Sony Xperia Z3v Pro Reviews

The idea of recycling phones isn’t a new concept in the business, as many companies have seemingly come out with newer phones that look, feel, and even have similar specs to previous phones. The Sony Xperia Z3v is absolutely one of those phones, since its name implies that it’s a variant of the Z3. However, after checking out the phone in great detail, we can certainly agree that it also has a lot in common with the Xperia Z2. It sports the same design as the Z2, but that's not a bad thing, as it is still a premium glass phone with a waterproof body, although it definitely isn't the most compact one out there. Its screen is also similar to the one of the Z2 instead of the Z3, but that's not necessary a bad thing, as it is more accurate, although not as bright. The processor and the camera are the updated ones that the Z3 offers, so it really is a mix between the Z2 and the Z3. Needless to say, Verizon customers should be pleased to know that a high-end Sony phone is going to be a part of the carrier's lineup – where it’ll sport a 2-year on-contract price of $199.99.

As any good manufacturer does, Sony once again delivers their finest work of smartphone art in the Xperia Z3v. Each successor to the Z becomes better - and bigger. Now we've got to see about the Z3 Compact to get the slightly more pocketable experience. If you're heading off against the HTC One M8, Galaxy S5, iPhone 6, LG G3, and Moto X, you'll have several key points to consider. Motorola is the most customizable, going so far as to include wood back panels. The LG G3 has a very comparable camera experience to the Z3v, but a slightly more unique body - back-facing buttons as well as a 2K display up front. The Samsung Galaxy S5 is waterproof, just like the Z3v - and has just as robust a device ecosystem around it. Samsung vs Sony is really going to come down to which brand you like best - or what brand's devices you own the most of. The iPhone 6 is a completely different ball-game, bringing a top-notch camera, but working with iOS 8.1 - this comes down to ecosystem even more than the Samsung device. The HTC One M8 is another very comparable device to the Z3v, mostly coming down to comfort in this case - they're both of the finest quality hardware, you'll just have to see what feels better in your hand. You'll be able to pick the Sony Xperia Z3v up from Verizon starting today (the 23rd of October) for $199.99 USD with a 2-year contract. You can also purchase this device off-contact for $599.99 USD.

I can only see one kind of person buying this phone — a PlayStation superfan. Of course, anyone could buy this phone and be happy with the purchase, but man—there are just a lot of great smartphones to choose from around this 5.2-inch size and at a $200 price on contract. The Z3v doesn't stand out where it really needs to. Imagine a Verizon sales floor with the Sony Xperia Z3v sitting right next to a Moto X, Nexus 6, or the upcoming Droid Turbo, and I don't see many people picking up an Xperia over the competition. That's a bummer because this is a really well-made phone with awesome abilities like Remote Play and rugged waterproofing, and for the right gaming-minded customer it's a perfect match. But more often than not, people will probably look elsewhere.

The Xperia Z3v's powerful hardware and neat bundled features are also a perfect example of what Sony is capable of when it takes its time with a product.