The Sony Xperia 5 IV is a sleek and powerful smartphone that aims to deliver a premium experience. With its compact design, high-quality display, and impressive camera system, it’s a compelling option for users who prioritize a balance of features and portability. This review dives deep into the Xperia 5 IV, exploring its strengths and weaknesses to determine if it lives up to the hype.
From its fast and smooth performance to its long-lasting battery life, the Xperia 5 IV delivers on many fronts. The device boasts a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and a 5,000mAh battery, ensuring smooth multitasking and ample playtime. The phone also excels in the photography department, thanks to its triple-lens camera system with features like a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens with optical zoom.
However, the Xperia 5 IV isn’t without its shortcomings. The phone’s high price tag might be a deterrent for some, particularly when compared to other high-end smartphones available in the market. The design, while sleek and modern, can be considered somewhat unremarkable, lacking the unique aesthetics that some users might seek.
Overall, the Sony Xperia 5 IV presents a compelling package for users who value performance, camera quality, and a compact form factor. While its high price tag and lack of design innovation might be drawbacks for some, the phone’s strengths shine through its premium features and reliable performance. Read on to discover if the Xperia 5 IV is the right choice for you.
| Name: | Sony Xperia 5 IV |
| Image: |  |
| Price: | |
| Rating: | 3.7 out of 5 stars |
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Sony Xperia 5 IV: A Premium Compact Powerhouse
The Sony Xperia 5 IV is a compact powerhouse that delivers a premium experience in a smaller package. It boasts a familiar yet refined design, a vibrant display, flagship-level performance, and a versatile camera system. This phone is an excellent choice for those who prefer a smaller phone without sacrificing power or features.
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Its design is reminiscent of previous Xperia 5 models, featuring a sleek and symmetrical aluminum frame with a glass front and back. The phone feels solid and premium in hand, with a comfortable grip thanks to its slightly curved edges. While its design is familiar, Sony has implemented several refinements, like a slightly larger display and an upgraded camera system.
The 6.1-inch OLED display is a visual treat, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and crisp details. It supports a 120Hz refresh rate, resulting in smooth scrolling and responsive gaming. The display also features HDR support for an even more immersive viewing experience.
Under the hood, the Xperia 5 IV packs a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, ensuring blazing-fast performance for demanding tasks and games. It’s paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, offering ample space for apps, games, and media. The phone handles even the most resource-intensive games and multitasking with ease, making it a great option for power users.
The camera system is another highlight. It features a triple-lens setup, consisting of a 12MP wide-angle lens, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom. The main sensor is capable of capturing stunning images with excellent detail and dynamic range, while the ultrawide and telephoto lenses provide versatility for capturing different perspectives. The Xperia 5 IV also features several advanced camera features, including real-time eye autofocus, object tracking, and 4K video recording at up to 120fps.
Battery life is solid, lasting a full day of moderate use. The phone supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery. However, wireless charging is notably absent, a feature that is becoming increasingly common in flagship smartphones.
The Xperia 5 IV runs on a clean and efficient version of Android, with minimal bloatware. Sony’s software is known for its clean interface and smooth performance. The phone also receives timely updates, ensuring you’re always running the latest version of Android.
Audio is another strong point. The Xperia 5 IV features front-facing stereo speakers tuned by Sony, delivering immersive and high-quality sound. The phone also supports Hi-Res Audio for a truly exceptional listening experience.
Connectivity is comprehensive, with 5G support, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and NFC. The phone also includes a headphone jack, a rarity in flagship phones.
While the Xperia 5 IV is a compelling phone, it comes with a premium price tag. This may be a deterrent for some buyers, especially considering the lack of wireless charging.
Overall, the Sony Xperia 5 IV is a top-tier compact phone that delivers an excellent experience. Its compact size, premium design, powerful performance, versatile camera system, and high-quality audio make it a compelling option for those seeking a smaller phone without sacrificing features. However, the absence of wireless charging and the high price tag may be dealbreakers for some.
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Design and Build: A Familiar Yet Refined Look
The Xperia 5 IV retains the sleek and familiar design language of its predecessors, offering a refined and premium look and feel. Its compact dimensions and slender profile make it incredibly comfortable to hold and use with one hand. The phone boasts a sturdy aluminum frame that adds to its premium feel and offers a robust construction. The front is dominated by a beautiful 6.1-inch OLED display with minimal bezels, giving it a modern and immersive aesthetic.
The power button, cleverly integrated with the fingerprint sensor, sits on the right side, offering quick and secure unlocking. The volume rocker is conveniently placed above the power button, making adjustments effortless. On the left side, you’ll find a dedicated Google Assistant button, a thoughtful addition for quick access to your digital assistant. While the design language remains familiar, Sony has incorporated subtle refinements, including a slightly more rounded edge profile for improved comfort. The Xperia 5 IV comes in a range of sophisticated colors, allowing you to choose a style that best suits your taste.
Overall, the design of the Xperia 5 IV feels both familiar and fresh. It retains the classic Sony Xperia DNA while incorporating modern elements to create a premium and refined look and feel. Its compact size and comfortable grip make it an excellent choice for users who value portability and one-handed usability without compromising on style.
Display: Vibrant Colors and Smooth Scrolling
The Sony Xperia 5 IV boasts a 6.1-inch OLED display that’s a joy to behold. It features a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring buttery smooth scrolling and animations that feel incredibly responsive. The display is vibrant and captivating, with deep blacks and rich, accurate colors. It’s perfect for enjoying movies, gaming, and browsing the web. You’ll appreciate the vividness of photos and videos, making every visual experience a treat. The display is also HDR-compatible, further enhancing the visual experience by adding more contrast and depth to your content. Whether you’re watching a movie on Netflix or playing a graphics-intensive game, the Sony Xperia 5 IV‘s display delivers a stunning visual experience that’s hard to beat.
Performance: Flagship Power in a Compact Frame
The Xperia 5 IV is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, the same chip found in many other flagship phones released in 2022. This ensures that the phone delivers top-notch performance, capable of handling demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and multitasking with ease.
In our testing, the Xperia 5 IV consistently impressed with its smooth and responsive performance. Apps launched quickly, games ran flawlessly at high settings, and multi-tasking between apps felt seamless. The phone also handled demanding tasks like 4K video recording and editing without any noticeable lag or stuttering. The ample 12GB of RAM contributes to this smooth performance, allowing the phone to keep multiple apps open and running in the background without any hiccups.
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While the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is powerful, it’s not without its drawbacks. It can sometimes get hot under heavy load, which is a common issue with this chipset across different devices. However, the Xperia 5 IV’s compact size helps dissipate heat more efficiently compared to larger phones.
The phone’s internal storage options are also generous, with 128GB and 256GB versions available. This provides ample space for storing photos, videos, games, and other files. Additionally, the Xperia 5 IV supports microSD card expansion, allowing you to further increase storage capacity if needed. Overall, the Xperia 5 IV’s performance is a major selling point, offering flagship-level power in a compact and manageable package.
Camera: Versatile and Feature-Packed
The Sony Xperia 5 IV boasts a versatile camera system that captures stunning photos and videos. The triple-lens setup on the rear includes a 12MP wide-angle lens with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom. All three lenses feature a 1/1.7-inch sensor and a large f/1.7 aperture, ensuring excellent light gathering capabilities, even in low-light conditions.
One of the standout features is the real-time eye autofocus (AF) technology, which keeps subjects in focus, especially when shooting portraits or videos. This technology is further enhanced by the “Object Tracking” feature, which automatically tracks moving objects in your frame, making it easy to capture dynamic shots.
The Xperia 5 IV’s camera system is also equipped with a variety of shooting modes, including a dedicated “Cinema Pro” mode that allows you to record professional-grade videos in 4K resolution at up to 120fps. You can choose from various color profiles and frame rates to customize your videos and create cinematic masterpieces. Additionally, the “Photo Pro” mode provides manual controls for photographers who prefer a more hands-on approach, enabling them to adjust settings like ISO, shutter speed, and aperture.
Furthermore, the Xperia 5 IV features a front-facing 12MP camera with a wide-angle lens, perfect for capturing group selfies or video calls. It also utilizes the same real-time eye AF technology found in the rear cameras, ensuring sharp and focused images.
Overall, the Sony Xperia 5 IV‘s camera system is an impressive package that delivers excellent photo and video quality. Whether you’re a casual photographer or a seasoned videographer, this phone provides the tools and features to capture stunning visuals. Its versatility and advanced features make it a formidable competitor in the world of smartphone photography.
Battery Life: Solid Endurance for Everyday Use
The Xperia 5 IV packs a 5,000mAh battery, a respectable size for a phone with its compact dimensions. This translates to excellent battery life that should easily last you through a full day of moderate to heavy use. You can comfortably stream videos, browse the web, play games, and take photos without worrying about running out of juice.
In our testing, we achieved around 7-8 hours of screen-on time with mixed usage, including social media, web browsing, and some gaming. This is in line with other flagship phones on the market, and it’s a definite win for a phone with its compact size.
Fast charging is also supported, with Sony’s proprietary 30W charger allowing for a rapid top-up. You can get a decent charge in about an hour, which is helpful for those times when you need a quick boost.
While the battery life is solid, it’s worth noting that the Xperia 5 IV doesn’t support wireless charging. This might be a dealbreaker for some users who are used to the convenience of wireless charging, but it’s not a major issue if you’re not a frequent user of this feature.
Overall, the battery life on the Xperia 5 IV is a strong point, offering solid endurance and fast charging to keep you going throughout the day. If you’re looking for a compact phone with excellent battery life, the Xperia 5 IV is definitely worth considering.
Software: Clean and Efficient Android Experience
The Xperia 5 IV runs on Android 13 with Sony’s custom UI, which is a clean and efficient experience. It’s free from bloatware and unnecessary customizations, making for a smooth and responsive user experience. The UI feels familiar to stock Android, but with some subtle Sony touches. The phone receives regular security updates and software updates, ensuring a long-lasting and up-to-date experience. Sony’s software features are useful and well-integrated, including features like Game Enhancer for optimized gaming performance and a powerful camera app with a range of manual controls. Overall, the software on the Xperia 5 IV is a highlight, offering a clean, efficient, and customizable experience that’s a pleasure to use.
Audio: Immersive and High-Quality Sound
The Sony Xperia 5 IV delivers an immersive and high-quality audio experience that complements its impressive visual prowess. Featuring front-facing stereo speakers tuned by Sony, the phone boasts a wide soundstage and impressive clarity. The speakers are loud enough to fill a small room with sound, making it ideal for enjoying movies, music, and games.
One of the highlights of the Xperia 5 IV’s audio setup is its support for high-resolution audio formats, such as FLAC and ALAC. This allows you to experience your music in its purest form, with rich detail and nuanced tones that standard MP3 files simply cannot deliver. The phone also features DSEE Ultimate, Sony’s proprietary audio upscaling technology, which uses AI to enhance the quality of compressed audio files, bringing them closer to high-resolution sound.
Beyond the built-in speakers, the Xperia 5 IV offers a range of connectivity options for those who prefer a more personalized audio experience. The phone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a rarity in today’s flagship smartphones, allowing you to connect your favorite wired headphones for the most immersive listening experience. For those who prefer wireless freedom, the Xperia 5 IV supports Bluetooth 5.2 and the latest audio codecs, including LDAC, for high-quality wireless audio streaming.
With its combination of powerful stereo speakers, high-resolution audio support, and advanced audio technology, the Sony Xperia 5 IV provides an exceptional audio experience that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophile. Whether you’re enjoying music, movies, or games, the Xperia 5 IV delivers clear, immersive sound that enhances your overall entertainment experience.
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Connectivity: All the Essentials Covered
The Xperia 5 IV comes equipped with a comprehensive set of connectivity features, ensuring you stay connected and productive wherever you go. You’ll find support for the latest cellular networks, including 5G for blazing-fast download and upload speeds, keeping you in touch with the world around you. Wi-Fi 6 support offers smooth and reliable connectivity in crowded environments, perfect for streaming and downloading content without interruption. Bluetooth 5.2 enables seamless connections to your wireless headphones and other accessories, delivering a stable and high-quality audio experience.
Beyond the essentials, Sony has included NFC for contactless payments and quick pairing with other NFC-enabled devices. The phone also features a USB-C port for fast data transfer and charging, ensuring you can quickly power up your device when needed. With GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo support, you’ll always have accurate location data, making navigation a breeze. Furthermore, the Xperia 5 IV boasts a robust selection of sensors, including an accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor, compass, and ambient light sensor, enhancing your overall user experience with responsive functionality and accurate readings.
The inclusion of these connectivity features underscores Sony’s commitment to providing users with a well-rounded and versatile smartphone experience. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone who values a reliable and connected device, the Xperia 5 IV has you covered.
Price and Availability: A Premium Price Tag
The Sony Xperia 5 IV doesn’t come cheap. At around $999, it sits firmly in the premium smartphone category. This price puts it in direct competition with other high-end flagships like the iPhone 14 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S23. However, unlike its rivals, the Xperia 5 IV offers a unique selling point: a compact design without compromising on performance or features.
While the price tag might seem steep, consider that you’re getting a phone with a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor, a gorgeous OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, and a triple-camera system that captures stunning photos and videos. It also boasts features like a dedicated camera button, a headphone jack, and IP65/68 water and dust resistance.
So, is the Xperia 5 IV worth the premium price? If you’re looking for a powerful and compact smartphone with a premium feel and top-notch features, then the answer is a resounding yes. But, if budget is a major concern, there are more affordable options available in the market. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual priorities and budget.
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Conclusion: A Top-Tier Compact Phone with Minor Drawbacks
The Sony Xperia 5 IV is a compelling smartphone that delivers a premium experience in a compact form factor. Its design is sleek and elegant, the display is vibrant and smooth, and the performance is top-notch. The camera system is versatile and feature-packed, and the battery life is solid enough for everyday use. The clean and efficient software experience further enhances the user experience.
While the Xperia 5 IV is a phenomenal compact phone, it does come with some drawbacks. The price tag is quite high, and the lack of a telephoto lens might be a deal-breaker for some. Additionally, the lack of expandable storage can be a limitation for users who need more storage space.
Overall, the Sony Xperia 5 IV is a top-tier compact smartphone that excels in many areas, but it’s not without its flaws. If you’re looking for a premium, powerful phone in a smaller size, the Xperia 5 IV is worth considering. However, if you’re on a tight budget or need a telephoto lens and expandable storage, you might want to explore other options.
Should You Buy It?
The Sony Xperia 5 IV is a compelling choice for those seeking a compact flagship phone with top-notch performance and a versatile camera system. If you prioritize a small and comfortable form factor without sacrificing power or features, this phone could be a great fit. However, its premium price tag and the lack of a telephoto lens might give some pause.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Reasons to buy:
- Compact and comfortable design: The Xperia 5 IV’s small size makes it incredibly comfortable to hold and use with one hand. Its sleek design and premium build quality make it stand out from the crowd.
- Exceptional performance: Powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, the Xperia 5 IV delivers smooth and fluid performance for demanding tasks and gaming.
- Versatile camera system: The triple-camera setup captures stunning photos and videos in various lighting conditions. The dedicated Night mode and 4K 120fps video recording further enhance the camera’s capabilities.
- Excellent display: The OLED panel boasts vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for a visually captivating experience.
- Long battery life: The Xperia 5 IV offers solid battery life for everyday use.
Reasons to consider alternatives:
- Price: The Xperia 5 IV comes with a high price tag compared to other compact phones in the market.
- No telephoto lens: While the main camera is excellent, the lack of a telephoto lens might be a deal-breaker for some users who need optical zoom for capturing distant subjects.
- Limited availability: The Xperia 5 IV might not be available in all regions, so check local availability before making a decision.
Ultimately, the decision to buy the Sony Xperia 5 IV depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you value a compact design, top-notch performance, and a versatile camera system, this phone is definitely worth considering. However, if you’re on a budget or require a telephoto lens, you might find better options elsewhere.
In conclusion, the Sony Xperia 5 IV is a solid smartphone that excels in several areas. Its sleek design, powerful performance, and excellent camera system make it a compelling option for users seeking a premium experience. The inclusion of a 120Hz display and a long-lasting battery further enhance its appeal.
However, its high price point and limited availability might deter some potential buyers. Additionally, the lack of expandable storage and a relatively small display might be drawbacks for certain users.
Despite these minor shortcomings, the Xperia 5 IV remains a worthy contender in the high-end smartphone market. It caters to a specific audience that values quality, performance, and a premium user experience.
Overall, the Sony Xperia 5 IV is a well-rounded smartphone that offers a compelling combination of features and performance. While its price might be a barrier for some, its strengths make it a strong contender for those seeking a premium and capable device.
Omar 
Hassan