Sony Xperia Z3 Compact: Smaller flagship without the “mini” compromises

When the Xperia Z3 flagship was announced, it was joined not only by its compact 8″ tablet but also its compact smart phone the Xperia Z3 Compact. While other smart phone manufacturers churn out “mini” version of its popular flagship, there’s a good reason why Sony is calling it Compact after its Z3 model name.

Despite going smaller in size, the Z3 Compact doesn’t compromise on its vital hardware. It runs the same 2.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor and even has the same 20.7MP main camera that’s found on its full sized flagship. The only set back is a smaller but decent serving of 2GB of RAM and its 4.6″ display that does HD 720p resolution. There’s also 16GB of expandable storage with microSD, while the battery has 2,600mAh capacity which Sony claims to be able to last for 2 full days of average use. And that’s without Stamina mode turned on.

Like the Xperia Z3, it uses rounded frames for a better feel in the hands. What’s different is its new colour selections of orange and green on top of its usual Black and White offering. Another unique feature for the Z3 Compact is its Liquid Reflection effect on the sides. If you take a closer look, you’ll notice a translucent effect on its resin based sides.

Although the screen is bigger than its previous model, the 4.6″ Xperia Z3 Compact has the exact same width as its former 4.3″ Xperia Z1 Compact thanks to its refreshed exterior design and thinner bezels. Despite having a 300mAh more battery capacity, they still managed to reduce the thickness from 9.5mm to 8.6mm, while the weight has been reduced as well from 137 g to 129g. For extra durability, both sides on the Xperia Z3 Compact uses tempered glass and it inherits the same high IP68 water and dust proof resistance as its bigger brother.

For a better audio experience, the Z3 Compact finally gets a pair of front stereo speakers like its bigger flagship models. For the camera, it uses the same 20.7MP that shoots 4K videos and it also supports the latest SteadyShot stabilisation with Intelligent Active mode as well. You’ll also get the same camera apps along with its high ISO 12800 sensitivity as well. On the software front, it runs on the latest Android 4.4.4 KitKat and it also supports PS4 Remote which lets you access your PS4 games remotely using WiFi and it pairs with your DualShock controller.

In the hands, the Xperia Z3 fit very well in the hands and despite not having a Full HD display, it’s still decent with a pixel density of 319 ppi. The new colours are refreshing too and certainly stands out from the current crop of smart phones. If you’re looking for a pocketable smart phone under 5″ with the latest processor and features, the Sony Xperia Z3 is probably the answer you’re looking for.

For more information, head over to Xperia Z3 Compact product page.

Xperia Z3 Compact Hands-on Photos

Xperia Z3 Compact versus Xperia Z2 Comparison