Sony Xperia Z1 Vs Xperia Z1 Compact – A Quick Comparison

Most of the companies have launched mini or small-sized versions of their most appreciated smartphones to offer lowest price handset of same series. But this is not the case for Sony; they recently introduced a small-sized handset known as Sony Xperia Z1 Compact with a different concept. It is simply a compact version of Xperia Z1, a phone giving tough competition to Galaxy Note 3 and other leadings smartphones. However, reducing size doesn’t mean that it is a compromised version of Z1 similar to other “mini” versions. Sony has provided almost same features and specs to Z1 Compact as given to original Z1 that is why we said, “a phone with different concept”.

So, if both have same internals then where’s the difference? We will discuss it in details but before moving further, we would like to say that Xperia Z1 Compact is available on contract deals exclusively for pre-order subscription on your favourite networks. Yes, we will give you an opportunity to compare mobile deals on this handset, but let’s review the difference between z1 and z1 compact.

Display Comparison of Xperia Z1 and Z1 Compact

As the name suggests, Z1 Compact is a lighter and smaller version of its big brother. In our observation, we have noticed that “Compact” is slightly thicker than its predecessor – only by one millimetre. Do you believe it can make a difference? But, technically yes, it is bit thicker.

The Z1 Compact houses a 4.3-inch display, which is certainly smaller than Z1’s 5-inch display. The compact device measures 127 x 64.9 x 9.5mm in dimensions while original Z1 measures 144.4 x 73.9 x 8.5mm – relatively small. With only 140g weight, Z1 Compact is lighter than its bigger sibling that has 169g weight. So, we find that the second version is much more comfortable than first and it is obvious.

When it comes to resolution, the smaller version has boasted with IPS display with half HD resolution i.e. 720p while Z1 offers a solid resolution of 1080p in full-HD. Yes, this is a biggest difference between both smartphones. We are sure that for normal users both devices will be same. However, Xperia Z1 Compact produces 341ppi display, which is surely lower than Z1’s 440ppi screen. In concise, Xperia Z1 provides a clearer, sharper and better viewing experience than Z1 Compact.

Performance Comparison of Xperia Z1 and Z1 Compact

While comparing both devices side by side on the performance parameters, we have found that they delivered same level of performance. The key reason behind the same performance is their integrated chipsets – Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor clocked at 2.2GHz, and backed with 2GB of RAM. This is a plus point for the buyers of Z1 Compact that they are going to buy a handset which has boasted with faster processing unit same as its elder brother in lowest prices.

Like the processor, both devices also have the same internal storage structure. The Xperia Z1 and Xperia Z1 Compact comes equipped with same 16GB internal memory that can be expanded up to 64GB by inserting an additional micro SD card. So, data storage is no an issue for the owners of Sony Xperia smartphones.

Camera Comparison of Z1 and Z1 Compact

It is often seen that most of the companies that have launched mini version of their bigger phones reduced the camera feature. However, Sony realized this fact and offer same camera of Z1 in its “Compact” version. It is incorporated with same 20.7MP camera on its rear panel.

Same 20.7MP Camera

Moreover, both handsets come equipped with same front-facing camera of 2MP, used for video chats and calling. It means that we can enjoy the same 1080p video recording with both devices.

While testing the handsets, we have found same camera features in both the smartphones such as red-eye reduction, smile shutter, HDR recording, 8x digital zoom for snapping long objects and screen recognition. In short, we can say that there is no difference detected in camera segment.

Final Comparison of Battery and Connectivity

When it comes to real difference between Xperia Z1 and Z1 Compact, we have found batteries are different. The Z1 comes loaded with a 3000mAh battery while Z1 Compact comprises a 2300mAh battery. The main reason for this lower battery is its compactness. However, while testing the power stabilization, we have observed that Xperia Z1 Compact performs brilliant as per its small-sized battery.

Now, let’s have a look at the connectivity options. We have observed that Z1 Compact has the same connectivity options as its big brother has such as Bluetooth 4.0, NFC and Wi-Fi. Moreover, both handsets are powered by Android 4.3 JellyBean OS, so there is no difference in their user-interface.