Unveiling Sony Xperia Z1 Compact Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Introduction to Sony Xperia Z1 Compact

The Sony Xperia Z1 Compact, released in January 2014, was a significant addition to Sony's flagship Xperia line. Designed for users who prefer a more compact device without sacrificing performance, the Xperia Z1 Compact combined high-end specifications with a smaller form factor.

Design and Build

The Xperia Z1 Compact features a premium design characterized by its glass front, plastic back, and aluminum frame. Its dimensions, 127 x 64.9 x 9.5 mm, and weight of 137 g make it a truly compact smartphone that fits comfortably in the hand. The Micro-SIM slot allows for seamless network connectivity, while its shatter-proof glass provides durability and protection against accidental drops. Available in colors such as Black, White, Pink, and Lime, the Z1 Compact offered style alongside its functionality.

Display

The smartphone boasts a 4.3-inch IPS LCD, ensuring vivid colors and wide viewing angles. The screen's resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels with a 16:9 ratio provides a sharp and clear display. With a pixel density of approximately 342 ppi, every image and video appears detailed and crisp. The display is fortified with shatter-proof glass, which offers additional protection against scratches and impacts.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Xperia Z1 Compact is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8974 Snapdragon 800 chipset, a quad-core 2.2 GHz Krait 400 CPU, and an Adreno 330 GPU. These components ensure that the device handles multitasking and gaming with ease. With 2GB of RAM, switching between apps is fast and smooth, making it a reliable choice for power users who demand performance.

Storage and Memory

The device comes with 16GB of internal storage, which is expandable via a dedicated microSDXC slot, accommodating users who need more space for apps, photos, and multimedia files. The inclusion of expandable storage is a vital feature for those who wish to keep their data locally rather than relying on cloud services.

Camera Capabilities

Photography is a strength of the Xperia Z1 Compact, featuring a single 20.7 MP rear camera with an f/2.0 aperture, 1/2.3" sensor size, and autofocus capabilities. This powerful camera setup is capable of shooting high-quality stills and videos, supported by features such as LED flash, HDR, and panorama modes. Video recording is available at 1080p resolution at 30fps with HDR. The 2MP front camera can also record 1080p videos, catering to users' selfie and video calling needs.

Battery Life

The device is equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion 2300 mAh battery. Despite its small size, the battery life is impressive, offering up to 670 hours on 2G standby and up to 600 hours on 3G standby. Talk time is rated up to 10 hours on 2G and 18 hours on 3G, while continuous music play can last up to 94 hours. These specs reflect the efficiency of the Xperia Z1 Compact in everyday use.

Network and Connectivity

The Xperia Z1 Compact supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies, ensuring wide network compatibility and fast internet speeds up to LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps. Key connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC, Stereo FM radio, and microUSB 2.0 with MHL and OTG support. The inclusion of GPS and GLONASS ensures precise location tracking for navigation and location-based services.

Audio and Multimedia

For audio enthusiasts, the device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and a loudspeaker. Its audio quality is notable, with voice loudness rated at 60dB, noise at 58dB, and ring at 66dB. The stereo FM radio with RDS adds an extra dimension to its multimedia capabilities.

Sensors and Additional Features

The Xperia Z1 Compact is equipped with essential sensors such as an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass. These sensors enhance the user experience by enabling features such as auto-rotate, gaming controls, and navigation. The device's IP58 certification, though not documented in the provided specs, further underscores its reputation for dust and water resistance, a cherished feature among Xperia users.

Software

Initially shipped with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, the Xperia Z1 Compact received updates up to Android 5.1 Lollipop, providing users with notable software enhancements and features. The user interface designed by Sony adds unique customization options and exclusive applications for enhanced user engagement.

Market Position and Conclusion

At a launch price of approximately 320 EUR, the Xperia Z1 Compact was a competitive offering in the mid to high-end smartphone market segment. Its discontinuation has only increased its collector's value among enthusiasts who appreciate its impeccable balance of size, power, and features. To sum up, the Sony Xperia Z1 Compact stands out as an exemplary Android device that marries compact size with high-end performance, making it a classic choice for users looking for a convenient yet powerful mobile companion.