Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra InDepth Review Specs & Pricing

Design and Build

The Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra boasts a robust design with dimensions of 163 x 80 x 9.5 mm and a weight of 221 g. It features a glass front protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4, a plastic back, and an aluminum frame. This combination grants the device durability and a premium feel while maintaining a relatively heavy weight, which might be noticeable in hand. It is equipped with an IPS LCD screen type, offering a vivid and sharp display. With a screen size of 6.0 inches and an impressive resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, the viewing experience is both immersive and vibrant.

Display Quality

The 6-inch display of the XA2 Ultra is notable for its 1080p resolution, making it suitable for media consumption, gaming, and daily use. The screen-to-body ratio stands at approximately 76.1%, ensuring minimal bezel interference while watching videos or playing games. The supported contrast ratio of 1562:1 (nominal) translates to deeper blacks and more life-like colors, even when viewed outdoors under sunlight with a sunlight contrast ratio of 3.445.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm SDM630 Snapdragon 630 chipset, built on 14 nm architecture. The octa-core CPU operates at 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53, supplemented by the Adreno 508 GPU for enhanced graphics performance. It ships with Android 8.0 (Oreo) as its operating system, providing users with a multitude of useful features and a user-friendly interface. This configuration allows the device to handle multitasking and more intensive applications with relative ease. In benchmark testing, the device achieves an AnTuTu score of 89110 (v7) and a GeekBench score of 4198 (v4.4), revealing its efficiency and power in real-world scenarios.

Camera Features and Quality

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the robust camera offerings of the XA2 Ultra. The main camera is a single 23 MP sensor with an aperture of f/2.0, capable of capturing detailed images, even in challenging lighting conditions. Features like phase detection autofocus (PDAF), LED flash, HDR, and panorama are included. Video recording is supported at 4K@30fps and 1080p@30fps, complete with stereo sound recording and HDR capability.

For selfies and video calls, the device carries a dual camera setup at the front. The configuration includes a 16 MP primary camera with f/2.0 aperture, complete with optical image stabilization (OIS) and autofocus, alongside an 8 MP secondary camera. This dual setup allows users to capture group selfies with ease and provides video recording at 1080p@30fps.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the highlights of the Xperia XA2 Ultra is its battery life. The device houses a non-removable Li-Ion 3580 mAh battery. With an endurance rating of 100 hours, it promises extended usage time, minimizing the need for frequent charging. The smartphone also supports Quick Charge 3.0 via an 18W wired charging setup, allowing for quicker energy replenishment to keep up with the user's busy lifestyle.

Connectivity Options

In terms of connectivity, the Xperia XA2 Ultra is well-equipped with the latest technology, ensuring seamless internet and data experience. Supported network technologies include GSM, HSPA, and LTE, with particular band coverage specified for both 2G and 3G (HSDPA) and different 4G LTE bands. Wireless connectivity options are vast, including Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band functionality, Wi-Fi Direct, and Bluetooth 5.0 with A2DP, aptX HD, and LE. Positioning capabilities include GPS and GLONASS for accurate location tracking and navigation.

Audio and Multimedia

The audio experience on the Xperia XA2 Ultra is quite satisfactory, featuring a loudspeaker and a standard 3.5mm headphone jack for easy connectivity with diverse audio accessories. The device's sound quality is commendable with noise quality measured at -67.7dB and crosstalk at -92.7dB.

Additional Features and Sensors

The Xperia XA2 Ultra is packed with several sensors to enhance user interaction: a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. These provide added security and usability benefits. NFC and FM radio are also included, the latter allowing users to enjoy traditional broadcasting mediums.

Varieties and Pricing

The Xperia XA2 Ultra is available in several colors: Silver, Black, Blue, and Gold, allowing for personalization to match individual style preferences. As of its release, the pricing stands at about 260 EUR, positioning it as an attractive option for users seeking a robust device with premium features at an affordable price point.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra is a remarkable device that combines style, functionality, and performance. It offers a well-rounded package with its expansive display, competent performance, and substantial battery life. The cameras provide quality imaging options for both regular pictures and selfies, making it a versatile device for modern users. Whether you're a heavy media consumer, a gamer, or someone seeking a reliable everyday smartphone, the XA2 Ultra has something to offer.