, and certainly not as light as the S4. I don't know.. preference.
I do think one other phone that doesn't get too much love is the Xperia Z. Great build quality, near-stock UI.
They have some nice themes that I'm using on the S3.
Good early review. I do have a question for you. I am thinking of returning this iPhone 5 for the S4. Knowing what you know now, would you advise others like me to hang on and wait it out? or is this a phone that even with its lag problems worth the switch?
GG2012 said:
Thanks for the early review. I'm getting mine tomorrow, so the wait is killing me.
Which color did you get by the way? And what did you think of that color?
I got black but still have some urge to get white. It might not matter because I also bought the Neo Hybrid case.
It does seem Samsung and T-Mo have put a lot of bloatware into the device - I can't wait for a good ROM to come by.
From my showrooming at AT&T and Best Buy, the display is indeed gorgeous and the design is better. I don't know.
I've seen the HTC One side by side with the S4 in AT&T and Best Buy, and I don't think the S4 is that much worse/cheap-feeling.
I actually found the S4 to be more comfortable to hold, and seems to fit more comfortably into my hand. The HTC One,
with all its aluminium glory, feels more rigid, and certainly not as light as the S4. I don't know.. preference.
I do think one other phone that doesn't get too much love is the Xperia Z. Great build quality, near-stock UI.
They have some nice themes that I'm using on the S3.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got the black mist version and I like it much better than the white. But it's personal preference.
I have already rooted the phone using the Motochopper exploit (very easy; thanks to Dan).
I also find the design much better than the S3 (more "professional", "industrial").
I do like how the HTC looks and feel, but it's not by any means more rigid. None of these phones are rugged.
The Xperia Z is a great looking phone but I personally thing that the screen on the S4 and HTC One are miles better.
With that said, the most important factor for me was the removable battery. It's always great to have a phone that doesn't have a worn battery even after a year or two of use. Plus, the battery itself is the largest one among five-inchers.
ferganer said:
I got the black mist version and I like it much better than the white. But it's personal preference.
I have already rooted the phone using the Motochopper exploit (very easy; thanks to Dan).
I also find the design much better than the S3 (more "professional", "industrial").
I do like how the HTC looks and feel, but it's not by any means more rigid. None of these phones are rugged.
The Xperia Z is a great looking phone but I personally thing that the screen on the S4 and HTC One are miles better.
With that said, the most important factor for me was the removable battery. It's always great to have a phone that doesn't have a worn battery even after a year or two of use. Plus, the battery itself is the largest one among five-inchers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Note 2 has the best battery life by far of any smartphone that is not the Droid Razr Maxx. That thing can last for days, and maybe weeks with the monster Anker extended battery. I hope I can get similar results with the S4, though I'm afraid if I keep a lot of apps, that will drain the battery faster. I have to say the dual speakers on the HTC One really impressed me. I'm wondering why Samsung still hasn't done it this way (or even better, dual front and back speakers). They're already one of the few tablet makers that put the speakers in front, and not the back. I live for the replaceable battery and microSD slot.
oak25 said:
Good early review. I do have a question for you. I am thinking of returning this iPhone 5 for the S4. Knowing what you know now, would you advise others like me to hang on and wait it out? or is this a phone that even with its lag problems worth the switch?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's personal preference. There are advantages for both phones.
iPhone is much more practical to use as a PHONE (smaller size, pocketability). It's much more fluid. However, the screen size and resolution are limiting.
The S4 being a flagship Android device offers great hardware (namely the screen) and customizibility.
I have rooted my phone and installed Titanium. I will remove as much bloatware as possible and see if that fixes the lagginess problem. I will report back.
Overall, I do not regret switching from the iPhone. So far, I am really liking the S4. Let's see if that changes
My wife and I just got ours. We switched from verizon to tmo and I switched from my galaxy nexus and she switched from an iphone5. I was really nervous that she wouldnt like it but so far she loves it and hasnt put it down in few hours. For me it wasnt that big of a change... but for her it is like the first time she picked up a smart phone. The screen i think is what she likes the best... it is big but the phone doesnt feel massive. I think it actually feels smaller in hand than my gnexus. And she really likes the camera (not talking quality just the options). It is going to take me some time to get use to touch wiz but I will probably unlock the bootloader and install cm 10.1 whenever it is available for it.
If anyone else is interested in any other details let me know.
I would have no problem recommending this over an iphone5 to anyone. I probably would never have said that about any other phone before (i made my mom get the iphone4s when it came out). Now when the next iphone (5s/6) comes out that may be a different story (but we will have to wait until apple lets us know what they are doing next).
ttrevorr said:
My wife and I just got ours. We switched from verizon to tmo and I switched from my galaxy nexus and she switched from an iphone5. I was really nervous that she wouldnt like it but so far she loves it and hasnt put it down in few hours. For me it wasnt that big of a change... but for her it is like the first time she picked up a smart phone. The screen i think is what she likes the best... it is big but the phone doesnt feel massive. I think it actually feels smaller in hand than my gnexus. And she really likes the camera (not talking quality just the options). It is going to take me some time to get use to touch wiz but I will probably unlock the bootloader and install cm 10.1 whenever it is available for it.
If anyone else is interested in any other details let me know.
I would have no problem recommending this over an iphone5 to anyone. I probably would never have said that about any other phone before (i made my mom get the iphone4s when it came out). Now when the next iphone (5s/6) comes out that may be a different story (but we will have to wait until apple lets us know what they are doing next).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for your input. Unfortunately, Tim Cook stated that we shouldn't be expecting a larger size/resolution screen iPhone any time soon. So, if screen size matters to you, the S4 is indeed a better option.
Phone is great. Lag is minor. But I do notice top of screen can get hot fairly quick from not too much intense tasks.. not to bad though. Amd an update will surely adress these things
Sent from my SGH-M919 using xda app-developers app
I made a unbagging (because Tmo shipped my GS4 in a polybag rather than a box), unpackaging, setup, and initial impressions video.
http://youtu.be/6aaJ_pAlFZw
Since I've filmed this, I wanna add this:
Basically, I believe this launch was less than stellar. Not only did Samsung tease the S4 over the last few months, but there's the locked/verifiable bootloaders (again I add verifiable because from my understanding on AT&T and most likely Verizon too, there's checks to make sure you have a legit recovery and boot image for those particular carriers, and if it fails, brick), little availability for 32GB (ironically the only carrier to have a 32GB version is the locking down AT&T); ZERO 64GB when they claimed that 16, 32, and 64 GB versions would be available, and as I expected, Sixaxis and Wii Remotes DO NOT work out of the box (mostly because it uses Android 4.2.2 and from past experience with my Nexus 7 it does NOT play nice with sixaxis or wii remotes for whatever reason).
Oh well, at least I did showcase the Motochopper root method at the time of filming and some time after I filmed, T-mobile's version of the bootloader can indeed be unlocked. (Sprint's is unlocked from the start, btw.)
adventure_of_link said:
I made a unbagging (because Tmo shipped my GS4 in a polybag rather than a box), unpackaging, setup, and initial impressions video.
http://youtu.be/6aaJ_pAlFZw
Since I've filmed this, I wanna add this:
Basically, I believe this launch was less than stellar. Not only did Samsung tease the S4 over the last few months, but there's the locked/verifiable bootloaders (again I add verifiable because from my understanding on AT&T and most likely Verizon too, there's checks to make sure you have a legit recovery and boot image for those particular carriers, and if it fails, brick), little availability for 32GB (ironically the only carrier to have a 32GB version is the locking down AT&T); ZERO 64GB when they claimed that 16, 32, and 64 GB versions would be available, and as I expected, Sixaxis and Wii Remotes DO NOT work out of the box (mostly because it uses Android 4.2.2 and from past experience with my Nexus 7 it does NOT play nice with sixaxis or wii remotes for whatever reason).
Oh well, at least I did showcase the Motochopper root method at the time of filming and some time after I filmed, T-mobile's version of the bootloader can indeed be unlocked. (Sprint's is unlocked from the start, btw.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's funny because AT&T keeps claiming "soon" for the 32 GB version yet no one knows (and AT&T will not say anything about) when "soon" is. So, although it could happen, AT&T doesn't have the 32 GB yet (and I think may never).
adventure_of_link said:
T-mobile's version of the bootloader can indeed be unlocked. (Sprint's is unlocked from the start, btw.)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not "can be unlocked", is unlocked. Period.
GG2012 said:
The Note 2 has the best battery life by far of any smartphone that is not the Droid Razr Maxx. That thing can last for days, and maybe weeks with the monster Anker extended battery. I hope I can get similar results with the S4, though I'm afraid if I keep a lot of apps, that will drain the battery faster. I have to say the dual speakers on the HTC One really impressed me. I'm wondering why Samsung still hasn't done it this way (or even better, dual front and back speakers). They're already one of the few tablet makers that put the speakers in front, and not the back. I live for the replaceable battery and microSD slot.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I sold my razr maxx to someone and bought a galaxy nexus.I will never again buy a phone with a non removable battery. With my gnex I love carrying an extra fully charged battery in case of emergency or if I just run out of juice
GNex // Toro // CodeX // AK exp // Hue
scott14719 said:
It's funny because AT&T keeps claiming "soon" for the 32 GB version yet no one knows (and AT&T will not say anything about) when "soon" is. So, although it could happen, AT&T doesn't have the 32 GB yet (and I think may never).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im sorry man but this has to be the worst video i have seen in my life
Sent from my Nexus 4
dkotoric said:
Im sorry man but this has to be the worst video i have seen in my life
Sent from my Nexus 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ROFLMAO!
The best part is we get to see his feet and crusty toes roflcopter! (just kidding man)
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
Charlie Brown said:
ROFLMAO!
The best part is we get to see his feet and crusty toes roflcopter! (just kidding man)
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hahahaha, I had to do anything I could to get that darned bag open (and on that note, is probably yet another reason I need to seriously consider getting the tripod for my S4... EDIT 5:45 PM: Just ordered the tripod. Use SPRINGACC up till May 15th to get 20% off on Accessories at T-mobile)
dkotoric said:
Im sorry man but this has to be the worst video i have seen in my life
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay, in all fairness I accidentally made it all wordy, but it's the first unpackaging video I ever made..
adventure_of_link said:
hahahaha, I had to do anything I could to get that darned bag open (and on that note, is probably yet another reason I need to seriously consider getting the tripod for my S4... EDIT 5:45 PM: Just ordered the tripod. Use SPRINGACC up till May 15th to get 20% off on Accessories at T-mobile)
Okay, in all fairness I accidentally made it all wordy, but it's the first unpackaging video I ever made..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL I'm just giving you shlt cause I'm jealous I don't have one. LOL
I currently have a Samsung Note II... and I'm at a cross roads with it. I was absolutely in love with the phone when I first got it (launch day) but now - I find myself more annoyed in using it than anything else. The size is just too much. So I've been doing some light reading, and it's been a long time since I've had a Sony phone but I am leaning towards the ZL. I've read some of the posts/threads comparing the two - but is the switch really worth it just for the footprint?
wait for couple months
sony ,htc new high-end phone come out
That's what I was thinking, but I am very impatient lol... I don't like HTC and will never use their phones again. But I wonder what the next reliable flagship will be!
Personally I am not the person who agrees with waiting, you can wait all the time then After couple of months when the new flagships will be launched you will ask yourself again what would be the next flagship ...
If you need a phone and you can afford it, buy it !
I would try for HTC one or S4.
randy_c said:
I would try for HTC one or S4.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ZL is a great phone, just depends if it's what you want. There will be new flagships coming, if you want the newest and best.
Here are my thoughts...What can a new phone offer you that the ZL cant?
There is only two reasons to wait.
1. Better battery life, this is the only stat on the ZL that can reasonably be inproved.
2. Better form factor, this is user preference, i personally love the ZL form factor.
My employer is switching carriers, and I had the option of S4, HTC One, Note 2 (again), but I'm going with the ZL. Other than battery life, I don't feel like I'm compromising on anything. And really, nothing compares to Note 2 on battery life.
weezill said:
My employer is switching carriers, and I had the option of S4, HTC One, Note 2 (again), but I'm going with the ZL. Other than battery life, I don't feel like I'm compromising on anything. And really, nothing compares to Note 2 on battery life.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed.
I had the same choice(though i was paying out right, selling my note 2), i went with the ZL, 3 times(one reason or another returned first 2). No regrets!
I hear people say the S4 has great battery life, but coming from the Nexus 4, I find the ZL's battery to be more than enough for what I need and much better than the N4. The Note II will be even better, but you can't compete with the size of that battery.
I love the form factor of the ZL. The power button placement is great, and I love having a dedicated camera button. The camera is not the best, but, it gets the job done. I am really surprised to find the stock 4.1.2 Sony ROM to be very smooth and with very few annoying things that can't be disabled.
You can always sell the ZL if something else comes along
With DoomLord and Asura76 announcing they no longer have time to support this device, I'm having a tiny tiny bit of regret My bootloader can't be unlocked either...double whammy!
the nxt sony flagship has the following...
qualcomm s800 2.3ghz processor
5" display
trilumonous display
13/20 MP camera.
x reality
bionz (not sure)
Sony G lens
Bravia engine 2
Its called one Sony...codename Honami...
So expect every thing in it...
Its probably announced in august..
http://www.xperiablog.net/2013/06/3...ew-ui-and-imaging-specs-20mp-camera-4k-video/
http://www.xperiablog.net/2013/07/01/honamis-camera-app-ported-to-xperia-zzltablet-z/
I think its worth the wait...
bipinm007 said:
the nxt sony flagship has the following...
qualcomm s800 2.3ghz processor
5" display
trilumonous display
13/20 MP camera.
x reality
bionz (not sure)
Sony G lens
Bravia engine 2
Its called one Sony...codename Honami...
So expect every thing in it...
Its probably announced in august..
http://www.xperiablog.net/2013/06/3...ew-ui-and-imaging-specs-20mp-camera-4k-video/
http://www.xperiablog.net/2013/07/01/honamis-camera-app-ported-to-xperia-zzltablet-z/
I think its worth the wait...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yawn. Not one of those specs represents a usability upgrade over the ZL. There are only two areas the ZL can improve in, screen and battery.
Sent from my C6503 using Tapatalk 2
Yes
At least for me in Brazil it's worthy...:good:
It is August 3 2013 and this phone has been out for a little while now. I am looking for a new phone because I need to switch carriers. I currently have a Galaxy Note 2 and I absolutely love it. I see that Sony announced they will update it to 4.3. The screen is only 0.5" smaller then my Note 2. The Sony has a higher resolution though. The battery life doesn't seem to be a problem for most of you (I checked the battery thread). Do all of you who currently own the Sony absolutely love the phone? Do you wish you tried a different phone? I love the look of the phone.
I am stuck between the Galaxy S4, HTC one, and this ZL. The S4 seems to have a ton of bloatware that I will never use but since the Google edition was announced, I might be able to flash a stock version of android on it once they figure out the battery drain issue. Same goes for the HTC one. I love the Sony for no apparent reason. It looks like a decent phone on paper and I remember reading about how Sony is really making an effort to help out developers. They also seem to keep updating this phone (4.2.2 and 4.3).
I need to decide soon so I appreciate any responses!
Edit** was this phone really just released 4 months ago? For some reason I thought it was older.
It's your decision of course and nobody here can really make that decision for you... it's a very subjective topic and you will get 100 different "answers".
However, I'll give you my highly subjective and personal opinion... for what it's worth.
I have both the Z and ZL, a GS3 and have had an HTC One. The GS3 is a reliable and usable phone that is easy to mod. It does everything well, except the screen is really unreadable outside. The 2 particular key points for me on phones, other than the ability to function reliably as a phone, are a good notification LED and a decent FM radio. The Radio is quite passable on the GS3. I bought an HTC One to replace the GS3 and was both impressed by some aspects and seriously disappointed by others. The notification LED is a joke and the FM radio was chronically insensitive to the point of being worthless. Plus the speaker grilles didn't fit correctly. It lasted a week and then got returned.
The GS4 doesn't have an FM radio... pathetic discrimination
Anyway, on to Sony...
The Z was bought in lieu of the H1. I've always liked Sony and SE phones, they are designed in Scandinavia and it shows, certainly in the electronic design and qualification. I also bought the ZL whilst on a business trip in Germany a week or two later. Both phones are great, but I prefer the ZL - because it is physically smaller (thicker but nicer to hold), has a better screen (higher brightness and contrast plus better viewing angles), no flaps to mess about with, the Sony logo is on the phone not the ASF (gives you more options) and has a slightly better notification LED. The FM radio is fantastic on both, although for some reason the Z is more sensitive, by about 10% I reckon. I also prefer the easy access SIM and SD card slots. The loudspeaker on the ZL is not restricted by waterproofing and is thus a fair bit louder...
So for me, the ZL is my phone of choice. It does everything I need and well. Sony are quick with updates and there are no obvious bugs. The UI is rather less "Noddy" than TW and less intrusive than Sense. The call quality is excellent too, in case you need to use it as a phone!!!
So it's down to what is important to you...
That was a awesome post very informative of different phones. I just got a zl to replace my broken HTC one xl and I love it I'm a big Sony fan they make solid products and I've never had a issue and when I have Sony has been quick to respond. It's a good choice
Sent from my Xperia Arc using xda app-developers app
It's honestly a great phone and highly underrated. Maybe it is a very polarizing phone, in that some hate it while others absolutely love it.
Well it's down to what your needs are.
For custom roms development support go for either Htc one or S4.
For sound Htc one.
For screen brilliance HTC One or possibly S4. Zl screen looks washed out and very poor viewing angles.
Camera. ZL or S4.
Memory Zl or S4.
Smoothness UI Htc one.
Design HTC one.
Speed HTC One or S4.
Notification light ZL or S4.
Premium build HTC One.
For me it has to be HTC One.
riz157 said:
Well it's down to what your needs are.
For custom roms development support go for either Htc one or S4.
For sound Htc one.
For screen brilliance HTC One or possibly S4. Zl screen looks washed out and very poor viewing angles.
Camera. ZL or S4.
Memory Zl or S4.
Smoothness UI Htc one.
Design HTC one.
Speed HTC One or S4.
Notification light ZL or S4.
Premium build HTC One.
For me it has to be HTC One.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Had someone offer me a HTC One + $50 the other day. I just don't see the appeal.
Which HTC One has...
4G (LTE)?
notification toggles?
support to microSD card, including SDXC (I still believe Sony will really fix it )?
Sony design?
Sony UI and Sony exclusive widgets?
full integration with Sony products (PS3, Bravia, Muteki, Music Unlimited...)?
movie player with BE2?
a full 5" screen almost to the edge of the bevel of the phone?
a 2013 main camera (against the 2009-compatible 4 Mpx from HTC one?)
Andre Verissimo said:
Which HTC One has...
4G (LTE)?
notification toggles?
support to microSD card, including SDXC (I still believe Sony will really fix it )?
Sony design?
Sony UI and Sony exclusive widgets?
full integration with Sony products (PS3, Bravia, Muteki, Music Unlimited...)?
movie player with BE2?
a full 5" screen almost to the edge of the bevel of the phone?
a 2013 main camera (against the 2009-compatible 4 Mpx from HTC one?)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The One has LTE and notification toggles. To the OP. I switch phones A LOT so I've had all the big boys and I have to say the ZL is a really nice phone. The One is definitely a good competitor though. As for the S4 that has been my least favorite as it feels so cheap and i hate the home button. It all depends on personal preference but as for me I'll probably keep this for the next 2 months and then get the Moto X.
I think the answer depends on your timetable and perspective:
On 8/7, the LG G2 is going to be announed, which will be the first American-carrier snapdragon 800 phone. A month later, Samsung is expected to announce the Note 3 and a Galaxy S4 advanced. By the late fall, there should even be a Nexus 5.
Battery may not be a problem for us... but we don't have notes. We have small phones with giant screens and have (relatively) low standards like a phone lasting 12 hours on a charge rather than the Note's 2 day/no charge norm.
--
I like the ZL (bought 3 months ago). It has met my needs pretty well. I find that it's easier to make a mistake flashing mods and have bootloops needing reflashes... compared to my Samsung experience. I dislike its bluetooth stack... as I have to disable wifi for it to facilitate phone calls in my car. I have a slight feeling of it being the stepchild of the Sony family, as the developer of the only kernel stopped supporting the phone (he never owned it) and the custom roms are not as numerous as the Xperia Z. I had an AT&T LG Optimus G (same processor, smaller screen, wider body) directly before it and the SGS3 before that. I don't wish I had the HTC One.
I have checked almost every review available on the internet and they all wish the device had better screen and camera.
The screen has poor viewing angles and camera is gainy in low light and looses focus even in bright light.
Well I don't want to base my idea totally on reviews, since they compare it with the best.
Will you guys recommend if the Screen and camera quality are at par with a high end phone, so that I can consider buying it?
ajhavery said:
I have checked almost every review available on the internet and they all wish the device had better screen and camera.
The screen has poor viewing angles and camera is gainy in low light and looses focus even in bright light.
Well I don't want to base my idea totally on reviews, since they compare it with the best.
Will you guys recommend if the Screen and camera quality are at par with a high end phone, so that I can consider buying it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Trust me, screen quality is much much better after the Update. Camera vise its really improved. If i am at a party with friends its like they want me to click pics from my ZL and day light pics are just great.
Compression Issue has been fixed in HDR. So its less noisy in low light condition with HDR.(Really Improved)
close up i would prefer my ZL.
But macros are not that great.
New update increased screen responsiveness. Frankly speaking Its getting better in every update.
But Beware, in Some phones there seems to some sort of Microphone bug which i am facing right now.(software May be as it works in everything else like recording)
Happy with Sony Xperia ZL Using from Past 5 Months.
Price has also been reduced. so its a best buy as of now.
IMO,if you need phone that trending (more dev support),go for HTC One or S4,since it also have Google Edition
but here few advantage of ZL to me:
-compact size 5' screen: -it slightly thicker than z,but more compact,it have thin bezel (fit into my pocket)
-omnibalance design: -slightly curve on the back,which support better grip,not need for cover since it make from plactic (still look premium)
-don't have to worry to put with key in pocket (still you should at least use screen protector to prevent direct scratch)
-camera : hv 13mp back n 2mp front,can recorded full hd video,have hdr,and hv dedicated shutter key with 2 press mechanism
image captured viewed beautiful on the phone with bravia engine 2 on
-notification light: at bottom,look really premium to me
-hv expandable storage (compare to HTC One)
-hv ir blaster: can control tv (compare to xperia z)
-speaker: average to me (htc one better i think) but it still able to make me up in the morning (i'm a heavy sleeper xD )
the earphone include is good enough (but can't compare it with high end earphone)
-sony software that does matter : walkman,album,movie,etc- support BE2,xloud,clearphase equalizer,which make music better
disadvantage:
-highly under rated (less dev support,however most dev in xperia z do port to zl,we still hv CM,PAC support )
-camera apps takes some times to launch (about 1-2 sec)
-screen does hv limited viewing angles but still visible in bright sunlight (with the help of UI itself that mainly white/grey colour)
Last word: xperia ZL does not hv the hype of other phone such as HTC One or S4 but it does hv enough power to run almost any apps in the play store,moreover with gr8 support from sony,i believe you could stay in stock firmware for quite sometimes,i used to unlock my bootloader and use custom rom for a week (to do this make sure you read all FAQ first if you not used to sony devices) but i'm back to stock and i'm happy with what sony offer to me
---------- Post added at 10:54 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:39 AM ----------
ajhavery said:
I have checked almost every review available on the internet and they all wish the device had better screen and camera.
The screen has poor viewing angles and camera is gainy in low light and looses focus even in bright light.
Well I don't want to base my idea totally on reviews, since they compare it with the best.
Will you guys recommend if the Screen and camera quality are at par with a high end phone, so that I can consider buying it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i suggest you bring ur current phone and compare it with zl at retail shop,i u satisfied then grab it,if not choose others,review is useful but sometimes the company hv push updates to the phone to fix/improve the problem appear,while review stay the same,for example we recently received updates that improve touch sensitivity,ram management,camera low-light performance,etc,the latest firmware changelog can be view here
Ya I wasn't really looking for a specific yes or no. I was looking for things like: are you happy with it? Things you like about it and things you dislike. Did you find out anything after you bought it that you wish you knew before you bought it?
I really wish I could wait for the Note 3 but I need the phone basically this week. I am not a heavy user so I am pretty sure the smaller battery in this phone will be fine. My current Note 2 is amazing though. I understand that there will always be a better phone that is out or coming out soon. The Sony zl is free at Rogers right now so if I hate it that much I can sell it and get a nexus 4 or something. I don't really care about custom roms that much anymore. I used to care more because my first android phone was an LG G2x and they never updated it so I had to rely on custom roms for upgrades. As long as Sony will update it for another year or 2 ill be happy.
htc one vs sony zl
After many reviews online, I could not decide between One and ZL, so I bought both on eBay for my personal evaluation but will sell the other one later. HTC One is very good phone, high contrast screen, hi-powered speakers and responsive touch (very good if you want to watch YouTube). But, my choice is Sony ZL. There are much talks on the internet about washed screen on ZL. Do not believe it and I tell you why. For some reasons Sony designers chose to use the theme with dark grey background and white letters which is easier for eyes for long time but losing on sensation of hi-contrast. However, if you can choose a dark theme, it will change the game. Also, latest updates for ZL tend toward black background. Really, do you think that Sony, that makes TVs, laptops and professional monitors can not make phone screens? The speakers of One is better but that does not apply for the speaker when you make a phone call, which is sensational for ZL with xLoud and noise canceling enhancements. Overall the ZL looks and feels much more modern with very thin bezel while the One feels like an upgrade from old one. I thought BraviaEngine is there for commercial reasons but its really good when you watch movies and videos.
ZL is a awesome device. Its that developers don't do anything currently. There is a dev kamarush who said if he get the device he will do the kernels. But he didn't have money AFAIK. Some1 should come and help the community. Looks like we gotta donate a device to a very well know xda member: suggestion - tonyp, slim_rick, pulser_q2 etc etc
Sent from my C6503 using Tapatalk 4
Never really understood the issues people are having with the screen. All the reviews made it out to look like it was the most horrible screen on a phone to date. That is simply not the case. Having came from a galaxy note 1 I can honestly say the screen is on par with it. The viewing angle issue is a joke and should be experienced first hand and not from some reviewer with his head stuck up his ass. Thank god I got this phone despite what the reviews said. I'd have missed out on a great device.
Sent from my C6503
Agree that the screen (as stated in my post above) is not at all bad. Better than the XZ
Sent from my C6503 using xda premium
devilsshadow said:
Never really understood the issues people are having with the screen. All the reviews made it out to look like it was the most horrible screen on a phone to date. That is simply not the case. Having came from a galaxy note 1 I can honestly say the screen is on par with it. The viewing angle issue is a joke and should be experienced first hand and not from some reviewer with his head stuck up his ass. Thank god I got this phone despite what the reviews said. I'd have missed out on a great device.
Sent from my C6503
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree 100% ! I just love it.
The viewing angle is indeed deficient but I dont care. Its still bright and colorful. The FM radio and the loads of media formats it can play built in, are a great plus for me Really enjoyable device. Cant wait for an aokp 4.3 custom rom
unoo said:
Ya I wasn't really looking for a specific yes or no. I was looking for things like: are you happy with it? Things you like about it and things you dislike. Did you find out anything after you bought it that you wish you knew before you bought it?
I really wish I could wait for the Note 3 but I need the phone basically this week. I am not a heavy user so I am pretty sure the smaller battery in this phone will be fine. My current Note 2 is amazing though. I understand that there will always be a better phone that is out or coming out soon. The Sony zl is free at Rogers right now so if I hate it that much I can sell it and get a nexus 4 or something. I don't really care about custom roms that much anymore. I used to care more because my first android phone was an LG G2x and they never updated it so I had to rely on custom roms for upgrades. As long as Sony will update it for another year or 2 ill be happy.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i would not sure if there will be update for 2 years,you said u used note 2,so r u using the s-pen heavily,i hv a friend that like to sketch cartoon with his note 2,and i think that phone really suitable for him,if you one of them,you should wait for note 3,if not,i suggest you give zl a shot,nexus 4 also a good phone but i choose zl instead of nexus 4 when i buy it because i want to hv expandable storage n i also use fm radio quite frequently,i use zl since early 3 april until today and so far i'm happy with it.what i like mainly the phone shape,different from other and the only thing i dislike is the camera takes some times to load as i mention earlier,hope sony will fix it later on
ihsan123 said:
i would not sure if there will be update for 2 years,you said u used note 2,so r u using the s-pen heavily,i hv a friend that like to sketch cartoon with his note 2,and i think that phone really suitable for him,if you one of them,you should wait for note 3,if not,i suggest you give zl a shot,nexus 4 also a good phone but i choose zl instead of nexus 4 when i buy it because i want to hv expandable storage n i also use fm radio quite frequently,i use zl since early 3 april until today and so far i'm happy with it.what i like mainly the phone shape,different from other and the only thing i dislike is the camera takes some times to load as i mention earlier,hope sony will fix it later on
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never use the sPen. I don't care about the speakers either because I never use external speakers in a phone. I never heard anything bad about the screen but I make the assumption that sony makes TV's so that can make a decent cell phone screen haha. The more I think about it, I just want a properly functioning phone. If Sony updates it then that is great but as long as it is smooth and everything works then ill be happy. It is going to be my phone for the next 3 years so it needs to last!