vivo S20vsSony Xperia 1 IV

vivo S20

Sony Xperia 1 IV

vivo S20

The Vivo S20 is a camera-focused phone that has just launched in China, with a global release expected under the name Vivo V50. This device boasts a fast refresh rate AMOLED display, an excellent portrait camera, and a slim and stylish design. One of its standout features is its battery life, which lasts up to two days on average use, despite being just 7.19mm thick and weighing only 190g. The phone's massive 6,500mAh battery can be charged from 0 to 100% in just 53 minutes using the included 90W fast charger. The camera setup is another major highlight, with a dual rear camera configuration featuring an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens and a 50MP main camera. The phone also comes equipped with optical image stabilization (OIS), a soft light feature for improved low-light photography, and advanced AI features for portrait mode and selfie photography. The display itself is a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen with a 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, although the phone's frame is made of plastic, which may show fingerprints. The device runs on OriginOS 5 based on Android 15, providing smooth animations and AI-driven features. The Vivo S20 starts at CNY 2299 in China, £250 in the UK, and $318 in the USA. While it excels in camera capabilities and battery life, its performance may not be the best choice for those seeking a high-end gaming experience. Overall, this phone is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking for a device that delivers excellent portrait shots and a long-lasting battery.

Sony Xperia 1 IV

The Sony Xperia 1 Mark IV is a premium smartphone that boasts a 4K OLED screen, good battery life, and a pro-oriented camera kit. The device features a quad-camera setup with a 12MP main sensor, 12MP telephoto lens, and 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens. The phone also has a new 12MP front-facing camera capable of 4K video recording. The camera app is feature-rich, with options like Wide Dynamic Range mode, which combines multiple frames to boost contrast and shadows. However, the lack of a Night mode might be a drawback for some users. Still, the camera produces excellent results, especially in daylight conditions, with plenty of detail, natural colors, and good dynamic range. The phone's performance is respectable, but it does throttle quite a bit, which may not make it the top choice for heavy gamers. The throttling is also noticeable on screen as heat builds up and the refresh rate dips to 60Hz. Expandable storage and a headphone jack are welcome retro features, although the lack of a charger in the box is a disappointment. Overall, the Sony Xperia 1 Mark IV is a great option for enthusiasts who appreciate camera features like manual modes and advanced settings. However, it may not be the best choice for casual users or those looking for a more straightforward point-and-shoot experience. Despite its premium price tag, this device offers excellent image quality, making it a solid recommendation for fans of Sony smartphone photography.