Sony Xperia ZL Review: Compact 5-Inch Flagship From Canada

Specs at the time

Item	Detail
Display	5 inch 1080p
Processor	1.5GHz quad-core Snapdragon S4 Pro
Memory	2GB RAM, 16GB storage, microSD up to 32GB
Cameras	13MP rear, 2MP front
Battery	2370 mAh
Size and weight	131.6 x 69.3 x 9.8 mm, 151 g
Software	Android 4.1.2 with Sony's interface

Design

The phone felt small for a 5-inch device. There were no buttons on the front, and a multicolour notification light sat at the bottom. Controls were on the right edge, including a dedicated camera button, which suited right-handed users. The back is slightly curved textured plastic that felt cheap, and it is not removable, so the battery cannot be swapped. The front glass collected fingerprints, and the front camera sits low on the right, where a hand can cover it.

Software

• The interface stays close to stock Android while adding Sony widgets.
• Small Apps open in resizable windows and were called the best multitasking on any manufacturer interface, though only one can run at a time.
• The gallery with pinch to zoom was a favourite.
• Quick toggles sit in the notification area.

Performance and battery

The phone ran smoothly without lag, but it opened apps a little slower than the HTC One and Samsung Galaxy S4, which used the newer Snapdragon 600. Battery life was disappointing, even though the battery size was close to the HTC One’s.

Camera

Colours were accurate and low light shots were fairly good. Superior Auto switches shooting modes by itself, Picture Effects previews all 9 effects at once, and a quick shot option launches the camera from the lock screen.

Verdict

The reviewer called it Sony’s best phone to reach Canada so far, but felt it looked dated next to the S4 and One. The Xperia Z, with a glass body and water resistance, seemed the stronger choice.