Unveiling the Sony Xperia ZL Features Pricing Pros & Cons

Design and Build

The Sony Xperia ZL is a significant representation of Sony's commitment to combining aesthetic appeal with functional design. The dimensions of 131.6 x 69.3 x 9.8 mm and a weight of 151 grams make it a comfortable device to handle. Sony's choice of materials and sleek design elements contribute to an ergonomic experience. Notably, the phone includes a shatterproof glass protection, boosting its durability. The Micro-SIM slot is strategically placed to maintain the phone's sleek profile.

Display

The device boasts a 5.0-inch TFT display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. This results in an impressive pixel density of approximately 441 ppi, making the visuals vivid and crisp. The screen-to-body ratio stands at about 75.6%, optimizing the display area without making the phone cumbersome. This ensures a bright and clear viewing experience, complemented by the shatterproof glass, which provides a layer of protection against accidental drops and scratches.

Performance

Under the hood, the Xperia ZL is powered by the Qualcomm APQ8064 Snapdragon S4 Pro chipset. The quad-core 1.5 GHz Krait CPU is paired with an Adreno 320 GPU, providing a robust platform for multitasking and graphic-intensive applications. The device originally runs on Android OS version 4.1.2 (Jelly Bean) but is upgradeable to Android 5.1.1 (Lollipop), ensuring users can benefit from the latest software enhancements and features.

Memory and Storage

The device offers 16GB of internal storage. For users who demand more space for apps, media, and other data, the memory can be expanded via a microSDXC slot. With 2GB of RAM, the phone supports smooth operation and fluid multitasking without significant lag, catering to both casual and power users alike.

Camera Capabilities

The Xperia ZL is equipped with a 13 MP rear camera featuring autofocus and LED flash, capable of capturing detailed and vibrant images. Video recording is supported at 1080p@30fps with HDR, which ensures high-quality video capture with excellent dynamic range. The front camera is 2 MP, also supporting video recording at 1080p@30fps, suitable for selfies and video calls.

Audio and Connectivity

Renowned for its audio capabilities, the Xperia ZL is equipped with a standard 3.5mm audio jack and offers stereo FM radio with RDS. For connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, and hotspot functionalities. Bluetooth 4.0 facilitates easy pairing with other devices, and NFC support allows for quick data sharing and mobile payments. Additionally, the device includes a microUSB 2.0 port with MHL TV-out for multimedia sharing.

Network and Communication

The Xperia ZL supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, allowing for extensive coverage and fast data speeds. The device supports multiple band frequencies including 2G bands (GSM 850/900/1800/1900), 3G bands (HSDPA 850/900/1700/1900/2100), and selected 4G bands, making it versatile for global communication and data usage. Users can experience speed up to HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps and LTE Cat3 with 100/50 Mbps.

Battery Life

The Sony Xperia ZL is powered by a Li-Ion 2370 mAh battery, which supports up to 500 hours of standby time on 3G and provides a talk time of up to 13 hours. For music enthusiasts, it offers up to 40 hours of music play. Despite its powerful performance, the device's endurance rating stands at 44 hours, ensuring day-to-day usage without frequent charging.

Sensors and Additional Features

The device comes equipped with various sensors including an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, compass, and, for model C6502, a barometer. These sensors enhance the user experience through features like gesture navigation, screen orientation adjustment, and environmental awareness. The Infrared port adds another layer of functionality, allowing the device to act as a remote for compatible electronics.

Market Position and Legacy

Announced in January 2013 and released in March of the same year, the Xperia ZL was priced approximately at 260 EUR, offering a balance of high-end features at an accessible price point. Available in black, white, and red, it catered to aesthetic preferences of a broad audience. While now discontinued, the Xperia ZL's combination of design, performance, and innovation marked a significant step in Sony's smartphone evolution.