Sony Xperia M5: A shrunken Xperia Z3+ with better cameras

The newly announced Sony Xperia M5 is quite a weird device. It looks like an Xperia Z3+, carries high-end hardware underneath but Sony refuses to call it a flagship device. Instead, the Xperia M5 is dubbed as their “super mid-range” device and it carries one of the best mobile camera sensors Sony has to offer.

On the exterior, it looks like a compact version of its Xperia Z3+ flagship especially the glossy bumpers on each corner. Like the newer waterproof Xperia models, it has IP68 rated resistance that allows you to submerge it under 1.5 metre deep of water for up to 30 minutes. And yes, the microUSB port is a capless design which makes charging hassle free.

Like what we’ve seen in the earlier leaks, the Xperia M5 gets a 5″ Full HD 1080p display and it uses glass for both front and back. Underneath it runs on MediaTek’s 2.0GHz Helio X10 octa-core processor with 3GB RAM, which is a similar combo with HTC’s flagship, the One M9+. The Xperia M5 also comes with an expandable microSD slot which can support today’s highest 200GB capacity.

The main camera is Sony’s newer 21.5MP IMX230 sensor with Hybrid Autofocus, which is better known as Phase Detection AF. With its quick 0.2 second focusing time, the Xperia M5 lets you take photos of fast moving objects with greater clarity. It shoot videos at 4K UHD resolution and it is further assisted with video stabilisation. The new sensor also lets you capture subjects clearly from afar with its 5X Clear Image Zoom.

For taking better selfies, the Xperia M5 gets a much larger 13MP camera in front which does auto focus. Keeping the lights on is a 2,600mAh capacity battery that’s rated to last up to 2 days and overall it weighs 143 grams with a thickness of 7.6mm.

The Xperia M5 is available in White, Black and Gold colours, with availability starting from emerging markets in the middle of this month. If you’re looking for a compact flagship and find the 4.6″ Xperia Z3 Compact too small, the Xperia M5 could be the compact flagship you’re looking for.

For more info, check out the Xperia M5 product page.

Xperia M5 Promo Video and Photos