So the Xperia S is well over a year old now, we've had delayed updates for the ICS at first and then the wtf delays for Jellybean. We've had bugs, lived with them and ultimately fixed, the dev community for it seems to be fully alive and kicking now with tons of roms to choose from.
but the question remains,
can you genuinely say that you are happy with the Xperia S?
for someone who bought the phone just about a month or so after being released at a premium price, my answer would be a very solid MEH.
Jellybean may have come, but it still gets pretty slow sometimes (and I use minimal apps, no cosmetic apps or custom launchers at all), tried custom roms (all the devs have done a tremendous job, but each rom still have their own problems).
I was very happy with the phone when it came out.
A few updates later, and battery life is terrible but everything else is ok.
To be honest, the battery life is making me really not like the phone. Something as simple as leaving it overnight with everything off and no use and it somehow drains 30 - 40%. On the release date firmware I could easily get 4 days with minimal use. Since the last few updates I am lucky to get 1 day barely using the phone.
Overall, I would also give it a resounding MEH.
Since Xperia Ion uses the same internals of Xperia S, I would say I am extremely satisfied with my phone. Battery life overnight drops randomly overnight. On a good night it drops 2%, 20% on a bad one. I investigated and the drop seems to come from Google Now and Facebook But battery life on the average day is below par. Playing Minion Rush straight for 1 hour results in 50% drop in battery. But I wouldn't blame Sony. The CPU inside in Qualcomm's first generation and isn't very powerful efficient. But I usually turn off the phone fearing the "radiation" from the network radios. The screen quality very good, and personally, better than Xperia Z. No comments of speaker quality as I usually use the headset. Pertaining to the Jelly Bean update, no doubt it's smooth and fluid and there's no many bugs. But I am very surprised Sony can miss the 1080p video problem. But if you discount that, I would say Sony did a great job.
Sent from my LT28h using xda app-developers app.
Yes,I am happy with my ion :3
Many people said bug there and there with their phone even in ICS...but my ICS is fine enough for me to keep me happy...but still Jellybean haven't arrived yet in Malaysia,but all firmware of Xperia in Malaysia are all stable that's what I like about it
Sent from my LT28h using xda premium
Will never be happy without the possibility of unlocking my BL.
If I wanted a ultra.locked system I buy an iPhone... And even that is jailbreakable.
Probably will not buy sony again during this policy from them.
About hardware... Xperia S is a good phone, no doubts about that.
Sent from my LT26i using xda premium
really happy with my Xperia Acro S, .200 Unlocked BL; Root.
1st day i got, already dunk into washing machine, been abuse it ever since.
no worries about battery though, camping/outdoor can last up to 72~80 hours should be enough for me.
nrdl said:
Will never be happy without the possibility of unlocking my BL.
If I wanted a ultra.locked system I buy an iPhone... And even that is jailbreakable.
Probably will not buy sony again during this policy from them.
About hardware... Xperia S is a good phone, no doubts about that.
Sent from my LT26i using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's the telecom provider that requests your bootloader to be locked, not Sony. Even if you buy HTC or LG phones from the same network provider, there's high chances that it will be locked.
Sent from my LT28h using xda app-developers app
lee480 said:
It's the telecom provider that requests your bootloader to be locked, not Sony. Even if you buy HTC or LG phones from the same network provider, there's high chances that it will be locked.
Sent from my LT28h using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, Sony is the only OEM that locks its phones down. Samsung doesn't, neither HTC, LG or Motorola do.
Gesendet von meinem Sony Xperia™ S mit Tapatalk 4
djolivier said:
Nope, Sony is the only OEM that locks its phones down. Samsung doesn't, neither HTC, LG or Motorola do.
Gesendet von meinem Sony Xperia™ S mit Tapatalk 4
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your lack of research and sheer arrogance is commendable. Some US carrier variants of S4 and HTC One have their bootloaders locked. Go Google it yourself. Only difference: users have find ways to bypass the restriction in those phones.
Sent from my LT28h using xda app-developers app
lee480 said:
Your lack of research and sheer arrogance is commendable. Some US carrier variants of S4 and HTC One have their bootloaders locked. Go Google it yourself. Only difference: users have find ways to bypass the restriction in those phones.
Sent from my LT28h using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, didn't know that as I don't live in the USA! I'm talking about European carriers.
Gesendet von meinem Sony Xperia™ S mit Tapatalk 4
djolivier said:
Nope, Sony is the only OEM that locks its phones down. Samsung doesn't, neither HTC, LG or Motorola do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Motorola only started offering a bootloader unlock facility on their most recent phones in about August last year. As someone who still owns an older Motorola phone (a Defy+) I can assure you that it is not possible to unlock the bootloader on that phone - bought SIM-free so no tie-in or lock-downs from a network provider. Check the threads on the XDA Defy forums if you don't believe me: they gave up trying. Previously, some Motorola phones were available with unlocked bootloaders from new, but they were effectively special versions intended for developers. Until the change of policy last year normal phones were locked and not unlockable.
lee480 is correct: Xperia phones have the option to unlock the bootloader by design, but network providers can arrange for that option to be disabled on the phones that they supply. My XAS (again, bought SIM-free) has the bootloader unlock option available, I just haven't enabled it. There are plenty of folks posting in the Xperia forums on XDA who have unlocked the bootloaders on their phones using the method provided by Sony - just look in the development sub-forums. Sony also provide a helpful online guide which explains how to get your bootloader unlocked (check out their list of 30+ supported phones and compare that to Motorola's list of just six, two of which are "developer editions").
If you want to knock Sony, you could at least get your facts right.
I know how to unlock the bootloader of a "normal" XS. Mine has been locked down by my carrier, so I don't even need to try it with Sony's method as it won't work.
Gesendet von meinem Sony Xperia™ S mit Tapatalk 4
Yes, I happy with my unlocked SL. Except the audio. The sound quality is poor for me, the volume too. Both on the phone's speaker and on my Beyerdynamic DT 235. My old SE LwW has got a much better audio system. Another problem the jack. It's really sensitive on my SL. (If my english is bad, sorry)
Only thing I miss is a bigger battery. Once the screen is on or you use gps the small battery really starts to struggle.
For my use, i don't feel JB is different compared to ICS. Only thing I would miss in JB is to turn of data/wifi when the screen of. I would also miss the honescreen redraw in JB that ICS didn't have in quite as often.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Isn't the home screen redraw related to memory and a lack of it at that time?
Used the xs for a long time and my gripe was the rear case, clips became worn and slips off easily. Loved the display though, compared to my xz and XT is really vibrant
I'm not really content with my phone. Battery life is a huge problem and also the bloatware, can't do multitasking enough.
av4tar said:
Isn't the home screen redraw related to memory and a lack of it at that time?
Used the xs for a long time and my gripe was the rear case, clips became worn and slips off easily. Loved the display though, compared to my xz and XT is really vibrant
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Think it is. Seen it more with JB compared to ICS, not only with a browser that was most common in ICS.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Xperia Acro S
I'm very happy with my Acro S. For me, it's the most suitable phone, even compared to current models.
It's 4.3'' display has just the right dimensions to still be used with one hand and to still fit in any pocket.
It's water resistant; which is important since i'm sometimes somewhat heavy-handed (I already sunk two phones in my life, one got irreparably damaged by hot spiced wine aka "Glühwein").
It's SD-card slot enables me using my 32GB memory extension for keeping my music, my pics and videos and some general data. Which is not always that important in everyday-life, but when travelling, it's really nice (eg OSM map data).
I have an unlocked bootloader and have it rooted since my third week of use (which was Stock ICS that days).
With the camera mods from XDA members, even the camera makes nice (enough) pictures and videos. It's quick shot by hardware button feature is great.
My battery lasts 48h with usual use (including the sleeping times). But (to be on the save side) I usually charge it every night. I don't switch off Wifi, Bluetooth, ANT, GPS, GSM/3G-Data.
I like the ANT+-feature for running. 1 hour of running with BT headset, music player, GPS and heatrate tracking (runtastic) drains my battery by something like 10% (including the other general stuff like mail/calender sync and stuff at that time).
I use it for playing music on my way to work via bluetooth headset and in my car via bluetooth caraudio connector.
I home-improved a common docking station to be my car cradle for charging and provding me easy access to navigation and music control while driving. (I extremely like the charging pads of the Acro S for that, since I don't have to connect any wires.)
I home-crafted an alternative charging cradle for the charging pads; so I can place the phone horizontally on my bed while charging. (You know the "Sleep-as-Android"-app? Does not wake you when you're in deep sleep (until a deadline).)
I like to impress other smartphone users (especially iPhone) with the OTG feature. ("You want the photos of the last class reunion? You have your USB memory with you? You can have them right here and now...")
The phone is very stable (was with ICS and is with JB). I can't remember when it's OS crashed last time. I sometimes reboot it to free up some left-behind memory; that's all.
I like reading magazines (PDF) with Acrobat Reader when having to travel via train. The great display resolution makes it look really nice. (Of course, only if the magazine's good. IEEE Spectrum is good! )
I'm just waiting for an updated (XDA member's) 3.4-kernel giving me working cifs/smb-support, so that I can use my NAS again. (With ICS you needed a downloadable kernel module; JB kernel should already have it, but was broken in Linux' 3.4-sources.):fingers-crossed:
Just two little things to complain:
It's camera could be a little less noise when dark.
It could have more RAM. (When you have a lot of heavy apps running like Whatsapp, Hangout, Firefox/Chrome etc, Android starts continuously stopping and restarting background tasks and kills the launcher. That's annoying and drains the battery.) So: 2GB RAM and a better camera and it would be perfect.
The screen timing is too short. Standby is ok, but not with screen on.
Sometimes, msg would get stuck in outbox when I use go sms, while default msg app don have function like save msg into other folders, pop up box etc.
Every first update is buggy(first ics and jb sucks)
Illuminated bar don work in jb.
The camera could have been better(focus etc)
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
sinple said:
The screen timing is too short.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Workaround: Think about the app Keep Screen On.
Related
Currently, I have LG G2x and frankly I hate it with passion.
I'm on T-Mobile and I understand I won't get their so called "4G" internet and only Edge which is fine.
I really like the design of phone and integration of facebook and all of the fun stuff. Is it worth the downgrade? I mean, I don't play games, I don't even surf the internet on my G2x. Just facebook and gadu-gadu communicator. it seems dual-core phone is a waste to me...
Or better it would be to wait for Arc S?
Arc S and current Arc is basically the same everything, only difference is the white body and stock speed set to 1.4Ghz vs 1.0Ghz of the current Arc. The current Arc is also cheaper since its older.
Like you I don't play games or do something to stress the phone, so Arc more than satisfies my requirement for now.
besthijacker said:
Currently, I have LG G2x and frankly I hate it with passion.
I'm on T-Mobile and I understand I won't get their so called "4G" internet and only Edge which is fine.
I really like the design of phone and integration of facebook and all of the fun stuff. Is it worth the downgrade? I mean, I don't play games, I don't even surf the internet on my G2x. Just facebook and gadu-gadu communicator. it seems dual-core phone is a waste to me...
Or better it would be to wait for Arc S?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Arc S's exterior material is better. won't be so plastic. I don't know how to describe.
Arc S is a better choice. Hope SE also fix the housing crack problem.
abnoob said:
Arc S's exterior material is better. won't be so plastic. I don't know how to describe.
Arc S is a better choice. Hope SE also fix the housing crack problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Source?
Sent from my LT15i using XDA App
besthijacker said:
Currently, I have LG G2x and frankly I hate it with passion.
I'm on T-Mobile and I understand I won't get their so called "4G" internet and only Edge which is fine.
I really like the design of phone and integration of facebook and all of the fun stuff. Is it worth the downgrade? I mean, I don't play games, I don't even surf the internet on my G2x. Just facebook and gadu-gadu communicator. it seems dual-core phone is a waste to me...
Or better it would be to wait for Arc S?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IMO Getting an Arc from G2X is not a Downgrade from my Point of View
LG G2X may be the first Dual-Core mobile, but in reality, it was rushed and causes lots of problems, like overheating, phone rebooting, unresponsive phone after a couple of months used(i read a lot about this, also i have a friend who have Optimus 2X and can confirm this problems too) so the phone is not really that great in every day use, Raw Dual Core power but it is not optimized for Better User Experience
While Xperia Arc S, is a refreshed Arc with more CPU Power in it, the overall its the same, I have to say that SE really did a great job to optimize the Phone for Excellent User Experience
I have Xperia Arc, I managed 250hrs of no boot, after that i got 1 random reboot when I was doing heavy task to my Arc, I play a lot and Browse a lot, all I can say is very Excellent Phone.
about Crack Issues in Sensor in Xperia Arc no one can deny that it is not happening, usually Midnight Blue version gets this cracks while Misty Silver have low users reporting they have this Issue, Mine doesn't have it yet, and hopefully it wont
and warranty does cover the replacement of the front cover, and I read somewhere in SE support forums, that they will have the reinforced front cover replacing those old ones, same Material but Better and Stronger.
maybe, just maybe that Arc S will not have this Crack Issues, SE knows this Issue for a Long time now, and that's why it is covered by warranty, so Arc S might have the Reinforced Material
Well you aren't using the smartphones smart, so sticking with the old arc is fine.
kokbiel said:
Source?
Sent from my LT15i using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry for confusing you.
What I meant was exterior 'coating' is better.
means more beautiful (not because of the color)
the source is ...I feel it, touch it, and play it.......
mhyke13ph said:
IMO Getting an Arc from G2X is not a Downgrade from my Point of View
LG G2X may be the first Dual-Core mobile, but in reality, it was rushed and causes lots of problems, like overheating, phone rebooting, unresponsive phone after a couple of months used(i read a lot about this, also i have a friend who have Optimus 2X and can confirm this problems too) so the phone is not really that great in every day use, Raw Dual Core power but it is not optimized for Better User Experience
While Xperia Arc S, is a refreshed Arc with more CPU Power in it, the overall its the same, I have to say that SE really did a great job to optimize the Phone for Excellent User Experience
I have Xperia Arc, I managed 250hrs of no boot, after that i got 1 random reboot when I was doing heavy task to my Arc, I play a lot and Browse a lot, all I can say is very Excellent Phone.
about Crack Issues in Sensor in Xperia Arc no one can deny that it is not happening, usually Midnight Blue version gets this cracks while Misty Silver have low users reporting they have this Issue, Mine doesn't have it yet, and hopefully it wont
and warranty does cover the replacement of the front cover, and I read somewhere in SE support forums, that they will have the reinforced front cover replacing those old ones, same Material but Better and Stronger.
maybe, just maybe that Arc S will not have this Crack Issues, SE knows this Issue for a Long time now, and that's why it is covered by warranty, so Arc S might have the Reinforced Material
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
about rebooting, just clean contacts of battery, mine did not rebooted for 2 months.. heavy gaming etc.
shtreber said:
about rebooting, just clean contacts of battery, mine did not rebooted for 2 months.. heavy gaming etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm what do you mean?
Anyway, OP: get the Arc. It's great for just anything.
@besthijacker: The Arc is quite good... but keep in mind that (if it concerns you) there are still no custom ROM available... just one kernel and CM7 version that still does not have camer support. MIUI and other custom ROM aren't available for some time. The Xperia Arc has a lack of developers and you can feel it inside the dev-section of the xperia arc :-(
It's a pitty because the phone is generally speaking rather good and has an excellent design!
The amount of custom roms and kernels is awesome for G2x but I think after looking at videos and pictures, I fell in love in SE UI's...I used to know Xperia Pro Mini for a short and it was pretty slick, in terms of UI...and until LG G2x gets Ice-Cream Sandwich, dual-core is totally useless(IMO)
While, I do not have any issues with my G2x like some people, I feel phone does not meet my expectations in terms of UI which I love about SE in general...
My first phone was SE and have been only getting SE phones for last 6 years
Thanks, I will sell G2x and buy Arc, but what is the "crack issue". Should I get Blue or Silver version in that case?
I will try to sell G2X for good money but probably will have to add some $$$. I see Arc goes for 420$ brand new on phones sites and around 400$ used on ebay. I won't get that much for my LG G2x..go figure
The crack issue is a tiny hairline crack near the light sensor on the front - you have to look real close to see it - seems to be much more common on the midnight blue than the silver.. but having said that - I wouldn't let it stop you from choosing the blue if that's the colour you want - it's not a big deal.. and they may well have solved the problem with newer manufactured handsets.
If you like the SE UI then I reckon you won't be looking for custom ROMs anyway? You should try to get an unbranded one though so that you get firmware updates quicker, and also allows you to unlock the Boot Loader easily so that you can install custom kernel for over clocking and flashing pre-rooted system images..
My system is rooted stock, with a few bit's removed, but I have doomlords kernel and overclocked to 1.55Ghz.
By unbranded you mean, it does not belong to any network and there is no logo of the network right?
I will probably buy it from welectronics or plemix,since its only $400..or ebay if I find around $350 but used...I rather pay extra and get brand new in the box.
I'm running stock rom, rooted with custom kernel on my G2x. At first it was all fun, flashing different custom roms but eventually got bored because I relized...I have no use for any of the features heheh
Same here.. Custom roms don't really appeal to me.. Not seen any that give me more than stock.. And I like the SE ui. By unbranded I mean that it's the basic SE software, with no network software tailoring over the top. Although I think that the devs on here may have cracked the bootloader for branded handsets too now.. I unlocked mine the day that SE released the service.
Sent from my LT15i using xda premium
I found a website that has Arc S for $440, while Arc is $400. Is it worth that $40 extra? I wonder if Arc S will suffer from same "crack" issue or not? -,-
If you have 40$ more, go for it.
Noone knows if it'll crack, too. Wait 1-2 months and then the first users should report cracks - in case it cracks
Sent from my LT15i using XDA Premium App
Hello there,
I am a Sony Xperia S user for 11 months now and so far I have been largely satisfied with my device. I have always run on the Stock ROM, I have not unlocked my bootloader yet and I do not intend to do so.
However, in the light of recent events I find myself thinking of a switch to another phone with better characteristics and more recent hardware. The best deal seems to be Sony Xperia T - newer chip, better support from Sony; perhaps it would receive further JB updates (4.2, 4.3) as well. Still, its recent price is just above 300 euros - unlocked and without contract - in my country. In comparison, I still have to pay about 200 euros for my Xperia S to the end of my 2-year lease contract with my local mobile service provider. That's why I am considering paying off the remaining sum of the lease in advance and then selling my Xperia S for about the same amount of money.
There are several reasons why I am considering such a switch. For one, Sony does not seem too eager to support Xperia S any longer. Yes, the 4.1.2 JB update is on the way but it has been for several months now. The numerous delays, and I am not too interested in the respective reasons, have finally put me off this otherwise pretty good all-rounder phone. Second, we have to take into account that the Snapdragon S3 chip is already heavily outdated and it would most likely not receive any further software development. When considering the alternatives, Xperia T seems to be the best one, because of its price, hardware and software. I am very fond of Sony's interface, indeed.
So I wonder what is your opinion on the matter? Is Xperia T worth it to replace my Xperia S for the next couple of years?
This thread could provide a general discussion of Xperia S's future, too.
I think its time to move on. Im never going back to Sony unless they improve. Im keeping my phone for few months more. I just bought my Sony phone and Im pretty disappointed. HTC and Samsung have better phones than Sony why settle for Xperia T or V, if you can have better.
My friend got Xperia T, and i don't like that phone.
Move on something newer, keep in mind (snapdragon 600) will receive every update before S4 and S4pro
Sent from my LT26i using xda app-developers app
Agree with electrash anyways sony is getting poorer and poorer when it comes to system updates
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It is made very clear by the moderators that threads condemning Sony is not allowed. This thread is going to get locked soon. However, I noticed it is always those few monkeys tryin to be funny, not able to listen to simple English. Sony might not be good in updating Xperia S, but they didn't break any promises and my current ICS build is flawless.
Sony might not reach Samsung's level yet but it has suppressed HTC greatly already. Those who don't know, HTC abandons HTC Sensation, the phone with the exact same CPU as Xperia S.
So has sony, it had forgotten about xperia u when jellybean was announced
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Rangeeshnathan said:
So has sony, it had forgotten about xperia u when jellybean was announced
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Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I own an Xperia U and it lags badly on ICS. They didnt abandon Xperia U. It is just not fit for JB. Anyways, Sony sales numbers have been steadily increasing YOY and already destroyed Motorola's and HTC's. Sony will continue to rise as 99% of customers dont give a damn about updates, fortunately.
Xperia go seems to have less hardware capabilities than xperia u, no??
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Rangeeshnathan said:
Xperia go seems to have less hardware capabilities than xperia u, no??
Sent from my LT26i using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL. Please don't play with me. Xperia Go have the exact same specification as Xperia U. Xperia Go have a lower screen resolution resulting better performance. Then you will ask Xperia J. Sigh, kids these days.
Excuse me then I'm sorry Mr lee
And lol I was not coming to xperia j
Sent from my LT26i using xda premium
R: Finding myself on a crossroad - maybe it is time to move on
Pretty much of your same opinion... I'm totally satisfied until now for what I've done with my Xperia S, but I really cannot stand anymore the politics of software update that Sony is pursuing.
And ok, my phone is fully unlocked and I tried a lot of custom roms to get closer to what is a pure android system, but to me those all are still full of bugs.
And to be honest, stock remains the best deal.
I'd like to switch to a pure Google Phone like the Nexus 4 but his great fragility, the weakness of the camera and the max 16gb of storage are three points that still makes me doubtful.
I'm considering the upcoming Galaxy S4 Nexus Edition...
When the official Sony JB update comes, everything changes. We can run custom ROMs without a flaw with the help of 3rd party developers. There has been rumors that Android 4.3 is still going to be JB. Even if we cant upgrade our phones to Android 5. The problem is our ROMs are'nt stable enough.
lewis021 said:
When the official Sony JB update comes, everything changes. We can run custom ROMs without a flaw with the help of 3rd party developers. There has been rumors that Android 4.3 is still going to be JB. Even if we cant upgrade our phones to Android 5. The problem is our ROMs are'nt stable enough.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Personally, the current ICS build is stable. Other than some Wifi drops, I dont see any major flaws in it.
lee480 said:
Personally, the current ICS build is stable. Other than some Wifi drops, I dont see any major flaws in it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The big problem about ICS is its very laggy, drains alot of battery and not smooth.
cabi.costa said:
Pretty much of your same opinion... I'm totally satisfied until now for what I've done with my Xperia S, but I really cannot stand anymore the politics of software update that Sony is pursuing.
And ok, my phone is fully unlocked and I tried a lot of custom roms to get closer to what is a pure android system, but to me those all are still full of bugs.
And to be honest, stock remains the best deal.
I'd like to switch to a pure Google Phone like the Nexus 4 but his great fragility, the weakness of the camera and the max 16gb of storage are three points that still makes me doubtful.
I'm considering the upcoming Galaxy S4 Nexus Edition...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, the Galaxy S phones are always a viable alternative, but I am not a big fan of Samsung. Too much plastic, and the user interface is somewhat dull and boring. Yes, the horsepower behind the back panel is immense but I am not a power user, not really. In fact, it turns out that Sony are the brand with the highest number of upper-mid-level devices at the moment (Xperia S, T; SP and ZR upcoming; not to mention all the derivatives like SL, TX, Ion, V, Acro S, etc., etc.) and I am rather leaning towards buying one such device. I am not too interested in the current flagship devices (Xperia Z, HTC One, Galaxy S4) since cheaper phones provide similar daily performance for some 2/3 of the price. Snapdragon S4 is one really capable platform and its wide availability makes it accessible to anyone.
To sum up, I am rather looking for a phone with a good manufacturer's support and expected updates till Android version 4.3, at least. The 16GB non-expandable storage of Nexus 4 is a deal-breaker for me as well. Maybe I will wait another couple of months, until SP and ZR get released and their prices decline to their true market values.
And guys, please stay on topic here. We are discussing Xperia S and its alternatives here, not Sony's customer policy in general. I know, there are many of you who are angry at the Japanese, I am somewhat dissatisfied myself. Anyway, please stop the rant because I believe this is a sensible topic and I do not want to see this thread closed. Thanks!
edit: nvm
I had similar thoughts too, until i realized that the hardware in my Xperia S is just fine for my needs for now. What is it you want to do with a newer chipset? And on the software side, I have my hopes on that things will improve somewhat once/if Sony releases the new kernel-sources.
This question has been as so many times, only you can decide what is best for you.
Thread Closed
I am currently using Galaxy Note N7000, and want to change my phone. SO far I have seen in shop xperia ZL seems fine.
I also have in my mind iPhone 5, Xperia Z and lastly galaxy s4 -
My priority is something like this - off course phone, msg , notes, calender
*** very good camera (not lot of software features, I hardly use them, just good and easy photography)
*** Music
*** Design
*** wifi hotspot (I need it mostly , coz I need internet connection in my iPad),
*** at least 12 hrs battery life with 3g (Galaxy note hardly gives me 2 hr )
****I want to keep my phone at least for 2 years
I dont care about features that Galaxy S4 has coz I will be hardly using them like. with 5 inch screen why should I make air gesture when the screen is quite and comfortably reachable etc .
Do you think xperia ZL will be a good phone for me for next 2 years ?
I havent had a phone for 2 years so far. But I don´t see why the ZL would be a bad choise.
desh_iit said:
*** very good camera (not lot of software features, I hardly use them, just good and easy photography)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not an expert in this area, but with the lastest firmware update i gotta say i love the camera, not using any of the features, just standard shots in average situations.
desh_iit said:
*** Music
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Kind of dissapointed here, was expecting more from Sony, the audio DAC is integrated in the Qualcomm, it´s not a Sony one, my Xperia ARC used to sound better.
I´m planning to upgrade my current earphones (Senheiser CX300-II) to see if i can somehow find a more confortable sound for me.
But remember, sound is a very unique experience, every user has a different way, a differente taste for sound, so what i don´t consider excelent might be gud enough for you.
Best way, grab your earphones/headphones, go a to a local store and try them on the ZL.
desh_iit said:
*** Design
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Best smartphone in the market for me.Period.
I absolutely love the design, in 2-3 days time it seems so small and thin on your hand...but you have a 5" inch full hd screen.
Beautiful.
I was kind of hesitating with the on screen buttons, i used a mod to reduce the size (u can even make them transparent), now i would find very hard to use a smartphone with hard buttons.
desh_iit said:
*** wifi hotspot (I need it mostly , coz I need internet connection in my iPad),
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Haven´t use it yet, but did in previous Xperia models, so i guess u shouldn´t have a problem, the option is there, just checked.
desh_iit said:
*** at least 12 hrs battery life with 3g (Galaxy note hardly gives me 2 hr )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I always have 3G on, auto-sync off, i get those 12hrs but i´m not an intense user.
desh_iit said:
****I want to keep my phone at least for 2 years
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, that´s hard these days, i think the ZL has some weak points, it´s not perfect, and once i find the perfect phone then i´ll stick with it for a long period of time, but surely it´s a lasting phone, everything u need is there, sure there are those minor things u would like to be better (sound quality with earphones for me).
desh_iit said:
I dont care about features that Galaxy S4 has coz I will be hardly using them like. with 5 inch screen why should I make air gesture when the screen is quite and comfortably reachable etc .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Regarding this, there are a few features i love from ZL, the Car Mode, the Remote Control app (u can control every single tv, music player or whatever electronic equipment with remote control) and the Small Apps (apps u can bring to the screen, small sized, such as navigator, calculator, phone, notes, camera...)
The Galaxy S4 is a hell of a phone, don´t like all the Samsung bloatware, but indeed a very nice choice as well.
Now it´s up to you considering your needs, taste and priorities.
Hi there,
Zl is a good phone, in terms of what u hv stated. Im not too sure bout the camera tho, heard so much complain bout it. But its fine for me. Software, well its android and u can download tons of it or u can just leave it alone.
Ip5 is a good choice too. As i was never a fan of apple, but particularly ip5 really capture my eyes.
Choose wisely
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
Thank you all for the replies (I already did ) ... I was doing some research ...the camera is samples are quite good I found but best camera is in iPhone, I am not fan of any mobile OS but I like the simplicity in iPhone camera/other app (iOS 7 also looks promising).
But Android is also quite nice with lots of features , I love them all.
Anyways thank you guys
The camera in ZL is not very good.
Otherwise, it's perfect.
Sent from my C6502 using xda app-developers app
Hi, I'm a Xperia S owner, I'm starting look for a replacement.
Is Xperia ZL a good choice?
I want a quad-core Android, that will be updated to Android 4.3 and 5.0.
I'm from Brazil, here we don't have officially (= no warranty) Xperia Z, Xperia ZR and HTC One.
I can easily find Galaxy S4, Nexus 4 and Xperia ZL.
It's important to say, LTE here is running at 2600 in the next two years also at 700.
Sent from my Xperia S using Tapatalk 4
Yeah its a good choice but xperia zl is launched under name xperia zq there in brazil...so y dnt give a hands on..that good luck
Sent from my C6502 using xda premium
Thank you all for your reply ..finally I picked up iPhone 5 ..I am quite happy with it's simplicity , image quality and off course music with Bose "-)
No regrets! I love it. Amazing screen, awesome camera, nice design, and tons of extras on the software end. I am definitely glad I went with the Xperia ZL!
The story is, I was torn between the HTC One and the Samsung S4. I could not decide. Then I happened to be on the Sony website because I had a $250 gift card for the sony online store. I happened to stumble across the Sony Xperia Z and ZL. I liked everything about it, and the more I thought about it I realized how much more unique it would be to own one. Everyone and their brother is running around with an HTC One and S4 right now. So I went for it. The phone was marked down from $759 to $569, I received 10% off for student discount, minus $250 from the gift card, and I got the sales rep to give me free next day shipping. So all said and done I only paid around $275.00, compared to $600 for an HTC One, and $700 for an S4.
(I was looking for an unlocked phone only so that I could utilize a pre-paid service that runs on AT&T for only $45.00 a month. Save big time in the long run)
So any tips and tricks for the Xperia ZL I should know about? I have model number C6506.
Only con I have about the device, is the battery life. It doesn't seem the best, but I also understand that it has a 5" screen, so what does one expect?
Viralistic said:
No regrets! I love it. Amazing screen, awesome camera, nice design, and tons of extras on the software end. I am definitely glad I went with the Xperia ZL!
The story is, I was torn between the HTC One and the Samsung S4. I could not decide. Then I happened to be on the Sony website because I had a $250 gift card for the sony online store. I happened to stumble across the Sony Xperia Z and ZL. I liked everything about it, and the more I thought about it I realized how much more unique it would be to own one. Everyone and their brother is running around with an HTC One and S4 right now. So I went for it. The phone was marked down from $759 to $569, I received 10% off for student discount, minus $250 from the gift card, and I got the sales rep to give me free next day shipping. So all said and done I only paid around $275.00, compared to $600 for an HTC One, and $700 for an S4.
(I was looking for an unlocked phone only so that I could utilize a pre-paid service that runs on AT&T for only $45.00 a month. Save big time in the long run)
So any tips and tricks for the Xperia ZL I should know about? I have model number C6506.
Only con I have about the device, is the battery life. It doesn't seem the best, but I also understand that it has a 5" screen, so what does one expect?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice choice i really like more SONY than SAMSUNG and HTC, this is a really amazing phone its the only phone on the market with 75% screen and the rest bessel. i recomend you to update by OTA to the latest version 4.2.2 , camera improve, sound improve, transparent navigation bar and notification. for the battery use Stamina mode and only mark the really important apps you use. for example i have whatsapp, facebook msn, and gmail. remember that all sony devices have a preinstaled screen protector. i recomend not to take it off. and dont scare if you see a scratch on it ( its a protector the real screen is under ). BTW wich color you bought?
danieldp1990 said:
Nice choice i really like more SONY than SAMSUNG and HTC, this is a really amazing phone its the only phone on the market with 75% screen and the rest bessel. i recomend you to update by OTA to the latest version 4.2.2 , camera improve, sound improve, transparent navigation bar and notification. for the battery use Stamina mode and only mark the really important apps you use. for example i have whatsapp, facebook msn, and gmail. remember that all sony devices have a preinstaled screen protector. i recomend not to take it off. and dont scare if you see a scratch on it ( its a protector the real screen is under ). BTW wich color you bought?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the response. I went with black. Not sure about the update quite yet. Everything works great, and I don't like to fix things that aren't broken. Will look into it. What does OTA mean?
OTA means: Over The Air via w_lan...
Gesendet von meinem GT-I9300 mit Tapatalk 2
After you update the phone to 4.2.2, I recommend a factory reset. For some reason, it helps.
Im sorry to ask another question but is better than creating another thread I'm going to the US in a month or so and I wanna know something about the price of the phone, everywhere I read the ZL is ~570$ and up. On Amazon the XZL is 514$+tax (I think its 7% on NJ right?) So if I buy the phone from amazon its about 560$ right? Is there another website that I can check to buy the phone? Thanks!
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 4 Beta
maxee23 said:
Im sorry to ask another question but is better than creating another thread I'm going to the US in a month or so and I wanna know something about the price of the phone, everywhere I read the ZL is ~570$ and up. On Amazon the XZL is 514$+tax (I think its 7% on NJ right?) So if I buy the phone from amazon its about 560$ right? Is there another website that I can check to buy the phone? Thanks!
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk 4 Beta
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
New egg currently has the C6506 on sale for $529 for July 4 only.
danieldp1990 said:
Nice choice i really like more SONY than SAMSUNG and HTC, this is a really amazing phone its the only phone on the market with 75% screen and the rest bessel. i recomend you to update by OTA to the latest version 4.2.2 , camera improve, sound improve, transparent navigation bar and notification. for the battery use Stamina mode and only mark the really important apps you use. for example i have whatsapp, facebook msn, and gmail. remember that all sony devices have a preinstaled screen protector. i recomend not to take it off. and dont scare if you see a scratch on it ( its a protector the real screen is under ). BTW wich color you bought?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't know sony comes with a real screen protector, good to know. I installed a new one over the Sony one.
Hope you enjoy it man.
I have mine just 2 days back,and completely amazed after galaxy1,2,3.
Back to sony after p1i few years back! :good:
Torn between this baby and the Z
I'm getting a bit of cash soon and decided it's time for an upgrade (My Ion keeps getting grabbed by my kids so i'm left without a phone, besides it will make for a grat media center with my dock), I'm torn between the Z and ZL. so far i've made a list of pro's and cons:
ZL:
pros
-cheaper! (I can get it for less than $500 dollars on amazon, even seen some great deals on it)
-size(it's a bit bigger than the ion but not by much compared to the Z)
-proper camera button( Never understood why android makers never put camera buttons on their phones, its what i missed the most from my N8)
Screen/Bezel ratio(Big screen, small bezel. need i say more?)
cons
-No waterproofing(not a deal breaker but would be nice to have)
-"Limited" dev support(i like to flash custom roms. If i cant find em guess it would be time to learn how to port.
Z
Pros
-Flagship(gets all the attention)
-waterproof
-eye catching design(not that the ZL is ugly, but the glass gives the Z a premium look)
Cons
no camera button
Expensive
Glass tends to pop up and separate from the phone(apparently a design flaw, it's being discussed on the Z forums)
flaps get worn over time and loose waterproofing.
So, ZL users, should i go for it? I dont mind that it has s4pro chipset(same architecture as S600 but underclocked a bit so it's no slouch). WOuld like to hear your thoughts.
I have both currently, and will be returning the Z.
Unless you plan to go underweater with the Z and take pictures, then really that feature is not so great. And having to open/close the flaps constantly is annoying.
You will not regret the ZL, AND when you do buy it, DO NOT LET THE SOFTWARE UPDATE. 4.2 sucks.
luisoman2000 said:
I'm getting a bit of cash soon and decided it's time for an upgrade (My Ion keeps getting grabbed by my kids so i'm left without a phone, besides it will make for a grat media center with my dock), I'm torn between the Z and ZL. so far i've made a list of pro's and cons:
ZL:
pros
-cheaper! (I can get it for less than $500 dollars on amazon, even seen some great deals on it)
-size(it's a bit bigger than the ion but not by much compared to the Z)
-proper camera button( Never understood why android makers never put camera buttons on their phones, its what i missed the most from my N8)
Screen/Bezel ratio(Big screen, small bezel. need i say more?)
cons
-No waterproofing(not a deal breaker but would be nice to have)
-"Limited" dev support(i like to flash custom roms. If i cant find em guess it would be time to learn how to port.
Z
Pros
-Flagship(gets all the attention)
-waterproof
-eye catching design(not that the ZL is ugly, but the glass gives the Z a premium look)
Cons
no camera button
Expensive
Glass tends to pop up and separate from the phone(apparently a design flaw, it's being discussed on the Z forums)
flaps get worn over time and loose waterproofing.
So, ZL users, should i go for it? I dont mind that it has s4pro chipset(same architecture as S600 but underclocked a bit so it's no slouch). WOuld like to hear your thoughts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am been happy with the ZL, I can upload files from the web browser and i never was able to do it in the Apple iPhone 4s, i sold it and bought this phone. The only thing I would like Sony to modify in future Xperia products is to switch the speakers and put it on the side or front. It is annoying to have a call and use the speaker when this is in the back, you have to basically turn the phone the other way to hear clearly. If you want to multitask while talking it is painful.
Sent from my C6506 using xda app-developers app
I have the chance to trade my nexus 4 for a zl.... Should I go for it?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
How would we know what your needs are?
Jeez
sharky2013 said:
I have the chance to trade my nexus 4 for a zl.... Should I go for it?
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly, I have never been happier than with this phone. My Nexi was great while it lasted, never liked the back being glass. The ZL has everything the 4 had, but just better. Do yourself a favor, and even though the Sony skin is not too cumbersome, just do a custom ROM. You'll enjoy it much more. Sony has made the process of unlocking and flashing almost as painless as possible. I absolutely LOVE the skinny bezel around it. I am happier with this device than I had been with any other.
wonderful, I also wnna one, but it's expensive in my country.
Hi, I have the HTC One Developers Edition on AT&T in the US. I love it but camera is bad.
Question: can the bootloader be unlocked on the ZL?
Does it work on AT&T LTE radios in US? Anyone have any other advise on comparing the ZL to the One?
I sincerely appreciate the help.
Sent from my HTC One using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
maddie01 said:
Hi, I have the HTC One Developers Edition on AT&T in the US. I love it but camera is bad.
Question: can the bootloader be unlocked on the ZL?
Does it work on AT&T LTE radios in US? Anyone have any other advise on comparing the ZL to the One?
I sincerely appreciate the help.
Sent from my HTC One using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, but you need to buy a version of the ZL that has an unlockable bootloader. The SIM unlocked version that Sony, Amazon and most retailers sell can have the bootloader unlocked. For AT&T you need the C6506 (this is the model made for the US and has both AT&T and T-Mobile HSPA and LTE frequencies). The C6503 will only give you HSPA on AT&T so I would avoid it.
I don't like that the One has permanent buttons. The new Google model (from the Nexus 4) is to have the buttons on screen so they can disappear when you don't need them, like with full screen video. Other than that, the ZL has some decent support for AOSP ROMs. Cyanogenmod 10.2 (Jellybean 4.3) is available for the ZL and it runs pretty well. It's still a work in progress but luckily the Xperia Z and the ZL share similar internals so as long as there is CM for the Z, the ZL will have it.
The stock Timescape Sony ROM is decent, and 4.3 will surely come soon, but I feel the Sony ROM is slow. There is pure AOSP available for the ZL but it doesn't include radio support along with other proprietary drivers, so it won't work as a daily ROM, but CM is very close to AOSP.
havanahjoe said:
Yes, but you need to buy a version of the ZL that has an unlockable bootloader. The SIM unlocked version that Sony, Amazon and most retailers sell can have the bootloader unlocked. For AT&T you need the C6506 (this is the model made for the US and has both AT&T and T-Mobile HSPA and LTE frequencies). The C6503 will only give you HSPA on AT&T so I would avoid it.
I don't like that the One has permanent buttons. The new Google model (from the Nexus 4) is to have the buttons on screen so they can disappear when you don't need them, like with full screen video. Other than that, the ZL has some decent support for AOSP ROMs. Cyanogenmod 10.2 (Jellybean 4.3) is available for the ZL and it runs pretty well. It's still a work in progress but luckily the Xperia Z and the ZL share similar internals so as long as there is CM for the Z, the ZL will have it.
The stock Timescape Sony ROM is decent, and 4.3 will surely come soon, but I feel the Sony ROM is slow. There is pure AOSP available for the ZL but it doesn't include radio support along with other proprietary drivers, so it won't work as a daily ROM, but CM is very close to AOSP.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank You very much for the detailed reply! Very cool. I will look for the C6506. Take care and I truly appreciate the time you took to help me out.
Sent from my HTC One using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Been a long time apple user ..since the original iphone in 2007. had every version of it. Got bored of ios and switched to Galaxy s3 last year and been quite happy so far. Last week i traded the S3 for Sony Xperia ZL..and man..i love this hardware and the version of android..
The sony launcher is by far the best one i've seen compared to the touchwiz and others..I used to have so many launchers and widgets on my S3 whereas i have no launchers and widgets on ZL.. The built in has all the features i need,,
Got the iphone 5S for the wife..but the display on ZL is quite something..camera is great. Battery life is reasonable (compared to my old S3) and the standard android customization is very handy..
Don't think i'll ever go back to ios or other android devices for a while.
I like the Xperia ZL. But this phone has many problems. First it lost the signal. It has some lag. And now overheat. Tomorrow who know? I can affirm that I would like other phone.
Enviado desde mi C6502
melquisedec said:
I like the Xperia ZL. But this phone has many problems. First it lost the signal. It has some lag. And now overheat. Tomorrow who know? I can affirm that I would like other phone.
Enviado desde mi C6502
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well not all ZL have problems. mine works perfect, for me its the best phone made by SONY, small big screen, nice hardware, cool camera etc.
just w8ting for the 4.3.
i had HTC One, iphone 5, S3, and the ZL its like perfect.
BTW I dont like custom roms so im full stuck on 4.2.2 ,67 , as far as i know most of the people that face does issues are using roms...and i keep sayin Custom roms SUCK, just stick with official and dont screw your phone.:good:
danieldp1990 said:
well not all ZL have problems. mine works perfect, for me its the best phone made by SONY, small big screen, nice hardware, cool camera etc.
just w8ting for the 4.3.
i had HTC One, iphone 5, S3, and the ZL its like perfect.
BTW I dont like custom roms so im full stuck on 4.2.2 ,67 , as far as i know most of the people that face does issues are using roms...and i keep sayin Custom roms SUCK, just stick with official and dont screw your phone.:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on a custom ROM and I'm having exactly 0 issues from the phone itself. Some people just have bad luck.
I am waiting the update 4.3. Preying God mine fixed.
Enviado desde mi C6502
TheTofu said:
I'm on a custom ROM and I'm having exactly 0 issues from the phone itself. Some people just have bad luck.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well good to hear that, but almost all problems that people have they all uses custom roms.
danieldp1990 said:
well not all ZL have problems. mine works perfect, for me its the best phone made by SONY, small big screen, nice hardware, cool camera etc.
just w8ting for the 4.3.
i had HTC One, iphone 5, S3, and the ZL its like perfect.
BTW I dont like custom roms so im full stuck on 4.2.2 ,67 , as far as i know most of the people that face does issues are using roms...and i keep sayin Custom roms SUCK, just stick with official and dont screw your phone.:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well I'm using a custom ROM and I do not face any issues as well so you are wrong when you say that!
Sent from my C6503 using xda app-developers app
einfachgaer said:
Well I'm using a custom ROM and I do not face any issues as well so you are wrong when you say that!
Sent from my C6503 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well what I say is what I read on the web.
danieldp1990 said:
well not all ZL have problems. mine works perfect, for me its the best phone made by SONY, small big screen, nice hardware, cool camera etc.
just w8ting for the 4.3.
i had HTC One, iphone 5, S3, and the ZL its like perfect.
BTW I dont like custom roms so im full stuck on 4.2.2 ,67 , as far as i know most of the people that face does issues are using roms...and i keep sayin Custom roms SUCK, just stick with official and dont screw your phone.:good:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i agree - i love the stock rom as well. I'm with bell in canada. My android version says 4.2.2 build number is 10.3.A.0.423
No updates according to update centre..is the latest .67 udpate not available to bell customers?
Generalities tend to be tough to back up.
As to your question about an upgrade - you should be able to install the "stock" generic 67 rom for your phone via flashtool, and have it work properly on Bell as what's important are the radio frequencies the phone supports. (and you "should" be able to flash it without wiping your data...
On latest Stock rom and 0 problems with this wonderful device. It's high end and a pleasure to use it.
Sent from my Xperia ZL
scifan said:
Generalities tend to be tough to back up.
As to your question about an upgrade - you should be able to install the "stock" generic 67 rom for your phone via flashtool, and have it work properly on Bell as what's important are the radio frequencies the phone supports. (and you "should" be able to flash it without wiping your data...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do i flash? I haven't done this before..Why isn't the latest build not available via OTA?
vhl71 said:
How do i flash? I haven't done this before..Why isn't the latest build not available via OTA?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have no idea why it wouldn't be available via OTA.
As far as how to flash... search under the development forum for the ZL for Flashtool. There's also a thread that shows all of the different "rom" versions... I'd look there as well...
I am also super lucky with my ZL. Latest stock firmware and it is my first Android phone, where I don't feel the need for having root access...
I am debating whether i should return my SP and get a ZL. Normally I don't like five inch phones but the ZL is so compact that it wouldn't bother me. I am having a hell of a time deciding. Good thing I have till the end of January. What do you guys think?
mrsatan said:
I am debating whether i should return my SP and get a ZL. Normally I don't like five inch phones but the ZL is so compact that it wouldn't bother me. I am having a hell of a time deciding. Good thing I have till the end of January. What do you guys think?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do it. The SP is a nice phone, but the ZL is leagues better in every way. You wont believe how small it really is until you hold it.
Even though my beloved C6503 is away receiving RMA Support.
Leading me to purchase a C5303 as back-up in the meantime.
I can still thoroughly recommend the ZL over the SP.
If you watch a lot of videos, browse the internet heavily, likewise use messaging heavily, then you'll love the extra real estate, and increased sharpness, that comes with the 5", Full HD, ultra compact ZL.
Not to mention the ZL's noticeable increase in both performance, and internal storage.
The advantage of 5" 1080p over 4.6" 720p may read like hype.
But as you'll find out for yourself, once you've tried it you won't go back.
Especially in such compact form, with higher grade, build quality you'd expect in Sony's early 2013 top tier, that is found in the ZL.
Plus you still get a large, but more stylised notification light.
The only cons I find with the ZL is it does generate a lot of heat when worked hard.
More than the SP.
But then that's understandable considering what's under their respective hoods (Z runs hotter still being front/rear glass?!)
So I wouldn't recommend using a case with it.
The other con is the ZL is not as efficient as SP.
This is reflected in their respective Endurance Test ratings at GSM Arena, and sums up nicely my experience with them both.
Finally, I would only recommend buying a used ZL with at least a six month warranty, or preferably brand new with a twelve month warranty.
As I am not alone in my ZL suffering from SOD/Sleep Of Death late last year.
Other than that I eagerly await the return of my C6503 from RMA Support later this month.
To which I'll be gifting my C5303 to my Mum (Love you Mum!)
Look forward to your impression of ZL over the SP should you make the leap.
Sent from my C5303 using xda app-developers app
themanspirit said:
Even though my beloved C6503 is away receiving RMA Support.
Leading me to purchase a C5303 as back-up in the meantime.
I can still thoroughly recommend the ZL over the SP.
If you watch a lot of videos, browse the internet heavily, likewise use messaging heavily, then you'll love the extra real estate, and increased sharpness, that comes with the 5", Full HD, ultra compact ZL.
Not to mention the ZL's noticeable increase in both performance, and internal storage.
The advantage of 5" 1080p over 4.6" 720p may read like hype.
But as you'll find out for yourself, once you've tried it you won't go back.
Especially in such compact form, with higher grade, build quality you'd expect in Sony's early 2013 top tier, that is found in the ZL.
Plus you still get a large, but more stylised notification light.
The only cons I find with the ZL is it does generate a lot of heat when worked hard.
More than the SP.
But then that's understandable considering what's under their respective hoods (Z runs hotter still being front/rear glass?!)
So I wouldn't recommend using a case with it.
The other con is the ZL is not as efficient as SP.
This is reflected in their respective Endurance Test ratings at GSM Arena, and sums up nicely my experience with them both.
Finally, I would only recommend buying a used ZL with at least a six month warranty, or preferably brand new with a twelve month warranty.
As I am not alone in my ZL suffering from SOD/Sleep Of Death late last year.
Other than that I eagerly await the return of my C6503 from RMA Support later this month.
To which I'll be gifting my C5303 to my Mum (Love you Mum!)
Look forward to your impression of ZL over the SP should you make the leap.
Sent from my C5303 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had the ZL for about a week now and I am pretty impressed with it. The size of the phone considering the screen size is amazing. It is a solid feeling phone and the red one I bought looks great. The battery life isn't too great compared to SP but that is to be expected. I downclocked it a bit so it does better and doesnt get as hot. The screen is miles better than the SP and the extra internal memory is nice. I did like the fact that the SP didn't have the stupid shatterproof sheet on it and it was advertised as gorilla glass. I also wish the IR blaster was on the top so I could hold it like a remote. I would have taken having the charging pins instead of the IR blaster. Still it is a good phone and probably the best designed five inch phone ever. I would have waited and gotten the Z1 compact but it's just too small for me now. 4.6 is perfect but 5 inch is great if the size is that of the ZL.
The vibration on the ZL is really weird compared to the SP. Its very strong, not sure if that is bad or good. The camera is soooo much better though.
Glad to read you are enjoying ZL.
Having sent mine in for RMA Support last month.
And since, been using first C6603, followed by now C5303.
Its highlighted to me just how superior the ZL is to these two more popular and widely available models.
IMHO Sony made a major mistake not to release the ZL in the same markets globally as Z.
As for the ZL's very strong vibration.
Yes, it is far stronger than both Z and SP.
That's been my experience too.
I don't doubt you are also enjoying the ZL's far superior outdoor visibility too.
As the Z, and the SP, displays are really mediocre by comparison when used outdoors in daylight.
I sure do miss ZL's superior loudspeaker performance too.
Particularly when using Navigation incar, or hearing it ring when you are in noisy environments.
So looking forward to the return of my ZL.
And seeing if Sony will release a true successor to the compact, limited market release, ZL.
Sent from my C5303 using xda app-developers app