Sony’s two newest flagships – the Xperia Z3 and Z3 Compact – are now and soon to be available for preorder from major Australian carriers and the Sony Online store and Kiosk.
The two phones represent a new approach to the flagship/compact relationship we’ve seen from other manufacturers. Instead of offering one top-tier device and one smaller, cheaper handset with severely trimmed-down hardware, the Z3 and Z3 compact are close to identical in all but size. For once, you really can opt for a smaller Android phone without taking too much of a step back in terms of user experience.
The main differences between the two phones are: 5.2 inch and 4.6 inch displays, 1080p and 720 resolutions, 3GB and 2GB of RAM… other than that they come in different colours that’s it. Both are waterproof and can take photos underwater, both have 20.7MP rear cameras, both are being said by Sony to have 2-day battery life, both have PS4 Remote Play and both rock a 2.5GHz quad-core processor.
The Xperia Z3 will run you $849 RRP and the Z3 Compact is just $699 RRP.
Preorders
| Xperia Z3 | Xperia Z3 Compact | Preorders live | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telstra | Black, White, Copper | Black, White, Orange | October 7 |
| Optus | Black, White, Copper | Black, White, Orange | October 1 |
| Vodafone | Black | - | - |
| Virgin Mobile | Black | - | October 3 |
Both phones will be available on a range of plans. Telstra will run you $10 for the Z3 and $3 for the Z3 Compact on the $70 plan.
Optus will offer the Z3 starting at $13 on the $60 plan and the Z3 Compact at $5 on the $50 plan. Vodafone will have the Z3 for $8 on the $70 Red Plan and Virgin will be cheaper still at $5 on the $60 plan.
Of course, there will be a range of other plans available, so be sure to check them out and decide which is best suited to your needs and wallet.
Got a PS4? Pay attention
Both these phones have what Sony is calling PS4 Remote Play and it's the answer to many a gamer's prayers. Remote Play lets you use your phone or tablet as the screen for your PS4. This way you'll never be kept away from gaming because someone else is using the TV.
You can even buy a little attachment that hooks on to your controller and fixes your phone to the top, turning it in to a sort-of portable gaming console.
We've had a bit of a go using Remote Play to run through Destiny and there was absolutely zero lag. None. Admittedly, it was a short session and we'll have a more-detailed breakdown once we finish our reviews, but so far we're thoroughly impressed.
If you have a PS4 and are looking for a new phone then you seriously need to consider either the Z3 or Z3 Compact.
Alex Angove-Plumb
Digital Content Editor
Related Articles
